ORU Looks To Florida To Fill President's Post

By Emory Bryan, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- A search committee at Oral Roberts University has recommended a future president for the school.  The nominee for the post is Dr. Mark Rutland, who up until now has not had any connection to Oral Roberts University.  He is likely to get the job in two weeks.

Dr. Mark Rutland is the man the Oral Roberts University presidential search committee recommends as the school's next president.  He is currently president of Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida, a private Christian school with just over 3,000 students.  He is also president of an independent ministry called Global Servants.

"I'm excited about the prospects at Oral Roberts University, and I believe that there are wonderful things to come here under the future leadership and in Oklahoma, and for me at Oral Roberts University," said Dr. Mark Rutland.

Former ORU President Richard Roberts resigned in November 2007, with the school $55 million in debt.

Even with major donors propping up the finances, the school announced layoffs this week as it continues to deal with the debt.

"And, Oral Roberts University is not without its challenges, but I'm 100% convinced that the opportunities outweigh the challenges," said Dr. Mark Rutland.

Rutland's recommendation will be made to the ORU Board of Trustees, which will vote on the recommendation on January 28th.

Rutland says he hopes to finish out the semester in Florida, and start at ORU on July 1st.

"And, this is a fresh opportunity and a fresh challenge," said Dr. Mark Rutland.

Southeastern University credits Rutland with increasing enrollment and solving financial problems at the school.  

Look here for more stories concerning Oral Roberts University.