The Campbell Institute for Theological Education (CITE) began in 2012 as a co-operative arrangement between the University Christian Center (a ministry of the Circle Church of Christ) and Oklahoma Christianity University that utilizes the resources of local Christian faculty to offer accredited collegiate level courses in Biblical studies and Theology for students in the Willamette Valley of Oregon.   In August 2018 the Keizer Church of Christ assumed oversight of the ministry and its operations.

CITE takes is name from one of the great leaders of the early American Restoration Movement, Alexander Campbell (d. 1866).  This movement – today represented mainly by Churches of Christ and Christian Churches – sought to unify all believers by focusing on a simple form of Christianity based on the teachings of the New Testament.

How Does it Work?

Credit-seeking students register in a CITE course as special students at Oklahoma Christian and take the class at one of our teaching locations as they would any other college class.  After successfully completing the class, credits can then be transferred into the student’s respective degree program at OSU or other colleges or universities that will accept them.

Who Operates CITE?

Three groups work together to make CITE happen. These three entities are…

The Eldership of the Keizer Church of Christ exercises ultimate oversight over CITE.  But, it entrusts the CITE Board with significant authority and responsibility for day-to-day operations of the academic program.  The CITE board keeps the Keizer Elders informed about CITE activities and the progress of the program.

CITE Board.  The CITE Board is responsible for curriculum & faculty selection, fundraising, and spiritual direction.  The CITE Board members are Dr. Darren Williamson (Minister, Keizer Church of Christ), Jason Swick (Minister, Prineville Church of Christ), Dr. Bill McCaughan (Retired OSU Administrator and member of Circle Church of Christ), and Dr. Shawn Jones (Former Academic Dean, Cascade College & Minister, Newberg Church of Christ).

Oklahoma Christian University.   The OC College of Biblical studies, led by Dr. Charles Rix, provide ultimate oversight of CITE’s academic life.  The University provides accreditation for the CITE courses, hosts and manages student transcripts, and acts as an advocate for CITE with other academic institutions.