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USA TODAY
The Daniel School of Business is going to offer a unique perspective.
“We’re telling people to put God in their business,” said Pastor Raymond Cochran Jr. of Oasis of Love Church. “I think it really makes us unique. We’re going to give you the natural but also the spiritual.
“God led his leaders in the decision-making process. Business is all throughout the Bible.”
Cochran said the school, scheduled to open in September or October, will offer courses as it seeks accreditation. Those who complete the program will receive a certificate.
“It’s a faith-based business school for entrepreneurs, business owners, those who are business-minded or those who are just looking to learn more about business,” the pastor said.
Goals of the Daniel School of Business include closing the poverty gap in Black and brown communities. The school will feature a prayer network and will incorporate scripture.
“There’s a lot of great gifts, a lot of great talents, but you need God to lead you in those areas so you can be most successful,” Cochran said.
He said a team of ministers and elders will be involved.
“We really want to bring change in our community,” Cochran said. “Businesses help communities thrive. They take crime down.”
For the time being, the Daniel School of Business will be free to attend, though Cochran said that will not always be the case.
“A lot of people don’t have a chance to go to school, per se,” he said.
An application process begins this month, with Cochran saying there will be something for everyone who applies.
“We want to make sure we identify folks who are serious about this,” he said.
Cochran said Oasis of Love has much of the infrastructure needed, including classrooms. Officials will seek grants and look for donations, with a goal of expanding beyond Mansfield.
For now, the Daniel School of Business will focus on improving the North End.
“I know there’s a lot of bright minds here that don’t get a chance, that don’t get an opportunity,” Cochran said. “We want to provide that.”
The pastor said he came up with the idea for the school three years ago.
“In my prayer time, God brought it up, but he said to wait. There would be an appointed time for this,” Cochran said.
That time is now.
Classes will be held Saturday mornings at Oasis of Love Church, 190 Chester Ave. Two semesters total four months.
Applications are available online at oasisoflove.org. The application process will begin July 8.
For more information, call the church office at 419-524-0344.
“We’re just excited,” Cochran said. “I believe the church is put here to give back, to open our doors and lend a helping hand.”
mcaudill@gannett.com
419-521-7219
X: @MarkCau32059251
