Southern Nazarene University Dedicates Bonnie Ladd Group Study Space in RT Williams Library

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

[Bethany, Oklahoma] - Southern Nazarene University (SNU) has dedicated a new collaborative learning area in the R.T. Williams Learning Resources Center as the Bonnie Ladd Group Study Space, honoring a woman whose faith, perseverance, and generosity continue to inspire students. A large group of faculty, staff, administrators, and current students attended a dedication event on September 24, 2025, along with several family members, to honor Bonnie’s memory and hear more of her inspirational story.

Born in 1906 in Indian Territory, Oklahoma, Bonnie Gladys Stillwell Ladd came from humble beginnings, which forged her lifelong testimony of resourcefulness and faith. From taking a housekeeping job in town so she could attend high school, to sewing wedding dresses to provide for her children, Bonnie modeled a servant heart rooted deeply in her Christian faith.

“Bonnie is an example of God’s love in action, a true servant whose willingness to help others made her loved by many,” said daughter Jo Ladd Clark ’69.  “Looking back, Bonnie truly lived a very sacrificial life to provide for our family of three. At the time, we didn’t have a clue,” recalled her daughter, Linda Ladd Nicholson Krause ’65. 

Throughout her life, Bonnie used her gifts to bless others. She created hundreds of bridal gowns, embroidered commencement sashes for Bethany Nazarene College (now SNU), and supported the University faithfully for decades. Though her means were modest, her giving was consistent and joyful. “She was a penny counter, but not a penny pincher,” said her son, Dr. Forrest Ladd, Jr. ’48. 

“The most outstanding thing about Bonnie was the way she lived her faith,” said Phil White ’77, longtime family friend. “She had a quiet faith, but her actions spoke volumes about her love for God and others.”

Throughout her life, Bonnie embodied SNU’s motto, Character, Culture, Christ. Though she never had the opportunity to pursue higher education herself, she devoted her life to ensuring her children and grandchildren could. All three of her children and two grandchildren attended Bethany Nazarene College/Southern Nazarene University, with her son, Forrest, and granddaughter, Dr. Gwen Ladd Hackler ’78, together serving nearly 80 years at the University.

“My grandmother lived in tune with John Wesley’s admonition to save all you can and give all you can,” reflected Dr. Hackler. “She taught me the great paradox that those who have the least for themselves are often the most generous to give to others.”

The Bonnie Ladd Group Study Space now serves as a welcoming hub for collaboration, learning, and community, a fitting tribute to a woman who shared everything she had to bless others. Whether through her tireless sewing, her faithful giving, or her gracious encouragement, Bonnie Ladd’s life wove together faith and service in a way that continues to inspire.

“I can still feel the warmth of her presence and hear the gentle strength in her words, reminding me that I am never truly alone, and that Jesus longs to be woven into the everyday,” remembered granddaughter Chandra Line ’93.

Bonnie’s legacy lives on through every student who gathers, studies, and dreams in the space that bears her name. As she said near the end of her life, “Don’t grieve for me. If I go in the next minute, I know I’m ready to go. I’ve had a good time. I tried to make the world a better place.”

At SNU, she still is.

About Southern Nazarene University
Southern Nazarene University, located in Bethany, Oklahoma, is a private Christian institution committed to shaping servant leaders since 1899. With more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs offered on campus and online, SNU emphasizes accessibility, purpose-driven education, and holistic student support.

Contact:
Office of University Advancement
Southern Nazarene University
advancement@snu.edu | 405-491-6617