by Chloe Dent
In honor of Women’s History Month, OBU recognizes the influential women who shape our campus and inspire future generations. Among them is Dr. Larinee Dennis, who serves as Co-Provost, Chief Academic Officer, Dean of Business, Health, Science, & Education, and Professor of Education.
Dr. Dennis’s path to academia was not straightforward. Though familiar with university life due to her father’s role as a Chief Financial Officer, she initially pursued a career in public education, teaching upper elementary and middle school students.
“I knew I chose education probably for the wrong reason,” she admitted. “Most teachers say they love kids and the ‘aha’ moment, but for me, it was about making a plan, working the plan, and fixing it if it didn’t work.”
Her transition into higher education came unexpectedly when she was invited to speak at her alma mater due to her academic achievements.
“One time when I went back to be a guest speaker, they said, ‘We’re getting ready to hire a faculty member. Would you like to be considered?’” She accepted, launching her administrative career. Over time, she realized that administration was her true calling. “I found myself feeling interrupted from the work I wanted to be doing when it was time for class. I realized, ‘Oh, I’m an administrator. This work gives me life and joy.’”
Her leadership journey led her to become vice president for academics at another institution before assuming her current role in Oklahoma.
“God used all these past experiences to shape me and help me see what He has gifted me for. Now, I’m just using those gifts and trying to pour them back as an act of worship and obedience to Him.”
Reflecting on Women’s History Month, Dr. Dennis emphasized the significance of recognizing opportunities that were once inaccessible to women. “
There was a time when a female could not have held this role based on societal norms and level of educational access. God has uniquely placed me in this time period, and that is not by accident or mistake.” She admires women who “embrace the gifts that God has given them and use them to make whatever space they’ve been placed in look and feel more like the kingdom of heaven on earth.”
Regarding challenges as a woman in academic leadership, Dr. Dennis acknowledged facing adversity in previous roles but refrains from attributing it solely to gender biases.
“I have certainly encountered conflict and adversity, but I’m not going to say that it is solely based on the fact that I’m a woman. There is a lot more that goes into any sort of conflict or adversity in that space.” She believes adversity can be a tool for growth.
“Retrospect gives a more holistic picture, but jumping to conclusions in the moment is usually not helpful.”
For young women aspiring to leadership, she offers three key pieces of advice.
“First, God has beautifully and wonderfully made you as a female. That is not a mistake. It’s not that He has gifted you with leadership even though you’re a female – it’s that you are a female, and He has gifted you with this calling.”
Second, she emphasizes the value of diligence.
“Work hard, not to make a name for yourself, but because in working hard, you demonstrate something to a watching world. You don’t control their perception, but you do control your behavior.”
Lastly, she stresses the importance of a supportive community. “
Figure out who your people are and row in the same direction. It doesn’t have to be a spouse; it can be your parents, a good friend, or a mentor.”
When asked which historical woman she would like to converse with, Dr. Dennis chose Mary, the mother of Jesus.
“I’d like to visit with Mary and ask whether she felt the weight and burden of mothering the Savior of the world. Was that easy because He never sinned? Did she ever have to tell Him to clean up His room or pick up His sandals?”
More seriously, she added, “I’d enjoy a conversation with her about vision – shepherding your child to their calling. I have three kids, and I think a lot about how to guide them toward their unique giftedness and calling.”
Dr. Dennis’s journey is an inspiration to aspiring female leaders in academia and beyond. “God has gifted me, and now I get to pour back into others. That’s an incredible privilege.”
