John Parrish, who served as OBU's sports information director during the 1960s and 1970s, was one of the founders of the Bison Athletic Association and served as its executive director and treasurer for many years.

He broadcast OBU basketball in the 1970s, 1980s, and from 2001-to present.

During his OBU career, Parrish taught journalism and held such administrative positions as director of public relations, alumni director, assistant vice president for development, vice president for institutional advancement, senior vice president for business and external affairs, and executive vice president.

He also served as interim president in 2007-08.

Parrish is the author of three books on OBU basketball: The Glory Years of Bison Basketball; OBU Hoops; and Finish.

Parrish, who received an honorary doctorate from OBU in 2010, lives in Shawnee and continues to work on OBU sports history projects.