Southern Nazarene University President Loren P. Gresham was recently honored as one of Oklahoma's Most Admired CEOs in a ceremony sponsored by The Journal Record Publishing Co., the state's longtime leading company specializing in business publications and statewide events.

Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin brought greetings and commended the event and recognition of CEOs, stating, "this is a big deal!" As Gresham's award was presented by Journal Record Publishing Co. President Joni Brooks, highlights of Gresham's long tenure as president of SNU were read along with words of tribute from Express Employment Professionals Chairman Robert A. Funk. Also noted was Gresham's leadership of the university through turbulent economic times while balancing the budget 25 consecutive years, yet maintaining top faculty, staff, and administrative team members.

Among the list of accomplishments and contributions Gresham has made to SNU and his community was his work with the International Board of Education for the Church of the Nazarene, the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, and his prior service as chairman of the Council of Presidents of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, as well as his membership and leadership of numerous civic boards and organizations.

Gresham was described as a strategic consensus builder who adheres to servant leadership and is approachable and respectful of all. As one member of Gresham's administrative team stated, "The ultimate test of leadership is follow-ship, and thousands of SNU graduates have followed Dr. Gresham's example and have, or are, serving with excellence around the world."
--Southern Nazarene University