Gracie Pipes

SENIOR SPOTLIGHT

Gracie Pipes, Class of 2023

Hometown: Crowley, Texas
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
Minor: TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)

With graduation on the horizon, Gracie Pipes is completing her student teaching with 4th graders at Dale Public Schools. This fall she will be teaching for the school district on a full-time basis for the 2023-24 school year with her very own classroom.

Gracie enrolled at OBU after attending high school in the Fort Worth area. She was interested in attending a university where she could combine her elementary education degree with a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) emphasis. Much to her delight, OBU offered that emphasis, in addition to a distinctive liberal arts Christian education.

Gracie was inspired to pursue education because of the significant impact and influence of her late grandmother, a former educator. As a student on Bison Hill, she says the knowledge she has received in both her major and minor degree programs have more than adequately equipped her to successfully pursue her goals.

“The biggest take-away I have from my four years here at OBU has been my relationship with my professors. The level of intentionality, care, professionalism and expertise they offer has greatly prepared me to enter the world of work. Even after I leave OBU, I know these people will remain in my corner,“ she said.

“The faculty in the McCabe Family School of Education represent a wonderful combination of professionals who have a variety of experiences from different grade levels, schools and emphases. I have learned so much there and it has been a rich and meaningful degree program.

Also, through my time studying TESOL with Dr. Rohr, I have been challenged by the level of academic rigor. Her method of instruction has allowed me to truly soak in knowledge and learn in an effective and satisfying way,” Gracie explained.

“In addition to the training here at OBU, my various field placements in area schools has allowed me to gain the skills and confidence needed when I have my own classroom. I look forward to building relationships with my students, creating a pleasing learning environment, and investing in the lives of those I’m teaching. I want to equip them with an education that will open many doors for their future” she added.

While at OBU, Gracie participated in the debate team. She also served as a resident advisor for Kerr dormitory. Participation in Shawnee’s Frontline Church has been a strong area of personal leadership and spiritual growth during her college years.

As graduation day approaches, Gracie reflects by saying, ‘Ultimately, I am leaving OBU feeling very adequately equipped to teach. My professors and mentors have made a strong impact on me while integrating faith all along the way.”