Dr. Orneita Burton, professor of management sciences, passed away last Sunday, leaving behind a legacy of intentional service and leadership in education that inspired those around her.

Dr. Phil Schubert, president of the university, sent out an email the day after, informing staff, faculty and students of her passing.

All flags on campus will be flown at half-staff this week to honor her memory.

Burton started her teaching career at ACU in 2000, bringing insight from her many years as an engineering consultant. Her contributions to the university have not gone unnoticed. During her 25 years here, she poured into her students, providing them with wisdom far beyond management sciences.

“Her faith guided the way she taught and mentored her students and the way she advocated to make our community a better place,” said Dr. Brad Crisp, a colleague and friend of Burton. “She was intentional, encouraging, and committed to service.”

Burton was born on April 6, 1957, in Blytheville, Arkansas. She stayed in Arkansas to earn her bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering at the University of Arkansas, graduating in 1980. In 1986, she earned her MS in Management Science at Texas A&M University Central Texas.

Burton was committed to education in terms of investing in students and herself.

Six years into her career as a professor for both in-person and online courses in ACU’s College of Business Administration, Burton earned her PhD in Business Administration from Arizona State University.

“ACU, the College of Business Administration, and her students and colleagues were all blessed by her time here,” Crisp said. “We will miss her greatly.”

Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Oct. 12 at the Elmwood Funeral Home Family Center. The funeral service will be the following day from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Funeral Home Chapel. All funeral services are provided by Elmwood Funeral Home & Memorial Park.