Over the past few years, I have sadly witnessed a deeply troubling shift in the behavior and atmosphere within our community. There has been an unprecedented rise in actions and attitudes that contradict the very essence of Islamic ethics and values. While I understand that people come from diverse cultural, social, and economic backgrounds, this cannot justify the lack of basic Islamic principles—something I’ve seen across all age groups, both young and old. Among the most disturbing behaviors were deliberate acts of disrespect within the House of Allah, including individuals intentionally blocking the toilets—an appalling lack of reverence. Even more shocking was the level of hatred and animosity that surfaced—unlike anything I’ve seen in my 44 years of service. Children, influenced perhaps by their parents, have echoed disturbing remarks and questions that left me speechless.

I have also witnessed unethical practices, such as individuals exploiting the mental health conditions of others for financial gain—an action that is not only immoral but completely against the teachings of Islam. On the managerial side, I have repeatedly found that important decisions were made without consulting or even informing me, despite my role. Multiple groups—both in-person and online—have been formed, involving individuals who have never once participated in the internal affairs of the ISS or, more importantly, the ICS.

Hatred, jealousy, and prejudice have, unfortunately, taken root—qualities that should have no place in any religious setting, let alone an Islamic Center. This toxic environment has been emotionally and spiritually draining, making the last few years especially disheartening.

It is from this context and reflection on recent years that I now continue with the rest of my message:

Since everything in this life (Dunyah) must come to an end, I, Dr. Basha—General Director, CEO, and Spokesman of the ISS, the legal entity representing the Islamic Center in Stillwater (ICS), and the sole former chairman of the fundraising committee responsible for securing all funding for the construction of the current ICS facilities—hereby announce the following:

As of today, Friday, April 4th, 2025, and after 44 years of dedicated service to this community in various capacities, I have made, after much reflection and sincere consultation with close friends and honest community members, a very difficult decision. I have decided to step back from all operational roles within the ISS. Starting today, I will serve as an observer and advisor to the ISS.

In shaa’ Allah, I will now devote all my time to Dawah activities of the ICS, both within and beyond its premises. I will continue to use my office on the second floor to coordinate and manage outreach and Dawah efforts.

It has truly been a blessing and a privilege to serve this community, this masjid, and the Islamic Center for the greater part of my life—with the help and support of Allah (SWT), and the sincere efforts of many devoted brothers, to whom I am deeply grateful. With Allah’s guidance and support, I will continue to serve in the Dawah mission of this masjid, this Stillwater Embassy of Islam.

Additionally, as of today, Dr. Hatem Hegab will continue to focus fully on Dawah efforts, as his workload and dedication to spreading the message of Islam only grow. Dr. Hegab’s office at the ICS has become a hub of productive activity, yielding more work for the sake of Allah than many committees combined—work he has carried out single-handedly, totally financed by his own money, with the blessing and help of Allah (SWT). I testify to this sincerely for the sake of Allah.

Dr. Hegab’s contributions include the publication of hundreds of articles on Islam and the establishment of one of the most informative websites managed by any Islamic center. He has been updating his website, icstillwater.org, on an almost daily basis, documenting the educational, outreach, and community activities of the ICS. Since 2005—nearly 20 years—he has served both the ISS and ICS in various roles. Walhamdulillah, by the grace of Allah, he has helped maintain the independence and integrity of this institution, which I now pass on.

I encourage each and every one of you to continue supporting and working for this Islamic Center. It always needs your involvement, your volunteering, and your energy. This Center was founded by international students, funded by international students, and has largely been operated by and for international students. It was built by international students, and it is your active participation that will shape its future. May we not lose it just as we lost the Andalus.

May Allah (SWT) reward everyone who has supported this journey, and may He continue to bless and guide this community.

— Dr. Basha, 44 years of service ⚖️
* ISS’s General Director, CEO, and Spokesman visit 🕌icstillwater.org
To be educated and informed ⚖️:
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✍🏼 Professional Experience:
* ⁠McPerson College Math Instructor, McPherson, Kansas
* ⁠listed in {Who is Who among international students in the United States }
* ⁠Award Recipient from OSU for helping its international students
* ⁠Member of the Board of OSU’s University Appartments
* ⁠Served as a volunteer at the Stillwater Medical Center
* ⁠OSU’s Chief Modeler and Forecaster of the Oklahoma Economic Outlook
* ⁠Adjunct MBA Professor at the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO)
* ⁠Director of the Saudi Economic Modeling, Saudi Ministry of Economic & Planning
* ⁠Professor of Economics & Quantitative Methods in Business, King Saud University
* ⁠Director of Knowledge Exchange & International collaboration at Shaqra University, KSA
* ⁠Consultant to the Dean of Faculties & Staff and President of Shaqra University, KSA.
* ⁠A proud Father to five kids, all of whom finished college and beyond,
🙏Walhamdulellah 🤲🏼