Hobby Lobby founder’s family gives $70 million to rescue christian university struggling with $55 million debt
In 2007, Oral Roberts University, a christian institution in Oklahoma, United States, was facing a major financial crisis, with approximately $55 million in long-term debt threatening its future.
During the difficult period, the family of Hobby Lobby founder David Green stepped in with a remarkable $70 million financial commitment to help restore the institution.
David Green’s son, Mart Green, helped lead the intervention, which included demands for stronger financial accountability, improved leadership and changes to the university’s governing board.
The family initially provided $8 million, followed by another $62 million after the university agreed to significant reforms.
However, the Green family was not alone in the rescue effort. thousands of supporters also contributed through a fundraising campaign to help the institution overcome its financial challenges.
By September 2009, Oral Roberts University officially announced that it had eliminated all its long-term debt.
The remarkable turnaround demonstrated how generosity, responsible leadership and collective financial support helped protect the future of a christian institution dedicated to education and faith.