What is OCU ?

Orange Crush University

About Orange Crush University (OCU)

Mission Statement

Orange Crush University is an educational platform dedicated to empowering students, veterans, and underserved communities through innovative programs in technology, blockchain education, civic engagement, and cultural leadership. We strive to bridge academic knowledge with real-world application, fostering inclusive opportunities that nurture the next generation of creators, leaders, and changemakers.CRUSH University is a social impact education and innovation platform empowering students, creatives, and communities through digital education, financial literacy, cultural entrepreneurship, and veteran leadership.

We exist to make education profitable, creative futures accessible, and knowledge a currency that uplifts communities.

Founded by George Ransom Turner III — a 100% service-connected U.S. veteran and the legal owner of the CRUSH™ brand — we operate at the intersection of education, entertainment, and empowerment.

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WHAT WE DO

  • Host on-campus and virtual workshops on entrepreneurship, financial literacy, tech, and crypto

  • Collaborate with HBCUs and universities to offer student-led media, publishing, and business projects

  • Publish CRUSH Magazine and digital content from student contributors

  • Operate CRUSH Coin learning labs and micro-internship programs

  • License the CRUSH brand to partners aligned with cultural, educational, and youth-based initiatives

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WHO WE WORK WITH

  • Universities & HBCUs (Savannah State, Georgia State, Clark Atlanta, etc.)

  • Veteran organizations

  • Cultural festivals & media brands

  • Social equity-focused sponsors and creative businesses

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PARTNER WITH US

Want to bring CRUSH University to your campus, brand, or city?

We offer:

  • Turnkey campus activation programming

  • Crypto & business literacy sessions

  • Internship placement & certification programs

  • Sponsorship packages for CRUSH Magazine, CRUSH Tour, and educational activations

📩 Email us at orangecrushfestivaltybee@gmail.com

Vision

Our vision is to become a nationally recognized center of excellence where education, technology, and culture unite to transform lives, promote social equity, and drive community innovation. We envision empowered individuals equipped with the skills and confidence to lead sustainable change locally and globally.

Our History & Founding Purpose

Founded in 2021 as the nonprofit educational arm of the Orange Crush Brand, OCU builds upon the rich legacy of the original Orange Crush Festival established in 1988. Originally a spring beach gathering for Savannah State University students amid the civil rights era, the festival’s spirit of inclusion and cultural celebration has evolved into a broad educational mission.

OCU was created to extend that legacy beyond the festival by offering structured, accredited programs and community initiatives that address systemic barriers and promote technology-driven empowerment. Our nonprofit status formalizes our commitment to public benefit and educational excellence.

Core Programs & Curriculum

OCU offers a diverse array of programs designed to meet the needs of today’s learners and communities, including:

1.

Blockchain & Cryptocurrency Education

Hands-on workshops and courses demystify blockchain technology, cryptocurrencies (including Crush Coin), decentralized finance, and digital asset management.

2.

Civic Engagement & Leadership Development

Programs that teach students about governance, policy advocacy, community organizing, and ethical leadership grounded in cultural awareness.

3.

Cultural Heritage & Creative Expression

Courses and projects that explore African American history, arts, and storytelling as tools for identity, empowerment, and social justice.

4.

Environmental Sustainability & Science

Collaborations with university science departments focus on sustainability research, environmental policy, and fieldwork tied to festival impacts and coastal conservation.

5.

Career Readiness & Entrepreneurship

Training in financial literacy, business development, digital marketing, and startup incubation support economic independence and innovation.

Strategic Partnerships

OCU collaborates with numerous academic institutions, government agencies, community organizations, and industry leaders to expand its reach and impact. Key partnerships include:

  • Savannah State University: Multi-disciplinary academic programs and research projects.

  • Atlanta Blockchain Center: Blockchain infrastructure development and crypto banking incubation.

  • Tybee Island & Local Government: Environmental stewardship and civic engagement initiatives.

  • HBCUs Across Georgia: Student engagement, cultural programming, and leadership training.

These partnerships enable OCU to deliver tailored programming aligned with local and statewide educational priorities.

Organizational Structure

OCU is governed by a dedicated Board of Directors responsible for oversight, strategic planning, and regulatory compliance. The executive leadership team manages daily operations, program development, fundraising, and community relations.

Departments include:

  • Education & Curriculum Development

  • Student & Veteran Engagement

  • Research & Innovation

  • Community Outreach & Partnerships

  • Finance & Administration

Our organizational framework ensures efficient program delivery, accountability, and sustainable growth.

Community Impact & Success Metrics

Since its inception, OCU has:

  • Engaged hundreds of students and veterans in blockchain and leadership programs.

  • Facilitated successful internships, research projects, and career placements.

  • Developed community-based sustainability projects with measurable environmental benefits.

  • Fostered a vibrant cultural and educational ecosystem supporting social equity.

  • Secured funding from grants, sponsors, and donations to expand offerings.

We continuously assess program effectiveness through participant feedback, academic outcomes, and community indicators to refine and improve.

How to Get Involved

We invite students, educators, community leaders, and supporters to join us in advancing our mission through:

  • Enrollment in educational programs

  • Volunteer opportunities

  • Partnerships and sponsorships

  • Donations and fundraising support

Together, we can build a more equitable and innovative future.

OFF THE RECORD.

Orange Crush, started in 1989 by Savannah State University (SSU) students, had a significant influence on SSU’s reputation in the late 1980s. At a time when SSU faced possible merger due to financial struggles and leadership gaps, Orange Crush brought positive publicity and increased student enrollment, which some credit with helping the university remain independent. The event showcased SSU’s student unity and vibrancy, especially as it took place on Tybee Island—a location where racial tensions and scrutiny of Black beachgoers were still present.

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world.

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world.

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world.

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