Southern Nazarene University (SNU) is happy to announce its new Associate of Arts in Business degree program. This program will start in January 2025. The university's College of Professional and Graduate Studies offers the associate degree in business program. The program is designed to equip students with practical business knowledge, strong ethical foundations, and leadership skills essential for thriving in today’s dynamic business world.
The Associate of Arts in Business (AAB) degree is structured to provide a comprehensive education that balances general education with specialized business courses. At the core of this program is a commitment to student success, driven by a team of dedicated educators who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the classroom.
"A valuable element of the program is learning and growing," says Felecia Moriels. "And the educators dedicate their expertise and experience to the learner's success in conscientiously cultivating Christlike disciples to become servant leaders and professionals in their industry," she explains.
Felecia Moriels, who serves as the Director of General Education for Professional Studies, is at the helm of the AAB program as the Program Director. With an impressive background in entrepreneurship, business management, and leadership training, Felecia is well-positioned to guide students through their academic journey. In addition to her role as Program Director, she is an Assistant Professor within the School of Professional and Graduate Studies, where she brings her passion for education and student mentorship into every classroom.
Professor Moriels’ professional journey is as diverse as it is inspiring. Prior to her shift to academia, she had a 26-year stint as an entrepreneur in Oklahoma City, a journey that culminated in her receiving the 2014 African American Woman Entrepreneur Award in the Greater Oklahoma City Metropolitan Area.
She holds a certification in Leadership Development Training and is affiliated with numerous esteemed associations, such as the National Society of Leadership and Success and the Junior League of Oklahoma City. Her dedication to serving the community is clearly seen through her leadership positions in civic groups like the Links, Incorporated, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Here, she guides high school and college students, devoting more than 400 hours of service each year.
For Professor Moriels, her work at SNU is more than just a career—it’s a ministry. She uses her professional skills to encourage and empower students, helping them discover their potential and chart a path toward success. Her motto, “Be yourself, Look yourself, Feel yourself, Speak yourself… just be YOU!” encapsulates her approach to education and mentorship. She believes that everyone’s success looks different and that it’s essential to view life through renewed eyes, with faith in God’s guidance and support.
"Students are successful in the program because they are intellectually curious and capable of following instructions, engaging in thoughtful discussions to explore the conciseness of business and how they can implement the practicalities into their work, family, and community," explains Professor Moriels.
The curriculum is built to explore how business principles can be applied not just in the workplace, but in all aspects of life, including family and community. Students are encouraged to critically analyze and think pragmatically, skills that are foundational to making sound business decisions.
One of the courses Professor Moriels is particularly passionate about teaching is BADM 1113: Ethics & Business Principles. "I like teaching BADM 1113: Ethics & Business Principles because it is foundational to an individual character and the root that contributes to making sound business decisions," she says. "Pragmatic business decisions allow individuals to analyze and think critically to make realistic choices better suited for the organization and its followers."
Professor Moriels' teaching philosophy is heavily influenced by her own experiences as a business leader and her study of influential books like “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki. She believes that failure is an integral part of success, as long as one has the tenacity to get back up, readjust, and keep moving forward. She encourages her students to seek out opportunities for growth, reminding them that education is not just about gaining knowledge, but about increasing one’s abilities and capabilities in life.
As SNU prepares to launch the Associate of Arts in Business program, Professor Moriels is excited about the future. "Launching this program makes me smile! The team has been wonderful, and I am ready to see the program excel," she explains. She has faith that the program will excel and is eager to see how it will impact the lives of students.
For her, the greatest reward is watching students discover their purpose and develop the skills they need to achieve their goals. Professor Moriels views her role as a vessel, contributing to the cultivation of greatness in others, and helping them recognize their potential.
In the end, education at SNU is about more than just earning a degree—it’s about building a life of purpose and service. The Associate of Arts in Business program is designed to do just that, equipping students with the tools they need to succeed in their careers and make a meaningful impact in their communities. With dedicated leaders like Felecia Moriels at the forefront, the program is poised to become a cornerstone of SNU’s commitment to developing servant leaders for the business world.
About Southern Nazarene University
Southern Nazarene University is a private Christian university located in Bethany, Oklahoma. Committed to a values-driven education, SNU offers students an environment where they can develop academically, spiritually, and socially. With a history of academic excellence, SNU continues to prepare students to become impactful leaders through its rigorous programs and close-knit community. For more information, please contact pgsadmissions@mail.snu.edu.
