Oklahoma Building Renamed in Honor of AU

This past winter break, a Christian education building in Walters, Okla., was renamed the Anderson House of Higher Learning to honor the work Anderson University’s students have done on different Tri-S trips. Ever since 2004, students have traveled to Oklahoma with Ed Breeden to help construct this building, formerly known as the White House. This past winter, the students installed baseboards, built a ceiling, and painted walls.

Tri-S trip leader Ed Breeden recalls a blue blanket hanging on a door of the building when he arrived with the students. The blanket was later removed to show a wooden plaque that displayed the new name. The honor was a surprise for those on the trip, especially Breeden.

Breeden said that many people were telling him great things about the students of Anderson University. “I kept thanking the Lord for bringing all those dedicated students who worked alongside Brown Indian Church to see this renovated building come to completion” he said. Each member of the team received a handmade blanket as a form of thanks from the church.

“This story shows the mission of Tri-S because of the caring and generous students and leaders over the years who have offered their time and efforts to help others” said Aurora Doster, director of Tri-S and study abroad. “They have learned and loved and served and given: the true embodiment of Tri-S” said Doster.

Breeden struggled to find words to describe his feelings about this special honor and what it means to Anderson University. “A huge lump swelled in my throat and tears formed in my eyes. What an honor to have this Christian education building re-named to honor Anderson University, truly a stunning moment in time,” said Breeden.