“For me, that first bite brought back memories from over 35 years ago.”
What started as a nostalgic throwback quickly turned into a full-fledged community celebration this week, as the City of Okmulgee officially declared April 7, 2026, as “Pizza Bread Day.”
By proclamation from Mayor Mickey Baldwin, the beloved campus tradition at Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology was not only revived – it was celebrated in a big, bold and delicious way.
From the moment festivities kicked off Tuesday morning, the OSUIT Culinary Patio buzzed with excitement as students, alumni and community members gathered to take part in a day filled with food, fun and fond memories.
The event had all the ingredients for success – music, games, competitions and, of course, the star of the show: Pizza Bread.
Mayor Baldwin helped launch the celebration with a special announcement, officially recognizing the day and honoring a tradition that has brought generations together.
The creator of Pizza Bread, Chef Glen Shoaf, was on hand to assist culinary students as they put together the delicious creations. Whether it was pepperoni, sausage, or just cheese, it all came together just like it was in the beginning.
And then – just minutes later – the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived.
Pizza Bread was served. Lines quickly formed as attendees eagerly grabbed a slice (or two) of the iconic treat, with organizers warning early on that supplies wouldn’t last long – and they were right.
The energy only grew from there, with a Pizza Bread eating competition drawing laughs and cheers, followed by a creative building competition where participants put their own spin on the classic recipe.
The return of Pizza Bread isn’t just about food – it’s about history.
First created in the early 1970s by OSUIT baking instructor Glenn Shoaf, the recipe was designed to be simple, affordable and satisfying. Using French bread, sauce, cheese and toppings, it quickly became a Friday staple on campus.
Students loved it. And they made sure it stayed.
At its peak, hundreds of Pizza Breads were made each week – and sold out just as quickly. For just $1, it became more than a meal – it became a memory.
Even after it disappeared in the 1990s, the legend never faded.
This year’s revival didn’t happen overnight.
It was the result of a grassroots effort by students and alumni who wanted to bring back a piece of OSUIT’s past. Petitions circulated, memories were shared and the community rallied behind the idea. That passion paid off.
With support from university leadership – and a little help from city officials – Pizza Bread made its triumphant return, culminating in Tuesday’s celebration and official proclamation.
Beyond the food and festivities, Pizza Bread Day proved to be something more meaningful – a reminder of how traditions can connect generations.
For alumni, it was a taste of the past. For current students, it was a chance to be part of something legendary.
And for Okmulgee, it was another example of how a community can come together to celebrate its unique history – one slice at a time.
As the event wrapped up and the last crumbs disappeared, one thing was clear: Pizza Bread is back – and hopefully it’s here to stay.
