Oral Roberts University
11/08/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/08/2024 16:13
ORU Celebrates Expansion of Newly Named Tandy Computing and Mathematics Labs and Drone Arena
Pictured front row (left to right): ORU Dean of the College of Science and Engineering
Dr. Kenneth M. Weed, Senior Professor and Chair of the Computing and Mathematics
Dr. Andrew Lang, ORU President Dr. William M. Wilson, ORU Provost
Dr. Kathaleen Reid-Martinez, ORU student Chloe Linkler,
and ORU student Carrington Boswell.
The Facility Expansion Will Revolutionize Classroom Engagement, Offer the Most Current Technologies, and Provide Avenues for Groundbreaking Research.
Tulsa, Oklahoma, November 8, 2024- Oral Roberts University (ORU) held another ribbon-cutting, celebrating the expansion of the newly named A.R. and Marylouise Tandy Computing & Mathematics Lab (Tandy Labs). The new expansion was funded by a $1.45 million grant from the A.R. and Marylouise Tandy Foundation. With the new expansion, the Tandy Labs added advanced research spaces, including the:
- Game Development Lab,
- Nanotechnology Research Lab,
- Artificial Intelligence Lab,
- Plasma Physics Research Lab,
- Edge Computing Lab,
- Network Administration Lab, and
- Drone Arena.
Additionally, the facility now offers a summer coding camp to further develop the technological skills of the next generation.
"At ORU, we are developing the next generation of innovators who will shape the future of technology," said ORU President Dr. William M. Wilson. "This enhanced facility will expand our STEM programs into advanced fields such as artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, and drone technology. The Tandy Computing and Mathematics Labs and Drone Arena reflects ORU's commitment to invest in our growing student body and to offer an elite education to the next generation of Spirit-empowered leaders."
As part of the facility, ORU's Edge Computing Lab places students at the forefront of computing technologies. The Drone Arena features a flying zone and a secure control room, offering a dynamic setting where student's pilot and program autonomous drones. This practical experience is crucial for mastering modern drone technology and advancing careers in drone operations, AI, and edge computing.
"We are immensely grateful for the visionary grant that has established the Tandy
Computing and Mathematics Labs," said ORU Provost Kathaleen Reid-Martinez. "These new innovative labs equip our students with the tools and learning experiences required to excel in dynamic fields such as nanotechnology, plasma physics, AI, game development, and drone technology, to name a few. We are excited to see the potential of our students unlocked and maximized in these revolutionary fields of study."
Additionally, the Nanotechnology Research Lab, the Artificial Intelligence Lab, and the Game Development Lab offers students avenues to hone skills in fields with soaring demand, aligning with new AI curriculum offerings at both undergraduate and graduate levels and the new Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology - Game Design and Development.
Dr. Andrew Lang teaches students how to play table soccer using their
mobile devices to control micro bots.
Dr. Andrew Lang, Senior Professor and Chair of the Computing and Mathematics Department shared his excitement about the facility. "The new Tandy Labs and Drone Area are a dynamic extension of ORU's sustained growth and success, especially within Computing and Mathematics, where we have more than tripled our majors over the past decade. These cutting-edge facilities will provide the opportunity to elevate our teaching, engage students in innovative projects and strengthen our roles as leaders in AI and technology within Christian higher education."
ORU student Carrington Boswell is looking forward to spending time in the new facility. "I'm very excited about the new labs and drone area, especially the Game Development Lab," Boswell said. "It's inspiring to see our University investing in the Computing and Mathematics Department, creating opportunities for students who are pursuing careers in the Gaming Industry. This lab will help students learn, collaborate, and spark new ideas that will make it out of this University and into the world."
The Game Development Lab
For more information on ORU's Computing & Mathematics Department, or other bachelor's and master's degree programs (in-person, online, or virtual), please visit oru.edu
UNIVERSITY BRIEF
ORU is a Christian, Spirit-empowered, interdenominational university in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with 16 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. Under the leadership of President Dr. William Wilson, ORU is preparing students from all 50 states and 160 nations from 2019 to 2024 to be whole leaders for the whole world.
The Wall Street Journal ranked ORU as the #8 university in the nation for student experience and one of America's Best Colleges (2025). This new category rates the best colleges in the U.S. to have a great experience while attending. This ranking is powered by one of the largest-ever independent surveys of verified college students and recent graduates in the United States. Niche has recognized ORU as one of the top 25 most diverse colleges in America, the # 1 best Christian college in Oklahoma, and the # 1 in Oklahoma for diversity. Princeton Review ranked ORU as the best regional college, and College Raptor ranked ORU as a Hidden Gem in the Southwest. Heritage.org classified ORU as a great option for families prioritizing freedom, opportunity, and civil society.
ORU has been ranked by U.S. News & World Report as:
- #1 in Undergraduate Teaching
- #2 in Most International Students
- #3 in Best Value
- #6 in Best College for Veterans
- #7 in Best Regional Colleges in the West