ISION OC IS HOME
OC GROWS
OC IS MISSION
www.oc.edu/alumni
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI HONORED AT HOMECOMING
1968 LEGENDARY ERA OF BASKETBALL REUNITES AT HOMECOMING
EDUCATORS OF EXCELLENCE MINISTERING AS TEACHERS
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FROM THE
PRESIDENT
READ MORE FROM JOHN AT WWW.OC.EDU/PRESIDENT
Dear Alumni and Friends, We welcomed over 5,000 of you to campus for ‘Oklahomecoming’ and enjoyed a tremendous weekend of reunion and reflection. We shared fun and laughter at the parade and cookout, entertainment at the musical Oklahoma!, and cheers at the Eagles and Lady Eagles basketball games. We celebrated special 50-year reunions of Theta Theta Theta and the 1968 basketball team that rose to the national tournament, elevating the entire school along with them. We truly love it when you and your families come back to OC to see the changes on campus and continue to tell the story you help write. The accomplishments of students and alumni create our best stories; what I most enjoy sharing. In this issue of Vision you will read about some of our best and brightest alumni who received recognition for accomplishments within their fields of study. But, there are a lot of cool things that wouldn’t fit within these pages. Cool things like OC student’s winning top recognition in each of the four categories entered at the Oklahoma Academy of Science Collegiate Awards and the overall best undergraduate paper. We won every category entered! Our College of Natural Health Science leads in higher education with students reaping the benefits of great careers and broad acceptance into exclusive medical schools. Just within the last two months we learned our illustration program is ranked in the top five in the region, Eagle PR student, Christian Franklin, gained support for his group’s
grass-roots political efforts from a national organization, and our Tau Sigma Chapter of Phi Alpha Theta, a history honor society with 860 chapters, won a Best Chapter Award for the 23rd consecutive year. An Auschwitz tour guide praised OC students for showing respect and understanding the gravity of the place. OC Trustee, Alfred Branch (84) eavesdropped while strangers on an airplane discovered they both had student athletes at OC who were developing strong character to accompany their education. I even receive compliments on our students when they go cheer on sports teams! Sam Presti, general manager of the NBA’s OKC Thunder, inquired about a group of OC students at an OKC Blue game (the Thunder’s minor league affiliate). Students sang songs, invented chants, and encouraged the team throughout the entire game. I am so proud to call OC home and joyfully wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from our home to yours. You, our alumni, are OC’s product, proof, and story. I’d enjoy hearing your story the next time you’re on campus. Drop by my office for some peanut M&Ms and tell me how God is using you within your community and industry.
John deSteiguer President
FALL 2018
On The Cover: 2018 Distinguished Alumni Dave (68) and Linda (69) Smith
18 LEGENDARY ERA OF BASKETBALL
1968 national tournament team
14 BEHIND THE LIGHTS
17 REFLECTIONS OF AN ALUM
Scott Filleman shares his transformative experience during his student years
22 NEWS
16 EDUCATORS OF EXCELLENCE
2nd gen. Eagle finds niche
Summary of recent highlights and accomplishments at OC
Young teaching alumni perform at highest levels
28 MILESTONES
Comings and goings of your former classmates
21 ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Astounding accomplishments from every department
FOLLOW US ONLINE www.oc.edu/connect #OCisHome
30 AERIE ARCHIVE
Flashback to the 60s & 70s
VISION STAFF PRESIDENT:
EDITOR:
CHIEF ADVANCEMENT OFFICER:
WRITERS/CONTRIBUTORS:
John deSteiguer
Kent Allen (79)
CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER: Risa Forrester (96)
Sarah Horton (90)
Alan Phillips (76)
Hayley Bentley (16), Judson Copeland (02), Steven Christy (01)
Chris Adair (97), Kim Reiter (91), Murray Evans (89), Stafford North, Sydney May (19), Adam Shahan (22), Zourab Tsopourachvili (19 MBA)
DESIGNERS: CHIEF ALUMNI RELATIONS OFFICER:
PHOTOGRAPHERS:
Jonathan Curtis (03), Hayley Bentley (16), Tessa Wright (12)
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VISION Box 11000, Oklahoma City, OK 73136-1100 VISION Alumni Magazine of Oklahoma Christian University (USPS 405-420) Volume 20, No. 1, Fall 2018
© Oklahoma Christian University 2018 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 school-administered programs.
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Seniors Rachel Parrett and Ezra Emerson were crowned Homecoming King and Queen. Rachel, a family science/human development and vocational ministry major, is president of Iota Kappa Phi. Ezra is a senior marketing and management major from Mount Vernon, MO and president of Chi Lambda Phi. Three years in a Gamma Rho! The club’s theme, “Blest be the tie that binds,” won them top honors as homecoming champions for the third consecutive year. York Benjamin, a sophomore from Tulsa, Oklahoma threw down a dunk during the Eagles homecoming game against Manhattan Christian. Benjamin transferred to OC scoring 13 points in his debut in the Eagles Nest. Theta Theta Theta celebrated 50 years of Christian women in leadership, scholarship, and service. Women of Gamma Rho, past and present, celebrated 40 years of sisterhood holding true to its motto, “it takes both rain and sunshine to make a rainbow.” Alumni from the decade that made the fanny pack cool and functional, 1990s graduates gathered in The Brew for food, festivities, and friends. Students brought the musical Oklahoma! to life on the stage of Hardeman Auditorium. Will Parker, played by Peter Miller, senior from Oakley, Illinois is telling all the locals about his adventures in Kansas City.
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Santa records the wishes of the men of Chi Lambda Phi who all want the early Christmas gift of surviving finals week. Pat Lawson (67) and Santa anticipate the cue from President deSteiguer to officially Light the Commons. Haven Northcraft, parents Cory (13) and Mary (Watson 13), and Daucie Williams, parents Todd (13) and Rachel (Kurt 15), were content with Santa. Students consume hot cocoa before gathering in the brisk outdoors for Christmas fireworks near the Freede Centennial Tower. Alex Jones (11) encourages 2-year-old August to be friends with Santa while Jenny (Gray) Jones (08) observes with her best, “I knew it,� expression. Santa wisely stays out of it. Outdoor festivities include a Christmas market and fireworks display. (photo: Rod Cuellar)
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Jan Bian (18) measures the heart rate of a Guatemalan infant. She and fellow students took vitals and assisted physicians. Jan graduated with a degree in biology and works as a research technician at Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation. Senior Rett Parker joins villagers in the Madang province of Papua New Guinea in a celebration. He spent his summer interning with Pioneer Bible Translators. Students take a moment to relax and absorb the culture of Vienna in front of the Kunsthistorisches (art history) Museum and a statue of Maria Theresa. A group of students tour SchÜnbrunn, the summer residence of the Hapsburgs, long-time rulers of Austria. The grounds feature a zoo, a giant hedge maze, and is a popular spot for locals. Students enjoy cafes throughout Europe when they have travel opportunities. But, when classes are in session, they live like Austrians, shopping in local grocery stores and markets, and cooking their own food. Students highly recommend a Käsekrainer! Imagine a sausage filled with cheese stuffed in a baguette. Gooey, delicious, and cheap, all qualities that make it a perennial student favorite.
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OC boasts the only accredited medical laboratory in the state of Oklahoma! Our graduates lead in biological research and gain admittance into medical schools at impressive rates. OC Chorale continues to inspire and entertain audiences. The choir, led by Dr. Kyle Pullen, dates back to the founding of the school. Here they sing at OC Remembers. Award-winning graphic designers throughout the world trace their history to Michael O’Keefe, a staple of OC’s department of Art + Design. President deSteiguer inspired students at first chapel to go to class, go to church, and get outside their dorm room to experience campus and Oklahoma City. The service, filled with regalia, welcomed the OC community into our deep seeded traditions and focus on Christian principles, faith, and values. A new Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree launched to bridge the gap for associate degreed RNs to earn a bachelor’s. It’s 100% online. In this program nurses can earn college credit for skills they’ve learned on-the-job. Students, like Emma Duncan, derive their daily caffeine quotient from The Brew coffee shop. Now you can do the same by joining the Brew Crew, a coffee subscription that delivers fresh roasted beans to your door. Ad on page 15. 5
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DAVE AND LINDA SMITH 2018 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI You would be challenged to find alumni more proud and passionate about their alma mater than Dave and Linda Smith. As a 1968, Eagle basketball player, Dave focused his time as a student toward winning. He led his teammates to victory on the court and kept their bond strong throughout the decades. As Dave and Linda received the Distinguished Alumni award at the homecoming banquet, Coaches and teammates from the 1968 team left their seats to surround the couple with love and support. Though an Eagle’s basketball fan, Linda placed a high value on her education and invested time in her studies. The couple applied Dave’s determination with Linda’s head for business to run a side company
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As a coach, Smith saw the need to recognize achievement on and off the court. along with their jobs; Midwest Trophy Manufacturing. Dave often delivered trophies on his drive to his high school coaching job, and Linda dropped off orders on her way to the Federal Aviation Administration where she worked at the time. Later, Linda managed the first storefront with children Dave, Jr. (00) and Ashli (00) underfoot. The entrepreneurs grew the business into the nation’s leading manufacturer of awards, now known as MTM Recognition. The Smith’s found success even in their avocations. Dave became a winning professional fisherman and an accomplished golfer. Linda enjoyed
bass fishing with Dave and has valued serving in the Oklahoma Christian Women’s Association, Edmond Mobile Meals Programs, and many other ministries. Dave and Linda were active members of the Del City Church of Christ for over 34 years before moving to Edmond where they serve in multiple roles at Memorial Road Church of Christ. The couple are proud of their grandchildren Colin, Leah, Morgan, Alyson, and Ellis, all good basketball players and potentially, a third generation of Eagles! By Adam Shahan
RALPH AND DARLA CHAIN 2018 HONORARY ALUMNI The family of Ralph and Darla Chain represent five generations of friends and students of the university. Ralph and his father were the only father and son to serve on the OC Board of Trustees simultaneously, and now, the couple’s grandson is enrolled as a student. They have left a permanent mark on our campus as donors, leaders, and advisors. The couple became Honorary Alumni at the Homecoming Awards Banquet. Soon after receiving this recognition, Ralph passed from this life to the next, only 28 days before his 93rd birthday. We bid farewell to Ralph December 14th at the Elm Grove Community Church in Chester, Oklahoma. Ralph often spoke of the wisdom of King Solomon; we imagine them deep in conversation. Ralph will be missed by family,
The Chain family surround Honorary Alumni Ralph and Darla Chain, devoted friends of OC.
employees, and his friends at OC. The legacy of Chain Ranch encompasses six generations of Chains who grew an undesirable land run quarter-section into 60,000 acres of range and cropland in Oklahoma and Kansas. Their care for the soil and grassland support an all-natural beef operation and attract an abundance of wildlife. Chain Ranch breeds thousands of cows and heifers each year and grows wheat and alfalfa crops. Over its 125 year history, the ranch has diversified into wind,
oil, and gas energy production and pioneered agri-tourism with the Chain Ranch Sportsman’s Club. Ralph and Darla have lived by the philosophy that everything they have is on loan from God. They’ve only been here to take care of it. Ralph primarily spoke about legacy, family, and God. His and Darla’s open hearts and generosity have been a great blessing to the university. It is a privilege to include them on our role as Honorary Alumni. By Sarah Horton
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BARRY KELLEY
Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin … how much more will he clothe you!
2018 YOUNG ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR Barry Kelley exemplifies the character of an OC graduate; he displays a heart of gratitude toward the university and devotes himself to the success of current and former students. Additionally, Barry has worked hard and persevered to be successful in his professional and personal life. As a student studying Finance and Mechanical Engineering, Barry applied his entrepreneurial spirit by owning and operating a business for five years. He founded the business in 2006 as a full time student and subsequently provided flexible jobs for other OC students. With grit and economic foresight, he grew and later sold the business for more than ten times his initial investment. Barry applied the same principle of hard work and wise decision
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making to his finance career. Starting out as a licensed financial advisor at Edward Jones, Barry is now Assistant Vice President and Senior Financial Analyst in Treasury at MidFirst Bank. Reporting to OC alum Greg Schaefer, Barry provides support and project management in the valuation, due diligence, and integration of mergers and acquisitions. He also assists with project management, creates and reviews the CFO’s financial reports for the Board of Directors, helps compile and distribute the board books, conducts peer financial analysis, and is responsible for various financial reports. Barry values all of the opportunities OC has given him, especially meeting his wife, Jill. They have been married since 2009. Today they offer career
advice and financial mentorship to students both current and former. Barry and Jill can often be seen meeting with students on campus and volunteering in classes. The Kelleys profess that they are, “following the great examples we saw while attending OC.” In receiving this recognition, Barry thanked the countless people at OC who impacted his life, professors and peers alike. He emotionally acknowledged his family for the sacrifices they made which turned the dream of attending OC into a reality, basing his gratitude on Luke 12:27-28. Barry has heavily invested in his alma mater by mindfully working with students, intentionally collaborating with professors, and serving on OC’s National Alumni Council. By Adam Shahan
JIM WEAVER 2018 MISSION SERVICE AWARD God called Jim Weaver into the mission field, literally. Jim’s eyes were opened to how the fields and rural farmlands of America reflect the same spiritual needs of the inner-cities. Widespread substance abuse, broken families, unemployment, neglect and poverty describe a population in desperate need of the hope of Jesus Christ. Drawing upon his 30 years of foreign and domestic mission experience, Jim founded Rural America Ministries to intersect millennial Christians and their desire for social justice and genuine Christian community with the burgeoning spiritual needs of the rural mission field. We were pleased to recognize Jim with the Mission Service Award for his dedication to an underserved rural population. You
John and Darla deSteiguer present the Mission Service Award to Jim and Ashley Weaver. Learn more about the ministry at RAMinistries.com.
can learn more about this ministry at RAMinistries.com. Jim met his wife, Ashley (Harrell 85) at OC. The couple traveled west for Jim to pursue his Masters in English Literature at Pepperdine while Ashley earned her BS in Psychology and later a MS in Counseling from Southern Nazarene University. They have five children: Jacob
(10) who is married to Hailey (Waugh 10), daughter Micah (11) who is married to Forrest Faulconer, Joseph, Elijah (17) who is married to Kayce (Jones 15) and Seth. They are the proud grandparents of Silas, Everly, and Olive Weaver, children of Jacob and Hailey. By Sarah Horton
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BEHIND THE LIGHTS STUDENT FINDS HER CALLING IN FILM Second generation OC student Shay Stegmann followed her parents footsteps to Oklahoma City, but her dream of working in film led her down a path she never expected. Seven movies, three short films, and numerous commercials later, a bright light shines on the senior’s future success. Shay’s parents, Sean (90) and Keithia (Sipes) (89) understand the importance of education. Sean graduated with a BS in Management Information Systems and Keithia with a Bachelor of Computer Science. These successful alumni passed on their technical gene to a child with a flair for creativity. Unsure how that would play out in a career, they entrusted her to OC’s Communication Design program. The program allowed Shay to learn about web design, videography, advertising, and more. Her class visited 23 companies! Experiencing different organizations helped Shay identify the best work environment for her. This diverse learning experience helped Shay discover her passion and plot her course. OC professors alerted Shay to an internship opportunity at a local production company, Producer’s Playhouse. Helping out on a commercial shoot, she met Matt Bauske who invited her to participate in a movie project. Near
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the end of filming, Shay was promoted from Intern to Best Boy; the second highest position in that department. “It was so cold,” said Shay. “The days on a movie set are long. I saw the sunrise and the sunset on an eighteen hour shoot. I felt exhausted and satisfied and content because for the first time in my life, I was with people who were passionate about the exact same things as me.”
for the first time in my life, I was with people who were passionate about the exact same things as me. Matt hired Shay to work full-time on his summer movie filmed in Guthrie, Oklahoma. The ability to use lights to create moods and effects fascinated Shay. Movement of light creates an illusion of fire, a car passing by, or the sense a person is watching television. “You get to see how to imply things that are not there with light and viewers recognize what it is,” said Shay. “I repeat
the same job, but it is always different. I meet and experience different people.” Sometimes those “different people” are named Russell Westbrook! Working on a late night commercial set involving Nike, a Ferrari, a giant LED monitor and the NBA superstar is just part of the job. Joining behind-the-scenes crew with experience on movies sets like Black Panther have connected Shay with the industry she loves and taught her some insider strategy. Shay met some crew who own equipment and rent it out for productions. When the opportunity arose to purchase her own light, Shay jumped on it. After renting her purchase out only two times, it was paid for and now produces profit. “Finally, it’s easy for my parents see my vision. They get excited about what I’m doing and tell their friends. That makes me feel really good. Dad says, ‘Buy more lights,’” said Shay. After graduation, Shay plans to join the thriving film industry in Atlanta where some of her contacts are ready to help her get established. By Sarah Horton and Sydney May
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EDUCATORS OF EXCELLENCE
...the character and integrity piece is in place when we hire an OC graduate. I don’t worry at all about what kind of mentor they are in a classroom.
School of Education alumni are changing the world one teacher at a time. Chair of the department, Dr. Darin Martin believes the long list of acclaimed teachers emanates from the top-notch students who enroll in the program. These students join a faculty with high expectations. “Our faculty know what to teach, and it is quite rigorous. By graduation students have proven themselves by logging more than 200 hours observing or teaching in the classroom. They are ready to lead and inspire their own classes,” said Dr. Martin. The reputation of OC alumni permeates the region, but hiring an OC alum is more difficult than you
similar note from her principal within her first month of teaching. “You do not appear to be a new teacher. You are so strong!” Only ten months after graduating, Amanda Pace (17) received the Rising Star Award in Crowley, Texas and was recognized at halftime of the SMU football game for great work, dedication to the profession, and her early promise for an impactful and fulfilling career in education. The Oklahoma Higher Education Reading Council named 2011, stand-out graduate Madeline Mahan, Outstanding Beginning Literacy Teacher, plus she was selected to attend training at the renowned Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, Georgia (You’ve likely seen
might think. Seniors walk across the graduation stage with multiple offers. “We know the character and integrity piece is in place when we hire an OC graduate. I don’t worry at all about what kind of mentor they are in a classroom,” said Rick Mendenhall of Mid-Del Technology Center. The evidence starts with even the newest graduates. Principal Taylor Morris of Poteet H.S. in Mesquite, Texas observed OC graduate Ty Davis (15) in his classroom. Ty soon received an email stating, “You did AWESOME! Really, I would NEVER have known that you are a first year teacher. Your skills as a teacher far exceed other new teachers.” Rachel (Dobbs) Dudley (16) received a
Photo: Madeline Mahan engages with her students through all of their senses, even as the Grinch, to make learning fun and memorable.
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AWARD WINNING EDUCATORS
Teacher Education students clock more than 200 classroom hours before graduating.
some of the academy’s dance moves from the school’s viral video on YouTube). Madeline draws her teaching inspiration from the New Testament. “Jesus calls us to a different kind of community, one built on quality time, grace, and trust. Jesus created a safe space for people of all different backgrounds and beliefs to learn and live life together. He told people the truth about who they were and who they were meant to be while serving them in love. I attempt to follow this example in my classroom; to serve my students through relationship so they can go change the world,” said Madeline. The National Association for the Education of Young Children selected Cody Summerville (14) as one of only two national young educators to attend a teachers’ reception at the White House. Also, Cody teamed up with Hector Rivera at the NAEYC national conference to present a workshop on finding balance as an emerging leader. Cody believes the unique aspects of OC contribute to the success he has found in his career. “Even after I had graduated, professors continued to be a resource and friends kept in touch because we had built something together that mattered more than our physical proximity to each
Superstar Teacher, Emily Campbell (17), Delta Kappa Gamma award, Julianne Stinson Elson (14), two-time winner of Conoco Phillips Math Teacher of the Month, Haley Efird Galyean (12), State finalist for Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, Kristin Lovejoy (12), Polar Educators International Council, Megan Collier Gunderson (09), Butler-Cooley Teaching Award, Scott Filleman (05), Teacher of the Year, Ryan McDonald (00), National Science Foundation fellowship, Sammie Marshall (08). Site Teacher of the Year (Award recipients since 2015) Tiffany (Stafford) Robles (10), Mindi Mendez (10), Linzi (Farris) Clem (10), Jennifer (Rampton) Simonds (11), Lydia Carlton (11), Britt Barrientez (11), Sarah Roberts (13), Wendy Billingsley (13), Rachel Richardson (05), and Erin McCoy (15).
other. Because of OC’s example and support, I was able to create the same kind of community in my classroom. These relationships with students, their families, and fellow teachers have been the key to any success I’ve seen as a teacher,” said Cody. In 1960, when Oklahoma Christian began offering bachelor’s degrees, education was among its first four majors. Thousands of OC graduates are teachers and administrators. Their many honors are a clear indication that the 134 current majors will have a great opportunity to succeed. By Stafford North and Sarah Horton
SCOTT FILLEMAN (06)
REFLECTIONS OF AN ALUM My wife and I married after our freshman year, and we were on our own financially. Music education classes filled my days and moving boxes at UPS filled the nights. Classes began at the same time I got off work, a 30-minute drive away. My professors gave me grace for this. At a university where class attendance is highly valued, they took time to genuinely care about me, learned my story, and made some exceptions for me to constantly arrive late, or sometimes not at all (without adjusting expectations for quality work or extending deadlines). Teaching in a Title 1, inner city school, riddled with gang influences, I became keenly aware that students had a whole world attacking them. The sensitivity my OC professors showed me became a driving force in my bands at Santa Fe South. We had a phrase we said often, “Do the best you can with what you have in that moment.” We never let contest results get in the way of honoring and respecting the fact that we are all people, we all have struggles, and we can all help each other. Continued on page 29
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LEGENDARY ERA OF BASKETBALL A half-century ago, Oklahoma Christian College was working to establish its reputation in its new hometown. OCC’s athletic teams fought to earn respect from their peers for almost a decade. The struggle had been mighty at times – and then a basketball team came along that forever changed the college’s image. The 1967-68 Eagles put OCC on the athletic map, twice stunning the nation’s No. 1-ranked team to earn a surprise berth into the NAIA national tournament in Kansas City. That team’s achievement earned the college widespread recognition and helped establish its well-known brand. Oklahoma Christian University never forgot that team’s contributions and
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awarded it the honor of OC’s first Team of Distinction, a new award created by the university’s Athletic Hall of Fame committee. That team’s success meant so much to the university, coming at a formative time in its history. “To those of us in the Oklahoma Christian community, the 1968 team was the vindication and validation of our founders’ hopes and dreams of Oklahoma Christian achieving excellence in everything, including athletics. In the beginning, there was no guarantee that this little college would endure,” said Frank Davis, OC’s basketball star in the early 1960s, and coach of the 1968 team. Early on, the team struggled to be seen
as legitimate. The university had sought membership in the NAIA’s Oklahoma Collegiate Conference but was denied. But when OC finally achieved full NAIA membership, the Eagles couldn’t be kept from the playoffs. Soon after transferring to OCC, David Smith – who became a two-time NAIA All-America selection – had a conversation with Coach Davis about how to succeed. “We had to win 80-plus percent of our games and beat the number one ranked team on their home court twice,” Smith said. “It seemed like it was totally impossible. But my goal was to achieve that objective.” In 1967, the Eagles finished among the top three highest-rated teams in District 9. Their reward was a playoff game against Oklahoma Baptist, a team that had won the 1966 NAIA title and had played in the 1965 NAIA championship game. After the game, OBU’s coach Bob Bass said, “All I can say is never underestimate OCC.” That comment proved that the Eagles rapidly were closing the gap. The next season, the Eagles did well enough to earn a best-of-three series against Northeastern State, the NAIA’s No. 1-ranked team. “That was almost like a mountain that you can’t climb,” Smith recalled. But the Eagles did and advanced to the NAIA national tournament. “When I think of our school spirit, I remember how it was, when our hopes and dreams were seen only through faith. I think of those who put their confidence in us and our school, long before we accomplished anything of significance,” said Davis. It took until 1982 before an Oklahoma Christian team again advanced to the
NAIA tournament – highlighting just what a significant accomplishment the 1968 squad achieved. Most of those players went on to successful careers in a variety of fields. Davis went on to coach at Georgia State and Southeastern Oklahoma State before becoming a successful businessman, but he’ll tell you it’s hard to top the good memories of 1968. “Those men of destiny of that day were truly champions,” he said. “They earned their place in Oklahoma Christian’s legacy and in the state of Oklahoma’s record book of champions.
Those were fun times!” Smith (featured on page 10) founded one of the nation’s largest awards companies – MTM Recognition in Del City – and is in the Oklahoma Christian Athletic Hall of Fame. He spoke at the ceremony recognizing the 1968 team, surrounded by the men he had worked so hard with all those years ago. “You can ask anyone in the business world and they will tell you that I am an alumni of Oklahoma Christian University. I have been very proud of it and I let people know,” said Smith. By Murray Evans and Sydney May
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WE’VE JUST GOTTA SAY, WE’RE SO PROUD OF
GRADS LIKE YOU! For the past six years, you have been
Is it crazy to think that we can continue to
Oklahoma Christian University has the
heading Homeward—and you haven’t
raise our alum’s participation rate as the
ability to make a difference in the lives
stopped. Since the program’s launch in
national average drops? Maybe. But we
of thousands of current and prospective
2012, an outstanding 4,049 grad givers
know that our alumni are different—that
students (as well as the surrounding
have helped buck the norm by joining the
they are difference makers and kingdom
community and those affected by OC
Homeward movement. Last year alone
changers.
missions across the world!), and with one
1,496 grads gave back to OC! This year
of the most kind, generous, Jesus-loving,
we want to aim even higher with a goal
The opportunities to give back to your
and mission-minded group of people this
of 1,750 grad givers for the 2018-2019
alma mater are abundant with plenty of
side of eternity—we’re ready to chase
school year.
projects to match your unique passions.
down national supremacy again!
ANY AMOUNT, ANY PROJECT. YOU GIVE, YOU COUNT.
OC.EDU/HOMEWARD
HOMECOMING
ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS Each year at Homecoming, OC’s colleges and departments select an alum to honor for high achievement, innovation, accomplishment, or impact. We welcomed these alumni to inspire students in classrooms and receive this special recognition. President John deSteiguer, Dr. Scott LaMascus (84), department chairs, friends, and family gathered to honor the accomplishments of our alumni, like Mechanical Engineering graduate, Dr. Blair Dodson (06) who grows lung tissue. Dr. Dodson manufactures lungs for transplant, specializing in pediatric pulmonology. Aaron Sayles (72) attended OC through the Civil Rights Era. He excelled in his career starting at RCA eventually leading to Intel, and he served as a strong voice promoting diversity. Aaron has been recognized with a Presidential Citation, a People’s Choice Award in Diversity, and a Diversity Leadership Award from Intel. Thad McCracken (96) graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering and has accumulated 18 patents. Ken Bever (83) put his Mathematics and Computer Science degree to work in a storied career that includes living out his passion for ministry through the founding of Hope for Haiti’s Children. Ken illustrates the fact we are all called to spread the gospel, no matter what degree field we pursue. Distinguished Alum in Teacher Education, Cody Summerville (14) is highlighted in the Educators of Excellence article. These education graduates are well on the path to mirror the significant legacy of beloved OC professors like Dr. Mike Gipson (66), who received the Alumni Achievement Award from the Biology Department. It was such an honor to recognize the contributions of Dr. Jeff McIlroy (83) posthumously. Jeff started with an undergrad
President John deSteiguer and Dr. Jeff McCormack (83) with Teresa (85) and Austin (11) McIlroy as they receive the Alumni Achievement Award for Chemistry on behalf of late husband and father, Jeff McIlroy.
in Chemistry from OC and went on to impact Tulsa and the surrounding communities through his behavioral health clinics. Ben Williams (15), astrophysicist and OC MDiv graduate, received the Preaching Award. Shane Cannedy (09), pours his passion, perspective, and imagination into youth ministry at the Tenth and Broad Church of Christ in Wichita Falls, Texas. We recognized Jonathan Hanegan (06) for his commitment to missions through the H.I.M. Program and his far reaching efforts in Buenos Aires. Accountant turned German missionary, Don Roehrkasse (81) received the Adam Langford Christian Service Award. The Art + Design department selected Holly Hodge (10) who brings art to the community and opportunities for youth to pursue the arts through her work. Dr. Randy Hatfield (85), History and Political Science 1985 graduate, has improved both access and quality of education for more than a million children in Pakistan. Shawn (99) and Elizabeth (Cail 05) McElroy walk alongside individuals on a journey toward mental and emotional health. Honors graduate, Michael Mitchell (04) contributes to eradicating the water crisis worldwide. Adam Bruce (09) enhances the lives of students with music, imparting the discipline required to earn national recognition. Lucas Ross (03) elevates the OC brand throughout Oklahoma and beyond through his public profile on NBC News, community involvement, and prolific creativity. David Roberts (03) invests in the next generation as a leader in education. And, our nursing program is injecting highly capable and compassionate nurses into health care, like Kaitlyn Knedler (14) who is a Family Nurse Practitioner at OU Family Medicine. We are proud of the quality product we produce, our exceptional alumni are testimonies to the best OC has to offer. These Alumni Achievement Award recipients exemplify what it means to be seekers, scholars and servants.
Left to right: Aaron Sayles (72) College of Business Administration Michael Mitchell (04) Honors Program Kaitlyn Knedler with Dr. Jennifer Gray College of Natural & Health Sciences, Nursing
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NEWS KEEP UP WITH YOUR ALMA MATER AT WWW.OC.EDU/NEWS
The symbolic ground breaking gave Board of Trustee members and university leaders a moment to play in a huge sandbox with shiny shovels. We think they enjoyed it!
NEW CAF NEW MENU 2019 Construction has begun on the new cafeteria! Members of the Board of Trustees and campus leaders broke ground in October. Shiny shovels dug into rich, brown soil for a rainy-day, indoor ceremony. The occasion marked the university’s first groundbreaking without red clay! Kurt Hermanson, president of U-Dining said, “OC’s new caf will be a leader in higher education culinary excellence.” Tasty samples of some new menu items at the groundbreaking have all of campus counting down to the grand opening of this $4.5 million dining facility.
President deSteiguer spoke about the importance of food on a college campus. Students in attendance wholeheartedly agreed!
OC REMEMBERS
CREATED WITH CALLING
We said farewell to a number of our community in 2017-18 and gathered to honor them at OC Remembers. An intimate group of family members and close friends attended the annual ceremony recognizing the contributions of alumni, faculty, staff, and trustees who have gone before us. Each family had the opportunity to display memorabilia in the McIntosh Conservatory before a service that included the naming of each loved one and a presentation of a rose. We honor those who have taught us much and rest in the promise of seeing them again.
Students and alumni alike are being impacted by Day Six. OC’s new Calling and Career center is founded on the principle that we are all created with calling. Will Blanchard (07) and Susan Hoover (10) launched the office this fall with one-on-one mentorships that help students identify their personal values
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and how they might apply to a career search. Day Six has hosted multiple job fairs, practice interviews, and offered discounts for students to begin building a career wardrobe. Contact Day Six to connect with students who can become an asset to your business or to discover your own calling. susan.hoover@oc.edu
program is open to anyone with a bachelor’s degree from any regionally accredited university and can be finished in just 2 years.
NEW MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ENGINEERING OC is offering a brand new opportunity with its new online Master of Science in Engineering program! This program is one of the premier MSE Management Programs in the region. The online version is focused on the working professional, offering classes beginning in January, May, and August, making it easy to jump in when you have time and earn your Masters in just two years. Alumni who have completed this program are making up to $10,000 more a year than their counterparts with a bachelor’s degree.
NEW R.N. TO BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN NURSING The RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is a new, 100% online opportunity at OC. Associate degreed nurses can apply their job experience toward class credit by skipping straight to the test for what they already know. Each student in the program is assigned a faculty mentor to help them stay on track as they work through the program that is often completed in one year. Many RN to BSN programs follow a pass/fail grading system that will not allow admittance to graduate school. However, OC BSN graduates will have a GPA and unlimited potential for the future.
OC LECTURESHIPS REBRAND AS ONE VOICE Formerly OC’s Lectureship, One Voice is an opportunity for Churches of Christ, a diverse people standing firmly in the centrality of scripture, baptism by immersion, weekly communion and godly character to come together as a unified body. Replacing the traditional, many day lectureships, Ministry Equipping Days will take place throughout the year and will refocus our lectureship time to accomplish biblical instruction, encouragement and practical ministry. The next Ministry Equipping Day is February 22, 2019 - ELDER2ELDER: A day about shepherding and leading God’s people for elders by elders. Contact Grady.King@OC.edu for more information.
LEN FEUERHELM RETIRES
The online program allows working nurses to plan study time around shift schedules and family commitments.
MASTER IN CHRISTIANITY AND CULTURE The Graduate School of Theology at Oklahoma Christian University now offers a new, fully online degree designed to equip participants with learning that goes into all the world. Whether your ministry involves leading, teaching, caring, facilitating, or consoling, our Master of Arts in Christianity and Culture empowers ministry at the intersections of biblical texts, Christian communities, and the cultures we inhabit. This
After 42 years of classroom instruction and labs, Dr. Len Feuerhelm embarked on a new journey. We will miss Dr. Feuerhelm’s gift for seamlessly integrating physics and faith; leading enthusiastic debates with his students. For many, it was their first experience with a concept of friendship between science and the Bible. Dr. Feuerhelm also shared his love for movies and enjoyment of flying with those around him. Scott Lamascus prays over Len Feuerhelm at retirement PhD and J.D., Dr. Feuerhelm celebration. was a member of the American Bar Association, Oklahoma Bar Association, Sigma Xi, and Phi Delta Phi. Perhaps his most mysterious membership involved his former association with the CIA. We all know one thing about Dr. Feuerhelm, he certainly knows how to keep secrets for a very long time.
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SPORTS NEWS KEEP UP WITH OC SPORTS AT WWW.OCEAGLES.COM
NCAA DII SPORTS OC ATHLETICS PARTNERS WITH MERCY FOR MEDICAL SERVICES Mercy, one of the nation’s leading health systems, will serve as the official medical provider for Oklahoma Christian’s athletic department. “Oklahoma Christian Athletics is excited to partner with Mercy to be our official medical provider,” said Athletic Director, David Lynn (96). “We are blessed to have the opportunity to work closely with Mercy to help provide the best possible student athlete experience in NCAA Division II athletics. “Mercy has a very similar vision for how they treat and care for people. I have always felt that’s what makes OC special and I see that same characteristic in Mercy. I look forward to seeing the new and exciting things that emerge from this partnership,” said Lynn. OC’s athletic program now has 386 student-athletes spread across 16 varsity sports – baseball, softball, and men’s and women’s cross country, golf, soccer, swimming, track and field, basketball and outdoor track and field, as well as men’s and women’s club bowling.
Matheus Mantovani, senior from Brazil pushes toward the goal.
Brazil, made the second-team All-Region list after receiving All-Heartland Conference second-team from league coaches. Mantovani ends his last collegiate season scoring a team-high six goals and tied for the team lead in assists with three this season. “He had a great season and him being recognized speaks volumes about the effort he has put in this year and the impact he had on our team,” OC coach David Scott said.
OC MEN’S GOLF TEAM RANKED IN THE NATIONAL TOP 10
OC Athletic Director, David Lynn (96) and Chief Advancement Officer, Kent Allen (79) receive a jersey presented by Dr. Jesse Campbell of Mercy Health Care to signify the new partnership.
MANTOVANI EARNS ALL-HEARTLAND HONORS OC midfielder Matheus Mantovani earned recognition on the Division II Conference Commissioners Association All-South Central Region men’s soccer teams. The senior from Sao Paulo,
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For only the second time in the program’s NCAA Division II history, Oklahoma Christian’s men’s golf team is ranked in the national top 10. Following a strong fall season in which they won two tournaments, the Eagles ascended seven spots to No. 9 in the final Bushnell Golfweek Division II Coaches’ Poll of 2018, which was recently released. It’s the highest national ranking ever achieved by any OC athletic team in the Division II era, which began with the 2012-13 academic year. The Eagles were the highest-ranked South Central Region team in the coaches’ poll, two spots ahead of Heartland Conference rival St. Mary’s (Texas). The only other South Central teams in the poll were No. 19 Midwestern State (Texas) and No. 25 Dixie State (Utah).
Maddison Collyer, sophomore guard from Harrah, Oklahoma is a Family Studies/Child Development major. She is an outstanding floor general who doesn’t mind playing physical. Maddison is one of only four OC players ever named to The Oklahoman’s prestigious All-State Super 5 team, which recognizes the top five prep players in the state.
OC CLUB SPORTS NEW BOWLING TEAM Oklahoma Christian added men’s and women’s bowling as club sports for the 2018-2019 academic year. OC is now the third Oklahoma university to offer collegiate bowling, joining Central Oklahoma and Southwestern Christian. Coached by James Hayes, who bowled collegiately for Bowling Green State, the new men’s and women’s bowling teams are having a successful beginning of the season. Freshman Josh Imhoff and Sophomore Melissa McConnell, are already adding title trophies to the program. Imhoff, named Eagle of the Week, won his first collegiate tournament, the SWIBC I, and placed third at the SWIBC II tournament. McConnell, received a trophy for her third place finish in the SWIBC I. After a fruitful start, our men’s and women’s bowling programs are on the road to have a promising season.
MOONEY AND BURKE WON FREESTYLE TITLE Simon Mooney and Jimmy Burke each won an individual title for Oklahoma Christian on Saturday Dec. 1, 2018, the final day of the Hendrix Invitational at Bob Courtway Pool. Mooney, a freshman from Bentonville, Ark., won the 200-yard freestyle in 1:50.58, topping a field of 20 swimmers. Burke, a sophomore from Deer Park, Texas, won the 1,650 freestyle in 17:23.09, giving him a second distance-event title after he won the 500 freestyle. In the team race, the Eagles scored 471 points, good for fourth in the seven-team field. Barton (Kan.) Community College won the team title with 652 points, edging the host Hendrix (Ark.)
Simon Mooney won the 200 freestyle title at the Hendrix Invitational.
by seven points. The Eagles wrapped up their first-semester schedule from Dec. 14-16 at the TYR Elite Meet, a club event, at the Edmond YMCA Recreation and Aquatic Center.
UPCOMING ULTIMATE FRISBEE IN 2019-20 Oklahoma Christian will add Ultimate frisbee to its list of club sports for the 2019-20 academic year, OC Athletic Director David Lynn said. Known informally as “Ultimate Frisbee,” the fast-growing sport has more than 18,000 players on more than 800 college teams. OC will be among a small percentage of those schools that will offer scholarship money, Lynn said, and the school will cover the program’s travel expenses. “We’ve had some success with our most recent additions of swimming and club bowling,” Lynn said. “We want to start things that we know we can be competitive in and we can add to incentivize future students to come participate on our campus.” Gabe Cabrera, a former college and professional Ultimate player who helped begin a similar program at OC’s sister institution, Ohio Valley (W.Va.), will serve as the program’s coach beginning in January.
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ALUMNI ACTIVITIES & REWARDS WE LOVE OUR ALUMNI! ENJOY THE BENEFITS OF BEING AN EAGLE. STAY UP TO DATE BY VISITING OC.EDU/ALUMNI
ALUMNI NETWORK
Search “Oklahoma Christian University Alumni” at LinkedIn.com to connect with a network of alumni professionals across the country that now numbers more than 2,000 members. This group is designed to connect OC graduates/alumni; it will assist with job leads and connections in desired geographical areas.
ALUMNI DISCOUNT CARD
Each alum receives a personalized discount card good for discounts on campus. Make sure you keep up with your card so you can use it when you come back home! For questions, contact us at alumni@oc.edu or call 405.425.5110.
LIBERTY MUTUAL DISCOUNT
OC’s Alumni Office has partnered with Liberty Mutual to offer alumni a 10% discount on home, auto, and renter’s insurance. To find out more, go to libertymutual.com/OCalumni.
HOTEL DISCOUNTS
OC has partnered with Hotel Storm to save up to 45% on hotels worldwide. Go to hotelstorm.com/oklahoma-christianuniversity to check it out. Contact alumni@oc.edu for the password.
VIENNA OR BUST!
Whether you were a part of the Vienna/ European Studies program as a student, or you’ve always wanted to see what you missed, we have exciting news for you! OC’s Office of Alumni Relations is offering a trip to Vienna Christmas Markets, December 4-9, 2019.
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Accommodations are in OC’s own Das Millicanhaus. Reserve your spot now and plan for festive holiday shopping, vibrant music, and breathtaking architecture. For more info on upcoming trips, contact us at alumni@oc.edu or 405.425.5110.
HOMECOMING
Make plans to attend Homecoming! Traditionally the first full weekend in November. Planned by the Office of Alumni Relations, Homecoming is a perfect time to reunite with classmates. The weekend always features special reunion groups and activities for all. We hope you’ll come back each and every year. Save the date, November 1st and 2nd, 2019.
SENIOR SENDOFF
For graduating students who will soon officially join OC’s alumni ranks. We hope new graduates become OC alumni with a strong sense of belonging, and fully know we’re grateful for their choice to attend Oklahoma Christian. Activities funded by Alumni Relations may include dinner and tickets to an Oklahoma City Thunder basketball game and a food truck picnic on campus (photos from this year to the right). If you would like to support this program, please visit oc.edu, click on “Give to OC,” choose “Show other giving options,” then “Senior Sendoff.”
EAGLE EXCERPTS
Our monthly online newsletter features recent stories and upcoming events.
Between issues of Vision, it’s a great way
to keep up with what’s happening at your alma mater and among fellow alumni.
Subscribe to our Eagle Excerpts email by sending a request to alumni@oc.edu.
NATIONAL ALUMNI COUNCIL This group of alumni serves our
alma mater and our alumni in part as a resource for alumni programming and
events, and as well as a point of contact
for OC alumni with questions, thoughts, and/or concerns about our alma mater. Feel free to contact members with
questions, concerns, or ideas. Their info is available at www.oc.edu/NAC.
WHAT YOU CAN DO Update your records to continue
receiving information about your alma mater and alumni perks.
Keep your info up to date by emailing
changes to alumni@oc.edu.
Watch for and join in alumni gatherings
and activities in your area. Many cities host recruiting/alumni gatherings in
alumni homes (Road Shows), summer
sendoffs for OC students (Eagle Exits), and tailgate parties for away athletic games.
Consider helping us financially when
you can so current students benefit from
the generosity that many passed on to us during our OC years. Even a few dollars
a month by a large number of people can
make a big difference. To find out how to get started, contact us at 405.425.5110 or go to www.oc.edu/homeward.
SENIOR SENDOFF, SPRING 2018
Spring Senior Sendoff Pic?
Join fellow alumni on a trip to VIENNA CHRISTMAS MARKETS DECEMBER 4-9, 2019 Kim Reiter | 405.425.5110 | kim.reiter@oc.edu
OC.EDU/ALUMNI
LEGACY PROGRAM OC’s Office of Alumni Relations wants to recognize your children at key times in their development with these free gifts. • Birth – Lil’ Eagle toddler shirt – Sent when you notify our office about your child’s birth. • Start of School – OC Eagle backsack – We scan our records in mid-summer for alumni children with birthdates that make them 5-6 years old. • Age of Mobility – Eagle lanyard and sunglasses – We scan our records monthly for alumni children with birthdates that make them 15-16 years old. Be sure to help us keep your records complete and up to date, including your kids and their birthdates. To update your contact info, email us at alumni@oc.edu.
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MILESTONES KEEP UP WITH MILESTONES ONLINE AT WWW.OC.EDU/ALUMNI
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John Bixby (66) with his first-prize entry in the Holdenville Spring Art Show held in April 2018. He is an accomplished artist with paintings exhibited in Oklahoma and Texas, in addition to his woodworking art. His wife Katie is also an accomplished artist and specializes in making jewelry. They live in Eufaula.
John Bonner (93) is VP of Corporate and Workforce Training at Everett Community College in Everett, WA. He was chosen by Aspen Institute of College Excellence Program to be part of the 20182019 class of the Aspen Presidential Fellowship for Community College Excellence. This is a leadership program aimed at preparing the next generation of community college presidents to transform institutions to achieve high and equitable levels of student success both in college and in the labor market.
David and Laura (Castille 05) Hazen along with big sister, Madison, age 4, would like to announce the birth of their son James Hazen born April 13, 2017.
2007 Rachel (Yeakley 07) and Zach Sewell adopted a daughter, Mia, in 2017! Her birthday is July 15, 2003. She joins little brother, Carter.
Cody and Rebecca (Goddard 08) Semler announce the birth of twin daughters Attie Grace and Mackenzie Joy on February 8, 2018. Attie Grace weighed 6 lb 12 oz and was 19.25 inches long. Mackenzie weighed 5 lb 13 oz and was 18.75 inches long. The proud grandparents are Paul (78) and Vicki Goddard and Kevin and Renee Semler.
dda rd) Sem ler Cod y and Reb ecc a (Go
2009 y) Sew ell Zac h and Rac hel (Ye akle
John Bixby
2008
1985 Tanner and Elisabeth (Hunter) Ellsworth are the proud parents of Eden Rosalie, born on October 5, 2018. She weighed 8lbs 6oz and was born in Lafayette, LA. Her grandparents are Neal (85) and Melanie Hunter.
John Bonner
1994 Kenneth R. Burns (94) was inducted into the 2018 Hall of Fame in January for Track and Field.
Titus (08) and Marcie (Tunnell 08) Ellis celebrate their son, Titus Joe Ellis, born on May 14, 2018. Proud grandparents are Danny (73) and Linda (Mays 71) Tunnell, and Ken (77) and Debbie (Woloszyn 75) Ellis.
1996 Christopher Norcross (96) was recently named interim pulpit minister at the Lockett Hwy. Church of Christ in Vernon, TX.
2003
Nea l and Me lani e Hun ter
Nkere Reed (03) will be participating in a coaching internship during training camp with the Buffalo Bills. Pray for him to have an increased knowledge base, relationship cultivation, and to make a positive impression on the decision makers in the organization.
2004
1992 Joe Gladwell (92) published the work “The Divider page is of God”, and it’s available through page publishing.
Cameron and Liz (Hunt 08) Spencer are proud to announce Cameron Keith Spencer, Jr. born on September 12, 2016, joining sister, Jocelynn Marie Spencer, 9 yrs.
John (09) and Meagan Branard are the proud parents of Remi Elise Branard. She was born on April 11, 2018 at 1:03 pm. She was 5lb 5oz and 18.5” long. The Branards live in Ocala, FL. Vivian Ruth Carter, was born on Sunday, June 17, 2018 to Brice and Kelsey (Kelly 09) Carter. She weighed 6 lbs. and her big brother, Griffin, is so excited! Lee (09) and Kaela (Ventrella 08) Shuman have two girls Bailey Jo, 5 yrs, and Kynzie Kae, 2yrs old. Lee works at Tinker Air Force Base for the Software Maintenance Group as an Engineering Project Lead, and also recently started his MS in Engineering at OC. Kaela is a stay-at home mom. Will (07) and Amy (Pierce 09) Blanchard announce their third baby, Charlotte Blanchard born on April 15, 2018. She joins siblings, Penny and Lincoln.
Titus and Marc ie (Tunn ell) Ellis
Dr. Kathryn Kramer (08) has graduated from residency at the University of Kansas School of Medicine – Wichita Family Medicine Residency Program at Via Christi Hospitals.
Will and Amy (Pierc e) Blanc hard
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2010
CONT. FROM PAGE 17
Michael and Lara (10) announce the birth of their daughter Blakely Sawyer Belt, born on March 25, 2018.
Mich ael Belt and Lara Killing swor th
2012 Zach and Samantha (Hinton 12) Mason are proud to announce the birth of their first child Annalise Claire Mason, born April 26, 2018. The Masons live in the Oklahoma City area.
Now I’m teaching at Oklahoma Christian Academy where students don’t have the same physical threats, but I’m aware of social and emotional needs. In our social media society, students scream out in desperate loneliness. Inspired by professors’ examples, I strive to know students as a person, to talk face-to-face, to ask questions beyond the classroom.
Scott Filleman (06) directs a younth orchestra to find the language and emotion communicated through music.
“Music is a language that transcends verbal understanding.”
My faith impacts everything I do: placed in the only truth this world has ever known, reflected in everything that exists, and explained in simple terms to anyone. A biblical example exists for everything I need to explain and I share these freely at OCA. In previous schools, phrases like “imagine if ...” and “what kind of courage would you need to ...” replaced “Remember when Jesus ...” or “The example that Paul gave …”
LI’L EAGLES Zach and Sam (Hinton) Mason
We want to see your Li’l Eagles! Send your photos to alumni@oc.edu or tag @OCAlumni in a tweet! Email kimberly.reiter@oc.edu to get a Li’l Eagle tee for your newborn or toddler.
2015 Brandon (15) and Lauren (Stafford) Keck, along with siblings Emmitt and Desmond, welcome Aurora “Rory” Ann Keck into their family. She was born on November 24, 2018. Proud grandparents are Brent (09) and Mary (Smith 79) Keck and Barry and Tonda (Schinnerer 79) Stafford.
2004 Pierson Kai Sparks, born June 15, 2017, is sporting his new OC Eagles shirt. The proud parents are David (04) and Chelsea (Staudinger 05) Sparks.
2009 Kevin (09) and Kaitlynn (Vogt 10) Boone are proud to announce the birth of their daughter, Lorelai Boone, born on December 21, 2016.
ffor d) Kec k Bra ndo n and Lau ren (Sta
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A E R I AERIE E A R ARCHIVE CHIVE A BLAST FROM THE PAST
FLASHBACK TO THE 1960s & 1970s 1 2 3 4
Theta Theta Theta founding officers Gamma Rho founding officers Founding members of Gamma Rho 1978-79 Founding members of Theta Theta Theta 1968-69
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WHERE IN THE WORLD IS OC? The next time you take that vacation or mission trip to some famous or exotic location, do this! 1 Take some OC gear. 2 Take your picture with you wearing it. 3 Tell us where you are and what you’re doing.
Charles Baldwin (‘07) was recently in Washington D.C. Picture is near the Reflection Pond in front of the Washington Monument.
Send your photo to alumni@oc.edu and it might appear in the next Vision. We look forward to seeing those pictures!
Incoming freshmen, Mallori McDonald (’22) in her OC gear at Plymouth Rock, Massachusetts.
Matt (‘05) and Lori (Ford ‘03) Bell, along with son, Hunter, 2, are at the Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany.
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Kayl Reiter (’21), Megan McKeever (’22), David Reiter, Kim (Bean ’91) Reiter, Brayden Reiter (’15), Julie (Hudson ’15) Reiter, and Seth Reiter (’16) in Central City, CO.
MASTERS OF PURPOSE MASTER’S DEGREES IN: ACCOUNTANCY BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION THEOLOGY
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Advance your career with an accelerated MAcc, MBA, MSE, MSCS or Graduate Theology Degree designed for you, the working professional. The fast track program allows you to complete your degree in as little as one year! Choose online or onsite for most degree options.
OC.EDU/GRAD
BOX 11000 OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73136-1100 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED Visit www.oc.edu/alumni to update your name, address, email and other information.
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Check out #OCisHome for more warm fuzzies about OC on
TWITTER, INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK @ok_christian Eagles everywhere are celebrating #collegecolorsday Everyone looks good in maroon and gray! #ocproud #alwaysaneagle
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@ok_christian Benson, the only puppy enrolled at OC, makes facetime with President John deSteiguer as he begins on a journey to become a therapy dog! #doglife #studentlife
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@ok_christian THANK YOU, thank you, thank YOU for making Giving Tuesday our best yet! A record number of donors gave a record amount. Students in Chi Lambda Phi won $1,000!
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@treyorndorff Next week these chairs will be filled with incredible individuals. Today I prayed for each of you and for me. Looking forward to an incredible semester with my brand new OC students!
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@mccormack_jeff @okchristian we wrestle with the hard questions. A christian scientist is not an oxymoron. Thank you Dr. Feuerhelm.
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@mallorihope108 I’ve known this forever, but #OCISHOME
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F O L LOW O C O N L I N E AT W W W.O C. E D U/C O N N EC T