Shawnee High School freshmen recently participated in an etiquette luncheon hosted at Oklahoma Baptist University, thanks to a partnership between OBU's Dickinson School of Business and First United Bank. The event provided students with a valuable opportunity to visit the OBU campus, experience a formal five-course meal, and receive instruction on proper dining etiquette and professional conduct.
Jim Marshall, a local etiquette coach and attorney, led the instructional portion of the luncheon, teaching students essential skills for navigating formal dining settings and professional interactions. OBU DECA students served as hosts and servers for the event, gaining hands-on hospitality experience while helping guide the high school guests through each course.
Faculty from OBU and representatives from First United Bank joined students at the tables, offering a chance to network and engage in intentional conversations. These interactions allowed Shawnee students to connect with professionals and educators in a real-world setting, strengthening their communication and social skills.
“This event was about more than just table manners,” said Kaylee Wilburn, Shawnee High School Freshman Counselor, “It was about preparing our students for the future, whether they’re walking into a college interview, business luncheon, or professional meeting. ‘Communicator’ is one of the key components of our Profile of a Graduate, and we’re proud to offer real-world opportunities like this to help put our students on a trajectory to succeed in that area.”
Shawnee Public Schools is grateful to OBU and First United Bank for their commitment to student success and for providing this opportunity to the students.