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Ohio Christian Announces Test Scores Optional for Fall 2021 Incoming Students January 7, 2021

Ohio Christian Announces Test Scores Optional for Fall 2021 Incoming Students

Due to the limited availability of standardized testing during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ohio Christian University will not require a standardized test score (ACT, SAT, CLT, etc.) as a requirement for Fall 2021 incoming students. “The hope is that this will lift the burden on prospective students as they try to plan out their futures in the midst of an uncertain and changing situation,” said Vice President of University Enrollment Kevin Jones. “Students have had limited opportunities to take standardized tests over the last year, and we want our admissions process to remain open to them.” A prospective student may still decide to submit a test score which will supplement his or her application. For students who do not submit scores, academic transcripts will be the primary source for making an admission decision and assigning academic scholarships. For more detailed information, please visit our Test Optional FAQs page.

Enjoy the Virtual Festival of Carols  December 18, 2020

Enjoy the Virtual Festival of Carols 

Ohio Christian University (OCU) presents its first all virtual Festival of Carols, the university’s annual Christmas concert. The virtual concert features performances by the OCU Chorale, Chamber Singers, University Band and soloists celebrating this year’s theme of “God IS With Us”. The concert video will be released during a live premiere on Friday, December 18th at 7 p.m. and remain available throughout December at OhioChristian.edu/Christmas. There is no cost to watch.  With all the changes 2020 has brought, OCU is excited to still present this free Christmas concert to the community in a virtual format.  “It has been our joy to bring you this gift of music each year on the campus of Ohio Christian University,” said President Dr. Jon Kulaga. “Even during this time of a pandemic, perhaps especially during this time, we wanted to be present and to remind and encourage you that God is with us.”   “This is a time to enjoy some of the most celebrated Christmas carols of all time while we celebrate the birth of our Lord,” said Director of Vocal and Choral Studies Dr. Dione Bennett. “In this era of social distancing, the Music Department has come together to present a unique and impactful compilation of carols. We hope you’ll join us for this joyful celebration!”  WATCH FESTIVAL OF CAROLS Merry Christmas from Ohio Christian University! 

Ohio Christian University Ranked #1 on Social Mobility by U.S. News  December 1, 2020

Ohio Christian University Ranked #1 on Social Mobility by U.S. News 

U.S. News and World Report recently ranked Ohio Christian University (OCU) as the #1 Top Performer on Social Mobility in the Regional Universities Midwest category. The social mobility indicator measures how successfully colleges graduate economically disadvantaged students who receive need-based federal Pell Grants.   According to U.S. News, “Economically disadvantaged students are less likely than others to finish college. Some colleges are more successful than others at advancing social mobility by enrolling and graduating disadvantaged students awarded with Pell Grants. Students receiving these grants typically come from households whose family incomes are less than $50,000 annually, though most Pell Grant money goes to students with a total family income below $20,000.”  Provost Dr. Bradford Sample explains that OCU has aimed to continually improve the student experience. “We have worked diligently to expand academic support, improve the online and onsite classroom environments, hire diverse instructors, restructure for improved service, and increase academic rigor,” said Sample. “Although we want to assist all students, we’ve taken care to especially focus on activities that would help first-generation students, economically disadvantaged students, and second-chance students returning to college.”  In addition to academic support, students receive quality financial aid guidance as well. “We work hard to counsel and provide every student with all the financial resources at their disposal,” explains Director of Financial Aid Brandon Ritchey. “We strive to keep OCU affordable for students from any economic background.” OCU even offers Payback Promise Loan Repayment Assistance to qualified students.  OCU students can study entirely online, onsite or a combination to meet their needs. Submit our free Fast Application to get started.  The U.S. News and World Report Best Colleges rankings are released yearly and analyze U.S. bachelor’s degree-granting institutions on 17 measures of academic quality. Click here to see Ohio Christian University’s ranking. 

29th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament Raises $30,000 for Students November 13, 2020

29th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament Raises $30,000 for Students

Ohio Christian University’s 29th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament occurred on Friday, October 2nd at the Pickaway Golf Course. Twenty-five four-person teams enjoyed a round of golf raising over $30,000 to fund scholarships for current students. These OCU Scholarships are awarded to current campus students each spring at the Annual Scholarship Banquet. "The golf tournament is one our major fund-raising events for student scholarships,” explained OCU President Dr. Jon Kulaga. “The engagement and generosity of each of the golfers is critical to our ability to assist OCU students with financial needs as they seek to acquire a Christ-centered, Biblically-based education.” Eighteen OCU alumni attended, including 2013 graduate Chris Thompson. “It’s just a great time when you can come and raise money for a good cause,” Thompson said. “Plus, you get to have fun doing it. I enjoy getting out there with alumni of OCU. We laugh, talk about old times, and compete hard to win the prizes.” 1st Place went to the Wint Financial Services Team consisting of Team Leader David Wint, Ty Pell, Chad Wilson and OCU’s Mark Taylor. The Proshield Team, made up of Team Leader Tim Stonerock, Brian Chaney, Gary Young and OCU Golf Coach Brent Martin earned 2nd Place. Neil Uhrig’s team, including Jason Uhrig, Kyle Uhrig and Jerry Mowery, took 3rd Place. Neil is a recently retired member of The Guardians gospel quartet. 2011 graduate Joshua McGrady explained it is important for him to support the Scholarship Golf Tournament because of his experience at OCU. “My time at OCU was so valuable to me. Being able to play four different sports during my time there and the lifelong friends I made because of it are something I can’t put time or a dollar amount to. Being able to reunite and enjoy a day with some of those friends is a highlight of the year for me.” The continuing generosity, camaraderie and goodwill of this tournament’s sponsors and donors is greatly appreciated. OCU would like to extend a special thanks to: All sponsors (to see list, click on pdf below) Corporate Sponsor, Prasco Laboratories Abby Huggins, Manager of the Pickaway Golf Course, for her excellent assistance. Gary Burns, Owner of Circleville Buffalo Wild Wings, for providing a delicious lunch. Kyle Miller of the Arington Foundation for his assistance before, during and after the event. The 30th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament will be held on June 19, 2021 at the Pickaway Golf Course in Circleville, Ohio. Learn more about how to support Ohio Christian University.   5x7 Sponsor Sheet.pdf (.pdf size: 296.69 KB)

An Election Message from President Kulaga November 2, 2020

An Election Message from President Kulaga

Last week, Dr. Jon Kulaga, President of Ohio Christian University, sent an email to all faculty, staff, and students regarding the upcoming election. We thought it fitting to share his thoughts today with you, the public. We are so thankful to have this wise man at the helm of the university and hope you are as challenged by his words as we, the university family, were. Dear All, Next week we will be entering another national General Election that will determine who will be the next President of the United States for the next four years.  Tuesday, November 3, 2020 is voting day – so be sure to vote and let your voice be heard.  It’s a great privilege many citizens of other countries do not enjoy. I am writing because, as you may have noticed, the rhetoric leading up to this year’s election has been divisive and toxic.  Both sides can take credit for adding to that evaluation. Friends, and even family members, have been divided by something as secondary to our Christian identity – as who we will be voting for.   No doubt, our nation will remain divided long after November 3rd comes and goes – no matter who gets to live in the big White House come January 2021. And that divisive attitude is our potential as well, at Ohio Christian University.  But it need not be our destiny.  Christian author Philip Yancey has observed that almost all the crimes committed in Christian history have come about when religion is confused and intertwined with politics.   Probably because most of the time, politics runs by rules of ungrace – and there is an allure and temptation to trade grace for power.  And, we, as fallen creatures, can also be tempted to give in to that temptation.  But we need not. Next week our Chapel time on Monday, November 2, 2020 - will be a time of guided prayer (no speakers) – to reflect and to pray for all our local, state and national leaders.  And our country.  We will also want to pray for friends who have surrendered their primary identity in Christ, for a secondary identity in politics, for they will suffer great emotional distress over the election’s results.  Tuesday, November 3, 2020 – will be the day to cast your vote.  On Wednesday, November 4, 2020 – our Chapel time will once again be a time of guided prayer.  To once again, pray for our local, state and national healing.  Post-election Day. Our destiny is not to be a campus divided by politics – but a community united by grace.  So, let’s lean into next week – together – and walk as a community of grace.   And let’s be a LIGHT to a dark world.  And SALT, to a culture that has lost its taste. Praying with, and for, you all, Jon S. Kulaga, Ph.D. President


  • Ohio Christian Announces Test Scores Optional for Fall 2021 Incoming Students


  • Enjoy the Virtual Festival of Carols 


  • Ohio Christian University Ranked #1 on Social Mobility by U.S. News 


  • 29th Annual Scholarship Golf Tournament Raises $30,000 for Students


  • An Election Message from President Kulaga

Gillum Grabs Another Double Double In Tight Loss To Eagles January 7, 2021

Gillum Grabs Another Double Double In Tight Loss To Eagles

MIDWAY, KY – Ohio Christian University put their perfect record to the test on Wednesday night, as the Lady Trailblazers traveled to Midway to face the Eagles in a non-conference battle. Wednesday's game was the first time the two teams met since the quarterfinal matchup in the 2020 RSC Championships. After falling behind by 12 points in a difficult first half, the Lady Trailblazers fought their way back into contention in the second half, riding the hot hands of Helaina Limas (JR/Medina, OH), Rachel Bolyard (FR/Streetsboro, OH), and Rachel Gillum (SO/Springboro, OH). OCU cut the deficit down to three halfway through the third quarter, only to see Midway pull back away. A late run cut the final score to only a four point loss for the Lady Trailblazers. Limas led all scorers on the night with 31, going 9-17 from the floor and an impressive 13-15 from the line. Bolyard has her best performance of the season, scoring 23 while grabbing four rebounds and a pair of steals. Gillum continued her impressive sophomore campaign with 15 points and 19 rebounds, bringing her averages for the season to 19.6 PPG and 17.8 RPG. "As a team, we had a few mental mistakes that Midway capitalized off of," said Head Coach Brenda Baker. "We made adjustments and the girls played so hard in the second half. I am happy with how they stayed focused and determined, we just didn't get the outcome that we wanted. This game taught us a lot about who we are and what we need to work on."Next up, the Trailblazers will travel to face Point Park University on Tuesday, January 12th to take on the Pioneers in their first RSC conference game of 2021. For more on the Lady Trailblazer Basketball Program and the rest of Ohio Christian University Athletics, follow us on Twitter (@OCUTrailblazers), Facebook (Ohio Christian University Trailblazers), and Youtube (Ohio Christian University Trailblazers) 

Trailblazers Begin 2021 With Key Win January 4, 2021

Trailblazers Begin 2021 With Key Win

CIRCLEVILLE, OH – Following a month and a half with no basketball, the Trailblazer basketball program began 2021 with their first win of the season, defeating the Mighty Oaks of Oakland City University 63-61. Prior to the layoff, Ohio Christian went 0-4, adding extra value to start the conference season push with a clutch win. The game seemed to be controlled by the Trailblazers from the jump, as Ohio Christian jumped out to a 16-point lead shortly before halftime. In the second half, the Mighty Oaks responded, clawing their way back into the picture behind a strong performance from Nathaniel Schmittler, who finished with 14 points. Schmittler handed his team the lead for the first time in the second half with 3:45 remaining, followed by another key bucket by Jacob Sanford with 2:33 remaining. Immediately after Sanford's three pointer, Keason Lowe (JR/Grove City, OH) hit a clutch three to hand OCU the lead for good, as the Trailblazers drained clock and hit free throws to wrap up the win. Lowe finished the night with 11 points and eight rebounds, while Juan Woods (SO/Pickerington, OH) led the team with 12 points. Teron Pittman (SO/Columbus, OH) came off the bench to provide key minutes, scoring 11 and grabbing three boards.     Following the win, Ohio Christian will look to continue their momentum into a tough matchup against West Virginia Tech on Saturday. For more on the Trailblazer Basketball Program and the rest of Ohio Christian University Athletics, follow us on Twitter (@OCUTrailblazers), Facebook (Ohio Christian University Trailblazers), and Youtube (Ohio Christian University Trailblazers)

Lady Trailblazers Continue Hot Start, Move to 4-0 January 4, 2021

Lady Trailblazers Continue Hot Start, Move to 4-0

CIRCLEVILLE, OH – Despite nearly a month and a half off the court due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ohio Christian picked up right where they left off on Monday, defeating the Mighty Oaks of Oakland City University 75-71.  

COVID-19 Update December 31, 2020

COVID-19 Update

CIRCLEVILLE, OH – In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ohio Christian University has made the decision to not allow spectators into any indoor sporting event at this time. This will affect the sports of men's and women's basketball and will be in effect up until Monday January 18th. At that time, the department will reevaluate, and further action may be taken. This decision comes in accordance with recommendations passed down from the State of Ohio as well as Ohio Christian University's proactive measures taken to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. As a reminder, every home event on the campus of Ohio Christian University will be livestreamed and will be available at no cost. All games can be seen at https://portal.stretchinternet.com/octrailblazers/. We want to thank you for your patience and understanding as we continue to do our part to help end the COVID-19 pandemic. Have a safe and Happy New Year!

UPDATE: Men's & Women's Basketball Conference Schedule for 2020-21 season December 9, 2020

UPDATE: Men's & Women's Basketball Conference Schedule for 2020-21 season

MIDDLETOWN, Ohio – The River States Conference is announcing an adjustment to the RSC men's and women's basketball conference schedules for the 2020-21 season. The RSC Administrative Council has approved a double round robin, divisional-only conference schedule beginning Jan. 5, 2021.  The change has been implemented due to COVID-19, which has already made an impact to the conference schedule in November and December. Most conference matchups have been postponed so far this season with little time for make-up dates in January and February.  The divisional-only conference schedule will last for seven weeks from Tuesday, January 5 through Saturday, February 20. All RSC schools will play a home-and-home series versus each of its divisional opponents. That will result in RSC West Division teams playing a 12-game conference schedule this year and RSC East Division teams playing a 10-game conference schedule for 2020-21.  Traditionally, schools played one conference game versus each team in the other division. Those conference games are cancelled this year. Schools may opt to play across the divisions, but those games will be non-conference contests.  Schools also have the freedom to move their weekday games to another day of the week if both schools agree, although a Tuesday-Saturday format is the baseline. Additionally, schools may opt to split the men's and women's games on a given date -- with the men at home and the women away or vice versa – to eliminate doubleheaders and thus reduce capacity at venues.  The RSC Men's & Women's Basketball Championships are scheduled for February 24 through March 2.  Check back later in the week for the posting of the new conference schedules when they become officially posted at RiverStatesConference.com. Also, stay up to date on the RSC member institution athletic websites. 


  • Gillum Grabs Another Double Double In Tight Loss To Eagles


  • Trailblazers Begin 2021 With Key Win


  • Lady Trailblazers Continue Hot Start, Move to 4-0


  • COVID-19 Update


  • UPDATE: Men's & Women's Basketball Conference Schedule for 2020-21 season

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About Ohio Christian University

Ohio Christian University is committed to offering a complete education that develops students intellectually, professionally, and spiritually. OCU offers degree programs for residential undergraduate students, graduate students, adult and Online student. The Trailblazer Academy allows high school students to complete college classes. All programs are designed to equip students to become leaders in their careers, communities, families, and the world.