The University of Oklahoma officially welcomed its largest freshman class in school history at the annual Class Kickoff event, held this evening at the Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. With more than 4,600 students, the Class of 2025 also holds the highest GPA than any other incoming class and is the most diverse class ever, with more underrepresented students than any other year.

The Class of 2025 was welcomed to OU with a BBQ dinner, celebratory pre-ceremony flyover by the World War II-era Tulsa Warbirds and a fireworks display at the event’s conclusion.

Featured speakers at the event included OU President Joseph Harroz Jr., head football coach Lincoln Riley, Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students David Surratt, Senior Vice President and Provost André-Denis Wright and Student Government Association President Tavana Farzaneh.  

During his remarks, Harroz encouraged students to make a difference, using their college years as a time to discover how they can support each other and use their talents to serve the greater good.

“The meaning of life as I see it is to love, and if you can, make a difference – not just for yourself but for other people,” said OU President Joseph Harroz Jr. “Because when you look back, the hallmark of your life will be who you helped the most. That is my hope and my dream for this class.”

Classes on the Norman campus begin Monday, Aug. 23. More details on the Class of 2025 will be released at that time.

About the University of Oklahoma

Founded in 1890, the University of Oklahoma is a public research university located in Norman, Oklahoma. OU serves the educational, cultural, economic and health care needs of the state, region and nation. For more information visit www.ou.edu.