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FROM THE PRESIDENT Cowboy family, There is something special about Oklahoma State University in the fall. You can feel it when students return to our campuses, when classrooms and laboratories come alive and when the Cowboy family gathers again with a renewed sense of possibility. That energy reminds me every day why we are here: our students. It also reminds me of the responsibility we share to make sure OSU is prepared not simply for the next semester or the next year, but for generations to come. In this issue, you will read about our new strategic plan, Answering the Call: A Strategic Vision for The State’s University (Page 46). Students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners from across the OSU System helped shape it, and together we have established a clear path forward for academic excellence, student success, research, Extension and service to Oklahoma as The State’s University (Page 52). That same spirit of shared purpose is driving extraordinary momentum in philanthropy. Following a record-setting fundraising year, The Code Calls campaign has surpassed $1 billion on the way to its $2 billion goal (Page 32). I am deeply grateful to every Cowboy who has answered the call and invested in the future of this university. Every gift represents a student who can afford to stay in school, a researcher with an opportunity to solve a difficult problem, a community strengthened by OSU expertise or an experience that changes the direction of someone’s life. This is an important season for Oklahoma State University. We have a clear direction, tremendous momentum and, most importantly, a Cowboy family that believes deeply in this institution and its mission. The Code Calls us to dream big, give our all and finish what we start. And together we will. Because that’s what Cowboys do. Go Pokes!

DR. JIM D. HESS OSU President osupres@okstate.edu O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

NEXT GENERATION | Against the backdrop of Boone Pickens Stadium, members of the Class of 2030 come together to mark the start of their Oklahoma State University story. PHOTO ERIC PRIDDY

OSU B R A N D M A N A G E M E N T

O SU FOUNDATION

Megan Horton | Associate Vice President of Brand Management Lance Latham | Chief Communications Officer Erin Petrotta | Chief Marketing Officer Casey Cleary | Associate Director of Marketing Strategy Mack Burke | Editor-in-Chief Jeremy Davis | Associate Director of Multimedia Shannon Rigsby | Associate Director of Public Information Andrew Breshears | Associate Director of Web Strategy Hayley Hagen | Assistant Director of Digital Communications Dave Malec | Creative Manager Jordan Bishop | Managing Editor Kinsey Garcia and Kara Peters | Administrative Support Codee Classen, Cody Giles, Stephen Matthews and Alyssa Scattergood-White | Design Natalie Cox and Sydney Trainor | Editorial Chris Ensor, Phil Gahagans, Kaitlyn Henry and Karolyn Moberly | Marketing Adam Hildebrandt and McKinzie McElroy | Multimedia Ellie Piper and Eric Priddy | Photography William Hoback and Kendall Nodorft | Social Media Kurtis Mason | Trademarks and Licensing Greg Bartlett, Kaitlin Little, Sarah Lyon and Chance Parker | Web

Bryan Begley | Chair Blaire Atkinson | President Robyn Baker | Vice President and General Counsel Dawn Barnard | Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Ty Ropp | Vice President of Development Pam Guthrie | Senior Associate Vice President of Human Resources Melanie Davis | Senior Associate Vice President of Information Strategy Courtney Wolfe MacNelly | Assistant Vice President of Advancement Operations Blaire Atkinson, Bryan Begley, Craig Boelte, Brian Callahan, Bryan Close (Honorary Trustee), Eddy Ditzler, Kayleen Ferguson, Jennifer Grigsby (Honorary Trustee), Spencer Haines, Robert Keating, Shelly Lambertz, Lindel Larison, Greg Massey, Ross McKnight (Honorary Trustee), Gail Muncrief, Bill Patterson, Tiffany Sewell-Howard, Teri Shaffer, Terry Stewart, Melinda Stinnett, Beverly Walker-Griffea, Carl Wiese and Darton Zink | Trustees Bryanna Freer, Samantha Hardy, Jennifer Kinnard, Chris Lewis, Estefania Martinez, Amanda Mason, Heather Millermon, Michael Molholt, Grant Ramirez and Benton Rudd | Marketing and Donor Experiences OSU Foundation | 400 South Monroe, P.O. Box 1749, Stillwater, OK 74076-1749 800-6224678 | OSUgiving.com | info@OSUgiving.com

O SU A L UMNI AS S OCI ATION Scott Eisenhauer | Chair Taylor Shinn | Vice Chair Kurt Carter | Immediate Past Chair Dr. Ann Caine | President Jake Wilkins | Vice President of Business Development David Parrack | Vice President of Finance and Operations Jamie Schuermann | Assistant Vice President of Engagement and Executive Affairs Les Austin, Thomas Blalock, Zach Burrow, Susan Crenshaw, Ben Davis, Deedra Determan, Jonathan Dodson, Dr. Sonja Hughes, Brian Krafft, Chris Moody, Elizabeth Nickles, Krista Roberts, Dr. Cecilia Robinson-Woods, Stacy Schauvliege, Baloo Subramaniam, Leslie Swafford, Matt Waits and Susanne Wasson | Board of Directors Will Carr, Emmerson Cave, Katie Dragoo, Bailee Kirby, Kinzie Pappan and Libby Ray | Marketing and Communications OSU Alumni Association | 201 ConocoPhillips OSU Alumni Center, Stillwater, OK 74078 | 405-744-5368 | okstatealumni.org | info@okstatealumni.org

STATE magazine is published three times a year (fall, winter, spring) by Oklahoma State University, 305 Whitehurst, Stillwater, OK 74078. The magazine is produced by the Department of Brand Management, the OSU Alumni Association and the OSU Foundation, and is mailed to current members of the OSU Alumni Association. Magazine subscriptions are available only by membership in the OSU Alumni Association. Membership cost is $50. Call 405-744-5368 or mail a check to 201 ConocoPhillips OSU Alumni Center, Stillwater, OK 740787043. To change a mailing address, visit okstatealumni.org/update or call 405-744-5368. Oklahoma State University, as an equal opportunity employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination. Oklahoma State University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, sex, color, national origin, marital status, disability, or veteran status with regard to employment, educational programs and activities, and/or admissions. For more information, the director of equal opportunity/Title IX coordinator is located at 201 General Academic Building and can be reached at 405-744-1156 or by visiting EEO.OKSTATE.EDU. This publication, issued by Oklahoma State University as authorized by the vice president of OSU Brand Management, was printed by Slate Group at a cost of $2.42 per issue: 30,493. | August 2026 | Copyright © 2026, STATE magazine. All rights reserved.

STATE Magazine 305 WHITEHURST OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY STILLWATER, OK 74078

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EDITOR@OKSTATE.EDU STATEMAGAZINE.OKSTATE.EDU

IN THIS ISSUE

ON THE FRONT

Under an Orange Sky The Doel Reed Center’s unique learning environment continues transforming lives through art, culture and exploration. Pages 14-21

FEATURES

26 Hype and the Heart

OSU Unified flag football athletes and partners showcase teamwork and determination while representing Oklahoma at the Special Olympics.

40 Balancing family, work and My Own Moment

academics, Spears Business student transforms perseverance into a remarkable OSU success story.

48 Called to Lead

A new systemwide strategic plan positions OSU to lead boldly as The State’s University.

54 Serving Oklahoma

From agriculture to health care, OSU’s land-grant mission is transforming lives in all 77 counties.

ALSO INSIDE 5 6 60 84 90 94 96 98 99

Socially Orange Campus News Cowboy Way Cowboy Chronicles Chapter News Alumni Update In Memory Births Weddings

64 Multiplying Impact

Women for OSU honors donors, scholars and changemakers whose support multiplies impact across campus.

The official magazine of Oklahoma State University

70 Krafting Connection

Adaptability, connection and leadership propelled OSU alumna to success at Kraft Heinz.

Got you covered The Doel Reed Center in Taos has a picturesque view of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. (Cover photo: Eric Priddy)

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

ALUMNI A S S O C I AT I O N

okstatealumni.org/homecoming ALUMNI A S S O C I AT I O N

SOCIALLY ORANGE

Join the conversation on social media with the Cowboy family!

In a galaxy that’s loyal and true…

All dressed up

@okstate

OAIRE’s TK-1890 represents OSU’s role as a leader in aerospace innovation.

Every year means a new legacy @okstatealumni

@OSUAthletics

Coach Morris and his captains head to the Big 12 Media Days.

Your future home in Stilly @BeanOSUCowboy

Kicked off summer with the Legacy program.

The Code Calls us all @okstatepres

Every year, OSU hosts a staff appreciation day to celebrate the employees who live by the Cowboy Code.

Oklahoma State University

okstateu

@okstate

Oklahoma State University

Visit social.okstate.edu for more social media connections.

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

CAMPUS NEWS

Veterinary Visionary PRATHER NAMED DEAN OF OSU COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE OSU President Jim Hess appointed Dr. Richard Prather as dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine this spring. An OSU veterinary medicine graduate, Prather brings four decades of veterinary practice experience and extensive ties to Oklahoma’s veterinary and agricultural communities. His appointment comes as the college prepares for the construction of a new $329 million teaching hospital that will replace its current 40-yearold facility. Prather owned and operated Ellis County Animal Hospital in Shattuck, Oklahoma, with his wife, Dr. Angie Prather, for more than 30 years, providing mixed-animal veterinary services throughout

northwest Oklahoma. He also has a long history of supporting veterinary education, hosting more than 60 veterinary students from 10 universities and serving on the OSU CVM Admissions Committee. “This is a profound honor and a tremendous responsibility,” said Prather, CVM’s 11th full-time dean. “The people of Oklahoma have made a generational investment in veterinary medicine through a new teaching hospital. My commitment is to empower our talented faculty, staff and students to ensure we honor that investment by training veterinarians who will serve communities across Oklahoma. “As someone who has practiced in rural Oklahoma for four decades, I’ve seen the critical role veterinary medicine plays in protecting our food supply, supporting our agricultural producers and strengthening rural economies.”

PROBLEMATIC PEST OSU AIDS IN THE FIGHT AGAINST NEW WORLD SCREWWORM

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OSU Extension and College of Veterinary Medicine experts, in collaboration with the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, are helping raise awareness of New World screwworm. They are educating producers and pet owners on identification, prevention and biosecurity measures, encouraging vigilance as officials monitor the pest’s return. Learn more at screwworm.okstate.edu.

“My commitment is to empower our talented faculty, staff and students to ensure we honor that investment by training veterinarians who will serve communities across Oklahoma.” Dr. Richard Prather College of Veterinary Medicine Dean

With Honors STEVENS NAMED DEAN OF OSU HONORS COLLEGE

“I am thrilled to be joining the Cowboy family, returning to a state I called home for many years.” Dr. Laura Stevens Honors College Dean

Oklahoma State University has appointed Dr. Laura Stevens as dean of the Honors College. Stevens joins OSU from Auburn University, where she directed the Honors College and oversaw curriculum and programming for approximately 2,300 honors students. During her leadership, Auburn’s honors program expanded its applicant pool, strengthened undergraduate research initiatives and secured more than $600,000 in new endowment support. A scholar of early American and British Atlantic literature, Stevens earned her doctorate and master’s degree from the University of Michigan. Before Auburn, she spent 25 years at the University of Tulsa, serving in a variety of academic leadership roles, including department chair and director of undergraduate research programs. “I am thrilled to be joining the Cowboy family, returning to a state I called home for many years,” Stevens said. “I look forward to working with the Honors College’s faculty and staff, along with colleagues across campus, to build upon the transformative opportunities the college already offers students and determine how the college can best contribute to advancing OSU’s land-grant mission.”

Kat’s Back ADAMOVIC RETURNS TO LEAD COWGIRL TENNIS Former Oklahoma State AllAmerican Katarina Adamovic is returning to her alma mater as the women’s tennis program’s seventh head coach. One of the most accomplished players in program history, Adamovic competed for the Cowgirls from 2014-17, earning All-America honors and helping lead OSU to a programbest NCAA runner-up finish in 2016, when she was named the NCAA Championship Most Outstanding Player. She ranks among the program’s all-time leaders in doubles success and was a key contributor to multiple Big 12 championship teams. Adamovic began her coaching career as an assistant at Cincinnati and Missouri before serving as head coach at Grand Canyon and

Houston. At Houston, she engineered a dramatic turnaround, leading the Cougars from a two-win season before her arrival to a 17-6 record and a national ranking in 2026. “Oklahoma State has a powerful legacy, and I have great respect for the standard that’s been built here,” Adamovic said. “It’s an honor to carry that forward and build on what so many have created before me. I’m excited to come back, raise the standard even further, and build a program that competes for championships at the highest level.”

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

CAMPUS NEWS

Wheels Keep on Turning OSU PARTNERS WITH LOVE’S TO ADVANCE SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION

DRIVING FORWARD

TRANSPORTATION FACILITY EXPANDS SUPPORT FOR OSU FLEET OPERATIONS Oklahoma State University has completed construction of its new Transportation Operations Maintenance Facility, a $22.4 million investment that nearly doubles the operational space available for Parking and Transportation Services.

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Oklahoma State University has entered a new 10-year partnership with Love’s Alternative Energy to operate, maintain and supply renewable fuel for the university’s compressed natural gas (CNG) bus fueling station. The agreement supports OSU’s ongoing commitment to sustainable transportation and cleaner energy. Since 2009, the university has used CNG to power its transit fleet, which includes 27 buses serving the Stillwater campus and surrounding community. Under the partnership, Love’s Alternative Energy will replace aging compressor equipment at the fueling station, assume responsibility for operations and maintenance, and provide renewable natural gas (RNG), a cleaner-burning fuel produced from organic waste sources. The station, located at Western and Lakeview roads, dispenses about 150,000 diesel-gallon-equivalents of fuel annually. The transition to RNG will also allow OSU to participate in the Environmental Protection Agency’s Renewable Fuel Standard program, generating renewable fuel credits that can help offset costs. University leaders said the partnership reinforces OSU’s broader commitment to environmentally responsible campus operations and sustainable transportation solutions.

The facility replaces the department’s former motor pool and provides expanded capacity to maintain OSU’s fleet.

BY THE NUMBERS

University leaders say the expanded facility will allow more maintenance and repairs to be completed on campus, reducing costs and improving efficiency. The facility also supports OSU’s long-term sustainability goals by helping maintain the university’s compressed natural gas fleet.

• 700 VEHICLES

• 26,136 SQUARE FEET • 40 BUSES • 12 SERVICE BAYS • 3 WASH BAYS

Literary Landscape STORYBOOK TRAIL OPENS AT THE BOTANIC GARDEN AT OSU The Botanic Garden at Oklahoma State University has unveiled the Evelyn DeBenning Storybook Trail, a new attraction that blends literature, art and nature to inspire visitors of all ages. Created through a gift from OSU alumna Annawyn DeBenning Shamas and her family, the trail honors her mother, educator and avid reader Evelyn DeBenning. Visitors can explore sculptures inspired by beloved books such as The Secret Garden, Charlotte’s Web, Black Beauty, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and Where the Red Fern Grows. The trail begins with a whimsical entrance designed by 2026 OSU horticulture and landscape architecture graduate Nohelia Hernandez and includes tributes to

DeBenning’s Chickasaw heritage. Future enhancements will allow visitors to scan QR codes and hear passages from each book read by OSU theater students. Dr. Kirsten Olds, associate provost for the arts, said this project creates more opportunities for continued engagement and learning. “Through a collaborative effort between OSU Agriculture and the College of Arts and Sciences, we are developing additional programming at each sculpture to deepen the experience for our visitors,” she said. “This collaboration and the trail itself are powerful reminders that at OSU, the arts aren’t confined to a single medium, building or program — they stretch across disciplines to connect, learn and imagine together.”

MOHR TAKES OSUIT TRAINING TO FARMBAR After discovering that engineering wasn’t the right fit, Caleb Mohr followed his passion for cooking to OSU Institute of Technology’s Culinary Arts program. With support from faculty and donors, he expanded his skills, completed a lifechanging internship in France and launched his culinary career in Tulsa. Today, Mohr serves as chef de cuisine at FarmBar, where he combines creativity and a commitment to local agriculture in one of Oklahoma’s most distinctive dining experiences. Scan the QR code below to watch a video interview with Mohr.

TOM SAWYER

Sculptures inspired by classic novels, including Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer,” line the new Storybook Trail at The Botanic Garden at OSU.

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

CAMPUS NEWS

State Royalty OSU ALUMNA CROWNED MISS OKLAHOMA 2026 Oklahoma State University alumna Jaselyn Rossman was crowned Miss Oklahoma 2026 on June 13 at the Rose State Performing Arts Center in Midwest City. Competing as Miss Tulsa State Fair and Miss Oklahoma State University 2025-26, Rossman earned the title after competing against 36 contestants from across the state. A 2026 accounting graduate of OSU’s Spears School of Business, Rossman received a $30,000 scholarship and will represent Oklahoma at the Miss America Competition. For the talent portion of the competition, she performed a contemporary jazz dance, and her community service initiative, More Than Able, focuses on empowering individuals facing barriers to employment through training, community and purpose-driven growth. Rossman became the 92nd Miss Oklahoma and joins a longstanding tradition of scholarship, leadership and service promoted through the Miss Oklahoma Organization.

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AHEAD OF THE GAME

From left: Regent Jimmy Harrel, Dr. John Veenstra and Dr. Robert White have been honored by the state of Oklahoma.

Champions of Education HARREL, VEENSTRA AND WHITE TO JOIN OKLAHOMA HIGHER EDUCATION HALL OF FAME Three Oklahoma State University leaders will be inducted into the Oklahoma Higher Education Hall of Fame on Nov. 2 at the University of Central Oklahoma. Regent Jimmy Harrel, Dr. John Veenstra and Dr. Robert White are among 12 honorees recognized for outstanding contributions to higher education in Oklahoma. Harrel, an OSU alumnus and member of the OSU/ A&M Board of Regents since 2020, is recognized for his leadership in advancing student success and championing major initiatives, including support for a new veterinary teaching hospital. Veenstra, associate dean for faculty affairs in the College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology, has served OSU for more than four decades in teaching and leadership roles, including department head, interim dean and Faculty Council chair. White spent 24 years as a health higher education policy analyst for the OSU/A&M Board of Regents, helping guide the growth of OSU Center for Health Sciences and expanding academic medicine in Oklahoma. Established in 1991, the Oklahoma Higher Education Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made significant contributions to higher education across the state.

Hall of Honor BENBROOK, HARGIS SELECTED FOR OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME Two Oklahoma State University leaders will be inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame as members of the Class of 2026. Bruce T. Benbrook and Ann W. Hargis are among eight Oklahomans selected for the state’s highest honor, with induction ceremonies scheduled for Nov. 12 at the Oklahoma City Convention Center. Benbrook, a 1976 OSU finance graduate,

serves as chairman and CEO of Stock Exchange Bank and has held numerous leadership roles, including chair of the OSU/A&M Board of Regents and president of the OSU Alumni Association. He was inducted into the OSU Hall of Fame in 2020. Hargis, former First Cowgirl of Oklahoma

State University, is recognized for her leadership in health, wellness and education. During her husband’s presidency, she helped launch initiatives such as America’s Healthiest Campus and co-founded Pete’s Pet Posse. Hargis was inducted into the OSU Hall of Fame in 2023 and received an honorary doctorate from OSU in 2019. Founded in 1927, the Oklahoma Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state and its people. CLASS ACTS

Bruce Benbrook and Ann Hargis will be inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in November.

NEW RING

NEW OKLAHOMA STATE WRESTLING FACILITY TO BE NAMED FOR JOHN SMITH The greatest American wrestler of all time will have a building named in his honor at Oklahoma State University. Pending approval by the OSU/A&M Board of Regents, Cowboy Wrestling’s new facility will bear the name of sixtime world champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist, two-time NCAA individual champion and five-time NCAA champion coach John Smith. The new facility will be located on the north side of Gallagher-Iba Arena.

New Threads OSU RECEIVES GENEROUS UNIFORM DONATION The Oklahoma State University Cowboy Marching Band will unveil a striking new look on Saturday, Sept. 12, as the Cowboys face Oregon at Boone Pickens Stadium. Designed by Elyse Wooster, with Fruhauf Uniforms in Wichita, Kansas, the new image is a true step “back to the future” with a contemporary spin on the iconic cowboy. A strategic partnership with Stetson makes it possible for band members to purchase a quality hat on a college student’s budget, allowing them to take a memento of their time in the CMB with them when they graduate.

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

CAMPUS NEWS

The Mother Road OSU-TULSA HONORS 100 YEARS OF ROUTE 66 Oklahoma State University-Tulsa is helping Oklahoma celebrate the 100th anniversary of Route 66 this year. The OSU-Tulsa library and Oklahoma Historical Society co-hosted two virtual webinars featuring Route 66 authors, historians, researchers and advocates sharing their stories and expertise, which included Michael Wallis, Ken Busby, Rhys Martin, Jim Ross and Shellee Graham. The library also hosted a booth at the AAA Route 66 Roadfest at Tulsa’s Expo Square this year, giving out keychains, bookmarks and brochures while interacting with the Route 66 community and advertising the library’s Route 66 archives. The OSU-Tulsa Library is home to several special collections and archives tied to Route 66, including the Michael Wallis Route 66 Research Collection, which features the papers of best-selling

THE WORD OF THE ROAD

OSU-Tulsa Library Director Lynn Wallace (left) and Digital Services Librarian Sheena Perez brought a splash of OSU orange to their booth at the AAA Route 66 Roadfest at Expo Square.

author, award-winning journalist and popular speaker and voice actor Michael Wallis and the Cyrus Stevens Avery Collection, which holds biographical pieces regarding Cyrus Avery, highway commissioner and “Father of Route 66,” including maps, typescripts, correspondences, photographs, press cuttings and more. The library also holds the Marian Clark Research Collection, which contains materials related to Clark’s

influential work – particularly The Route 66 Cookbook – and underscores her legacy as a historian and advocate for Route 66 preservation. For archive information and links to digital archives, visit the OSU-Tulsa Library website at okla.st/4gyySEP.

Ready for Takeoff NEW STILLWATER TERMINAL USHERS IN A MODERN ERA OF AIR TRAVEL Stillwater Regional Airport’s transformation is complete, giving travelers a modern gateway designed to serve the community for decades. The new 31,000-square-foot terminal is roughly three times the size of the 1952 facility and features the airport’s first passenger

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boarding bridge, expanded baggage claim, more seating, powered work areas and improved passenger amenities. Thoughtful additions include nursing rooms, family restrooms, a wellness and sensory

space, concessions and displays highlighting local history and culture. American Airlines continues to connect Stillwater with DallasFort Worth, providing convenient access to destinations worldwide while supporting the airport’s next chapter of commercial air service for Oklahoma travelers.

THE HILARIOUS HIT BROADWAY MUSICAL

PHOTO BY RENE CERVANTES

VENUE • DATES • TICKET INFO

ARTS

UNDER ORANGE SKY an

OSU CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF LIFE-CHANGING IMPACT AT THE DOEL REED CENTER IN TAOS STORY SYDNEY TRAINOR | PHOTOS KYLE BROWN - SOUTHERN EXPOSURE PHOTOGRAPHY AND ERIC PRIDDY

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arah Whaley Hill gazed as the New Mexico sun slipped below the horizon, disappearing from her patio view atop the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. In the quiet that settled over the desert, she reflected on the two weeks of writing, exploring and discovering a place unlike anywhere she’d ever been. She also realized something else had changed. “I feel like I’m finally figuring out who I am as a writer,” said the secondary education student from North Texas. “With everything that happens during college and all the challenges of finding yourself, being out in the desert and the mountains made it an incredible place to grow.” Whaley Hill was one of several Oklahoma State University students who spent part of their summer at the Doel Reed Center in Taos, New Mexico, participating in an immersive creative writing course led by Stephanie Choi, an assistant professor of English. As students explored northern New Mexico’s art, history and culture, they transformed those experiences into poems, essays and reflections, discovering new confidence with every piece they shared. Whaley Hill arrived expecting a class that satisfied her English 4000 requirement. She left with a clearer sense of who she wanted to become as a person and future educator. That kind of transformation isn’t accidental. It’s the legacy of the artist whose name the center bears. When Doel Reed joined Oklahoma A&M College in 1924, later becoming head of the art department, he believed the best education happened beyond classroom instruction. While he taught drawing as the foundation of artistic practice, he urged students to observe the

WHEN DOEL REED JOINED OKLAHOMA A&M COLLEGE IN 1924, LATER BECOMING HEAD OF THE ART DEPARTMENT, HE BELIEVED THE BEST EDUCATION HAPPENED BEYOND CLASSROOM INSTRUCTION. natural world, trust their own perspectives and create from experiences rather than copying something they saw. Eventually, Reed found that inspiration in Taos, where the landscape of the Southwest became a signature element of his artwork and teaching. During his time in Stillwater, Reed took several sabbaticals to enhance his work, sometimes in Europe and a little closer to home — Taos, New Mexico. When he retired in 1959, he relocated to Taos. Twenty years ago, his daughter, Martha, ensured that vision would continue when she gifted OSU the family home and studio, which established the Doel Reed Center. Today, students don’t simply study in Taos; they experience it. No matter the area of study, the desert continues to do what it once did for Doel Reed: expand perspectives, inspire creativity and change lives.

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

ARTS

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As Clark Bigler hiked the Amole Canyon South Loop, the freshman biology pre-med student from Tulsa paused to listen. Before seeing a Western Tanager sitting on a branch, he identified the bird by its sound. Nearby, his classmates identified a blue fungus beetle crawling across the forest floor as the wind blew the sweet maple syrup scent of a ponderosa pine in the breeze. For Bigler’s biology class — led by Dr. Neil Gilbert, a biology assistant professor — the daily hikes weren’t about covering miles. They were about learning to observe the natural world with patience and curiosity, the same approach Reed encouraged. Planning for a career in dentistry, Bigler never expected one of his most memorable college experiences would involve turning over logs to study lizards in the mountains of Northern New Mexico. “Without the Doel Reed scholarship, I wouldn’t have been able to do this,” Bigler said. “I’m so grateful and thankful for this opportunity, because I know this has changed my whole perspective, and it’s made my

DOEL REED CENTER

by the numbers

and fellowships awarded in FY26 $60K+ Scholarships

Visiting artists and scholars attended

Fellows 16 Hargis selected Leisure Learning 70+ courses offered

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EDUCATED VIEWPOINT | Nestled in the high desert of northern New Mexico, the Doel Reed Center in Taos provides an immersive learning environment where OSU students, artists and lifelong learners explore the region’s rich cultural and creative traditions.

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“AS A LAND-GRANT UNIVERSITY WHOSE MISSION IS TO SERVE THE PUBLIC THROUGH EDUCATION AND MAKE OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS AS EQUITABLE AS POSSIBLE, I THINK THE DOEL REED CENTER IS A HUGE RESOURCE FOR STUDENTS WHO MAY HAVE NEVER STUDIED AWAY BEFORE OR HAD CHANCES TO TRAVEL.” STEPHANIE CHOI

OSU ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF ENGLISH

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LASTING LEGACY | OSU President Jim Hess speaks at the Doel Reed Center’s 20th anniversary event this summer in Taos, New Mexico, as OSU President Emeritus Burns Hargis looks on with a smile. Long before it officially became an OSU project, Burns and Ann Hargis visited the property, felt a strong connection to its history, and helped rally initial interest and enthusiasm from the arts community. After becoming OSU president in 2008, Hargis made the center a institutional priority, providing the leadership to drive fundraising, renovation, and program expansion.

experience with OSU so much greater.” Once again, this place changed someone. That’s the value the Doel Reed Center provides for the land-grant mission. “As a land-grant university whose mission is to serve the public through education and make opportunities for students as equitable as possible, I think the Doel Reed Center is a huge resource for students who may have never studied away before or had chances to travel — even though New Mexico may seem close enough to Oklahoma, for many students, it is their first time to New Mexico,” Choi said. “And thanks to scholarships from generous donors, students can have an immersive travel and learning experience without having to pay thousands of dollars. For two decades, the Doel Reed Center has served as an active learning environment where students discover how creativity is shaped by the landscapes, culture and people that surround them. Today, the center offers immersive three-credit-hour studyaway courses for OSU students alongside Leisure Learning

programs that invite lifelong learners from around the world to experience the art, culture and history of northern New Mexico. Anyone can come to Taos. Anyone can create. Anyone can discover. Anyone can be changed by education. That’s exactly what Director Andy Mattern hopes the next 20 years will bring. “I definitely want to continue what we’ve been doing, which is to offer these varieties of programs,” said Mattern, the Vennerberg Chair in Art and an associate professor of photography in the Department of Art, Graphic Design and Art History. “But then also kind of zoom out a little bit and just ask, what else is possible?” Whether that means expanding course offerings, exploring new program formats or creating opportunities for more people to experience Taos, Mattern sees the center’s future as an extension of the same philosophy that shaped Reed’s teaching a century ago. “There’s so much that we even don’t know, but to me, art making is just so evidently part of what it means to be human,” Mattern said.

“This is something that we’ve been doing forever.” What began as three adobe buildings where Reed lived, taught and created has become a place where generations of Cowboys discover something about themselves. Following their visit to the Doel Reed Center this summer to recognize the milestone anniversary, President Hess and First Cowgirl Angela Hess said the experience was unforgettable. “The Doel Reed Center continues to remind us what a great education is really about,” Dr. Hess said. “It’s about opening your eyes to something new, discovering confidence in your own voice and beginning to see possibilities you may not have imagined before.” SCAN HERE

Scan the code to watch Inside OSU’s visit to the Doel Reed Center in Taos.

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TRAVELING COWBOYS PHOTOS PROVIDED BY TRAVEL PARTNERS AND OSU ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

NORTH AMERICAN NEIGHBORS SEPT. 19-OCT. 1, 2027

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EXPLORE historic landmarks, DREAM of far-off places, DISCOVER

the world. The Oklahoma State University Alumni Association’s Traveling Cowboys Program makes your trip easy.

Our travel partners have trips across the globe, whether you’re looking to experience the breathtaking sights of our nation’s national parks or immerse yourself in the harmony of Japanese culture. These experiences are made all the better by the connections you’ll make with fellow #TravelingCowboys. Scan the QR code to learn more about our 2027 trips.

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

HOLIDAY MARKETS DEC. 11-19

DUTCH WATERWAYS APRIL 25 – MAY 3

Celebrate Old World yuletide traditions on a seven-night river cruise! Aboard your exclusively chartered, first-class ship, sip Glühwein as you glide past enchanting villages and cliffside castles. Step into twinkling holiday markets, walk through Heidelberg’s old town, tour medieval Cologne, stroll through Freiburg and discover Strasbourg’s storybook Alsatian ambiance. Choose excursions that suit your interests, including wine tastings, culinary tours or cultural experiences.

Relish a carefree, seven-night cruise filled with fascinating history and springtime splendor! Delight in the charming canals of Amsterdam and the wonderland of vibrant tulips at Keukenhof Gardens. Appreciate an impressive medieval old town and the Gothic gems of Bruges. Savor the ever-changing panoramas and relaxing comforts that make river cruising so appealing!

WINTER

SPRING

ITALY

ANTARCTICA DISCOVERY JAN. 11-22

JAPAN

COSTA RICA’S NATURAL HERITAGE JAN. 25 – FEB. 4

EXPLORING AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND APRIL 30 – MAY 21 LEGACY OF THE WINDSORS MAY 4-16 SOUTHEAST SEA ISLANDS MAY 14-22 NORMANDY APRIL 18-26 SCOTTISH ISLES AND NORWEGIAN FJORDS MAY 19-27 RICHES OF THE EMERALD ISLE MAY 23 – JUNE 3

ALBANIA ANTARCTICA AUSTRALIA BELGIUM BOTSWANA CAMBODIA CANADA COSTA RICA CROATIA DENMARK ENGLAND FIJI FRANCE GERMANY GREECE ICELAND IRELAND

KENYA

SOUTHEAST ASIA ODYSSEY FEB. 7-25

LAOS

CLASSIC SAFARI: KENYA AND TANZANIA FEB. 7-22 MACY’S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE NOV. 24-27

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NATIONAL PARKS AND LODGES OF THE OLD WEST JULY 9-17

JOURNEY TO SOUTHERN AFRICA SEPT. 27 – OCT. 11

Step into the heart of America’s Old West on an extraordinary journey led by premier guides, whose expertise brings the landscapes, wildlife and history of this region to life unlike any other. This immersive tour blends breathtaking scenery with rich narratives, offering a deep connection to the land, its people and its past.

Experience the raw beauty, outstanding wildlife and unparalleled wonders of South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana. With expert guides leading the way, you will witness incredible exotic animals roaming the lands of Africa’s most incredible safari destinations. From majestic elephants to powerful lions, frolicking zebras to stocky rhinos, don’t miss this unique opportunity to travel into the heart of Mother Nature!

THE NETHERLANDS NEW ZEALAND NORTHERN IRELAND NORWAY PERU PORTUGAL SAMOA SCOTLAND SOUTH AFRICA SOUTH KOREA SPAIN SWEDEN SWITZERLAND TANZANIA

SUMMER

THAILAND

FALL

TONGA TURKEY UNITED STATES

RELICS AND RIVIERAS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN JUNE 2-12 NORTHERN ITALY JUNE 2-16 APULIA: UNDISCOVERED ITALY JUNE 9-17 MYSTERIES OF PERU AND MACHU PICCHU JUNE 9-17 SCOTLAND: HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS JUNE 17-28 GLACIAL ADVENTURE JULY 26 – AUG. 8 SOUTHEAST ALASKA BY SMALL SHIP AUG. 15-22 CANADIAN ROCKIES BY RAIL AUG. 18-24 ISLAND LIFE: GREEK ISLES AND EPHESUS AUG. 31 – SEPT. 8

ATLANTIC CROSSING SEPT. 3-19

VIETNAM

SWITZERLAND’S GOLDEN PASS SEPT. 6-16

WALES

DISCOVERING PORTUGAL SEPT. 15-27

ZIMBABWE

PROVINCIAL FRENCH COUNTRYSIDE SEPT. 17 – OCT. 1 NORTH AMERICAN NEIGHBORS SEPT. 19 – OCT. 1 TRAILS OF THE VINE SEPT. 21-29 BALEARIC BLISS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN SEPT. 26 – OCT. 6

Be sure to scan the QR code to visit okstatealumni.org/travel and learn more about all of our 2027 trips.

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OUTREACH

HYPE AND THE HEART OSU UNIFIED ALL-STAR FLAG FOOTBALL TEAM REPRESENTS THE STATE AT NATIONAL COMPETITION STORY BRITTNEY PURCELL | PHOTOS KELLY KERR AND 2026 USA GAMES

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odging defenders on Colorado’s All-Star Flag Football team, Oklahoma State University Unified partner Gracie Maschmeier dug deep and applied 15 months of practice and preparation during game one of the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. Oklahoma’s quarterback Carter Pfieffer targeted Unified partner Abby McNeely until Colorado’s players covered her from all sides. Maschmeier waved vigorously at Pfieffer from the back of the end zone, catching his attention for an open 25-yard pass, and in a beat, the ball was in her hands. With the trust and chemistry built between her teammates, Maschmeier scored a touchdown for Oklahoma. Since 2022, the OSU Unified program has partnered with OSU Intramurals to offer athletic opportunities to adult Special Olympic athletes to compete alongside Unified partners, which include OSU students, staff and faculty. The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minnesota marked the first time OSU Unified athletes and partners were selected to represent Oklahoma at the national level. Oklahoma’s team consisted of athletes Dominic Adkins, Alex Fruits, Garrett Jones, Jared Lowry and Pfieffer, and partners Shanovia Forbes, Maschmeier, McNeely and Emma Roy. The OSU Unified All-Star Flag Football team members prepared themselves to leave their best effort on the field as they represented their state on the national stage in June. Maschmeier’s touchdown was one of many exhilarating moments for the team; still, the play was the result of more than a year’s worth of hard work, commitment, team building and intentional inclusivity.

PUTTIN’ ON THE BLITZ | Members of OSU Unified’s flag football team joined Team Oklahoma at the Special Olympics USA Games, showing off their skills on the field.

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TEAMING UP

“EVERYONE WHO’S A PART OF OSU UNIFIED IS PASSIONATE ABOUT INCLUSION AND PASSIONATE ABOUT INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES.” SHANOVIA FORBES A STUDENT OF OSU’S HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AND FAMILY SCIENCE GRADUATE PROGRAM AND OSU UNIFIED PARTNER OF THE ALL-STAR FLAG FOOTBALL TEAM

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Inclusivity is the name of the game for Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools, and OSU Unified has moved the chains. Shanovia Forbes, OSU Unified partner of the All-Star Flag Football team, is a graduate of OSU’s Human Development and Family Science master’s program and a continuing doctoral student within the department. During her graduate journey, Forbes received a message from her graduate advisor, Dr. Jennifer Jones, the director of the OSU Center for Developmental Disabilities, encouraging her to consider an opportunity to become a Unified partner. After joining the program and embracing the community, Forbes became inspired to pursue a master’s thesis studying Unified Champion Schools and the impact they have on social inclusion for Special Olympics athletes in Oklahoma. Her research shed light on OSU Unified’s intentionality in its

social inclusion efforts and on how intention can set a Unified program apart. “I feel that OSU has one of the top Unified programs in the U.S.,” Forbes said. She explained that determining Unified programs’ implementation quality and whether they aid in social inclusion is measured through multiple pillars; however, inclusion is at its strongest when ‘whole school engagement’ is high. This means that the greater the engagement from communities, teachers and students, the greater the inclusion for athletes. “Everyone who’s a part of OSU Unified is passionate about inclusion and passionate about individuals with disabilities,” Forbes said. She noted that the “buyin” support the OSU Unified community has for the program and its members sets it apart from others in and outside of the state.

TALKING ABOUT PRACTICE

The OSU Unified All-Star Flag Football team was led by coaches Tim Jones and Dr. Stephen Clarke, the dean of the OSU College of Education and Human Sciences. Clarke volunteered as the team’s defensive coordinator, with Jones helming the offense. From April 2025 to June 2026, Clarke and Jones saw the team come together for practice twice a week and exude confidence, commitment and dedication to their teammates and the Special Olympics Oklahoma Delegation. “It inspired us, [the coaches] to give everything we had to support them,” Clarke said. The community surrounding the Oklahoma team increasingly amplified the spirit and energy of its players as the Special Olympics USA Games drew nearer. Friends and family of each OSU Unified partner, athlete and coach showed up to support their community and loved ones as the Oklahoma delegation took to the field for five

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intercollegiate games throughout the week. For some OSU Unified athletes, playing on the fields of the Special Olympics USA Games meant working hard and spending valuable time with their teammates. OSU Unified athlete Garrett Jones described what playing alongside his friends on the All-Star Flag Football team meant to him. “It’s being a good teammate, being a good sport and helping cheer on my teammates,” he said. Jared Lowry, a longtime Special Olympics athlete, stated how he felt about the opportunity to compete. “It feels like we are working together to accomplish something big,” Lowry said. Clarke said the Special Olympics Oklahoma Delegation didn’t just accomplish something big; they laid the new foundation to build upon in the years to come.

A SHARED BOND

The definition of inclusivity is unique for each Unified program across the U.S.; however, OSU Unified has chosen to define inclusivity as celebrating and uplifting every athlete’s strengths and supporting each player on and off the field. Throughout 15 months of partnership and teamwork, athletes and partners of OSU Unified’s AllStar team built a familial bond that carried them through the hard work and challenges of a national competition. Maschmeier reflected on how she saw her teammates show up for one another, including their enthusiasm during the highs and perseverance during the lows. Maschmeier suffered an unfortunate injury in the middle of game four during the USA Games, setting her back from competing in the week’s remaining competitions.

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SPECIAL CELEBRATION | OSU’s supporters traveled to Minnesota to watch their Unified players take on the best of the best.

Fortunately, with the support of the team and OSU Unified community, Maschmeier felt the love and care she had for her teammates reciprocated tenfold; she was able to enjoy the conclusion of the USA Games cheering from the sidelines. OSU Unified has shown that when the support and passion of a community band together to support Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools, inclusivity and connection thrive. “Without the SOOK community, this experience would not have been possible, and we are grateful for their support to change lives through sport,” Clarke said.

Explore opportunities to get involved with Special Olympics Oklahoma and OSU Unified at okla.st/unifiedsports.

SCAN HERE

Watch a mic’d up video with the OSU Unified team.

Shanovia Fo

Jared Lowry #21

bes #8 D / Cornerr back

#5 Emma Roy

D / Tackle

Carter Pﬁeffer

Dominic Adkin

Abby McNeely # 31 O / Re ceiver

O / Cent

Alex Fruits #0

O / Running Bas #35 ck

D / Safety

nes #3 Garrett Joer

O / Quarterback#10

D / TACKLE

Stephen Clarke COACH

Gracie Masc h O / Runningmeier #22 Back

TIM JONES COACH

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F O U N D AT I O N

HALFWAY TO HISTORY | Pistol Pete leads the way to OSU’s $2 billion goal.

The Road to $2 Billion

The Cowboy family propels The Code Calls beyond the $1 billion mark. STORY SAMANTHA HARDY | PHOTOS BENTON RUDD

billion dollars is more than a number. It represents students whose lives have been changed by scholarships. It reflects groundbreaking discoveries made possible through research. It creates opportunities for future generations of Cowboys to learn,

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lead and serve. And it stands as a powerful testament to what can happen when a university community unites behind a shared purpose. Oklahoma State University’s historic, comprehensive fundraising campaign, The Code Calls, has surpassed $1 billion

committed, reaching the halfway point of its $2 billion goal. This milestone marks a defining moment in the largest fundraising effort in university history and signals remarkable momentum driven by alumni, friends and partners who believe in OSU’s

future and land-grant mission, said OSU President Jim Hess. “This achievement reflects the trust our supporters have placed in Oklahoma State University and in the future we are building together,” Dr. Hess said. “Because of their generosity, OSU is better positioned to lead with purpose, serve with impact and prepare the next generation of leaders. We are deeply grateful for their commitment to our students and our mission, and we are energized to carry this momentum forward.” Built on the Cowboy Code, The Code Calls celebrates tradition while charting an ambitious vision for the future of the largest university system in Oklahoma. The Code Calls places student success at its core and will create life-changing scholarship opportunities for students, drive groundbreaking research and elevate OSU academics and athletics to new heights. Through donor-funded, renewable scholarships and targeted career services, the campaign will expand access to higher education, ensuring talented students have access to the resources they need to earn a degree with career-ready skills. A signature example of this vision is the Horizon Scholars program, launched to create a premier leadership and scholarship experience that connects students with mentors, resources and a strong community from day one. Following a record-setting year for fundraising during Hess’ first year as president, OSU Foundation President Blaire Atkinson said crossing the $1 billion mark is an extraordinary moment for OSU and for everyone who has answered the call to invest in its future. “This milestone is a direct result of our donors’ leadership, generosity and belief in the power of the

“Together, they are creating opportunities, advancing discovery and ensuring that the next generation of Cowboys is prepared to make a lasting impact on Oklahoma, the nation and the world.” BLAIRE ATKINSON

OSU FOUNDATION PRESIDENT

Cowboy family,” she said. “Their support is creating life-changing opportunities for students and advancing innovation and discovery across our university and beyond.” Gifts to the campaign are already making a meaningful impact — expanding scholarships for students, strengthening academic and research excellence, and extending OSU’s land‑grant mission to communities across Oklahoma and around the world. “While surpassing $1 billion is a remarkable achievement, this milestone represents both a celebration and a challenge,” said Executive Campaign Board Chair Joe Eastin. “The Code Calls has always been about securing Oklahoma State’s future, and there is still important work ahead. We are incredibly grateful to those who have joined us in this campaign, and we invite every member of the Cowboy family to be part of this historic effort as we continue transforming lives through scholarships, academic excellence and innovation.” OSU looks ahead with confidence. The momentum is strong. The vision is clear. And the Cowboy family continues to answer the call — proof that thousands of people believe in what OSU can accomplish. “Together, they are creating opportunities, advancing

discovery and ensuring that the next generation of Cowboys is prepared to make a lasting impact on Oklahoma, the nation and the world,” Atkinson said. With half the goal achieved and unprecedented support behind it, The Code Calls is poised to continue transforming lives — one student, one discovery and one gift at a time. SCAN HERE

Learn more about how to donate to OSU’s capital campaign.

HOW WILL YOU ANSWER?

OSUgiving.com O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

Goalkeeper Crew

Hooey Cowboys Trucker Hat

Endzone Plaid Janise Crew

Super Clean Tee ‘47 Dunmoure Scrum Tee

S - 3XL | $48.95

Goal Getter Tee

$36

S - XXL | $70

Hose Training Tee

Baublebar Okstate Two Piece Charm Bracelet Set

S - XXL | $36.95 S - XXL | $48

S - XXL | $30.95

S - XXL | $36.95

$42

‘47 Scatter Star Foundation Tee

‘47 Head On Scrum Tee

‘47 Vantage Mock Neck

Amped Up Rhinestone Jersey Chasing Victory Sweatshirt

S - XXL | $55

Sloan Debo Oversized Top

S - XXL | $48

S - XL | $80

‘47 Carhartt Undyed Hitch Cap

Over Heating Tee

S - XXL | $65.65 S - XXL | $68.95

S - XXL | $41

$45

S - XXL | $30.95

Don’t forget, OSU Alumni Association members receive a 10% discount! You must have your OSU Alumni Association membership number (located on your membership card) at the time you place your order to receive the member discount.

ALUMNI A S S O C I AT I O N

@OSUUNION

YOUR GIFT FUELS BOLD DREAMS.

OSUGIVING.COM

GAME DAY GUIDE COWBOY CORRAL Start your game day at the ConocoPhillips OSU Alumni Center! Enjoy a free, family friendly pep rally three hours before every Saturday home game. Take pictures with Bullet, steps away from the Spirit Walk, and grab a game day snack before the game! Check the day’s scores on surrounding screens and snap some fun commemorative pics in our photo booth.

ALUMNI ALUMNI A S S O C I AT I O N

Members can enjoy a complimentary Iron Monk beverage or bottled water and pick up limited promo items while supplies last.

ORANGE FRIDAYS Alumni Association members 21 and older can enjoy one complimentary beverage at Iron Monk Brewing Company on Orange Fridays. Join us from 5-7 p.m. Friday before the games designated on the opposite page. Life Members can enter to win an exclusive prize each week. Iron Monk products are also available at the OSU Alumni Center and outside on the patio at all Saturday home games.

TAILGATING PACKAGES The Alumni Association offers premium indoor tailgating spaces at the Alumni Center for home games! Each package includes: • Private, air-conditioned/heated indoor space from three hours before kickoff up until kickoff • Stillwater’s favorite foods: Hideaway Pizza, Freddie Paul’s or Red Rock Bakery (dependent upon game time) • Large, wall-mounted LCD screen with YouTube TV subscription for live games or for presentations • One reserved parking spot outside the Alumni Center • Dedicated event attendant • Access to restrooms Availability is limited. Visit our website for details and to book.

MEMBER TICKETS Alumni Association members may purchase game tickets at a 20% discount to three home games this season: Murray State, Colorado (Homecoming) and Kansas!

HOMECOMING HUB The OSU Alumni Association is excited to welcome graduates and fans back for Homecoming 2026: “The Code Calls Us Home.” The Cowboy family is invited to check in and start the celebration at one of two Homecoming Hub locations on Friday, Oct. 23. ConocoPhillips OSU Alumni Center • Free Iron Monk beer • Homecoming merchandise while supplies last • Photo booth for celebratory pictures South Library Lawn • Family friendly activities for Cowboys of all ages

AWAY GAMES Elevate your away game experience with events Friday nights and Saturdays at select Cowboy football away games. The OSU Alumni Association is excited to host away game events at the Tulsa, West Virginia, Houston and Arizona State games this season!

CHECK IN & WIN! Check in using the posted QR code at any Alumni Association game day event, and you’ll be entered to win a gift card from the University Store and shopokstate.com!

2026 COWBOY FOOTBALL SCHEDULE 9/5 @ Tulsa 9/12 vs. Oregon 9/19 vs. Murray State 9/26 @ West Virginia 10/10 vs. UCF 10/17 @ Houston 10/24 vs. Colorado H O ME CO MI N G 20 26

10/31 @ Iowa State 11/7 @ Kansas State 11/14 vs. Texas Tech 11/21 @ Arizona State 11/28 vs. Kansas = ORANGE FRIDAY

= AWAY GAME EVENTS

= MEMBER TICKET DISCOUNTS

GAME DAY SPONSORS Thank you to our season sponsors!

YOUR MEMBERSHIP MATTERS Every membership dollar supports game day events and programming for the Cowboy family at the OSU Alumni Center and on the road!

JOIN USING THE QR CODE!

PLAN YOUR GAME DAY AT

okstatealumni.org/athletics

F O U N D AT I O N

INSPIRING IMPACT | Student Foundation members engage students in conversations about philanthropy at OSU and Give Orange during the campus kickoff event.

A Place for Every Passion

Give Orange empowers the Cowboy family to support students, programs and passions across the OSU system STORY ESTEFANIA MARTINEZ | PHOTOS AUBREY LAYTON

klahoma State University’s annual giving campaign, Give Orange, provides the Cowboy family the ability to support what matters most to them, wherever that passion is found. The multi-day campaign’s launch event brought that idea to life on April 7, filling the OSU Student Union plaza with several student organizations, each representing a different reason to give. Give Orange raised an impressive $1.2 million from 2,012 donors over the span of 1,890 minutes. In total, 358 funds were supported, reflecting the wide

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range of opportunities for donors to make an impact across the entire OSU system. On the plaza, that impact became something you could see, one table at a time. Pete’s Pet Posse drew a steady crowd as therapy dogs offered a moment of calm in the middle of a busy afternoon, while students moved through the space discovering new ways to connect with the OSU community. More than $7,000 was raised for the program. Cowboys Care Ambassadors greeted visitors with a mission centered on connection and care.

Their work focuses on mental health initiatives that encourage awareness, connection and support across the OSU community. The group trains student, faculty and staff ambassadors to recognize when someone may be struggling and connect them with resources. “We want students to remember that support is available, that resources exist and that every person can make a positive impact on someone else’s well-being,” said Bella Ridener, president of Cowboys Care Ambassadors. With the help of Give Orange, the group raised over $6,000 to

support these efforts, expanding programs designed to meet students where they are and ensure they do not navigate challenges alone. The Forage Bowl Team offered a look into hands-on learning and academic competition, bringing together students from across the Ferguson College of Agriculture to compete in a national contest focused on forage identification, grazing management, soils, plant science and livestock production. Preparing for competition requires more than knowledge. It takes time, teamwork and resources to cover travel, materials and training. With donor support, the team raised $2,650 to help fund their journey to the national competition. “Representing OSU is an opportunity to showcase the strength of our students and the interdisciplinary nature of agricultural education at OSU,” said Mason Henson, OSU Forage Bowl Team coach. “We are proud to highlight OSU’s leadership in forage, livestock and natural resource education while

competing alongside students from universities across the country.” The International Physics Team brought a global perspective to Stillwater by hosting the International Physicists Tournament, marking the first time the event took place in the United States. The experience connected students with peers worldwide, expanding their academic experience beyond campus. “We are very proud to have successfully hosted an unforgettable, authentically Oklahoman, welcoming experience for about 200 participants from around the world,” said Dr. Donghua Zhou, OSU associate professor and IPT organizing committee member. “It cemented OSU’s legacy as the first United States institution to host this prestigious global tournament.” With an initial goal of $10,000, the OSU physics team surpassed expectations, raising $25,648 with the help of Give Orange to support preparation and hosting efforts. The Euphoria Fashion Show team highlighted a student-led

production that blends creativity and philanthropy, raising $1,765 to support the show, while the Military Science Club shared how it fosters an academic and professional development environment for Army ROTC cadets, raising $1,710 to enhance its programming. “Walking through the plaza, you can see just how many different passions exist across OSU,” said Kyle Stringer, director of pipeline growth at the OSU Foundation. “Give Orange provides every member of the Cowboy family the chance to connect with something meaningful to them and be part of creating that impact.” SCAN HERE

The Code Calls. To learn more about how you can make an impact at OSU, scan above.

POWERED BY SUPPORT | Members of the International Physics Team and Forage Bowl Team discuss their organizations and how donor support helps create opportunities for students.

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

BUSINESS

‘MY OWN MOMENT’ PHILLIPS RETURNS TO HIGH SCHOOL, TRIUMPHS WITH OSU DEGREE WHILE RAISING FAMILY STORY HALLIE HART | PHOTOS ELLIE PIPER

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ngel Phillips placed her graduation cap on her head. As she stepped into the sunlight for a portrait outside Oklahoma State University’s Business Building, a smile spread across her face. “I’ve worked 10 years for this,” Phillips said. The mortarboard, complete with its orange-and-black tassel, is her symbol of bravery. Over a decade ago, Phillips arrived in Stillwater with no high school diploma. She and her husband, Alan, were raising two children. College was not a consideration. On May 9, Phillips graduated from the Spears School of Business as a Top 5 Senior in the School of Accounting after earning multiple scholarships. Illness, anxiety and homesickness could have driven her to quit, but Phillips’ family and professors motivated her to triumph. “I have my own moment,” Phillips said. “My journey is just different than others.” Phillips, 38, grew up in a village in Anhui, a mountainous province in eastern China. Although she was close to her parents, they hadn’t received the formal education to guide her through school. Phillips said both were illiterate during her childhood. She couldn’t imagine herself as a scholar, either. Overwhelmed with rigorous coursework, Phillips dropped out at 14. Years later, adulthood gave her the chance to build her educational journey, step by step. When she married Alan Phillips, an American engineer who traveled to China for work, she didn’t expect their family to end up in Stillwater. They lived in the Chinese city of

POWER COUPLE | Angel Phillips thanks her husband, Alan, for studying with her and supporting her return to school.

Shenzhen and had two children, Eva and Scott. After five years, the couple realized how expensive it would be to send their kids to an international school in China and started looking at options in the United States. That’s when Alan landed a job as an acoustic engineer at KICKER World Headquarters, one of Stillwater’s prominent businesses. In November 2014, Angel mustered the courage to move more than 7,000 miles with her husband and kids. The first few years were lonely. Angel knew no one outside her home, and Stillwater’s wide open spaces contrasted with the skyscrapers and landforms she knew. Then, her new, bright-orange surroundings sparked a dream. “We’re in a university town,” Angel said. “There are so many

opportunities. So, I told my husband, ‘I think I need to study. I need to go back to school.’” She started with ninth grade. A friend suggested she try obtaining her GED through Meridian Technology Center in Stillwater, so Angel took classes there for a couple of semesters around 2016. She worried, telling her husband she didn’t think she would pass the exams. Angel had learned to speak English, but reading wasn’t the same as talking. Still, she didn’t quit. In 2019, she connected with Covenant Community School, a small private Christian school in Stillwater. After passing placement exams to enroll, Angel studied for hours on weekends, often reviewing concepts with her husband. The mother of two graduated from high school with a 4.00 GPA, and she wasn’t finished.

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

BUSINESS

Angel took classes at Northern Oklahoma College in Stillwater, including survey of accounting. Although the topic piqued her interest, she was nervous about transitioning to larger Spears Business classes. Angel sought advice from Stephanie Weckler, who taught accounting at NOC. “I asked her, ‘Am I ready to go to OSU?’” Angel said. “She told me, ‘Angel, yes, you are ready. If you are not ready, nobody is ready because you study so hard.’” With the confidence boost, Angel started as a Spears Business student in 2023. Quickly, she learned about the Top 5 Seniors awards for each Spears Business department and set a goal to graduate from the School of Accounting with that honor. Along the way, scholarships poured in. The EY Accounting Scholarship, Michael and Judith Johnson Scholarship, Dexter Johnson Scholarship, Charles and Donna Jeffries Scholarship and Regents Distinguished Transfer award supported her journey as a student who was providing for two children. Angel also had several faculty mentors, including associate professors Drs. Craig Sisneros and Michael Wolfe. Sisneros taught Angel in intermediate accounting, which he described as “a tough subject for any student.” “Most think it is math, but it is really a language class with a side of math and logic,” Sisneros said. “The most confusing part is using English words and giving them new meaning in accounting. Angel’s first language is not English. She is juggling responsibilities as a mom and wife, coming back to school as a nontraditional student and entered a class where I challenge students to push their limits. “It wasn’t easy. She persevered, she showed grit and she let me

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ANGEL REMINDED HER KIDS FEW PEOPLE ARE BORN GENIUSES. IT’S ABOUT EFFORT, SHE SAID. know this was the hardest she ever worked for any class.” Angel’s schedule stretched beyond typical student responsibilities. An ordinary morning started around 6:30 a.m. with packing school lunches and making breakfast for Eva and Scott, 15 and 13, respectively. Since Eva is gluten intolerant, Angel has prepared meals to accommodate her daughter’s needs since first grade. With Eva at Stillwater Junior High and Scott at Stillwater Middle School, it was time for Angel to focus on school and her student internship at the OSU Foundation. In the evenings, while Alan pitched in with dinner or took the kids to a restaurant, Angel did homework. The kids had assignments, too. When Eva needed help with a geometry problem this past spring, her mother was there to talk through it. Angel referred to her own experience as motivation for her children to not give up. “I said, ‘Your mom’s studying in the office for almost 10 years,’” Angel said. “‘This is a real case. You saw it.’” Angel reminded her kids few people are born geniuses. It’s about effort, she said. Despite challenges, Angel’s effort did not wane. In 2023, a case of mononucleosis left her with brain fog and heightened anxiety. Leading up to graduation, it was especially difficult to live thousands of miles away from her parents. In Stillwater, she leaned on her community, her strong faith and herself.

“I just have to convince myself, ‘You can do it. You’re fine,’” Angel said. “‘So many people love you and also care about you. You’re not alone.’” Sisneros is inspired by Angel’s character. “She refused to settle,” Sisneros said. “Refusing to settle will serve her well in an accounting career, in life, and sets the example for her children and everyone around her, including me.” Angel reached her goal of graduating as a Top 5 Senior in accounting and launching her career in the field. Since June, she has worked for the OSU Alumni Association as a staff accountant. After years of struggling with confidence, the mother and graduate reflected on her many milestones with a new perspective. Sitting in the business building’s courtyard, Angel contemplated the best way to describe herself throughout her academic journey. Determined. Bold. She grinned as another word came to mind, fitting perfectly. Brave.

SCAN HERE

Get involved with The Code Calls campaign to support student success stories like Angel’s.

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

F O U N D AT I O N

YAGO SERRA DOS SANTOS • Otto S. Cox Genetic Research Endowment Fund • Robberson Graduate Fellowship Fund

IMPACT SPOTLIGHT STORY ESTEFANIA MARTINEZ | PHOTOS AUBREY LAYTON

ago Serra dos Santos still remembers the bet that changed everything. After struggling in biology during his first year at a prestigious private school in Manaus, Brazil, he made a bold bet with his teacher: He would become her best student. What began as a determination to improve his grades quickly turned into something more. Hours spent studying led to a deeper realization. “Indeed, I turned my grades around; however, more significant than that was realizing that all the knowledge in those textbooks had been built by years of persistent and inquisitive work by scientists around the world, most of whom were ordinary people,” Santos said.

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“That was the moment when I decided to become one of them.” That sense of purpose only deepened during his undergraduate years in the Brazilian Amazon. A weeklong science outreach trip to a riverine community exposed him to the power of discovery in a new way. Despite the logistical challenges of transporting microscopes, specimens and a telescope by ferry, the experience left a lasting impression. Seeing students look through a microscope or observe the moon for the first time showed him how science can inspire and transform lives. Pursuing that path required persistence. Santos spent three years working as a hospital lab technician and biology tutor

while completing his master's thesis, saving money to apply to graduate programs in the United States. Moving abroad brought uncertainty, from financial pressure to navigating a new culture and academic environment. At the same time, it opened the door to new perspectives, collaborations and opportunities that would shape his future. At Oklahoma State University, Santos found a place where those experiences could take root. As a doctoral student in integrative biology, he studies how fish respond to acute stress, examining how rapid environmental changes can weaken immune defenses and increase vulnerability to disease.

“This Code is particularly inspiring to me. Because the grind of daily life can often wear down anyone's inspiration, we can only enjoy the full extent of our possibilities if we keep dreaming and pursuing those dreams, even when they appear too big to reach. Perhaps this is why the Cowboy Code calls it out first.”

YAGO SERRA DOS SANTOS

Working alongside his advisor, Dr. Elisa Casadei, Santos investigates antimicrobial peptides and how these natural defenses help fish adapt to changing conditions. Santos is contributing to research with real-world impact, from improving aquaculture practices to supporting conservation efforts for aquatic species. His work, and the potential it holds, has already earned recognition at OSU. Santos was selected as a recipient of the Otto S. Cox Graduate Fellowship, a highly competitive award recognizing outstanding graduate students whose work shows both strong research achievement and potential for meaningful impact. Each year, only a small number of students are chosen, placing him among a select group of scholars advancing innovative research while receiving support to accelerate work on complex scientific questions. “Receiving the Cox Graduate Fellowship reinforced the impact of working with colleagues and mentors you admire,” he said. “Just like in nature, the driving force of science is cooperation.”   Through these experiences, he has continued to refine not only his research, but also his understanding of the kind of scientist he hopes to become. The collaborative environment at OSU, combined with the opportunity

to pursue meaningful, applied research, has helped shape both his work and his long-term vision. Looking ahead, Santos hopes his research will help scientists and communities better understand how environmental stress affects aquatic life, allowing for more sustainable management of natural resources. He also envisions a future leading his own research, building collaborative networks and mentoring the next generation of scientists.

From a high school bet in Brazil to a research lab in Stillwater, Santos' journey reflects the power of curiosity, determination and opportunity. At OSU, he is not only advancing scientific knowledge; he is continuing to grow into the scientist he set out to become.

The Code Calls. To learn how you can make a difference in the lives of students like Yago, visit OSUgiving.com.

ADVANCING DISCOVERY | Yago Serra dos Santos collaborates with Anupam Poudel through hands-on research opportunities at OSU, advancing studies in aquatic health and conservation.

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CALLED TO LEAD OSU unveils new systemwide strategic vision to be The State’s University

STORY SYDNEY TRAINOR | PHOTOS SCOTT MILLER, PHIL SHOCKLEY, GARY LAWSON, ELLIE PIPER AND ERIC PRIDDY

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igher education is evolving at an unprecedented pace. Across the nation, universities are responding to shifting student expectations, workforce demands, rapid technological advancement and growing calls for measurable impact. Students expect a world-class education that prepares them for meaningful careers, while communities look at their flagship institutions to drive economic growth, broaden opportunities and solve complex challenges through research and outreach. As Oklahoma grows and evolves, so does the need for a university that serves as a catalyst for progress. Oklahoma State University is answering that call by embracing change while remaining firmly grounded in the mission that has defined the institution since its founding: educating students, advancing research and serving communities across Oklahoma and beyond.

Approved by the OSU/ A&M Board of Regents in June, “Answering the Call: A Strategic Vision for The State’s University” charts the course for the next five years. Developed by faculty, staff, students and leaders from across the OSU System, the plan reflects a shared vision for strengthening the university’s impact and positioning OSU as The State’s University and nation’s model land-grant institution. “We’ve set ambitious goals by design because our responsibility as The State’s University is to lead boldly,” OSU President Jim Hess said. “This plan calls on all of us to think bigger, move faster and work together in new ways. Bringing this vision to life won’t happen because of one person or one office. It will happen because the entire Cowboy family is committed to moving forward together.” This eight-goal plan builds on OSU’s strengths, addresses emerging opportunities and positions the OSU System for

long-term success through measurable outcomes and institutional accountability. Launched alongside The Code Calls, the strategic plan ensures the university’s momentum is matched by a clear sense of purpose. The goals outlined align with the campaign’s key pillars: Living the Cowboy Way, Creating LifeChanging Opportunities, Leading with Humility, and Powering Progress. Together, they reflect a bold vision that honors OSU’s heritage, builds on the university’s leadership, and unites the Cowboy family around an even stronger future. “The Cowboy Code calls us to take care of each other, finish what we start, and do what’s right even when it’s hard,” Hess said. “Every one of us has a key role to play in bringing this vision to life. The momentum we create now will determine our ability to transform ideas into measurable impact for students, Oklahoma and the future of higher education.”

SAVE THE DATE Strategic Plan launch celebration 10 a.m. | Monday, Sept. 21 ConocoPhillips OSU Alumni Center 201 ConocoPhillips, Stillwater, OK

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GOAL Enhancing Academic Excellence and Life-Changing Opportunities Prepare Oklahoma State University students as critical thinkers and lifelong learners ready to serve and lead by elevating rigorous, accessible academic programs at every level and modality — undergraduate, graduate and professional — that align with the landgrant mission and meet workforce and industry demands.

THE STATE’S UNIVERSITY FOR APPLIED WORKFORCE PROGRAMS OSU is the state leader in hands-on education. OSU programs provide practical applied learning, through tech-driven curriculum, industry-aligned academic programs, flexible and real-world learning experiences. This statewide coordination of the OSU System’s workforce-driven technical academic programs is delivered primarily through OSU’s campuses in Oklahoma City, Okmulgee, Stillwater and Tulsa — making a high-demand technical education more accessible to Oklahomans.

GOAL Transforming the OSU Student Experience Create an accessible, systemwide Oklahoma State University student experience that develops servantleaders and builds belonging, resilience, well-being, career readiness and drives professional growth.

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INTEGRATED CAREER READINESS MODEL Every OSU student graduates with a consistent, high-quality set of career competencies, professional experiences, employer connections and an effective plan for long-term career success. This model meets students where they are in their academic journey and professional development. It strengthens the mission by combining the best of two approaches: college-level proximity to students and disciplines, and centralized coordination to ensure consistency, scale and strategic workforce alignment.

GOAL Powering Discovery for the Public Good Affirm Oklahoma State University’s place among the nation’s leading land-grant Carnegie R1 universities by expanding its strengthbased research portfolio to translate knowledge into real-world impact, deepen strategic partnerships, advance interdisciplinary collaboration and invest in the faculty and people who drive our work.

RESEARCH AND DISCOVERY Oklahoma State University’s expertise and strengths, from human and animal health, agriculture, aerospace, energy and human performance to emerging fields, expand the boundaries of what OSU research can do and who it can serve.

GOAL Amplifying Statewide Impact Through Extension Amplify Oklahoma State University Extension’s statewide impact through aligned, two-way outreach that connects all 77 Oklahoma counties to the expertise of the university, improves the lives of Oklahomans and brings community insight back into the heart of OSU’s landgrant mission.

ONE SYSTEM. 77 COUNTIES. Oklahoma State University brings together various extension efforts into a coordinated, systemwide approach that leverages all five campuses and its presence in all 77 Oklahoma counties for maximum impact. That means more than agriculture — it means engineering expertise reaching rural communities through CEAT Engineering Extension, veterinary continuing education delivering 20,000 hours annually, and health outreach extending from OSU Center for Health Sciences to underserved corners of the state.

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GOAL Championing the Cowboy Family Culture Establish Oklahoma State University as a destination institution by cultivating a culture where faculty and staff feel empowered, the Cowboy family engages in the land-grant mission and all embrace the Cowboy Code.

THE COWBOY CODE • We dream as big as the sky. • Being a Cowboy isn’t in our clothes, it’s in our character. • We stand for what matters, even if we stand alone. • We end the day knowing we gave it everything we had.

GOAL Embracing Digital Transformation and Emerging Technologies Accelerate research, strengthen student success, modernize operations and extend Oklahoma State University’s reach across Oklahoma through systemwide data fluency and artificial intelligence competency.

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TECHNOLOGY WITH A HUMAN PURPOSE OSU’s approach to artificial intelligence will be grounded in humancentered principles that prioritize learning, creativity, ethical responsibility and meaningful human connection rather than replacing the expertise and relationships that define the university experience.

• We know challenges come with pain, but pain will not win. • We have a passion to do what’s right, even when it’s hard. • We finish what we start.

GOAL Elevating One System, Serving all of Oklahoma Elevate the impact of the Oklahoma State University System through expansion opportunities, institutional efficiency, fiscal accountability and enhanced service quality for students, faculty and staff.

LEARNING WITHOUT LIMITS Enrollment in graduate programs like forensic sciences and healthcare administration at the Center for Health Sciences has consistently increased by 23-36% annually due to the expansion of online learning opportunities.

GOAL Advancing OSU’s National and Global Reputation Advance Oklahoma State University’s national and global reputation by amplifying awareness of the Cowboy Code, its distinctive strengths and positioning the university as the model land-grant university dedicated to student success, academic excellence and public impact.

HEALING THE STATE For three years in a row, OSU-CHS has secured the No. 1 ranking in U.S. News & World Report for the number of graduates serving in Healthcare Professional Shortage Areas, or medical deserts. Ensuring the underserved are cared for is key to the CHS mission.

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serving

oklahoma How OSU transforms research into healthier communities, stronger industries and greater opportunity across the state STORY MANDY GROSS | PHOTOS MITCHELL ALCALA AND KINSEY REED

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ou don’t have to set foot on Oklahoma State University’s campus to experience its impact. It can be found in wheat fields outside of Enid, in veterinary clinics serving ranchers in the Panhandle, in food processing plants creating new products for local businesses and in rural hospitals where OSUtrained physicians are making a difference every day. OSU supports all these aspects of life (and many more) as part of its land-grant mission to serve the state, with the ability to connect directly with people in all 77 counties in Oklahoma to improve lives and uplift communities. With a bold new strategic plan — “Answering the Call: A Strategic Vision for The State’s University” — and increasing momentum of The Code Calls branding and fundraising campaign, OSU is making transformational investments in teaching, research and Extension programs and infrastructure. “Stillwater is in many ways synonymous with Oklahoma State University, but that’s not what the ‘S’ in OSU stands for,” OSU President Jim Hess said. “We are The State’s University. “For generations, OSU has proudly embraced its land-grant mission to serve the people of Oklahoma. We are accelerating that commitment through transformational investments in agriculture, veterinary medicine and rural health that strengthen communities across our state. “Together, we are strengthening educational opportunity, driving

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economic growth in Oklahoma and ensuring OSU continues to earn and proudly carry the mantle of The State’s University for generations to come.”

modernizing agronomy facilities For more than a century, Oklahoma farmers have counted on OSU research to improve their crops and their bottom line. Tomorrow’s harvest begins with today’s research, and the future of agricultural research is rooted at OSU. In 2026, the Oklahoma Legislature approved $40 million in funding for a new Agronomy Discovery Center at OSU’s Agronomy Research Station in Stillwater. The center will modernize facilities that support wheat breeding, crop science, soil fertility, forage and turfgrass research, while expanding OSU’s nationally recognized agricultural research programs.

PLANTING SEEDS FOR SUCCESS | Conceptual rendering of the Greenhouse Complex of the Agronomy Discovery Center.

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Dr. Jayson Lusk, vice president and dean of OSU Agriculture, said this investment ensures OSU can continue to provide real-world solutions that help farmers navigate evolving environmental and economic conditions, while feeding and fueling the state, nation and world. “The Agronomy Discovery Center is far more than a building project; it is a strategic investment in the future of Oklahoma agriculture and in the farmers who depend on innovation to remain competitive in an increasingly challenging environment,” Lusk said. “The $40 million commitment from the Oklahoma Legislature to the Agronomy Discovery Center will strengthen our ability to deliver

cutting-edge research, develop new technologies and support the farmers and ranchers who drive Oklahoma’s economy.” OSU will continue to raise $10 million to support the Oklahoma Legislature’s investment. As of July 30, 2026, 50 donors, including nine major gift donors, have contributed $8.7 million toward the initiative. OSU’s wheat breeding program alone has had a profound impact on agriculture in Oklahoma and across the nation and is recognized as one of the top programs in the world. Additionally, the wheat program benefits ranchers and the cattle industry by providing forage for millions of cattle annually.

“the $40 million commitment from the oklahoma legislature to the agronomy discovery center will strengthen our ability to deliver cutting-edge research, develop new technologies and support the farmers and ranchers who drive oklahoma’s economy.” dr. jayson lusk

vice president and dean of osu agriculture

Since 2000, OSU’s Wheat Improvement Team has commercialized 43 wheat varieties, accounting for roughly 70% of wheat planted in Oklahoma and approximately 10% of wheat acreage nationwide. Discoveries made at the OSU Agronomy Research Station significantly impact the state’s $42

billion agricultural industry and influence food security worldwide, as wheat supplies 20% of the energy from food people eat. New and updated facilities will bring vitality and a competitive edge to the university’s teaching, research and Extension initiatives. With the construction of a new headhouse and research O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

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PRODUCING RESULTS | OSU brings together producers, industry partners and community leaders to advance solutions that support Oklahoma agriculture and rural communities.

greenhouses, the Agronomy Discovery Center will become the birthplace of all new OSU wheat lines. Plans also include a dynamic and multipurpose classroom and a lab building that will house the Wheat Quality Laboratory; Soil, Water and Forage Analytical Laboratory; and the Plant Disease and Insect Diagnostic Laboratory. In 2025, OSU’s Soil, Water and Forage Analytical Laboratory analyzed 66,765 samples from across the state for farmers, ranchers, homeowners, consultants, government agencies and researchers to help protect Oklahoma’s natural resources and support efficient agricultural production. The Plant Disease and Insect Diagnostic Laboratory serves all 77 Oklahoma counties with accurate diagnoses of plant diseases and insect pests, along with recommendations for their

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control. Operating year-round, the lab provides plant disease and insect identification services to Extension educators, individuals, consultants and commercial producers. Oklahoma residents can submit up to 10 samples per year at no charge through their local OSU Extension county office. “Facilities like these labs are essential to safeguarding Oklahoma’s agricultural economy and public health,” Lusk said. “They allow us to rapidly detect and respond to animal and plant diseases, protect our food supply and support producers with trusted science. Ultimately, these labs serve every Oklahoma resident, supporting soil health and helping our state remain resilient in the face of emerging threats.”

from farm to marketplace Through the Robert M. Kerr Food and Agricultural Products Center, OSU is helping farmers, entrepreneurs and food manufacturers transform agricultural products into thriving businesses, creating jobs and strengthening rural economies across the state. FAPC is undergoing a major modernization effort supported by a $6 million investment from the Oklahoma Legislature in 2024. The upgrades include advanced food-processing technology, expanded meat-processing tools, dairy and beverage equipment, updated bakery and grain-analysis instruments and new packaging and product-development technologies. Among the most significant additions is Oklahoma’s first cold

pasteurization, high-pressure processing unit, which enables food businesses to extend shelf life, enhance food safety, reduce food waste and expand distribution opportunities without relying on preservatives. For many small and rural food businesses, access to these resources can reduce the cost, risk and complexity of moving a product from idea to market. “The modernization of FAPC is about creating new opportunities for Oklahoma’s food and agricultural industries to grow and thrive right here at home,” Lusk said. “For entrepreneurs and food manufacturers, these improvements mean products can now be developed, tested and produced in Oklahoma rather than outsourced elsewhere. That matters deeply for rural economies because it helps create jobs, supports local businesses and encourages innovation and investment in our state.” Beyond equipment, FAPC serves as a support system for Oklahoma food businesses by providing technical assistance in product development, food safety, microbiology, processing and scale-up, labeling, packaging, process validation and commercialization.

building the future of beef From healthier herds to more prosperous producers, OSU is bringing together research and industry to help shape the future of beef production and strengthen one of Oklahoma’s most important industries. The Animal Excellence initiative is a comprehensive effort to elevate teaching, research and Extension programs that impact animal health. At the heart of this initiative

education everywhere for everyone osu extension:

Oklahoma’s statewide system for translating research into practical guidance for residents, farmers, businesses and communities.

operating in all 77 counties,

OSU Extension provides research-based education in agriculture, natural resources and community development, family and consumer sciences and community health, and 4-H youth development. SCAN HERE

Learn more about how OSU Extension can help you.

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is the Beef Center of Excellence, a cross-disciplinary hub that unites experts across the beef supply chain. Supported by an advisory board of individual and corporate members, as well as a director and endowed chairs in areas such as artificial intelligence, beef cattle economics and rangeland management, the Beef Center of Excellence will fund impactful research and outreach. “There are so many issues we can work on,” said advisory board member Dr. Barry Pollard, of Pollard Farms. “We can work on fertility, feed efficiencies, health, disease resistance and a number of things that are meaningful to the industry. We can work together and find ways to coordinate the research that’s being done into meaningful messages that have practical applications.” The Oklahoma Beef Council serves as a corporate member of the advisory board. Heather Buckmaster, Oklahoma Beef Council executive director, said collaboration between producers and academia is the key to unlocking progress. “We’ve overcome so many challenges in this industry when producers and academia work together, and the industry

unites,” said Buckmaster. “I think this focus of the Beef Center of Excellence is going to give us an opportunity in a multidisciplinary approach to really focus on those challenges that we have. It’s an opportunity for Oklahoma State to really plant that flag and say, the beef industry of Oklahoma is important.” OSU remains one of the few universities with operating units for all food animal species and is nationally recognized for the superior quality of livestock, and excellence in teaching and research. The Animal Excellence initiative also includes upgrades to facilities and technology to modernize OSU’s animal teaching and research units.

a new era for veterinary medicine Through the construction of a new facility for veterinary education, clinical care and research, OSU Veterinary Medicine is making a lasting impact on animal health in Oklahoma. The university received a historic $329 million state funding appropriation from the Oklahoma Legislature to support the construction of a new,

“we’ve overcome so many challenges in this industry when producers and academia work together, and the industry unites.” heather buckmaster oklahoma beef council executive director

empowering rural communities OSU’s Rural Renewal Initiative focuses on strengthening small towns by supporting local leadership, economic development and community engagement tailored to each community’s goals. At the same time, OSU is helping expand rural broadband access, recognizing that reliable high-speed internet is essential for education, healthcare, business growth and quality of life. Some examples include the Rural Library Hotspot Lending Program, which provides libraries with small internet hotspot devices that connect to cellular data, and the Library Telehealth Booth Program, which helps rural libraries install telehealth booths and provides confidential access to medical professionals via broadband. 60

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HANDS-ON HEALTH CARE | OSU veterinary medicine students and faculty provide advanced clinical training that supports animal health and helps address workforce needs across Oklahoma.

state-of-the-art teaching hospital for the College of Veterinary Medicine. For Oklahoma ranchers, veterinarians and animal owners, the impact will extend far beyond Stillwater. The new veterinary medical teaching hospital will help address veterinary workforce shortages, strengthen food animal medicine and support research that improves livestock health and production, while also creating expanded opportunities for student training in both companion and large-animal medicine. OSU is also working to address Oklahoma’s veterinary shortage that continues to plague the state. In 2024, House Bill 3196 – also known as the Dr. Lee Denney Act – was passed to provide financial assistance to students pursuing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at OSU CVM. These students plan to practice in rural Oklahoma communities — those consisting of 25,000 or fewer — and receive training to meet the needs of livestock producers. To date, $1.8 million has been awarded to OSU veterinary students. “Veterinarians serve as frontline animal health professionals, working alongside Oklahoma producers to

provide a safe and wholesome food supply,” said Dr. Richard Prather, OSU CVM dean. “Investment in veterinary education advances enduring animal health solutions that protect public health and support the stability of the rural economy.”

powering one health These investments reinforce OSU’s broader vision of integrating agriculture, animal science and human health into a unified framework for solving complex problems. This framework, known as One Health, recognizes that the health of humans, animals and the environment is interconnected and that many of today’s greatest challenges require collaboration across disciplines to find solutions. At OSU, that collaboration is taking shape through partnerships among OSU Agriculture, the College of Veterinary Medicine and the Center for Health Sciences. And while OSU veterinarians are meeting patients where they are with the CVM’s new ambulatory services, OSU

physicians are answering the call to serve where the need is greatest. For the third consecutive year, the Center for Health Sciences earned the No. 1 national ranking in the percentage of graduates practicing in Health Professional Shortage Areas, according to U.S. News & World Report medical school rankings. Those shortage areas, often called medical deserts, include communities facing significant shortages of physicians and other health care providers. The Center for Health Sciences also ranked No. 8 nationally for graduates practicing in rural areas and No. 13 for graduates entering primary care. Hess said these outcomes don’t happen by accident. They reflect OSU’s commitment to strengthening communities. “Being The State’s University means showing up for Oklahoma every day. It means preparing students to lead, conducting research that solves real problems and working to cultivate opportunity in every corner of our state,” Hess said. “That’s what a land-grant university is called to do, and we’re proud to answer the call.”

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C O W B OY WAY

Before Lyndall Stout ever hosted an episode of SUNUP, she helped with winter morning cattle feeding on her grandparents’ farm along the Arkansas River in Osage County. Stillwater already felt like home for Stout, who grew up splitting time between Stillwater and Pawhuska. Although she left the state to earn her master’s degree at Louisiana State University and launch a career in television news, she wouldn’t remain away from Oklahoma forever. Stout returned to Stillwater in 2010 to begin serving as the host and executive producer of SUNUP, a weekly production agriculture television show broadcast on OETA. The show airs on Saturdays and Sundays, and all segments can be found on YouTube. “Getting to work for the university was a dream come true,” Stout said. SUNUP is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Stout and the staff evolved the program — which reaches tens of thousands of viewers annually — beyond its traditional broadcast roots, building successful footprints on YouTube and social media. “I’m grateful producers across the state trust us for timely information each week,” Stout said. “It’s so rewarding to be part of the rich history of this program.” After more than a decade working in television news, with stops in Pennsylvania, Arkansas and Texas, Stout continued working in broadcast television through SUNUP, helping producers, landowners and the general public stay up to date with the latest educational information. Through collaboration with OSU Extension, OSU Ag Research and the Oklahoma Mesonet, SUNUP has reinforced the university’s landgrant mission by improving agricultural resilience and advancing stewardship of natural resources. For almost two decades, Stout has been the face of that effort. She’s also served as the director of communications and marketing for OSU Agriculture since 2012. “The work of OSU Extension and Ag Research is so important,” Stout said. “Serving as an information conduit for the public and the university is a role I love.” STORY DEAN RUHL | PHOTO MITCHELL ALCALA

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F O U N D AT I O N

Multiplying Impact

2026 WOMEN FOR OSU SYMPOSIUM HIGHLIGHTS THE RIPPLE EFFECT OF PHILANTHROPY ACROSS OSU STORY ESTEFANIA MARTINEZ | PHOTOS BRYANNA FREER

On April 23, the Women for OSU Symposium brought the Cowboy family together around a shared belief: philanthropy changes lives at Oklahoma State University. That impact was reflected throughout the day, as attendees heard from the 2026 Student Philanthropists of the Year Kevin Kuteesa and Carleen Meija Perez, honored Philanthropist of the Year Amy Mitchell, celebrated 17 scholarship recipients and recognized four grant recipients of the Partnering to Impact: Campus Grants Program. Keynote speaker Jill Donovan stepped onto the stage not as someone who had always known her path, but as someone who had spent years searching for it. She began her career as an attorney and later became a law professor, yet the work never truly fulfilled her. So, she began trying something new each year, searching for what might spark meaning. Along the way, she pursued opportunities that felt out of reach, including appearing on “The Oprah Winfrey Show.” After years of trying, Donovan was invited by the show to share stories about her family’s habit of re-gifting. What should have been a defining moment quickly shifted when her stories were criticized on air, leaving her feeling embarrassed and defeated. She returned home, cleared out her re-gifting closet and stepped away from what

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once brought her joy. Even as the show aired successfully, the weight of that moment stayed with her. Years later, Donovan chose to let it go. That decision became a turning point. She began filling her closet again, this time with something she created herself, teaching herself to make cuff bracelets. This small step grew into something more. Rustic Cuff was born. What began as a personal outlet grew into a thriving business and community, expanding far beyond what she first imagined. Each cuff became more than a piece she created; it became a gesture of hope, something she could give in moments when it was needed most. What once felt like a setback became a purpose that continues to uplift others. That message carried throughout the symposium, reflected in the stories of the 2026 Student Philanthropists of the Year. Carleen Mejia Perez shared with the audience one of the most defining moments of her life. At 17, she sat in a hospital bed, exhausted, as her family gathered around her newborn son. In that moment, everything changed. Life didn’t slow down. Her days became a constant rhythm of school, work and caring for her child. Nights were spent studying with a baby in her arms, trying to keep up while feeling like she was falling behind.

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Some told her that becoming a doctor was not realistic for a teenage mother and a firstgeneration college student. For a moment, she believed them. But she kept going. She graduated high school with her son in her arms and continued building a path forward.   Today, she is a medical student, wife and a mother of three, still pursuing the future she once struggled to imagine. Perez founded Sigma Alma Fuerte, a Latinx youth society dedicated to empowering teens through mentorship. “I’ve created a space for students who are growing up feeling the same uncertainty I once felt,” she shared. “And every time I sit with them, I see myself, the version of me who just needed someone to believe in her. That’s what the Women for OSU scholarship has done for me.” Her story reflects what becomes possible when someone is supported at the right moment and how that support can multiply into impact for others. That same message continued through Kevin Kuteesa’s story. Kuteesa grew up in Kampala, Uganda, raised by her mother after losing her father before she was born. With limited resources, much of her early life was shaped by uncertainty. Then along came Sandra, a cow that was donated to her family through a nonprofit. That moment changed everything,

creating stable income and the ability for her and her siblings to stay in school. From that experience, Kuteesa learned that access, not charity, transforms lives. Today, she carries that belief through Prograte Capital Ventures, a social enterprise she co-founded that supports women entrepreneurs in Uganda. Each opportunity reflects the same support that once changed her own future, extending that impact even further. “With Women for OSU, you are igniting a multiplier effect,” Kuteesa told the audience. “On behalf of all the awardees, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the donors.” Through her philanthropy, Amy Mitchell, the 2026 Philanthropist of the Year, is helping create opportunities that extend far beyond a single student, shaping experiences and outcomes that will continue to grow for years to come. Alongside her husband, Malone Mitchell III, she supports programs in academics, athletics and entrepreneurship through the Riata Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Seventeen student scholars were recognized not only for academic achievement but for their commitment to service and leadership within their communities. Their work ranges from mentoring younger students to leading campus

TRANSFORMING OPPORTUNITY| Student Philanthropists of the Year Kevin Kuteesa (left) and Carleen Mejia Perez (center) share stories of perseverance and support, joined by symposium emcee Julia Benbrook (right).

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LEADING THROUGH SERVICE | Women for OSU scholars are honored for their academic achievement, leadership and dedication to serving others.

organizations and serving communities both in Oklahoma and beyond. The Partnering to Impact: Campus Grants Program awarded four grants supporting innovative, unbudgeted initiatives across campus in health and wellness, education, campus beautification and arts and culture. Each project represents not just an idea, but a solution, one that will continue to benefit the OSU community. “The Symposium brings together so many moving pieces, students, projects and opportunities,” said Cristy Racy, the director of Women for OSU and senior director of volunteer engagement at the OSU Foundation. “It’s a reminder of how all of that continues to grow well beyond the symposium.”

SCAN HERE

Learn more about Women for OSU.

LASTING IMPACT | Lucina Thompson (right) presents Amy Mitchell (left) with the 2026 Philanthropist of the Year award in recognition of her lasting support of Oklahoma State University.

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THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS FOR MAKING THE 2026 WOMEN FOR OSU SYMPOSIUM A REMARKABLE SUCCESS! We are grateful for your commitment to creating meaningful opportunities and lasting impact through Women for OSU.

Presenting Sponsor

Kayleen Ferguson Traci Jensen Elizabeth Nickles & Dianne Humes Suzanne Wade

OSU College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology OSU Ferguson College of Agriculture OSU Foundation OSU President’s Office OSU Spears School of Business Oklahoma Central Credit Union Jan Turner Polk Roxanne Pollard & Sharon Trojan Terry Slagle Kathy Starks JJ Stevak Stillwater Medical Center Susanne Wasson

Rose Gold Sponsors

Silver Sponsors

Student Experience Sponsor One Heartbeat Foundation

Platinum Sponsors

Tracie Chapman Amy Cline Aimee Hale Susan Jacques Gail Muncrief Lucina Thompson Michel Thompson

Gold Sponsors Stock Exchange Bank: Sheryl Benbrook Brenda Buck & Tracie Chapman Robin Byford & Becky Steen Cheryl Clerico Kirsten Daniel Susan Glasgow Goodytwos Toffee Anne Greenwood Ann Hargis Vicki Howard Claudia Humphreys InterWorks Jami Longacre OSU Alumni Association OSU Athletics OSU Center for Health Sciences OSU College of Arts and Sciences OSU College of Education and Human Sciences

SAVE the DATE

BancFirst Frank & Tammy Bove Patricia Hudson Karen Kapella Lynne McElroy Denise Weaver Dava White

Orange Sponsors Jackie Conrady Deniece Ditzler Shannon Everett Carolyn Gang Donna Giles Connie Green Ann Halligan Retta Miller Lou Morris Parkhill’s Liquors & Wine South Annette Pfeiffer Charlotte Pittman Real Estate Professionals Beverly Schafer Gwen Shaw Simmons Bank Maribeth Subramaniam Tinker Federal Credit Union Leslie Woolley

April 22, 2027 WOMEN FOR OSU SYMPOSIUM

FEATURING KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Courtenay DeHoff OSU Alumni, TV Personality, Agriculture Advocate & Founder of Fancy Lady Cowgirl

Visit OSUgiving.com/Women for more information.

OCTOBER 8-10 JOIN US IN HONOR OF WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY FOR COWBOYS UNITED FOR MENTAL HEALTH. THE CODE CALLS ON ALL COWBOYS TO SHOW UP, SPEAK UP AND SUPPORT STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH. TOGETHER, WE CAN EXPAND CRITICAL SERVICES AND ENSURE EVERY STUDENT KNOWS THEY ARE NOT ALONE.

ANSWER THE CALL. STAND WITH STUDENTS. MAKE AN IMPACT. Scan or visit, OSUgiving.com/Cowboysunited

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ALUMNI

OSU ALUMNA’S TIME IN STILLWATER PREPARES HER FOR CAREER AT KRAFT HEINZ STORY LIBBY RAY | PHOTOS PROVIDED

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or Ashleigh Edmonds, adaptability has been a way of life from the very beginning. The Oklahoma State University alumna grew up in a military family, moving across the country and around the world before eventually settling in Lawton, Oklahoma. That constantly changing environment taught her lessons that would shape the rest of her life. “When you move frequently, you learn how to connect with people quickly,” Edmonds said. “You learn how to adapt.” Living in military communities also exposed her to different ways of life as she attended schools filled with students from different racial, cultural, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds. Those early experiences broadened her perspective and helped her develop an appreciation for understanding people from all walks of life, which would later become the foundation of her career. When it came time to choose a college, Edmonds wanted a place that offered both independence and connection. OSU provided exactly that balance. Stillwater was far enough from home to allow her to grow on her own, but close enough to remain connected to family and friends. More importantly, she felt an immediate sense of belonging. “I really loved the community that I was getting in Stillwater,” she said. “It felt special.” Although she initially thought she might pursue sports medicine because of her love of athletics, dance and cheerleading, Edmonds discovered that her greatest strengths lay elsewhere. She was naturally curious

about people and fascinated by communication. Those interests led her to OSU’s School of Media and Strategic Communications, where she found a home in public relations. At OSU, Edmonds immersed herself in campus life. She participated in a wide range of organizations, including Pi Beta Phi, Mortar Board Society, Orange Pride, the Public Relations Student Society and several leadership programs. She also worked in university offices, including the President’s Office, where she developed her leadership abilities and professional skills. One of her most significant contributions came through Greek life. In 2003, Edmonds became one of the few Black women to join a traditionally white sorority on campus. Rather than allowing the distinction to define her experience, she focused on creating opportunities for connection and inclusion. She worked to build relationships across different Greek organizations and encouraged greater collaboration among students from varied backgrounds. “I always wanted to help people find a place where they felt like they could be their full self,” she said. After graduation, Edmonds moved to New York City. She encountered the challenges of a competitive job market before finding an opportunity with a small organization. The role exposed her to event planning, sponsorships, communications and nonprofit leadership. She eventually became the first full-time

“I REALLY LOVED THE COMMUNITY THAT I WAS GETTING IN STILLWATER. IT FELT SPECIAL.” ASHLEIGH EDMONDS

OSU ALUMNA

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ALUMNI

“AT THE END OF THE DAY, MARKETING IS ALL ABOUT UNDERSTANDING PEOPLE.” ASHLEIGH EDMONDS OSU ALUMNA

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BRANDED SUCCESS | Ashleigh Edmonds is a 2007 OSU graduate with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and broadcasting, which she has used to craft a successful career in brand marketing.

employee of the Council of Urban Professionals. The experience sparked a passion for marketing and brand building. Today, Edmonds is a senior leader in the consumer packaged goods industry with more than a decade of experience at Kraft Heinz. She currently serves as the head of marketing for Mac & Cheese at Kraft Heinz, overseeing a portfolio of iconic brands that includes Kraft Mac & Cheese, Velveeta and Cracker Barrel Mac & Cheese. The business she leads generates roughly $1.5 billion in annual sales. While many people think of marketing as advertising,

Edmonds sees it differently. Her work combines storytelling, consumer psychology, strategy, manufacturing, innovation and financial performance. “At the end of the day, marketing is all about understanding people,” she said. That perspective has fueled some of her most successful initiatives. She helped lead many award-winning campaigns, including “Art of the Burger,” which depicted an artist’s palette displaying a paintbrush dipped in ketchup alongside mayonnaise, mustard, special sauce and pickle slices. She has also championed product innovations inspired

by direct consumer feedback, including larger family-sized offerings designed to address real household needs. Despite her success, Edmonds credits much of her professional foundation to the skills and development she gained as a student at OSU. “We are incredibly proud to see Ashleigh leading marketing efforts for such an iconic, globally recognized brand,” said Dr. Jared Johnson, director of the School of Media and Strategic Communications. “It shows our current students that the foundation they build here can take them to the very highest levels of corporate leadership and international brand management.” Whether she is launching a new product or guiding a billion-dollar business, Edmonds believes effective leaders must understand the people they serve and tailor communications and solutions accordingly. Looking back, her journey ref lects many of the themes that have defined her life: resilience, curiosity, service and a willingness to embrace unexpected opportunities. From a military child learning to adapt in new environments to a barrier-breaking OSU student and marketing executive leading some of America’s most recognizable brands, Edmonds has built a career centered on connection. And through it all, she continues to embody the spirit that first drew her to Oklahoma State — helping people find where they belong and empowering them to succeed.

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F O U N D AT I O N

PURPOSEFUL GIVING | Amy and Tim Hardin have a heart for children. As members of the Heritage Society, the couple has made a gift to support scholarships and OSU’s Early Childhood Education Program.

Brighter Beginnings

Hardins impact children, students and educators through historic estate gift STORY GRANT RAMIREZ | PHOTOS BRYANNA FREER

im and Amy Hardin might not have any kids to call their own, but thanks to a generous gift, future generations of children will remember the Hardins’ impact. Through their estate, the Hardins have made a historic investment, establishing the Tim and Amy Hardin Endowed Scholarship in Early Childhood Education with the largest gift in program history.

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“Education doesn’t get enough funding, and teachers don’t make a lot of money,” Tim said. “We decided that we could make a change, and this estate gift will hopefully help people for generations and help kids grow forever.” In April, Oklahoma State University hosted members of its Heritage Society on campus for its annual celebration. The group consists of alumni and friends who, like the Hardins,

have made a commitment to OSU through a will, revocable living trust, life insurance, life-income gift, retirement account or other deferred gift arrangement. The Heritage Society’s more than 2,000 members have documented a combined $71 million in gifts to the university. “The generosity of our Heritage Society members serves as an inspiration to the rest of the Cowboy family,” OSU Foundation

President Blaire Atkinson said. “They represent The Code Calls by rallying together to invest in the future of OSU and the next generation. Their impact can be seen across every corner of campus and has changed countless lives forever.” At the event, donors toured multiple spaces within the College of Education and Human Sciences, including the Cleo L. Craig Child Development Lab — the place where the Hardins have chosen to leave their legacy. In 2006, the Hardins moved to Stillwater, with Tim accepting a job as an engineering professor at OSU and Amy joining Stillwater Medical Center as a pediatrician. It was a new specialty for Amy. She began to view families from a child-development lens, and every day, she witnessed how difficult raising children could be. She frequently encountered families who couldn’t afford the

medications she prescribed for their kids, or the bike helmets she recommended. Childcare was difficult to find, and the few options that were good and affordable often had lengthy waitlists. When parents were always focused on making ends meet, it was easy to forget about the little things that go into setting a child up for success, she said. “Families with young children face a lot of uphill battles,” Amy said. “Anything you can do to help a child develop while they’re young helps break that generational struggle. If you wait until high school to try to save them from drowning, it’s a lot more difficult than if you just teach them to swim earlier upstream.” The Early Childhood Education program is doing its part to ensure kids get off to a running start. The CDL offers innovative educational programming for children ages 1-5 while also providing OSU students

with real-world, hands-on learning experiences that will prepare them to lead and shape young minds. The program not only benefits the kids at CDL, but also helps supply communities across Oklahoma with much-needed teachers and caregivers. Its students are passionate about what they do, giving each kid all the encouragement and support they need. The Hardin Scholarship will ensure those students have less financial burden to overcome, so they can put their full hearts into our youth. “I’ve become a firm believer that you have to intervene early, and it takes a special kind of person to do that,” Amy said. “Teachers are the people who will influence the next generation of citizens. “The students here have a calling to pour themselves into these children. So, somebody needs to pour into them, too.”

HERITAGE SOCIETY | More than 2,000 donors have documented a combined $71 million in gifts to OSU through a will, revocable living trust, life insurance, life-income gift, retirement account or other deferred gift arrangement.

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REMEMBR ANCE

SUITED FOR SERVICE | During 16 years on the OSU/A&M Board of Regents, Calvin Anthony became known for his steady leadership and commitment to affordable, accessible higher education.

A Life of Service

Former regent Calvin Anthony leaves lasting legacy at OSU and beyond STORY JORDAN BISHOP | PHOTOS PHIL SHOCKLEY

lifelong advocate for education and community outreach, Calvin Anthony’s decades of leadership and public service helped shape Oklahoma State University, the city of Stillwater and the state of Oklahoma. Anthony, who served on the OSU/A&M Board of Regents for 16 years, passed away July 7 at age 81.

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During his tenure as regent, he spent three years as board chair and became known for his steady leadership, thoughtful decisionmaking and commitment to keeping higher education affordable and accessible for Oklahoma families. “Calvin devoted the best of himself to this state and this university through many years of service,” OSU/A&M Board of Regents Chair Joe Hall said. “He brought common sense and a

lifetime of love for Oklahoma State to every decision at the table. Because of his commitment to educational access and affordability, the lives of thousands of Oklahomans are better because of Calvin, and his legacy and impact will continue to live in the hearts of everyone he knew and loved.” Born Jan. 19, 1945, Anthony moved to Carney, Oklahoma, when he was 7. There, his family owned and operated a local grocery, dry

goods and feed store. A standout athlete and valedictorian, he earned a baseball scholarship to OSU before completing his pharmacy degree at the University of Oklahoma. After marrying Linda Thomas in 1968, he built both a family and a career in Stillwater. In 1969, the couple purchased Tiger Drug Store, beginning a lifelong commitment to serving patients and the Stillwater community. Over the years, they expanded their business interests to include multiple pharmacies and medical supply operations throughout north-central Oklahoma. Anthony carried that same spirit of service into public office. He was elected mayor of Stillwater in 1985 and later served two terms in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, representing District 34. In 1996, the Anthonys moved to Washington, D.C., where Calvin led the National

Community Pharmacy Association in advocating for independent pharmacies nationwide before returning home to Stillwater in 2002. Although his resume included leadership positions on numerous boards, Anthony often cited his service as an OSU regent among his proudest accomplishments. “More than anything, Calvin believed a college education was the key that changed lives, his own included, and he spent his years as a regent working to provide those opportunities for Oklahoma families,” OSU President Jim Hess said. He remained a passionate supporter of the university long after his board service concluded. Alongside Linda, he was a familiar presence at OSU athletic events, fundraisers and campus celebrations, supporting generations of Cowboy students and programs. His honors included

“More than anything, Calvin believed a college education was the key that changed lives, his own included.” JIM HESS

OSU PRESIDENT

induction into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, the Stillwater Hall of Fame and the OSU Hall of Fame. Friends and colleagues remembered him as a leader guided by common sense, generosity and a deep belief in lifting up those around him. Whether serving patients, representing constituents, supporting students or cheering on the Cowboys, Anthony approached every role with the same sense of purpose and care.

NO RAIN ON THE PARADE | Anthony remained a passionate supporter of Oklahoma State throughout his life, including riding in the Sea of Orange parade at America’s Greatest Homecoming.

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REMEMBR ANCE

LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP | Kirk Jewell’s commitment to Oklahoma State University embodied the Cowboy Spirit and left a lasting mark on the university community.

A Leader’s Legacy

Jewell’s leadership shaped a generation of growth, culture and philanthropy at OSU STORY AMANDA MASON | PHOTOS BRYANT GROUP AND OSU FOUNDATION

irk Jewell’s impact on Oklahoma State University will be felt for generations — not only in the resources he helped secure, but in the culture he built along the way.

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Jewell, who served as the OSU Foundation president from 2003 through 2020, passed away on April 28 surrounded by his family. He led one of the most transformative periods in the

Foundation’s history. Under his leadership, the nonprofit grew from 55 employees to 155 and raised more than $2.6 billion to support students, faculty and programs across OSU. Jewell’s

tenure included the landmark $1.2 billion Branding Success campaign, which surpassed its goal and expanded opportunities for thousands of Cowboys. “Kirk was a good friend and a great leader of the OSU Foundation,” said OSU President Emeritus Burns Hargis, who recalled reaching the campaign fundraising goal two years early. “Kirk’s leadership was indispensable in that success. Together, we elevated the OSU Brand.” Beyond the numbers, Jewell was known for something more enduring: people.

“Kirk’s impact is immeasurable because he invested not only in this university, but in people. He cared so much about each individual and always made time to lend an ear, listen to a story or provide advice,” said Blaire Atkinson, his successor and current president at the Foundation. “He was a wonderful mentor to me and many others in our organization.” The OSU Foundation was nationally recognized multiple times as a “best place to work,” including twice by the “Nonprofit Times” as one of the top nonprofits to work for

in the U.S. — a reflection of Kirk’s leadership philosophy, ‘We perform like a team and care like a family.’ His legacy also lives on through philanthropy. He and his family supported scholarships, student programs and initiatives that benefit Cowboys across campus. They’ve asked that memorial gifts be made in his honor to the Kirk Jewell Impact Fund at the OSU Foundation.

IN REMEMBERANCE | Kirk Jewell, pictured with President and First Cowgirl Emeritus Burns and Ann Hargis, leaves a lasting legacy at OSU and the OSU Foundation, where he served as president from 2003 to 2020.

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Top honors, three years running.

Not bragging — just facts. For the third time in three years, OSU Center for Health Sciences received a No. 1 ranking from U.S. News and World Report. Among all medical schools in the nation, more of our graduates are practicing in Health Professional Shortage Areas, or medical deserts. At OSU, our medical students stand for what matters — impacting the health of Oklahomans who need it most is our mission, and we’re proud to meet it.

Answering the call for Oklahoma.

Read about all of our top rankings this year. Scan the QR code or visit okla.st/chs-usnews.

The U.S. News & World Report rankings are based on data from 207 accredited allopathic and osteopathic medical schools in the United States.

TULSA CALLED. OSU ANSWERED. OSU-TULSA IS LEADING THE WAY IN FOUR-YEAR PUBLIC EDUCATION START HERE, FINISH HERE. Accounting. Aerospace administration. Mechanical and aerospace engineering. Psychology. And dozens more. All four years. All in Tulsa, backed by an OSU credential that speaks for itself. We’ve been woven into Tulsa’s businesses, industries and workforce for years. Oklahoma State graduates lead the companies that drive this region. Now, we’re expanding our impact in the community. OSU graduates don’t need to leave Tulsa to succeed — they stay and invest in the future, here and now. The Cowboy Code calls us to dream big, do what’s right and finish what we start. And we’re doing it all in Tulsa.

HOW WILL YOU ANSWER?

F O U N D AT I O N

BRIGHT SHINES YOUR NAME | The Proud & Immortal donor installation on the second floor of the Student Union recognizes the individuals, families and organizations whose generosity has strengthened and shaped Oklahoma State for generations.

Generosity in Action

Proud & Immortal Society members invest in OSU’s future and its students STORY AMANDA MASON | PHOTOS BRYANNA FREER

t Oklahoma State University, generosity creates opportunities that stretch across every corner of campus, from classrooms and labs to stages, fields and experiences far beyond Stillwater. A large part of that impact is created through the transformational giving of the Proud & Immortal Society, which is comprised of donors who have given OSU at least $1 million. What began in 2015 with 277 inaugural members has

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grown into a community of 561 supporters who continue to shape OSU in meaningful ways. Over the past decade, that growth ref lected more than new membership; it represented a sustained and expanding investment in students, programs and the university’s future. On April 10, OSU hosted its biennial event celebrating the difference this group is making. “When I look out across this room, I see people who believe in this university, in our students

and who have chosen to invest in something bigger than all of us,” OSU President Jim Hess said. “Let me be clear: what you have done matters. Not just in dollars, but in lives.” That impact came into focus through the stories of students Steven Azzaro and Kodie Gough, both of whom spoke at the event. Azzaro, a graduate student in health and human performance, has taken advantage of opportunities made possible through donor support to explore

“Let me be clear: what you have done matters. Not just in dollars, but in lives.” JIM HESS

OSU PRESIDENT

SHARED IMPACT | Proud & Immortal featured student stories, performances and remarks from university leaders, all highlighting the impact of philanthropy across Oklahoma State University.

ideas and turn them into realworld applications. Resources like the Zink Center for Competitive Innovation and Riata Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship gave him the ability to test, refine and move his work forward. “Through your contributions and the sweat of your brow, each of you gathered here tonight has sent waves through our community in the form of resources, facilities, staff and research that inspire growth and innovation to secure our future,” Azzaro said. “Your charity and belief in OSU are a robust genesis for opportunity across our campus for everyone and most importantly, hope for a better tomorrow.” As a student leader and representative for The Code Calls campaign, Gough shared how she helped connect her peers to the impact of giving in ways that felt immediate and personal. As a multi-scholarship recipient, she understood how donor support shaped a student’s path — not just by opening doors, but by creating the confidence to lead and give back.

“What started as a goal to simply graduate with a bachelor’s degree turned into a desire to grow and take advantage of every opportunity this university had to offer,” said Gough, who graduated in May with degrees in marketing and entrepreneurship, a minor in nonprofit management and a certificate in ethical leadership. OSU Foundation President Blaire Atkinson said members of the Proud & Immortal Society show the world what it looks like to live by the Cowboy Code. “Time and time again, you’ve answered the call to make a transformational difference — not for recognition, but because it’s simply who you are,” she said. Atkinson noted that the inaugural honorees included T. Boone Pickens, who frequently encouraged the Cowboy family not to wait to make their impact at OSU. The 2026 Proud & Immortal class included 52 new members whose generosity earned them a place in OSU’s story, alongside returning honorees who chose to deepen their impact. Since the society’s founding, 114 members had elevated their giving, with

17 increasing their commitment more than once — a signal that this was not a one-time decision, but an ongoing investment in what OSU could be. “Together, we’re helping OSU and all members of the Cowboy family to dream big in ways that will serve our state, our nation and our world,” Atkinson said.

CARING COWGIRL | Layna Navarre performs a trick roping exhibition during the Proud & Immortal induction ceremony.

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OSU HISTORY

THE BEAT OF A DIFFERENT DRUMMER A HISTORY OF THE FRIDAY AFTERNOON TEA AND GLEE SOCIETY

STORY DAVID C. PETERS | PHOTOS OSU ARCHIVES

t was the start of a new era, and an enterprising group of students decided an offcampus newspaper would facilitate communications within the university and Stillwater communities. They would call their paper The Drummer, and its mission was to provide a platform for free expression and civil discourse, unrestricted by institutional interference. The following represents only a small part of their story, showing how a few students found a way to share their viewpoint during the tumultuous 1960s. College-aged “Baby Boomers” arrived in Stillwater during the fall of 1964. This wave of freshmen at the Oklahoma State University of

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Agriculture and Applied Science had expectations for a college education and experience that differed from those of previous classes. The role of the United States in the world had changed during their youth, and the new enrollees were curious to learn what their individual roles and opportunities would be in the future. Their generation was so new, the baby boomer label had just appeared in a January 1963 journal article describing the impacts of increased college enrollments across the U.S. Pediatricians and public schools were already well aware of the population tidal wave moving through society. In 1946, a record 3.4 million babies were born in the U.S., a 20% increase over the

previous year. Births increased to 4.3 million from 1957 to 1961. Between 1946 and 1964, roughly 78 million baby boomers joined the American population. When the first boomers arrived for classes in Stillwater, they had different ideas for their future compared to their predecessors. Most had been raised in urban settings, and many from smaller towns and rural counties didn’t anticipate returning home after graduation. College-aged men were facing new challenges as the U.S. expanded its military involvement in Vietnam. Troop levels in Vietnam expanded from 23,000 in 1964 to a peak of 550,000 in 1968, and annual U.S. military deaths in the conflict increased from 216 in 1964 to 16,900 four years later. The drafting of men into military service became more pronounced in 1965, the same year that OSU discontinued its required Reserve Officer Training for all men on campus. The university itself was undergoing a difficult metamorphosis. The traditional programs emphasizing agriculture and engineering were still relevant, but increasing numbers of students majored in the arts, social sciences, business and education. By 1967, the College of Arts and Sciences accounted for 58% of the university’s total student credit hours, yet faculty salaries in its academic departments lagged behind departments in other colleges. In addition, university enrollments grew by over 40% from roughly 12,000 students in 1963 to almost 17,000 five years later. OSU was also experiencing significant administrative changes after almost 40 years of stable leadership under presidents Henry Bennett and Oliver Willham. Dr. Robert Kamm became president on July 1, 1966, after previously serving

COLLEGE CROWD | In the spring of 1967, a series of protest gatherings occurred on the Library Lawn. All were non-violent, peaceful assemblies with respectful attention shown to the speakers.

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OSU HISTORY

PARTY TIME | The original female members of the Afternoon Teas, who met on Friday afternoons, are pictured here in an early college yearbook photograph.

as dean of CAS and, most recently, as vice-president for academic affairs the year before. His replacement as CAS dean, James Scales, remained at OSU for less than two years before becoming president of Wake Forest University. One of Scales’ efforts moved the religion and Bible curriculum taught by local pastors from the College of Education to CAS, emphasizing historical context and giving less regard to denominational perspectives. At the same time, campus ministers serving local congregations were arriving from liberal theological seminaries with ideas for reform. Amid these and other fermenting perspectives, committee members planning the annual Religious Emphasis Week met during the summer of 1966. This designated week, a college tradition for over 30 years, would be held on campus in the spring of 1967. Committee members invited Thomas Altizer to speak. His book, “Radical Theology

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and the Death of God,” had been published in January 1966, and Altizer had been featured in Time magazine that spring. Only one week after Kamm’s inaugural celebrations, the new president asked to meet with the committee. Kamm, who had previously advocated for expanded academic freedom, was under growing pressure from Oklahoma religious leaders and higher education boards opposed to Altizer’s visit. To avoid further public and political criticism already swirling statewide and to ease the burden on himself as the college’s chief representative, Kamm recommended the group withdraw Altizer’s invitation. This decision may have relaxed emotions around conservative Oklahoma, but it stirred the consciences of some faculty and students on campus. Concerns regarding academic freedom, free speech, freedom of assembly, critical thinking and due

process were raised. By the spring of 1967, a series of protest gatherings had occurred on the library lawn. In March 1967, a protest attracted 400 to 500 from the campus community, a month later, roughly 1,200, and at the end of the semester, 2,000. All were non-violent, peaceful assemblies with respectful attention shown to the speakers. During the May gathering, faculty members from the sociology department announced their resignations in protest. Ultimately, all nine would leave the institution by the summer. Faculty in other departments would transfer elsewhere, some faculty salaries were frozen, the first Honors College director would be pressured to leave, and graduate students withdrew from campus. A Board of Faculty Representatives was formed, and the local chapter of the American Association of University Professors became more involved. To ease the tension, Kamm created a Great Issues Committee,

with faculty and student representatives, to coordinate invitations for outside speakers. This led to mixed results and later to additional conflicts. While the trials of academia churned around them, a small group of students, many of them with ties to the Methodists’ Wesley Foundation, created an off-campus newspaper named The Drummer. It cost 10 cents. They ran into administrative hurdles when attempting to sell and distribute them on campus. With diligence, perseverance, and an emphasis on working through appropriate channels, they were eventually able to overcome most publishing and distribution obstacles. After The Drummer staff were initially denied a charter as an official campus organization, they looked to the past. While going through existing approved charters, a few individuals discovered The Friday Afternoon Tea and Glee Society (FATAGS). It was serendipitous that this group of students chose that charter, as its founding coincided with another act of student protest a half-century earlier. The original FATAGS gatherings occurred circa 1914, consisting of coeds who had a creative solution to their own challenging circumstances. The Oklahoma State Board of Agriculture, serving as the Board of Regents, banned Greek social organizations between 1908 and 1916. The U.S. War Department then required colleges with the Student Army Training Corps to suspend Greek social organizations during WWI from 1917 through 1918. Not to be deterred, coeds created social groups with innocent names such as The Owls and Afternoon Tea. The Afternoon Teas met at a “sponsor’s” home near campus on Friday afternoon. They later transitioned into the Alpha Thetas, and eventually, a Greek social

SAY IT LOUD | Students and faculty gathered on south Library Lawn for protest speakers in the spring of 1967.

organization known as Kappa Alpha Theta was established in 1919 when the ban was lifted. However, their original charter remained as an approved campus group, but without any new members until 1967, when the baby boomers rediscovered it. FATAGS was reborn with a new mission to distribute The Drummer. As an authorized group, they qualified for the use of campus facilities and requested space for meetings and tables in the Student Union. Many of FATAGS’ informal meetings occurred at the Hideaway. Over the next two years, 15 issues of The Drummer were published. Initially, only four pages, the paper quickly grew to eight, then up to 12 and 16 pages. The paper was produced at a local residence and printed in Edmond when local news printers were unavailable. The student editors pasted articles, photographs and other items onto a board for each page in preparation for printing. A journalism faculty member assisted them in locating the off-site printer. The first issue stated, “…we hope to make you laugh, maybe cry once in a while, but first of all THINK… hoping to fill this void with a balanced fare of thought-provoking articles and a smattering of humor thrown in.”

The paper covered world and campus affairs, arts, theology, and science with editorials, cartoons, opinions and occasional essays dripping with sarcasm. There were in-depth stories regarding the war, racism, women’s rights and interviews with campus visitors such as Barry Goldwater and Julian Bond. The paper supported critical thinking, civil discourse, and free expression. Throughout the past 60 years, the core group of students representing FATAGS has continued to meet periodically on campus and gathered again this past summer. They support university programs, provide outlets for critical conversations, endowed the annual Stockton/Brooks Lecture to share perspectives on academic freedom and free speech, and established the Dambach Peacebuilder Endowed Fellowship. Over 100 years since its founding and through two eras of turmoil, FATAGS remains a remarkable group of OSU alumni who continue to encourage and engage in productive civil discourse while remaining loyal and true. *A complete collection of The Drummer is housed in the OSU Special Collections and University Archives Department.

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

ALUMNI

New Life Members The OSU Alumni Association would like to recognize and thank the following individuals who are now connected for life to Oklahoma State University through their new life memberships purchased Feb. 1-May 1, 2026.

ALUMNI A S S O C I AT I O N

Visit okstatealumni.org/life to see how easy it is to become a life member today or call 405-744-5368.

*An asterisk designates life members who joined as OSU students. Lenna Abouzahr* Kaye Adams, '67 Tinslee Allan* Jordan Angel* Emma Angerman* Kyle Anstine, '09 Charlotte Archer Tyler Arnhart* Leslie Arnold, '88 Mark Arnold, '87 Josephine Bagley* Amy Bagnall, '02 John Ball, '69 Todd Ballard, '89 Naomi Barnett, '25, '25 Kelan Beacham* Katelin Bean, '24 Ainsley Bice, '25 Miles Billops* Anissa Bingman, '99 Duane Bingman, '94, '97 Clarence Blakley, '00 Maureen Blankemeyer, '96 Blake Blankenbaker* Donna Bode, '91 Jill Bowman, '10 Blair Boyd* Audra Boyer* Melissa Bradley* Bryson Brixie, '11 Clint Broome, '97 Alison Bryant, '06 Greg Burns, '80 Kyle Burns, '23 Brooke Butler* Kristin Campbell* Cooper Capron* Matt Carter, '25 Garland Carter, '66 Tania Castillo* Coralee Castle* Lukas Castro* Abigail Cecil* Charla Christian, '23, '23 Louis Clark, '98 Rebekah Cleary, '25 Rylee Cohen* Anecia Coleman, '23, '23, '23 Alisha Conley, '16 Donna Connors, '83

Tony Cope* Cynthia Cope, '71 Mark Cordell, '74 Tricia Cordell, '74 Jerod Costner, '96 Jennifer Craig Ann Crispin, '86 Hal Cross, '68 Richard Dahlstrom Nick Davie* Kara Davis, '11, '18 Rachel Davis* Jenna Day, '25 David Denham, '87 Thomas Deutscher* Brad Dickey, '80 Kristi Dietz-Divin, '85 Allison DiLandri* John Dillingham Chandle Dimick* Valeria Dominguez, '24 Ethan Drake* Kayla Duckworth* Clara Duncan* Gary Ellis, '74 Bryan Ellis III, '93 Larry Ellis Jr., '99 Patrick Erwin* Peter Fabian, '24, '25 Ella Farnbach* Donald Ferguson* Glenn Fielder, '63, '65 Carol Fielder David Finney, '93 John Finney III, '65 Zoe Fisher* BJ Flowers, '80 Erik Fonkalsrud* Mallory Forgione* Shayla Franks, '20 George Freeman, '93 Roger Froneberger, '83, '93 Roger Fry, '76 Robert Galloway* Mike Garrett, '76 Jason Garrett, '00 Daniel Gaynes* Thomas Geelen* Kennedy Gilbert* Len Gleckel, '68 Ava Glemming* Sarah Goddard*

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Levi Gonzalez Jerry Goodson Connie Goodson, '75 Curt Goulding, '77 Nancy Goulding, '77 Marcia Grantham, '53 Johnny Griffin, '90 Morley Griffith* Taylor Groat* Josh Grubbs, '24, '24 Landry Gunkel, '25 Bruce Guyer, '11, '24 Cara Hair, '98 James Halley* Matthew Hanna* Gary Harding, '00 Brenden Hardy* Dillon Harness, '20 Larry Harris, '71 Gerald Harris, '76, '96 Chrissy Hart, '92 Madison Hartle* Michelle Hastings, '94 Gracen Hawthorne* Hunter Haxton* Ddee Haynes, '88 Addie Heglin* Amy Helm, '90 Josh Henderson, '23 Toby Heppel, '96 Aunna Herbst, '07 Shawn-Marie Herring* Rachel Higgins, '19, '21, '22 ML Hill Peyton Hinds* Kelsey Hodgdon* Alice Hopper* Jamie Horning, '85 Kaiten Hudson* Gina Huenergardt, '01 Matthew Jacobson, '19 Ellen Jenkins* Brooklyn Jenkins* Richard Jennings, '71 Dane Jensen* Alaina Johnson* Amy Johnson* Laura Johnson* Dylan Johnson* Christopher Johnson* Joshua Johnston, '08 Johnna Jones, '96

Braeden Jones, '25 Adelyn Jones* Tom Kapella, '67 Karen Kapella, '80 Ashraf Kassem* Alan Keller Addy Kelley* Aidan Kelly, '25, '25 Brennon Kienholz* Brandon Kirk, '20 Yvonne Kline* Lance Knight, '25 Ginger Kollmann, '97 Mason Krey* Matt Krieg* Tyler Lansberry* Brian Lansing* Evelyn Larson, '24, '25 Carrie Laughlin, '96 Brendan Laverty, '20 Nathan Leech* Travis Legg, '12 Dan Link, '21 Jake Liston* Aaron Lozano, '23 Drew Lyon* Mary Lytle* Roberto M'Causland, '15 Denise Magee, '78 Dianne Marquez, '95 Reyes Marquez, '97 Tricia Martin, '04 David Martin* Mason Martinez, '23 Tate Mazza, '24, '24 Hunter McCollum* Dylan McCormick* Rebecca McLeod, '88 Christa Meek, '88, '90 Harry Meshek, '67 Gregg Miller, '14, '23 Scott Miller, '69 Michael Mitchell, '14, '15, '23 Jenna Montgomery* Allison Moore, '60 Jessica Moore, '24, '24 Shari Moore Leshia Moore Ward, '88 Claudia Mornhinweg Tonja Morris, '00 Carlos Muchmore Patrick Mullen, '00

Maddie Muller* Arnold Muncrief, '93 Ryan Murray, '07 Faith Narrin* Lea Nelson, '80 Clyde Nevins, '54 Brandon Nye* Thomas O'Brien, '11 Laurel O'Dell* Emily Orozco* Angie Owens, '86 Nancy Park, '76 David Pennington, '77, '81 Leah Perez* Susan Pierce, '61, '84 Teddie Price, '91 Riley Price* Ava Proctor, '25 Presley Pruett* Maximilian Puderbaugh* Rebekah Purser, '25 Sierra Ralls* Jessica Ramirez* Jorge Ramirez, '25 Anna Ramsay* Kara Lynn Rankin, '69 Jackie Reed* Pam Remmel, '75 Vanessa Rendon* Barry Retherford, '81 Marva Roach, '73 Scott Roach, '73 Daniel Rodriguez, '23, '25, '25 Mitchell Rolfes, '21 Mia Rowe* Braidyn Rubley* Tyler Sale, '21 Amy Santimaw* Stacy Schauvliege, '11 Grace Schlittler, '23, '25 Colin Schulz* Cassidy Scroggins* John Severe, '74 Michal Shaw, '02, '06 Weston Shell* Tatum Shelton, '25 Peter Sherwood Karsten Shields* Kendall Shields* Ethan Shoemake*

Jackie Short, '85 Todd Short, '97 Parker Siegrist* Dianna Sikes, '85 Merit Skaggs* Evelyn Skarky, '59 Clendon Slaughter, '08 Brian Slovak, '90 James Smelser, '62 Harrison Smith Jarrod Smith, '08 Haidan Smith, '25 Cameron Smithee, '17 Carl Snider, '79 Barbara Snoddy, '63 Sierra Spencer* Luke Spinelli, '25 Brandon Stanley* Brad Steele, '02 Elisabeth Stockard* Anna Stotts* Dae Stuber* Karen Suderman, '61 Jerry Suderman, '63, '64 Leslie Swafford, '95 Gerald Syska, '95 Kathleen Tanzy, '79 Aeisha Taylor, '21, '24 Megan Taylor* Kendell Teafatiller, '10 Babs Temple, '96 Lindsey Thomas, '02 Dick Thompson, '66 Gabriella Thompson* Tiffany Thunder, '14 Brock Thurman, '88 Tola Tiamiyu, '12 Chris Torres Carol Trapp, '87 Tanner Trout* Misty Troutt, '96, '98 Logan Tumino, '25 Austin Turnbull* Kelbi Turner, '23 Taylor Tuttle* Richard Ujhely Sr., '63 Lilly Underberg* Karen VanSchoyck, '77, '78 Samuel Vasquez* Anayeli Vasquez* Daniel Vega, '25

Allison Vierps, '19, '25 Makenna Wagoner, '21 George Walker, '56 Karsyn Walker*

Jessica Walters* Rylie Weber* Sophia Weidner* Dan West

Kimberly White Harrison Wicker, '25 Belinda Wildcat, '21 Haylie Williams*

Michael Winn, '21 Amiah Wolford* Christi Wood, '84

Christopher Wright, '05, '25, '25 Curtis Zieseniss, '21 Campbell Zink*

Paul Zweiacker, '63, '72

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

CHAPTER NEWS

CHAPTER LEADER

Ericka Criner, North Texas OSU Alumni Chapter For Ericka Criner, Oklahoma State University has been much more than a place to earn a degree. OSU has been a lifelong source of community, friendship and personal growth. Although she did not grow up an OSU fan, Criner was searching for a university with strong academic opportunities and a welcoming atmosphere. OSU delivered both. “From the moment I stepped on campus, I felt like I belonged,” Criner said. “OSU became more than the place where I earned my degree — it became a place that helped shape who I am personally and professionally.” When she reflects on her time in Stillwater, it is the relationships she built that stand out most. Some of her closest friendships began at campus events, game days and everyday experiences shared with

fellow students. Those connections have grown into a network of support that continues long after graduation. Criner’s desire to stay connected to OSU led her to become involved with the North Texas OSU Alumni Chapter as well as the OSU Black Alumni Society. Through chapter leadership, she has had the opportunity to reconnect with fellow Cowboys, build new relationships and create meaningful opportunities for alumni engagement. Among her favorite chapter traditions is Brighter Orange of

North Texas, an annual event that raises funds for scholarships awarded to OSU students from the area. “I also love attending our OSU Nights with the Dallas professional sports teams,” Criner said. “They’re a fun way to reconnect with fellow alumni, celebrate our shared OSU pride and introduce others to the incredible Cowboy community.” Her message to alumni considering getting involved is simple: Just show up. Whether seeking friendships, professional connections, volunteer opportunities or a stronger connection to OSU, alumni chapters offer a welcoming place to start. “The Cowboy spirit doesn’t end at graduation,” Criner said. “It represents leadership, resilience, service and the willingness to support one another.”

NORTH TEXAS OSU ALUMNI CHAPTER BY THE NUMBERS 18,736 ALUMNI AND FRIENDS 2,735 MEMBERS 4,323 CURRENT OSU STUDENTS 234 MILES FROM STILLWATER

Legacy Pokes Summer Kickoff spends an afternoon enjoying ice cream and lawn games at the ConocoPhillips OSU Alumni Center.

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Grandparent University Grandparent University brings OSU legacies ages 7–13 and their grandparents to campus for a three-day summer camp with classes, activities, and a graduation ceremony.

PARTICIPATING STATES

• ARIZONA

• NEBRASKA

• ARKANSAS

• NEW YORK

• CALIFORNIA

• NORTH CAROLINA

• COLORADO

• OHIO

• FLORIDA

• OKLAHOMA

• IOWA

• SOUTH DAKOTA

• KANSAS

• TENNESSEE

• KENTUCKY

• TEXAS

• LOUISIANA

• VIRGINIA

• MASSACHUSETTS • WASHINGTON • MINNESOTA

• WYOMING

Wichita Cowboys and Cowgirls in Wichita cheer on their hometown team with co-branded rally towels at OSU Night at the Wichita Wind Surge.

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

CHAPTER NEWS

» TOTAL RAISED FOR SCHOLARSHIPS: $22,797

OKC Metro

» ATTENDEES: 86

OSU alumni and fans hit the greens in support of future Cowboys and Cowgirls during their annual Scholarship Golf Tournament.

Traveling Cowboys Adventurous OSU alumni and friends take in the sights and sounds of Africa on their #TravelingCowboys adventure.

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Kansas City Cowboys in Kansas City spend a day of service at their Cowboys Give Back event with Harvesters.

Kay County

» TOTAL RAISED FOR SCHOLARSHIPS FROM CHAPTER EVENT, JOCKEYS & JULEPS: $15,803

Future Cowboys and Cowgirls of Kay County celebrate with their families and local alumni before they head to Stillwater in the fall.

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

CL ASS NOTES

1967

1969

1971

1991

1996

Judy Graham, ’67 special education, recently moved back to Oklahoma and loves living in Tulsa. After 40 years in Houston, she is enjoying being back in the brighter orange state, seeing OSU car tags, T-shirts and hats daily.

Marc Cullison, ’69 architectural engineering, ’75 master’s in architectural engineering, is a retired Vietnam veteran and the author of four books: “Where’s the Ivy;” “The Other Vietnam War;” “Vietnam…Again;” and “Second Chances.”

Linda Manaugh, ’71 special education, ’76 master’s in education, retired as chief programs officer with the Potts Family Foundation. She now enjoys retirement at Spanish Cove in Yukon, Oklahoma.

Bill Beisigel, ’91 health education and promotion, published a book, “Senior Health & Fitness Primer,” that is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Jeff Hallock, ’96 animal science, ’01 master’s in counseling, has joined the University of Kansas as academic advising director within Jayhawk Academic Advising, advancing his career and helping elevate advising in Lawrence, Kansas.

2020

2022

2024

Kathryn Teixeira, ’20 agricultural education, was recently promoted to associate professor of teaching, agricultural and environmental education at the University of California-Davis.

Chrissy Martin, ’22 English, is thrilled to share their debut poetry collection, “Whole, Holy, Hot,” which hit shelves April 17, 2026 — a culmination of a decade of study, writing, revision and mentorship shaped by the communities in which it took form.

Charles Olsen, ’24 master’s of health care administration, had an exceptional experience, from Dr. Jim Hess to the entire staff mirroring that same support, and could not be prouder to be part of the Cowboy family.

’60s Tom McDougal, ’61 premedical science, retired from his dental practice in June 2025 and recently returned from a trip to Africa to spend the summer in Park City, Utah. Samuel Leake, ’64 management, recently sold family furniture and design business after 22 years. He is almost retired but wanted to continue his 42 years in the petroleum products business for a while longer. Marvin Thornton, ’67 agronomy, just received the 2026 Industry Rep of the Year by the Texas Veterinary Medical Association.

’70s

Fred T. Utter, ’70 secondary education, is currently on the board of the Bucky Foundation, a nonprofit organization that has raised over $1 million for The Eddie Sutton Foundation: Coaches vs Cancer, The Folds of Honor, and the Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges. Jack Bruce Fyffe, ’71 journalism and broadcasting, married his wife, Glenda, and has retired in Robson Ranch in Denton, Texas.

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Since retiring from soil conservation work, Charles “Randy” Freeland, ’72 agricultural economics, and wife, Bonnie, have stayed busy with OSU athletics, The McKnight Center movie nights and musicals, retired federal employee organizations and the Payne County Master Gardeners. Pam Street, ’75 elementary education, and husband, John Street, ’76 chemical engineering, have spent time traveling and cruising together. Pam is still a practicing dyslexia therapist while John rebuilt a 1950 Ford truck. Sharon E. Reamer, ’76 pre-veterinary science, ’78 Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, spent her oneyear anniversary in Hawaii and is still working on unpacking.

’80s Frank Babcock, ’82 horticulture and landscaping, ’83 master’s of horticulture, has retired after 26 years with awardwinning landscape company Clarence Davis & Co. and is looking at coming back to Oklahoma. Kenley Money, ’84 master’s of speech, has been awarded Elliot M. Stone Award of Excellence.

2000

2012

2017

2020

Sherri Carr, ’00 master’s in hospitality administration, earned a spot on the State Bar of Georgia’s Pro Bono Honor Roll and joined the Advisory Board of Rutland Institute for Ethics at Clemson in its 25th anniversary year.

Senthil Kumar Muthusamy, ’00 business administration, awarded the Outstanding Paper Award in 2020 by the Journal of Organizational Change Management and Best Empirical Paper (Doctoral Student) in 1998.

Derek Barchenger, ’12 horticulture, was named the 2025 recipient of the Norman E. Borlaug Award for Field Research and Application. This award recognizes exceptional scientists under the age of 40 working to improve global food security.

Green Country native and Army National Guard Major Dr. Benjamin Greiner, ’17 public health, ’20 Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, opened a Tulsa primary care practice focused on preventative, lifestyle medicine.

Logan Britton, ’20 doctorate of agricultural economics, K-State associate professor, received the 2025 K-State Tenure-Track Faculty of the Year and 2026 Distinguished Teaching Award from the Western Agricultural Economics Association.

Michael Larranaga, ’96 fire protection and safety technology, was appointed to the National Academics of Science, Engineering and Medicine Standing Committee on Occupational Threshold for Blast Overpressure and Process Determination.

Dylann Lowery, ’20 management and human development & family science, graduated with his Ph.D. in marriage and family therapy and is now headed to his new job as an assistant professor continuing teaching and researching interpersonal trauma and traumainformed interventions at Mississippi State University.

’90s Pamela Davidson, ’91 political science, has accepted a presidential appointment to be the deputy assistant secretary for higher education in the Office of Legislation and Congressional Affairs, U.S. Department of Education, under the leadership of U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. Dawnel Loree Smithton, ’91 design housing and merchandising, and her husband, Shane Smithton, ’88 marketing, opened a title company in 2023. She manages the company and he is the in-house attorney, closing real estate transactions for property anywhere in Oklahoma. Kathryn Beaman, ’92 special education, ’94 master’s in applied behavorial studies, ’04 Doctor of Educational Psychology, opened her private practice, Neurobalance, in 2024. She has been serving Oklahoma communities since 2005, but her current endeavor includes brain mapping to better assess and understand the presence of mental disorders as well as physical conditions.

’00s Julius Hughes, ’05 business management, was named the chief technology officer at the McShane Companies, a national real estate development and construction organization.

’10s

Mehrzad Ali Moin, ’18 philosophy, completed his Ph.D. in philosophy at Marquette University and has taken an assistant professorship at Rogers State University.

’20s Denise G. Feltnor, ’20 human development and family science, hopes Bedlam will come back and enjoys seeing Pistol Pete and taking pictures.

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

CL ASS NOTES

IN MEMORY

Jerry Fred Adamson, ’60 biosystems engineering, of Doña Ana, New Mexico, died on April 19, 2026. He was 88. Adamson was born on Sept. 7, 1937, in Enid, Oklahoma, the son of Smith Adamson and Minnie Felsburg. He was raised on a farm northwest of Enid and attended both elementary and high school in Carrier, Oklahoma. He graduated from Carrier High School in 1955. He completed his higher education at OSU and remained a lifelong fan of collegiate football and wrestling. He spent his entire career with the USDA, Forest Service and served at various locations in Arizona and New Mexico. Upon retirement in 1993, Adamson moved to the tristate area of Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma. His final retirement was in Doña Ana. Adamson was a man who enjoyed the simple things in life, including traveling in his RV and a good slice of Pizza Hut’s meat lovers. He was baptized in his youth at the Carrier Congregational Church. He was active in the Jaycees in his earlier years and was a lifelong member of the American Society of Agricultural Engineers. Upon retirement, he spent much of his time traveling and conducting genealogical research of the Adamson family. His home and heart were always open to his Dobermans, and he took great pride in the many loyal companions he had by his side over the years. He was always willing to provide his knowledge to neighbors in times of need.

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Dr. John Ray Cross, ’64 sociology, died on May 19, 2025. He was 85. Cross was born on Oct. 24, 1939, in Okemah, Oklahoma, to Luther Benjamin Cross and Emerick Jane (Pack) Cross. During his early years, he was a Golden Gloves Boxing Champion and earned numerous awards and titles. He held a Joint Boxing Scholarship from the University of ArkansasFort Smith and the Fort Smith Boys’ and Girls’ Clubs. He was the director of the Jeffery Boys’ Club in Fort Smith and was inducted into the Boys’ and Girls’ Clubs Hall of Fame several years ago. Cross received his bachelor’s degree from OSU, where he majored in sociology. He earned a master’s degree from the University of Tulsa and later his doctorate from the University of MissouriColumbia. In 1969, he married Katherine (Staiger) and began his teaching career at Northeastern Oklahoma State University as an instructor of sociology. His career took him to Missouri, Nebraska, New York and North Dakota. Still, he came full circle to Oklahoma in 1985, when he was hired as an assistant professor in the Department of Sociology and coordinator of the American Indian Studies Program at OSU. He was appointed associate professor of sociology in 1990 and taught there until he retired in 2009. He proudly wore a hat pin commemorating his over 50 years of membership in the OSU Alumni Association on his ball cap. During his career, he published numerous articles on sociology and manpower economics. Also, Cross was editor of Free Inquiry in Creative Sociology for 15 years and associate editor of the Journal of Ethnicity in Criminal Justice.

Frank Eugene Dively, ’80 technology, of Loganville, Georgia, died on Nov. 23, 2025. He was 87. Dively was born on Sept. 26, 1938 and had a passion for education, as he achieved his master’s degree and taught at vo-tech in Drumright, Oklahoma. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy, offering 23 years of honorable and steadfast service to his nation. As an aviation machinist mate and a senior chief petty officer, he brought dedication, precision and heart to his work, embodying the quiet strength and commitment of a true sailor. After retiring from the Navy, he took up flying as a hobby and became a pilot. Dively worked as an assistant manager at Stillwater Regional Airport and as an airport director at Benn Epps Airport in Athens, Georgia, for a decade. He also worked at Pep Boys, an automotive shop, for several years. Just before his 87th birthday, he became the owner of a home-based business after receiving good news about his heart monitor report. Dively continued to exemplify service and compassion through his involvement in many churches over his 37 years in Georgia. He was well known for his passion for mowing lawns at those churches he served and for providing excellent service. He attended Antioch Church in Bethlehem, and his faith was a guiding light, reflected in the kindness he extended to everyone he met and the warmth he brought into every room. He spoke rarely, but his words carried weight and meaning. Dively was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, whose legacy is one of loyalty, love, and unwavering faith.

Mary Wallace “Wally” Funk, ’60 physical education, the pioneering aviator who became the oldest woman to travel to space, died July 8, 2026, at her home in Grapevine, Texas. She was 87. Born in Las Vegas, New Mexico, on Feb. 1, 1939, Funk discovered her passion for flying while still a child and earned her pilot’s license as a teenager. After graduating from OSU, she became a flight instructor at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where she was the first woman to hold the position. In 1961, she became one of the women later known as the “Mercury 13,” a group of accomplished female pilots who completed many of the same rigorous medical tests given to NASA’s Mercury astronauts. Although many women matched or exceeded the scores of their male counterparts on several medical and physiological tests, none were permitted to join NASA’s astronaut corps because the agency required military test pilot experience, a path then closed to women. Rather than abandon aviation, Funk built a career in aviation safety, becoming the first female inspector for the Federal Aviation Administration and the first female air safety investigator for the National Transportation Safety Board. She logged more than 19,000 flight hours and taught more than 3,000 people to fly. Her lifelong dream was finally realized in 2021, when Jeff Bezos invited her aboard Blue Origin’s first crewed spaceflight. At 82, she became the oldest person ever to travel to space and the only member of the Mercury 13 to ever leave Earth. Even after achieving the dream she had pursued since the Kennedy administration, Funk continued to encourage young people, especially girls, to pursue careers in aviation and space exploration.

Don Lewis Gay, ’75 agricultural economics, died on June 27, 2026, at The Springs retirement community in Missoula, Montana. He was 73. Born in Lindsay, Oklahoma, on April 2, 1953, Gay grew up on his parents’ farm northeast of Lindsay. He attended public schools in Lindsay and worked on the family farm and in his parents’ agribusiness, the Gay Seed Company, from an early age, and attended the rural Payne Baptist Church. He graduated from Lindsay High School in 1971, then continued his education at OSU, earning a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics in 1975. After college, Gay returned to Lindsay and settled on a farm east of the town, where he and his wife, Judy, raised their three children. He was active in community affairs as a member of the Kiwanis Club, served on the board of Lindsay Public Schools, and was a member of the First Baptist Church of Lindsay. He also worked for the USDA as a soil science technician. Two years before retirement, he settled in Elk City, Oklahoma, where, after retirement, he enjoyed long walks in the countryside, country swing dancing, pickleball, birdwatching, amateur photography and stargazing. He continued a lifelong interest in reading history, geography and current events, as well as long road trips with his son and daughters. During this time, he rescued a stray dog whom he named Zeke, who became his companion throughout Gay’s final years, on several occasions. After several years in Elk City, Don made his final move to assisted living in Missoula. In all the places where he lived, he was known and will be remembered for his honesty, his sense of humor, his intelligence, his love of family, and his kindness to friends and strangers. Memorial donations may be directed to the Betty Gay and Joe Gay Scholarship Fund at OSU, and to Camp Endres, a program for kids and teens with type 1 diabetes.

Peggy Jo (Stone) Hughes, ’59 family relations and child development, died on Oct. 17, 2025. She was 88. Hughes was born on Feb. 27, 1937, to Thomas Ralph Stone and Mary Sue (Lipp) Stone in Muskogee, Oklahoma. She is survived by her husband, Bryan Hughes, and her daughter, Sonne Dian. She was preceded in death by her son, Jeffrey, OSU ’76. She was a teacher, a real estate broker and a farm owner. She lived in England for a time with her family. She enjoyed travel, both abroad and in the U.S. Her greatest love was her family. Besides travel, she enjoyed reading.

Dr. Harry Leo Manges, ’69 biosystems engineering, died on Feb. 10, 2026. He was 97. Manges was born on June 18, 1928, near Sterling, Kansas, the son of Elmer and Charlotte (Scott) Manges. He was united in marriage to Elaine Hope Whitney on Sept. 5, 1948. They were married for 75 years until Elaine’s passing in 2023. Manges graduated from Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Community College. He received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agricultural engineering from Kansas State University and a Ph.D. from OSU. Manges worked for the Soil Conservation Service in Kansas at Mankato, Sublette and Beloit before joining the ag engineering faculty at KSU, where he taught classes and mentored graduate students. He was internationally recognized for his research and publications in irrigation and soil conservation. He was a visiting professor on several occasions at Catholic University in Leuven, Belgium. Manges attended KSU on a football scholarship and was a member of the track team. Later in life, he enjoyed his membership in the “Golden Cats” Football Lettermen’s Club. His passion was baseball, where he excelled as a base-stealing center fielder in the semi-pro leagues. In 2016, he was selected

to throw out the first pitch at the National Baseball Congress World Series. He also enjoyed officiating high school and university track events. Manges was a member of the First United Methodist Church, where he taught Sunday school and was active in United Methodist Men. He was a member of the Manhattan Kiwanis Club and volunteered with Boy Scout Troop 75. He also made deliveries for the Flint Hills Breadbasket and served as chairman of the Flint Hills chapter of Heifer Project International.

she was named Outstanding Alumnus by the Stillwater Church of Christ in 1981. Several key traits describe Tredway. She was a servant-leader known for her organizational skills. Her kind spirit was evident to all who knew her. She was a phenomenal cook and an accomplished seamstress.

Dr. Cherry Lynn Tredway, ’61 home economics education and community services, ’92 doctorate of human sciences, died on Oct. 17, 2025. She was 86. Tredway was born on Feb. 22, 1939, in Clinton, Oklahoma, to Marvin and Alice Pyron. The family moved several times throughout her school years. She made good friends and fond memories in each town and graduated from Stigler High School in 1957. As a college freshman, Tredway attended Central Christian College in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. She then transferred to OSU, where she fell in love with Richard Tredway. They were married on Aug. 29, 1959. Together they shared 66 wonderful years of marriage and were blessed with two sons: Tory and Tyler. During the 1960s and ’70s, while Tory and Tyler were growing up, Tredway volunteered her time and talents at the Wilshire Church of Christ and worked with the Oklahoma Christian College Women’s Association. In 1976, she joined the faculty at Oklahoma Christian University, where she remained for the next 26 years. While teaching there, she earned two master’s degrees from Central State University in Edmond: an M.Ed. in 1978 and an master’s in 1984. She earned her Ph.D. in human and environmental sciences from OSU in 1992. Additionally,

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

CL ASS NOTES

BIRTHS

Curtis

Claire

Kaia

Allison Anne Haley, ’09 animal science, ’12 doctorate of veterinary medicine, and Johnathon Michael Dean, ’18 university studies, welcomed their bundle of joy, Curtis Grayson Dean, on Nov. 11, 2025. He arrived with the hair to match America’s Brightest Orange.

Elise Cabori, ’14 management information systems and international business, and Tim Wibowo welcomed their daughter, Claire Eloise Wibowo, on March 4, 2026.

New Year’s baby Kaia Jordan Batiste was born on Jan. 1, 2026, to Amber Batiste, ’15 marketing and management, and AJ Batiste, ’14 university studies. Older brother, Quinton, is overjoyed.

Submit your update at okstatealumni.org/share.

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Henry

Stacey

Geraldine (Fuentes) Womacks, ’22 master’s of engineering and technology management, and Matthew Womacks welcomed Henry E. Womacks to the world on Nov. 5, 2025. Grandma Michelle (Rutledge) Womacks, ’89 recreation, and grandpa Mark Womacks, ’88 physical education, cannot wait to take him to Cowgirl softball games!

New parents Rhett Normand Shaffer, ’23 strategic communications, and Cade Shaffer, ’23 entrepreneurship, welcomed their son, Stacey Shaffer, to the world on Dec. 16, 2025.

WEDDINGS

Samantha Williams, ’20 agricultural leadership, married Hattie Spies in Savannah, Georgia on Feb. 21, 2026.

On March 14, 2026, Kale Schnideder, ’21 nutrition, married his wife, Jordan, in Highlandville, Missouri.

Katie Dragoo, ’23 marketing, and Christopher Cyr, ’23 biology, were married at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Stillwater on June 27, 2026.

Sierra Topper, ’23 electrical engineering technology, and Christian Moyer, ’22 electrical engineering technology, were married on Feb. 22, 2026, in Decatur, Texas.

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

CL ASS NOTES

WEDDINGS

Hannah Davis, ’24 communication sciences and disorders, and Joshua Peterson, ’22 mechanical engineering and aerospace engineering, were married on April 13, 2026, in Green Island, Jamaica.

Scotland Helen Grace Souders, ’24 environmental sciences, married Logan Templeton in Van Alstyne, Texas, on June 13, 2026.

Katherine Wardell, ’25 secondary education, and Garrett Kirksey, ’23 multimedia journalism, were married in Stillwater on May 23, 2026.

Fourth generation Cowboy Jake Robert Liston, current construction engineering student, and Paige Madison Williams, ’25 marketing, were married in Stillwater on June 27, 2026.

100

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Call 1-888-560-ALUM (2586) or visit alumniplans.com/OSU Association Member Benefits Advisors, LLC • In CA d/b/a Association Member Benefits & Insurance Agency CA Insurance License #0I96562 • AR Insurance License #100114462. Program administered by AMBA Administrators, Inc. 108446 (9/26) Copyright 2026 AMBA. All rights reserved.

Continue your Cowboy legacy at Oklahoma State University with a flexible and affordable online graduate degree or certificate. With career-ready options in high-demand fields and access to student support services, it’s easy to see why OSU Onine is the best online college in Oklahoma. Apply today and receive waived application fees for our OSU alumni and, for the first time, one rate tuition for most degree programs!*

FLEXIBLE, AFFORDABLE, WORKABLE. *Great Plains IDEA and Center for Health Sciences Programs are not included in one rate tuition for graduate degrees.

Learn more at osuonline.okstate.edu

CANINE COMFORT | 8.14.26 An OSU Pete's Pet Posse therapy dog attracts plenty of attention as students stop by for a few moments of connection and stress relief. PHOTO ERIC PRIDDY

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

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Progress begins with access. Easier travel moves people. People carr y ideas. Ideas create oppor tunity. Oppor tunity builds stronger communities. Connecting our region to greater growth, innovation and the possibilities ahead.

SHORT SECURITY LINES • QUICK BAGGAGE CLAIM • FREE PARKING