VISION 2023

VISION STAFF

President

John deSteiguer

Director of Alumni Relations

Aubrie Ross (’04)

Advancement & Alumni

Christine Merideth (’91), Hannah Johnson (’18), Ellie Johnson (’18), Kim Reiter (’91), Luis Lopez (’17)

Editors

Mandolin Skipworth (’19), Teri Mueller (‘95)

Writers & Contributors

Mandolin Skipworth (’19), Hannah Johnson (’18), Kelly Araujo (’22), Dawn Shelton (’90), Teri Mueller (’95), Luis Lopez (’17), Hope Tugman (’25), Sydney Turner (’23), Stephanie Heredia (’23)

Designers

Jonathan Curtis (’03)

Project Managers

Leanne Toth, Mindy Stafford (’17), Mandolin Skipworth (’19)

Photographers

Judson Copeland (’02), Tess Sawyer (’23), Rainey Gregg

Photography

POSTMASTER

Send address changes to:

VISION Magazine

PO Box 11000 Oklahoma City, OK 73136-1100

VISION Alumni Magazine of Oklahoma Christian University

(USPS 405-420) Volume 24, No. 1, 2023

© Oklahoma Christian University 2023

Oklahoma Christian University admits students of any race, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, handicap, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarships and loan programs, and athletic and other schooladministered programs.

STORY FROM JOHN deSTEIGUER

Eagles,

What a school year 2022-23 has been! I can’t help but reflect back on all of the amazing events, honors and dedications that have been such a blessing to our campus.

We dedicated the beautiful Sunrise Plaza, opened the popular Meinders Conference Center, served incarcerated women at the Mabel Bassett Correctional Center, used drones to deliver medicine to rural areas in Honduras, celebrated growth among educators and medical professionals within New College, hosted the 3rd Celebration of Excellence and so much more.

Year after year, our Eagles not only succeed, they thrive in the world of academics, athletics, giving and walking in step with God’s calling for their lives. What an honor to be a part of Oklahoma Christian!

The past eleven years as OC’s President have been unforgettable. I am grateful to have gotten to know, and serve with, OC’s incredible students, faculty, staff and alumni. Darla and I have friends for life and beyond because of this University. OC is a special community and I couldn’t have asked for a better university to serve.

Darla and I are looking forward to our next chapter with OC. As Chancellor, I will continue to have the opportunity to travel across the country to promote Oklahoma Christian and connect with alumni, donors and future Eagles. I love doing this!

I want you to join me in welcoming Dr. Ken Jones as my successor. This University has all the ingredients for success - a highly qualified faculty, a servant-hearted staff, outstanding students, a park-like campus and committed Trustees, supporters and alumni - the future here is bright! God’s got great plans for OC, and I ask you to pray that He will continue to bless OC under Dr. Jones’ leadership.

Enjoy the stories in this Vision of perseverance, dedication and innovation from our students, faculty, staff and alumni. Each story seems more powerful than the last!

Please keep sharing OC with friends and future Eagles. Thank you for your prayers and support over the last 11 years - you have been a blessing and encouragement! Come visit your campus soon!

OC IS HOME TO LASTING LEGACIES

MICHELLE DAVIS

EARNS DEGREE AT 62 YEARS OLD

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE

By Kelly Araujo

Michelle Davis (’22), a 62-year-old alumna, successfully finished her degree after a 25-year absence from school. Davis enrolled at Oklahoma Christian University for the first time in 1995 and studied Social Work for one year. At that time, Davis felt called to focus on her family. Sometime later, Michelle felt pulled to finish her degree.

During a January 2021 Bible study at Memorial Road Church of Christ, Michelle Davis asked her friends to pray for guidance on which institution to choose when returning to college. A friend recommended the New College program at OC, leading Davis

to contact the Dean of New College, Dr. Sada Knowles. By November 2021, Davis had enrolled in the Paraprofessional Program, an online education bachelor’s degree that allowed her to keep teaching full-time and apply her work experience. In just one year, New College gave her the opportunity to finish her education degree and become a certified teacher. She is one of the thousands of graduate paraprofessionals working in Oklahoma School Districts.

Davis faced many challenges when resuming her studies, especially when it came to navigating an online course. She had to relearn how to

study as well as balance her fulltime job, personal life and school. Fortunately, the support of her OC community, family, church and technology guidance from her son kept her motivated.

“Keep going until you finish; do not quit,” Davis said.

Davis now teaches second grade at Sunset Elementary School in Edmond, Oklahoma. She finds incredible joy in teaching and loves seeing her students acquire knowledge.

Finishing her degree at her age means a lot.

“This is something I worked for,” Davis said. “I knew after working for it, all the hard work was going to pay off. I knew that no matter what, OC had my back.”

Davis’ experience demonstrates that it’s never too late to go back to school and achieve your goals.

“Whatever you set your mind to, you can do it, no matter how old you are.”

OC offers a great experience for students. The kindness and patience of the OC community make it an ideal place to pursue your education.

If you, like Davis, want to pursue a paraprofessional degree, visit the website or scan the QR code below.

Oklahoma needs teachers! OC offers three ways for you to earn your teacher certification.

WHATEVER YOU SET YOUR MIND TO, YOU CAN DO IT, NO MATTER HOW OLD YOU ARE.

By Mandolin Skipworth

ON THE ROAD AGAIN

TO SUCCESS

During the 2022-23 school year, Oklahoma Christian University ethics debate team, led by Business Professor Dr. Jeff Simmons, had an excellent tournament run that included:

1ST PLACE at State

2ND PLACE at Regionals

32ND PLACE at Nationals

While the team has bid farewell to another winning season, their success doesn’t end or start there.

In 2011, OC hosted the state ethics challenge despite not having a team. Dr. Simmons figured that, if OC hosted, they should also compete, and as the

Business Ethics professor, who better to coach than Dr. Simmons himself?

In its first year, the team placed 12th.

“That first year was a learning experience,” Dr. Simmons said. “We took it as an opportunity to learn more about what it meant to compete as an ethics debate team and later in the Ethics Bowl. I kept the team going because I love that it challenges our students to be creative thinkers and do critical analysis. It provides an opportunity for civil dialogue.”

The ethics team’s success only grew from there.

ETHICS TEAM’S JOURNEY FROM LAST TO FIRST

Over the next 11 years, the ethics team, made up of students across an array of grades and majors, traveled the nation discussing ethical dilemmas from AI drones to international adoptions. Along the way, they picked up awards including:

10 - 1ST PLACE State Wins & 52ND PLACE State Wins (when competing with two teams)

5 - 1ST PLACE Texas Regional Wins

11 - NATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

3 - 3RD PLACE National Wins

“We’re running out of room for all the trophies,” Dr. Simmons said. “We’ve gotten so used to winning trophies that

we’ve actually left a couple behind.”

In addition to their dozens of wins in 12 years, both the students and Dr. Simmons have enjoyed unmatched personal growth and lifelong friendships. In between thoughtful conversations, they’ve shared games of spades, fond memories and countless inside jokes.

“This is my favorite aspect of my job,” Dr. Simmons said. “I get to have robust conversations with my students about important issues. They inspire me. They think deeply, challenge me and are a joy to be around.”

Rielyn Williams (’24)

Julia Branum (’23)

Caden Cauthon (’26)

Grace McCurdy (’25)

Isaac Detherage (’23)

Rachel Detherage (’23)

Analiese Dawson (’26)

Sydney Byers (’26)

Dr. Simmons prepares the students each year by helping them understand the moral dimensions in each debate. Year after year, the team members create their own unique dynamic and find success in their own individual ways. While they don’t currently receive any scholarship or class credit, they show up and show out each year.

The team would not be able to travel as they have for the past 12 years without the support of gracious donors.

If you’re interested in learning more about or giving to the team, email Dr. Simmons at jeff.simmons@oc.edu

LEFT TEAM (L to R)

RIGHT TEAM (L to R)

I LOVE THAT IT CHALLENGES OUR STUDENTS TO BE CREATIVE THINKERS AND DO CRITICAL ANALYSIS.

VISION

REFLECTING ON PRESIDENT de STEIGUER’S IMPACT

IS HOME TO LASTING

LEGACIES

By Mandolin Skipworth & John deSteiguer

OC IS HOME TO PASSIONATE COMMUNITY MEMBERS WITH IMPACTFUL, PURPOSEFUL STORIES – AND PRESIDENT JOHN de STEIGUER IS NO EXCEPTION.

A familiar, friendly face on campus, President John deSteiguer has made OC his home and home for thousands of others for over two decades.

“OC is comforting, faith-building, welcoming, challenging, encouraging and friendly,” deSteiguer said. “It is inspiring to hear our alumni and students tell personal stories where even just one campus encounter or conversation with a professor or staff member literally changed their lives, and they in turn ended up positively impacting countless other lives.”

deSteiguer, alongside his wife, Darla, has set the tone for campus through his leadership. The countless number of lives changed have in large part been due to deSteiguer’s advocacy for faith-based education and a people-oriented campus atmosphere.

However, deSteiguer’s presidency has been so much more than embodying an atmosphere or attitude. Over the past decade, deSteiguer used his position as OC’s seventh president to build on the legacy of past and present leaders, strengthening a rigorous, Christian education.

A LASTING LEGACY

Under deSteiguer’s leadership, OC has grown in measurable ways. He expresses great gratitude to an incredible group of faculty, staff and students. OC is Home rings true throughout campus events and amenities.

A PLACE FOR FELLOWSHIP

The embodiment of “OC is Home” - where people are welcomed and lifted up - is plain to see across campus. Under deSteiguer’s influence, OC has welcomed several powerful initiatives.

New College

Reaching an often overlooked but important group of students, New College serves hardworking healthcare and school-based workers. Dean Sada Knowles and her team are making the gift of a life-changing and spirit-feeding OC education affordable and accessible to hundreds of students.

Lectures

Often drawing standing room only crowds, OC has a celebrated history of bringing influential, inspiring, educational and thought-provoking guest lectures and presenters under the banner of various series like History

Speaks and the McGaw and JJ Millican Ethics Lectures. Leaders, experts and authors have graced OC’s campus with wisdom, inspiring community members to be better stewards of faith and knowledge. Among the campus champions who spearheaded and managed these popular events are: Gary Jones, Jeff Simmons, Elaine Kelly, Scott LaMascus, John Harrison, Summer Lashley, John Osborne and Kerri Cunningham.

OC Remembers

Each year, we remember and honor the lives of OC community members - alumni, trustees, faculty, staff and students - who have impacted our campus and have passed from this life. OC Remembers is a gathering of family and friends to honor, celebrate and share memories.

These special programs and events, along with many others, are highly anticipated and valued in central Oklahoma, and in the OC community and beyond. President deSteiguer, with the involvement of countless faculty and staff members, helped maintain and extend OC’s reputation for high-quality education and meaningful engagement in the community.

CAMPUS IMPROVEMENTS

“Place has meaning in our lives,” President deSteiguer said. “A building, a room or even an open space, often serves as a peg to figuratively hang some of our most important memories - and parts of the OC campus are precisely that for many of us.”

President deSteiguer highlighted several key players in the ongoing effort to improve OC’s park-like campus - among others are John Hermes, Jerrod Dean, Cary Falling and his dedicated, hard-working team, as well as talented offcampus partners like Smith & Pickel and Larry Wallis. So many special places on campus have been added or reinvented for today and the years to come. While impossible to list all of the amazing campus additions during deSteiguer’s presidency, a few in particular stand out.

Places of Gathering & Friendship

The Branch, The Brew, The Dub, McCormack Place, Sunrise Plaza, North Crossing, Hartman Place

Places of Outreach & Invitation

The Meinders Conference Center and Harmon Hall, the OC Disc Golf Course, Chabino Place

Places of Competition & Effort

The Ray Vaughn Track, the Allen Family Pickleball Courts, improvements at Dobson Field and the OC Soccer venue, the Junior Lorentz Indoor Golf Practice Facility

Places of Learning & Study

The reinvented and improved Davisson American Heritage building: Cail Auditorium, Wilson Landing, England Conference Room, Coppedge Resource Room, Shreck Office Suites; the reimagined and upgraded

YOUR STORY. GOD’S PURPOSE.

Harvey Business Hall: Leftwich Atrium and Lecture Hall, Citizens Bank Finance Lab, Skaggs Classroom and others; Prince Engineering Center labs; an updated Judd Theatre and Buntley Stage

Places of Honor & Faith

The Murrah and World Trade Center Survivor Trees, the Harvey Field of Flags, OC’s Remembrance Place

FINANCIAL GROWTH

Over the last decade+, the work of many has led the University to greater financial stability, even as the higher education environment becomes increasingly difficult. Under the direction of OC’s CFO Jennifer Ray, OC finance experts and fundraisers Clint LaRue, Bill Goad, Kent Allen, Christine Merideth, Stephen Eck, along with OC’s Trustees and many generous, committed donors and careful stewards across campus, have helped make financial progress a reality. Some of the markers of progress include:

• OC’s debt reduced from over $77M to a projected $43M this Spring (2023).

• OC’s endowment grew from approximately $27M to nearly $50M.

• By the end of this fiscal year, OC has raised $100M in gifts including over $30M in general scholarship funds.

• All campus-wide capital projects were fully funded by donor investments.

OC continues to solidify its financial foundation in order to serve the next generation of OC students, year after year.

LOOKING TOWARD THE FUTURE

It takes a village to create a place that is home to thousands of students and even more community members. John and Darla deSteiguer’s poise, love for students and deep faith have established a high standard of welcome and OC’s faculty and staff are engaged, enthusiastic partners in providing this welcome to students, alumni and others.

As deSteiguer reflects on his presidency, he is confident in OC’s future, knowing the campus is in good hands.

On May 1, 2023, deSteiguer assumed the role of University Chancellor. Dr. Ken Jones became OC’s 8th president.

deSteiguer is ready to invest his time and talents in connecting more deeply off-campus with OC alums, friends, churches and prospective students. His hope is to watch OC show more people the unwavering love of Jesus.

“My prayer for OC is that it remains unconditionally committed to loving and serving God and loving and serving people,” deSteiguer said. “That means we must remain unswervingly loyal to God and his commands. And,

we should do everything in our power to demonstrate Jesus’ love for others.”

deSteiguer understands the many dangers facing Christian higher education in a world that is increasingly postChristian and polarized. While the challenges are great, the opportunities are even greater.

“Christian institutions of learning must stand for truth, but do so with compassion, positivity, good humor and hope. We must be kind and winsome, not angry and defensive. If we want the world to listen to what we believe it needs to hear, we must be willing to listen to others. We must invite and welcome others - even when we don’t see everything eye to eye. That’s the essence of a university - and especially a Christian university.”

DR. KEN JONE S BLESSES OC WITH WISDOM & FAITH

By Teri Mueller

On May 1, 2023, Dr. L. Ken Jones became the eighth president of Oklahoma Christian University.

OC is excited to enter its 74th academic year with President Jones at the helm. He leads OC inspired by the Lord and guided by his personal mission statement: “Be a teacher for the improvement of life according to the design and will of God.”

President Jones’ resume is filled with accolades in higher education, gospel preaching and leadership coaching. He has spent much of his life as a student of leadership, reading and studying from the best, but he firmly believes the BEST book ever written on leadership is the Bible.

As a husband, father and grandfather, Jones takes seriously the example of Mordecai in Esther 10:3b who, “...continued to work for the good of his people and to speak for the welfare of all their descendants.” That being said, Jones strives to live in such a way that his family, colleagues, friends and students will be able to say of him, “He is always working for our good and speaking for our welfare ahead of his own.”

President Jones and his wife of 51 years, Suzie, are already hard at work crafting the vision for an OC that will continue to transform the lives of students for Christian faith, scholarship and service for generations to come. Please lift President Jones and his family up in prayer as he seeks to speak for the welfare of the students, faculty and staff at OC.

IF WE WANT THE WORLD TO LISTEN TO WHAT WE BELIEVE IT NEEDS TO HEAR, WE MUST BE WILLING TO LISTEN TO OTHERS.

SPIRITUAL LIFE

ALUMNI LIVING OUT THEIR STORY WITH HIS PURPOSE

SCOTT YOUNG WELCOMED AS CAMPUS MINISTER

By Hope Tugman for Eagle PR

As OC’s new Campus Minister, Scott Young (’85) works with the OC community to ensure every aspect of students’ spiritual experiences are nurtured well. He works with faculty and staff to help provide leadership to chapel programs, community groups and all aspects of spiritual life at OC.

“God opened a door I needed to walk through,” Young said. “I do love to be with people. I want students to know I’m a safe place for them to come to if they need something, if they’re struggling. The only way I know to do that is to just be here, be available and be visible. Hopefully, the more they see that and the more they experience that, the more opportunities we get to interact.”

Scott hopes to build relationships at OC by connecting students with employees.

“I really want to involve faculty and staff in the lives of students,” he said. “A lot of our faculty and staff already do that. Our faculty and staff aren’t just here to teach. They’re here for the bigger goal, and that is to help students grow spiritually.”

Neil Arter, OC’s Chief Student Life Officer and Dean of Students, knows Scott will do just that.

“OC students have been blessed by the love and concern of Scott and Sonya Young for many years,” Arter said. “Having Scott on campus will signal an even greater opportunity for students to be blessed by the heart that God has given him.”

DR. JEREMIE BELLER RETURNS HOME TO LEAD BIBLE PROGRAM

By Sydney Turner for Eagle PR

Dr. Jeremie Beller (’00) was named dean of the College of Bible. OC and the community changed his life as a student, and he now wants to give back to OC by teaching students about the love of Christ.

“I want OC, and especially the Bible Program, to be known as a place that strengthens the faith of students, helping them grow in their commitment to Christ and in their knowledge and appreciation of Scripture,” Dr. Beller said. “I want students to be equipped for practical ministry in local churches and communities, ready to share the gospel and serve their neighbors.”

Chief Academic Officer Dr. Jeff McCormack praised Dr. Beller’s addition to the Bible Program.

“Many may know Jeremie through his balanced editorial contributions to the Christian Chronicle on what many times are controversial topics,” Dr. McCormack said. “In addition to oversight of the College of Bible, Jeremie oversees the expansion of our church relations.”

Dr. Beller strives to teach both a strong biblical foundation as well as strong academics. He knows students want to study where the Christian worldview is unashamedly advanced.

“I want students across campus to view their lives and careers through the lens of God’s kingdom, partnering with God in helping His will ‘be done on earth the way it is done in heaven.’”

RICK ODELL TAKES ON ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF CHURCH RELATIONS

By Stephanie Heredia for Eagle PR

When OC looked to strengthen its church relations work this year, Bible alumnus Rick Odell (’84) stood out with his extensive network from leading youth ministry in four states over three decades. Those relationships made him the obvious choice to be the associate director of church relations.

“The longer you are in ministry, the more people you know,” Odell said. “OC needed someone who had a lot of contacts within churches of Christ, specifically with youth ministry. I’m humbled and grateful for this opportunity to give back to my alma mater.”

According to Chief Enrollment Officer Jeff Abramson, Rick has already helped increase admissions outreach to churches.

“Bringing Rick Odell to OC is an integral part of the future development of OC,” he said. “As we move toward a model where we can serve the needs of churches and network within the body of Christ, he was the obvious choice to lead this charge.”

Odell has already seen God working in his new role. He gives God the glory for making one of his spiritual gifts to be a connector.

“God is all about relationships, and anything to do with relationships is a God-thing and a blessing,” he said. “Every day is a new experience; it is very exciting.”

By Mandolin Skipworth

OC ALUMNA MARINA PENDLETON

REKINDLES HER LOVE OF MUSIC

Marina Pendleton’s (’17) decision to follow where she felt called was not an easy one. However, it was one that profoundly impacted her life.

Pendleton graduated from Oklahoma Christian University with a Mechanical Engineering degree and pieces of what was once a music double major turned minor turned hobby. Originally planning to graduate college with a double major in mechanical engineering and music, she quickly realized both were too demanding to finish well in a reasonable amount of time.

Thus, she continued playing in the chamber orchestra, but made the difficult decision to put her full academic focus into mechanical engineering as an honors student.

Not long after moving to Pennsylvania, she found a way to exercise her hobby, stumbling across a bluegrass jam in a rural park.

“My fiddle playing experience growing up was incredibly competitive,” Pendleton said. “I’m grateful for that experience, but being in competitions made me feel like I wasn’t all that good. Seeing the joy on the faces of those at the bluegrass jam reinspired me. I found a community, and the experience sparked my musical career post-college.”

From then on, the community and her reputation continued to grow. Pendleton felt a revived sense of purpose when playing and creating music.

Then, in a not-so-subtle act of God, an old friend from Nashville called and asked Pendleton to join their country band as the full-time fiddle player.

Pendleton had already settled into life as an engineer in Pennsylvania; however, she realized she was riding high on musical endorphins, and this was going to be the most flexibility she would have for a long time.

She said yes.

Little did Pendleton know that years later, one brave decision would lead her to release her first EP after a year as a full-time musician.

After graduating from OC, Pendleton moved to Pennsylvania to pursue her career in engineering. By this point, her once competitive music career had solidly landed on the back burner.

“I never thought of music as a fulltime career,” Pendleton said. “I always planned to keep it as a hobby. Engineering was my analytical, financially secure career path that I [assumed] would take me to retirement.”

“Nashville had a profound impact on my life,” Pendleton said. “I rented an apartment sight unseen. I thought I would be scrounging for gigs, but I played 25 shows in 30 days. It was such an unexpected experience.”

It didn’t take long for the experience to inspire Pendleton to make music of her own.

Out of Nashville, the I Don’t Want Money EP was born.

“I thought, while I’m here, I may as well make an album as a memory,” Pendleton said. “One song is about quitting my job and leaving behind that security, taking a chance, pursuing something for the joy of it, trusting things would fall into place …

These aren’t meant to be radio hits, but they are meant to speak a truth that is gentle, joyful and faithful.”

Pendleton wanted her album to reflect

EVERYONE REFLECTS CREATIVITY FROM THE UNIVERSAL CREATOR.

CHANGE IS NOT VIRTUOUS FOR ITS OWN SAKE. DO WHAT YOU FEEL CALLED TO DO.

the joy in the western swing genre while also exploring the depths of human emotion. After months of hard work, and producing help from CMA Musician of the Year Jenee Fleenor, the EP became a reality in October 2022.

“I want to be someone who, when I play music, people feel something,” Pendleton said. “I had always approached music analytically, but I’ve always been impressed by people who made me feel something. I found a little taste of that in Nashville, and I now work to draw that into my everyday life.”

While Pendleton’s time in Nashville has

come to an end, her passion for music is at an all time high. She now lives in Nevada with her husband, working as a full-time engineering consultant for the Southern Nevada Water Authority. When she isn’t working, Pendleton plans to continue working on her next, full album, which she hopes to release in the next few years.

“Everyone reflects creativity from the Universal Creator,” Pendleton said. “Everyone is an artist, but some of us reject that label. Everyone has something unique to contribute in a unique way. Don’t let fear hold you back. Don’t worry about what the world or other people tell us we can

do. Don’t worry about it not working out… Do what you feel called to do.”

If you want to learn more about Pendleton’s music, visit her website marinapendletonmusic.com or scan the QR code. You can also find her EP, I Don’t Want Money, on all streaming platforms.

Rainey Gregg Photography

DAY BY DAY BY GRACE

ALUMNA CHRISTELLE

KWIZERA PROVIDES CLEAN

WATER TO MORE THAN 122,000 RWANDANS

By Hannah Johnson

In 2014, Christelle Kwizera (‘15) launched Water Access Rwanda at just 20 years old to provide a safe and sustainable way for Rwandans living in rural communities to easily access clean water.

“It was miracle by miracle. We lived day by day by grace.”

And the Lord provided. With a network of 165 boreholes (narrow wells used for extracting groundwater) and purified clean water grids, the enterprise has grown to provide clean water to more than 122,000 people, especially serving the African women who collectively spend 200,000,000 hours every day walking for water.

Kwizera’s team restores boreholes by adding their state-of-the-art infrastructure that pipes safe, purified water to public access points or directly into people’s homes. These piped water networks offer safety, convenience, reliability and affordability.

“Everyone deserves access to safe water,” Kwizera said. “Some people have access to water, but it’s water that is unsafe and is literally killing them.”

Water Access Rwanda also creates employment for young people. Kwizera is especially proud of her team.

“We’re now 106 people,” Kwizera said. “Amazing people! It’s very young. It’s very female. It’s very energetic, very skilled and professional. For an engineering company that’s delivering technical products to have 52% female management–75% for

senior management–you wouldn’t think it’s possible. We have a lot of female leadership, which is critical because water tends to be a women’s issue. When it’s available, it improves women’s lives the most, because when it’s hard to access, it affects their lives the most.”

Water Access Rwanda has proven the viability of their model of water mini-grids. They have shown that rural areas and poor communities don’t have to have inferior water access levels; they can have piped water.

“When I brought up piped water [to the Ministry of Infrastructure],” Kwizera said. “That the communities we’re serving wanted piped water, everyone was like, ‘Good luck with that,’ ‘That can’t happen,’ ‘It’s not possible,’ ‘It will never make financial sense.’ We’re actually making it happen!”

In July of 2021, Kwizera was recognized by the late Queen of England, Queen Elizabeth II, with the Queen’s Points of Light Award for having founded Water Access Rwanda and scaling up water access to vulnerable communities in Rwanda.

OC’s focus on lifetime learning and service have helped her hold her head high.

“[OC has] always had a big focus on missional work. I already had a drive to serve others, and I think that was really reinforced at OC. OC directed my ambition to be about others.”

Kwizera said it is not an easy path, but, “If you want to provide solutions, you have a heart for serving others, you’re going to be energized by the challenges, not beaten down by them, then definitely just get started today.”

EVERYONE

DESERVES ACCESS TO SAFE WATER.

By Dawn Shelton

This world is not our home, as the old hymn tells us. Even so, our lives are often troubled with sorrow and stress. In response, OC answered a call to help with a new graduate program in Marriage and Family Therapy and a new Family Therapy Clinic. Made possible through a generous gift from the Chickasaw Nation, the facility now serves the public, alleviating a therapy barrier in the community.

The clinic offers mental health therapy services at a discounted rate provided by clinical interns supervised by licensed and credentialed faculty. Josiah Javellana is among the trailblazers, a graduate student welcoming clients in calming therapy rooms with comfortable seating, thoughtful art on the walls and tissues on side tables.

“This clinic is amazing. What it tells us as students is that you believe in us and that what we are doing is important. Now we have a place to put what we are learning into practice,” Javellana said.

While discounted, these sessions aren’t any less effective. In fact, data shows

WHEN YOU HAVE STRONG FAMILIES, YOU HAVE A STRONG COMMUNITY.

master’s level therapists in training can be as effective as experienced therapists, and OC’s clinic already has a list of appointment requests. Clients ranging in age from six to 70 years old are hoping to take advantage of the opportunity.

“My favorite thing about our clinic right now is getting to see change happen in our clients’ lives because of their work with our providers. I see the work our providers have put into being informed and competent clinicians and now they are seeing the fruits of that work,” said Clinic Director Jennifer Patterson, MS, LMFT.

Dr. Kelly Roberts, director of graduate programs in human sciences, said the 21st Century brings its own set of challenges for families. Providers help families work through conflict that

threatens safety through treatments that address arguing, grief, family life transitions, strained relationships, trust and forgiveness. Providers also have the tools to address the crises of opioid and methamphetamine addiction, substance abuse, the isolating effects of the screen age and the tragedy of suicide.

Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby said the clinic aligns with the Nation’s mission.

“We are certainly pleased to have the opportunity to cooperate and work with this institution. It’s a wonderful place to be, a wonderful place to learn. This is a special place for the students.”

The Nation integrated physical and mental healthcare to enhance the overall quality of life of Chickasaw people.

“When you have strong families, you have a strong community. That’s what this does, creates strong community. I am excited about our small part in this and the work you are doing.”

(L to R) Chief Information & Campus Operations Officer John Hermes (’93), Chief Academic Officer Dr. Jeff McCormack (’83), Gov. Bill Anoatubby of the Chickasaw Nation, President John deSteiguer and former OC trustee Ken Davidson cut the ribbon to open the Family Therapy Clinic with the Clinic Director Jennifer Patterson and Director of Graduate Programs in Human Sciences Dr. Kelly Roberts.

CAMPUS UPDATES

Each year, our campus grows in beauty, decorated with beautiful pavilions and historic buildings. This past school year, we had the pleasure of building and dedicating a few more spaces in honor of our incredible alumni and generous donors. Among those dedicated spaces is the Skaggs Classroom in Harvey Business Hall, named for Dr. Jack Skaggs, Professor Emeritus, who permanently influenced the trajectory of Oklahoma Christian University’s School of Business as the school’s first dean. We also dedicated the long awaited Meinders Conference Center, a space that serves as an event venue for organizations across the metro. The conference center recognizes Herman and LaDonna Meinders, who have been dedicated supporters of the university since the creation of Enterprise Square USA. It was also a blessing to recognize Drs. Floyd and Lloyd Coppedge with the Coppedge Resource Room in the Davisson American Heritage building. They have both devoted their lives to education, including years teaching generation after generation at OC. Among the most naturally beautiful spaces on campus, we celebrated Sunrise Plaza. Bob and Lynne Rowley honored their parents, Roy and Viola Rowley and Bill and Virginia Hearn, with this portion of the mall. While we wish we could introduce each newly dedicated space on campus, we are simply blessed with too many. You’ll have to come to campus to see them for yourself!

Spaces Dedicated Over the Last Year:

Chabino Place

Coppedge Resource Room

Family Therapy Clinic

Gotcher Room

Meinders Conference Center

Bartlesville Room

Buntley Room

Burch Corridor

Gotcher Room

Goode Room

Harmon Hall

Trimble Room

Ray Vaughn Track

Shreck Office Suites

Skaggs Classroom

Soccer Press Box

Sunrise Plaza

By Luis Lopez

ATHLETICS DAY OF GIVING

Thanks to the outstanding support of our alumni, faculty, staff, students, family and friends, OC Athletics concluded its inaugural Day of Giving with 548 total donors, raising more than $237,000 in support of our 21 sports programs and 520+ student-athletes. We are blown away by your generosity and these results!

“The OC community continues to increase their investment in our ability to provide the best resources possible for our student-athletes,” said Athletic Director David Lynn. “It’s been a transformative year with incredible support toward a variety of programs and special projects. We continue to be amazed by the generosity of our alumni and fans, who have stepped up to invest in our fundraising priorities.”

OC Athletics raised $237,352, well exceeding our goal of $100,000, with several sports teams surpassing their individual goals! Men’s and Women’s soccer captured one of two $5,000 bonuses, securing the single largest gift. Softball captured the second $5,000 bonus, as their program received the most gifts over $150. They received 29 donations exceeding $150!

“Our donors, alumni, families and friends rallied and propelled us to new heights. These contributions will go a long way towards continuing to elevate the standard of excellence for OC Athletics,” said Assistant Athletic Director for External Engagement Luis Lopez.

“The funds raised through our inaugural OC Athletics Day of Giving will have a profound impact on our students, empowering them to pursue their passions, achieve their dreams and become the leaders of tomorrow.”

If you would like to give to OC Athletics, you still can! Scan the QR code or visit the website to get started!

OC.EDU/GIVE

OC’S FIRST ALUMNI CHAPTER CELEBRATES 20 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

YEARS

OF NORTH TEXAS

By Hannah Johnson

In 2003, several special, dedicated alums founded the first OC Alumni Chapter, The North Texas Alumni Chapter. The chapter was established to promote and advance the University, inform alumni of the progress and needs of the University, assemble alumni in support of the University’s mission, host professional and social events among Chapter members and encourage financial support for the University.

Over the past 20 years, the North Texas Alumni Chapter has awarded over $350,000 in scholarships to 270 deserving North Texas students. They have also hosted many events, such as Eagle Exit, an event to send off incoming OC Eagles from North Texas to OC, and the ever-popular North Texas Finals Feast for students on campus.

To celebrate 20 years of great things, the North Texas Alumni Chapter held a celebration on April 29th, 2023, in Keller, Texas. President John deStieguer, OC staff, past and present members of the North Texas Alumni Chapter board and many alumni and friends of OC were in attendance.

It was a night to celebrate the many lives of deserving North Texas students that have been touched through the efforts of The North Texas Alumni Chapter.

Sabrea Robinson (’12), current president of The North Texas Alumni Chapter, said: “It was such a joy to see so many people come together to share memories and stories about their time at OC. For many of us, OC was a great place to grow and build lifelong friendships. This [event] encouraged my faith to know there will be many more students who get that same experience through the work and mission of the OC North Texas Alumni Board. Cheers to 20 more years!”

None of this would be possible without the hard work and dedication of the past and present North Texas Alumni Chapter board members who have done and continue to do great things for our University and students. We are grateful for their excellent representation of OC and the difference they have made in the lives of so many of our North Texas Eagles.

With God’s blessing and the prayers and support of alumni like you, The North Texas Alumni Chapter hopes to do even more in the next 20 years. Visit the website or scan the QR code above to learn more about our North Texas Alumni Chapter.

Suzie (Harmon ’89) and Darrin Saffell (’89) and family

North Texas Board members Brittney Waisner (‘17), Jill Crowder Moore (‘92), Neal Hunter (‘86) and North Texas Board President Sabrea Robinson (‘12) (Center Left)

EAGLES ON THE MOVE

SHOW US YOUR MOVES

Tag us @OCAlumni

Email alumni@oc.edu

Learn about weddings, babies, adoptions and more ‘Eagles on the Move’ from the Alumni blog.

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BRENDA (PARKER ’81) GORDON was honored with the 2023 Children’s Ministry Award at the National Children’s and Youth Ministries (NCYM) conference in Colorado Springs. Gordon has spent almost 20 years as the Children’s Ministry Director for the Edmond Church of Christ.

We love our legacy families! Three generations of the HARMON FAMILY have graduated from OC. LTR: SHEILA (WALLACE ’76) HARMON, HANNAH HARMON (’22) AND NICKI (HARMON ’96) WASHBURN.

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DR. RON BRUNER (’76) received the Pat Potts Visionary Award at The Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits 2022 Visions Awards. Bruner is the executive director of Westview Boys’ Home, a position he has held for 23 years.

3 JOHN “SPEEDY” FAITH (’78) has coached football for 43 years. He was inducted into the New Mexico High School Coaches Hall of Honor on July 25, 2022.

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PATTY LANE (’81) started the Happy Dog Farm Foundation in 2012, a nonprofit dog sanctuary for unwanted dogs. Lane also works full-time with special education children in the Edmond Public Schools.

6 CHRIS SHANKS (’87) was promoted to Executive Vice President and remains the General Manager of The Ford Meter Box Company (FMB) and serves on its board of directors.

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JANA (BARR ’88) RUCKER began a new role as Vice President of Marketing and Communications at SmartSky Networks. She also serves as a Senior Consulting Partner and Executive Coach and Trainer for Strata Leadership of Oklahoma City.

8 DARIN THOMAS (’89) accepted the Director of Baseball Operations position at Baylor University. Formerly, he served as the head baseball coach at UT Arlington (UTA).

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SHERRY (FIELDS ’90) DEW was named Southeast High School’s Teacher of the Year for ’22-’23 and one of nine Finalists for Oklahoma City Public Schools District Teacher of the Year.

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MIKE OSBURN (’90) and MATTHEW BOYDSTUN (’04) participated in Edmond’s 2022 Dancing With The Stars! Mike won “Star of the Show”!

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Father and son duo BOBBY ROSS JR. (’90) AND KEATON ROSS (’20) won multiple awards at the 2022 Oklahoma Society of Professional Journalists annual awards (pictured from LTR - Bobby Ross Jr., Keaton Ross and PAIGE [STEELEY ’20] ROSS).

DON (’92) AND SHIRLEY LAUGHARY celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on November 9, 2022.

SUSAN (SMITH ’99) NELSON was named one of PRWeek’s 2023 Women of Distinction. Nelson is the SVP, Chief Communications and Public Affairs Officer for Dine Brands Global.

DANNY LOVELL (’02), President and CEO of Rainier Companies, was named to the “Dallas 500” list of most influential leaders in North Texas. He joined The Rainier Companies in 2006 and was named President and Chief Executive Officer in 2019.

AMY HUBBLE (’07), PhD, CFA, CFP, is the Firm Principal at Radix Financial. Hubble was featured in the U.S. News & World Report discussing what people should and should not do with their money during an economic downturn.

JESSICA (MOOR-ORTMAN ’10) HOOVER became Vice President of Operations for Oklahoma City Mercy Hospitals.

LINK (’12) AND KALI (ROBERSON ’15) DEARING show off Li’l Eagle, Declan.

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DEVIN DOBSON

was awarded “The Walt Disney Legacy Award,” their most prestigious award (less than one percent of employees receive this award out of over 195,000 Disney employees).

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GARRETT

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MAICEE

ERIC RWIGAMBA (MBA ’13) was appointed Minister of Public Investments and Privatisation in Rwanda. His wife, BERTHA MBABAZI (MBA ’19), is the Associate Director of Admissions and Operations at OC’s Kigali office.

BRAYDEN (’14) AND MARIA (SARGENT ’15) BARRIENTEZ show off Li’l Eagle, Riley.

ERICA EDWARDS (’14) was named Teacher of the Year for ‘22-’23 at Will Rogers Elementary.

JESSICA ESTRADA (’14) is a social media manager at Dallas College, as well as the owner and photographer of her small business, Jessica Estrada Photography.

ZAC COBBLE (’16) joined the Oklahoma Christian Academy (OCA) Baseball staff as the assistant coach.

BRADLEY (’16) AND AMY (WINN ’16) COWDREY welcomed son Myrion, adopted on February 1, 2023.

(’16)

(’16) AND PAIGE (GREEN ’17) MARSHALL show off Li’l Eagle, Finnick Grey Marshall.

(BRINKMAN ’16) MOSELEY was awarded Teacher of the Year at Alice Ponder Elementary in Mansfield ISD.

CORY LAWSON (MBA ’17) manages two large A1 Prime Accounts for Vertafore Inc., a leader in the insurance technology industry. In 2016, he was also named to Oklahoma’s Next Gen 30 Under 30 list.

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2022’s Next Gen Under 30 Oklahoma winners were studded with OC alumni! OC alumni honored included: BRANDON FRANKLIN (MBA ’19), CHASE KUWITZKY (’16), HAYLEY (WEAVER ’16) STEPHENSON, ANNABELLE LITTLE (’17), KRISTEN (MORGAN ’20) KING, REESE GORMAN (’21) AND TYLER KLAASSEN (’20).

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CARLY (SPENCER ’19) ALLEN was named 2022 Teacher of the Year at Arbor Grove Elementary in OKC. 30

TYLER CLARK (’19) founded Harmonize Community, a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. Harmonize helps start the Christian college conversation with churches, identifies universities that match students’ needs, explores sources of funding for church-based scholarship funds and takes advantage of matching funds that are available from colleges.

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ELIJAH STRICKLAND (’20), former Oklahoma Christian Basketball standout, plays pro basketball in Germany for the Kirchheim Knights. He signed to play for this team in October of 2020. The Knights compete in ProA, the second-highest professional league in that European nation. 32

KAITLYN MAKER (’21) began a new role as Legal Intern at the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE) in Washington, D.C.

FITZSIMMONS FAMILY LEGACY

By Hannah Johnson

The Fitzsimmons family is on track to have the fourteenth member of their family graduate from Oklahoma Christian University next year, 2024. Talk about legacy!

The Fitzsimmons’ OC heritage started with Dan (’75) and his wife Betty (Nail ’76) Fitzsimmons, who met at OC. After their first meeting, Betty thought to herself, “Is this significant?” Now, 50 years, 11 children and 11 grandchildren later, they think the significance has been made obvious. Dan’s younger brother, Robert (’80), followed after them to OC, and then, eventually, Dan and Betty’s eleven childrenone of whom is a current student - all joined the nest.

“A crucial effect OC had on my life was to build in me confidence that the real call of Christ was to be honest,

kind and noble, and that God wanted me to build on that foundation,” Dan says. “It has been a joy to think about where we have been, and where we are still going with the education and spiritual development we received at OC!”

The Fitzsimmonses have translated their OC experiences into benefiting others. Robert is now an elder in Spokane, WA, and Dan and Betty’s children, majoring in electrical and mechanical engineering, youth and campus ministry, computer science, education, photography, art, and public speaking and leadership, have served God in at least 13 states and 3 countries.

Having multiple generations of families like the Fitzsimmons family touch our campus is an incredible blessing!

WE LOVE OUR LEGACY FAMILIES!

We like to celebrate our legacy families with a special gift. If you have children you would like us to add to our legacy program, let us know! We send gifts to three age groups: babies, five-year-olds/kindergarteners and sixteen-yearolds/young, new drivers!

Visit our website to update us on your family.

OC.EDU/ALUMNI/UPDATES

Bode Lashley (’30) William Gould (’39)

Riley Barrientez (’45)

HOMECOMING 2023

NOVEMBER 3 & 4

FUN FOR ALL CURRENT, PAST & FUTURE EAGLE FAMILIES

Cheer at the basketball game, celebrate at the parade, hum along during this year’s musical, Tarzan, and connect with friends old and new.

Watch the website for more info, an up-to-date schedule and other upcoming events.

OC.EDU/HOMECOMING

Office of Alumni Relations Box 11000 Oklahoma City, OK 73136