New Residence Hall Renovations to Be Unveiled in Fall 2026

Tulsa, Oklahoma, January 27, 2026-Oral Roberts University (ORU) has begun renovations to two of its residence halls, scheduled for completion in time for the Fall 2026 semester. Spanning more than 222,000 square feet combined, Claudius Priscilla Roberts Hall (Claudius) and Ellis Melvin Roberts Hall (EMR) will undergo interior and exterior upgrades for incoming students. The $18 million investment reflects ORU's commitment to improving student success and campus excellence. These renovations are part of ORU's long-term campus improvement plan, which includes new dorms and a new dining hall (opening Fall 2026), the David and Barbara Green Centre for Global Leadership (opening soon), and a future Science and Cancer Research Center.

"A student's environment plays a vital role in shaping their academic, spiritual, and personal development," said Dr. William M. Wilson, ORU President. "These renovations represent more than upgraded buildings. They represent our investment in the next generation of students God is bringing to ORU. They are designed to welcome students into spaces that are safe, modern, and foster meaningful community. From their first day on campus, we want our students to call ORU 'home.'"

The interior renovations include new flooring, lighting, ceilings, updated restrooms, new furniture, and a new TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) roof membrane overlay on Claudius Hall, further extending the facility's longevity and efficiency. Exterior improvements feature new double-pane glass with frame modifications and enhanced exterior lighting to improve both aesthetics and safety, all designed to enhance comfort, functionality, and community.

"Claudius and EMR have been beloved homes to countless students over the decades," said Lisa Bowman, Executive Director of Concierge/Residential Services. "Upgrading these facilities ensures the quality experience our incoming students deserve. This renovation reflects ORU's commitment to providing first-year students with living spaces that support their academic success and personal growth. We are thankful for God's provision for this project."

The renovation of these residence halls is part of Phase Two of ORU's Whole Leaders for the Whole World campaign. With the completion of Phase I, which included the opening of three new buildings and extensive renovations to buildings, Phase Two continues with new contemporary dining facilities and apartment-style student residence halls.

Please click here to learn more about Phase II of the WLWW campaign.

Nationally Ranked, Globally Recognized

ORU is a Christian, Spirit-empowered, interdenominational university in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with 17 years of consecutive enrollment growth. Regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ORU offers over 150 majors, minors, concentrations, and pre-professional programs at the bachelor's level, ranging from business and engineering to nursing, ministry, and more. In 2024, the Carnegie Foundation recognized ORU with a "Leadership for Public Purpose" award, a distinction earned by only 25 universities nationwide. Under the leadership of President Dr. William Wilson, ORU is preparing students from all 50 states and 174 nations in the last 6 years to be whole leaders for the whole world.