ISION OC IS HOME
OC GROWS
www.oc.edu/alumni
THUNDER AND OC MAKE A GOOD TEAM
ONE MILLION DOLLAR GIFT
NAMES BAUGH AUDITORIUM
CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE A DAY OF SHARING OUR BEST
OC IS MISSION
SPRING 2019
FROM THE
PRESIDENT
READ MORE FROM JOHN AT WWW.OC.EDU/PRESIDENT
Dear Alumni and Friends, I hope you are as proud of your alma mater as I am. Spring is the season when our students go to state, national and international competitions, and they consistently place at the top. Right on the heels of gaining recognition for our accomplishments, we celebrate graduation and disperse throughout the world for mission work, internships and new careers. One group is taking our mission impact to a new level. Dean Jeff McCormack, Dean Byron Newberry, Professor Debra Wood, and students Austin Blount, Shannon Fultz and Lynsi Stanley are impacting health in Honduras. They’ve teamed up to solve the problem of inconsistent electrical service in rural areas that historically prevented the refrigerated storage and use of some vaccines. This group of OC engineers and nurses created and deployed solar-powered vaccine fridges. Next year, we believe more than 2,000 people will be treated who wouldn’t have been treated otherwise. OC’s 2019 Ethics Debate Team included students Hadley LaMascus, Brendan McKinley and Ruger Stocking. They finished third in the nation! And, I can tell you, we got robbed in the semi-finals. So, not only are we undefeated in the state of Oklahoma in recent years, and, not only do we dominate regionally, but we have finished in the top three nationally, two of the last four years! We have the finest speaker series of any university I know. History Speaks brings civil rights heroes to campus: Ambassador Andrew Young, Wheeler Parker Junior, Diane
Nash, John Carlos, Tommie Smith, Fred Gray, Claudette Colvin, Carlotta Walls LaNier, and Terrence Roberts. The architect of History Speaks, Gary Jones, also leads a civil rights tour each spring break. Gary, Dr. Charles Rix and Trent Dobbs, took students on a tour of the most significant civil rights sites in our country. It is an experience that changes the students. Our students will be individuals who change the world. We are really proud of Madeline Mahan, a 2011 graduate who was featured in the last issue of Vision. Madeline was just recently named the Oklahoma A+ Schools Teacher of the Year! This award is all about creativity and integrating the arts into curriculum, and Madeline is the best. I want OC to be a lot of things. I want OC to be a place where our students and faculty save lives. I want us to start businesses and employ people and improve lives. I want us to be heroes and make the world better. I want our academic teams to win. I want our athletic teams to win. I want our alums to be the best in their profession. And there is something else I want. I want each of us to inspire others to be their very best. May God bless you as you inspire others,
John deSteiguer President
SPRING 2019
On The Cover: Students celebrate with OKC Thunder mascot, Rumble at the annual Associates Gala.
OC
THUNDER
10 HOME TEAM OPENS DOORS 10 STUDENTS GET PRO SPORTS EXPERIENCE 11 THUNDER LAUNCHPAD FUELS OC STARTUPS 11 THUNDER IN THE CLASSROOM 15 THUNDER AND OC MAKE A GOOD TEAM THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR ASSOCIATES
8 THE BENSON SIT IN
13 K THRU OC
Texas kindergarten teachers at OC graduation
13 COMPLEX DIALOGUES
12 CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE
50 Year Anniversary
Bryan Stevenson at OC
Sharing our best
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Baughs make a name for the auditorium
14 HISTORY SPEAKS
Civil Rights icon Andrew Young on Campus
FOLLOW US ONLINE www.oc.edu/connect #OCisHome
21 GARY SHRECK IS HOME
OC says goodbye to an old friend
VISION STAFF PRESIDENT:
EDITOR:
CHIEF EXTERNAL RELATIONS OFFICER:
CONTRIBUTORS::
John deSteiguer
Kent Allen (79)
CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER: Risa Forrester (96)
Sarah Horton (90)
Alan Phillips (76)
Hayley Bentley (16), Steven Christy (01)
Chris Adair (97), Kim Reiter (91), Murray Evans (89), Zourab Tsopourachvili (19 MBA), Cynthia Knox (19), Mandolin Skipworth (19) and Wes McKinzie (98)
DESIGNERS: CHIEF ALUMNI RELATIONS OFFICER:
PHOTOGRAPHERS:
Jonathan Curtis (03), 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. 2, Spring 2019
© Oklahoma Christian University 2019 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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Lee Allan Smith presents Sam Presti, general manager of the OKC Thunder, with the Spirit of Oklahoma Award. They stand with President deSteiguer and Thunder Assistant Coach Maurice Cheeks. Rumble adjusts Board of Trustees Chairman Mark Brewer’s tie to make sure he’s looking good for the gala. President deSteiguer addresses the Associates Gala crowd, showing off the excellent student work taking place at Oklahoma Christian University. Summer Singers (left to right) Jesse Garner, Loren Pendergrass and Destiny Bentley perform for the Associates Gala guests. The OC Steel Drum Ensemble, directed by Scott Filleman (05), performed outside of the Associates Gala, welcoming guests. Rumble, the beloved OKC Thunder mascot, poses with Bronze Eagle Society member, Edna Butler.
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Nursing graduates (from left to right, back to front) Kelly Furlong, Kayden Carver, Olivia Edwards, Rachel Pehkonen, Erin Kurt and Maegan Becker celebrate after walking the graduation stage. Rick Muncrief, Chair and CEO of WPX Energy, addresses the class of 2019, encouraging students in their future endeavors. Levi Burkett hugs his advisor while receiving his diploma. The OC class of 2019 celebrates their graduation with an OKC Thunder game full of food, Thunder gear and facepaint. OC seniors Samantha Redig, Nijee Cooper and Vanja Hodovic enjoy the perks of the OC Senior Send-off with a meal and an OKC Thunder game. 4
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The donkeys and Shreks of Chi Lambda Phi celebrate their win at Spring Sing 2019. The women of Gamma Rho’s Grinch and Cindy Lou Who show earned them second place among other awards, including best costume. Iota Kappa Phi showed off their love for Scooby Doo through their third place show with the Mystery Gang. As Spring Sing hosts, senior Megan Deister and junior Trent McAlister performed “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” for the crowd between club acts. The men of Kappa Sigma Tau brought the jungle to the stage with their fourth place show, telling the story of Tarzan. Sophomore JD Martin woos the Spring Sing crowd with his rendition of “You Look So Good in Love.” Spring Sing 2019 hosts set the theme for the show with “Seasons of Love,” welcoming the crowd to the show.
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50-YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF THE BENSON SIT IN
A little known civil rights event played out on the campus of then, Oklahoma Christian College March 6, 1969. A group of students united in an effort for their voices to be heard by the administration. That day, 18 students were arrested by Oklahoma City police and suspended from school. Only 35 days until graduation for some of these students, their lives were redirected, and destinies redefined.
Pictured above: Seven members of the group named OC’s 18 are (back row) Michael Baldwin, Donald Wilson, Robert Edison, Ron Wright, (front row) Earl Lewis, Billy Brooks and Pat McCauley Kimbro.
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Then, on March 6, 2019, Oklahoma Christian University reflected on that day 50 years ago. In the 1960s, racial tension charged the atmosphere of the nation. African American students staged protests at universities like Cornell and North Carolina asking for changes in school’s policies. The administration of then Oklahoma Christian College prepared for the possibility of civil rights activism. Policies were adopted that specifically prohibited race related protests. So, when a group of students descended upon the office of the president determined that their voices be heard, they received a five minute warning to disperse before authorities were called. Eighteen
remained to be handcuffed, arrested, jailed and expelled from school. The students took a stand to defend their classmates who had been suspended days earlier for breaking school rules. They believed the punishment to be racially motivated and risked their futures by confronting the injustice. Eighteen of these students suffered the harsh consequences of that decision with a severe educational set-back and loss of direction. Some never finished college, others experienced the serious reduction of non transferable credits but persevered to earn multiple degrees. Most never returned to campus until this event. Seven of the 18 students gathered for an emotional reunion. After decades
A plaque dedicated to OC’s 18 was unveiled in Benson Hall.
of focusing forward to move past that fateful day, reflecting back on memories of that moment, and the days following, caused a lot of feelings to resurface. At last, the administration listened to the group, and the campus community learned first-hand accounts of our history. President deSteiguer listed four takeaways from the experience: people need to talk and we need to listen, what we say and what we do matters, unity not uniformity and people before policy.
Watch interviews from some of OC’s 18 at YouTube.com/oklahomachristian.
Donald Wilson, with Robert Edison, shares memories from March 6, 1969 and how he overcame the expulsion.
OC junior, Elise Miller spoke for the future of OC and committed to a more active pursuit of racial justice.
9 WWW. OC. E D U
HOME TEAM OPENS DOORS Russell Westbrook dribbles past his defender and whips a pass to Paul George coming off a Steven Adams screen … PG13 nails the three-pointer, propelling the Thunder to another big win … The play works, of course, thanks to the All-Star talent of Westbrook and George along with the team’s precision and execution. It also works, in part, because the Thunder’s scouting department saw the opponent’s weakness and equipped the coaches and players to exploit it. One of those behind-the-scenes strategists is OC alumnus Will Chapman (12), advance scout for basketball and team performance for the Thunder. Will just finished his second season with the Thunder after starting his NBA career as an assistant video coordinator for the Houston Rockets. That was preceded by assistant coaching jobs at OC, Southwestern Oklahoma State, and Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. When Will isn’t on the road scouting, you might see him helping Westbrook, George, and other players with drills … or sitting on the bench charged with responsibilities that can impact the game. “Sometimes I feel like I’m in a constant dream,” Will said. “Just to work in the NBA itself is an honor, but to able to be apart of the Thunder organization that has such an excellent reputation around the league is something I don’t take for granted. We all do what we can to stay innovative, transparent, and focused to continue and sustain success toward our goals.” Off the court, OC grad David Jones (92) works as the Thunder’s manager of broadcast and technical operations. He works with the home and visitor broadcast crews and handles logistics associated with national telecasts on ABC, ESPN, and TNT and the regional broadcasts on Fox Sports.
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He also manages various aspects of the Thunder’s arena operations, from hundreds of patch cables in the bowels of the facility to the team’s multimedia production center in the arena rafters. One of David’s fellow OC broadcast alumni, Clinton Corley (10), recently wrapped a 10-year career as a videographer and editor with the Thunder, and the organization has employed a sizable flock of Eagles during its decade-plus in OKC. Joining Will and David on the Thunder’s current staff roster are Micah Fryslie (16) and Malcolm Keys (18). Micah, a graphic designer, and Malcolm, an on-court team attendant, both joined the Thunder organization in 2016.
STUDENTS GET PRO SPORTS EXPERIENCE In addition to the Oklahoma
Christian alumni working for the
Thunder, the team offers numerous
opportunities for OC’s sports business pros in training.
The recently-completed academic
year saw three OC students working
with the Thunder organization. Seniors
Ezra Emerson and Mekko Factor served as ticket sales associates.
“The Thunder have the largest single
impact in Oklahoma of any group or
person. The team fosters this through focusing on building a brand people
want to be a part of and treating all fans with the same high level of respect. In return, people see themselves as part
of the team and have a strong interest
in the Thunder’s success,” Mekko said. “My internship provided me with
a ton of experience on the impact of
intentional teams and I can use all of these lessons in the future.”
Junior Alex Faught, a sports
management major like Mekko,
Malcolm Keys (18) on the right.
“One of my first games, I remember Westbrook dunking on me during warmups and screaming at me as if he just dunked on me during an actual game,” Malcolm said. “The best part about the job is the people I get to see every day – not just the players, but the police officers, security, and other game day staff. The atmosphere is unbelievable every game. It’s something I’ll never forget.” Wes McKinzie (98)
has spent two seasons as an event and entertainment associate for
the Thunder’s G League team, the Oklahoma City Blue.
“Working for the Thunder
organization has been absolutely
incredible. My role has provided me
with valuable experience in the world
of professional sports,” Alex said. “The thrill of game day is beyond any other
feeling in the world. And getting to be as close to the action as anyone is allowed is an experience like none other.”
Wes McKinzie (98)
THUNDER LAUNCHPAD FUELS OC STARTUPS While Oklahoma City Thunder fans root for the team on the basketball court, the organization’s initiative to take care of businesses off the court has benefited four OC-connected startups. The Thunder Launchpad seeks to cultivate, promote and encourage entrepreneurs and Oklahoma’s startup community. In partnership with StitchCrew, Google and MidFirst Bank, the accelerator program is geared toward fostering growth and innovation here at home. OC alumni John Cope (08), Ashley Smith (03) and Tony Weedn (04) were part of the Thunder Launchpad’s inaugural class. John is the co-founder and CEO of Buildaga, a communication app for construction professionals and their clients. Ashley co-founded CrowdSeekr, a real estate investment app. Tony founded BaseConnect, an exclusively military social media platform for fellow troops. The Thunder Launchpad gave Tony connections and knowledge that led to $3.33 million in funding. “Support for BaseConnect from the Thunder Launchpad has been incredible,” Tony said. “Oklahoma investors are still growing accustomed to the startup scene so we could not have done this without the Thunder Launchpad. I cannot say enough good things about the program and the network and culture it’s helping create.” The three-month program, which includes weekly homework as well as
meetings and mentoring sessions at the Thunder Launchpad building in Midtown, culminates with presentations to potential investors on “Demo Day.” The current class of Thunder Launchpad startups includes VisuALS, an affordable eye tracking device that allows people to communicate using only their eyes. VisuALS officially launched two years ago on the heels of its memorable ministry to Carl Phelps, who battled ALS before passing away in September 2017 (See oc.edu/alumni/vision/spring-2017). The OC-incubated company did $120,000 in revenue last year. Director of Eagle Ventures Seth Reiter (16) said he hopes the Thunder Launchpad can help identify new sales and marketing strategies for VisuALS as the startup builds on its initial success. “We’re at the point where we need to take some risks if we want to move forward. The program is giving us a clear idea of what we need to be and what we need to be working on,” Seth said. “In addition to what they teach you about developing your business plan and value proposition, one of the strongest parts of the program is the networking and connections it provides.” Wes McKinzie (98)
THUNDER IN THE CLASSROOM The Oklahoma City Thunder have
become an institution like no other since the NBA team moved from Seattle in 2008.
Thunder senior vice president of
sales and marketing Brian Byrnes has become an institution of his own at
OC, guest speaking on campus every year since the team hit town.
“Shortly after launching business
operations in Oklahoma City in the
summer of 2008, Dr. Burt Smith invited me to speak on campus to the AMA organization. It was one of the first opportunities to share our brand
mission and business methodologies here, and it has become an annual tradition,” Brian said. “Over the
years, I have been fortunate to remain connected to class members as they pursue career paths, often in sports
marketing, and build on key themes we discussed.”
A number of fellow Thunder
staffers have followed Brian’s lead to speak in OC classrooms, including Advance Scout for Basketball and
Team Performance Will Chapman
(12), Account Executive Ryan Hock, Director of Business Intelligence
and Ticket Strategy Karlis Kezbers,
Manager of Broadcast and Technical
Operations David Jones (92), Business Operations Coordinator Kaylan
Lowrie, Group and Season Ticket Sales Manager Mac Maddox, and Director
of Marketing and Brand Management Dawn Turner.
Wes McKinzie (98)
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CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE April 8, was a day for all of campus to share our best. The best of undergraduate research, senior capstone projects, creative endeavors and innovative ideas was on display for the campus community and guests. The first annual Celebration of Excellence was a tremendous success. Celebration is contagious! It encourages a feeling of accomplishment, and it reinforces fulfillment in one’s work. “We fall into the habit of believing the work of our students is normal until we travel to academic competitions and presentations across the country. Then, we are reminded of the results achieved by the expectations set by our faculty. We expect great things and our students deliver on research, papers and projects that win at the national level and are worth sharing with our community,” said Dr. Bill Luttrell, professor of chemistry. Dr. Luttrell co-chaired the Celebration of Excellence planning committee along with Dr. Stephanie Baird, associate dean for academics and registrar. Presentations included undergraduate research, creative projects, performances and poster presentations. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Charles L.
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Branch Jr., professor and chairman of the Department of Neurological Surgery at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. Dr. Branch received his B.A. degree from Oklahoma Christian College and his medical degree from University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. He completed his neurosurgical training at Wake Forest University and a Clinical Fellowship in the Department of Neurological Surgery at the University of California in San Francisco. A renowned international lecturer and writer, Dr. Branch titled his presentation “The Primacy of Excellence in the Christian University.” Following Dr. Branch’s keynote address, the audience segmented by college to learn from alumni speakers. Five unique sessions highlighted the College of Biblical Studies, Business Administration, Engineering and Computer Science, Liberal Arts, and Natural and Health Sciences. Celebration of Excellence 2020 is set for April 6. Alumni are invited to present research and professional work so, get your proposals ready for fall. By Cynthia Knox
ALUMNI SPEAKERS AT COLLEGE BREAKOUT SESSION College of Biblical Studies
DR. DAVID DUNCAN (89) “THE JOY OF SHARING HOPE”
College of Business Administration
MR. KEVIN LAWRENCE (01)
“THE POWER OF A CONFIDENT CHRISTIAN”
College of Engineering & Computer Science
DR. BRANDON HOMBS (00)
“PURSUING EXCELLENCE: ALL MODELS ARE WRONG, BUT SOME ARE USEFUL”
College of Liberal Arts
DR. KRISTINA RIGGS BOOKER (05) College of Natural & Health Sciences
DR. DARISE FARRIS (91)
“FROM OC STUDENT TO PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: A SCIENTIFIC JOURNEY”
K THRU OC
COMPLEX DIALOGUES
TEXAS KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS AT OC GRADUATION
WITH BRYAN STEVENSON
Thank you for always supporting me. I’m graduating college! I’m coming to your graduation.
The response to her text message surprised Karina Aquayo (19). Karina announced her graduation to three teachers who had impacted her life: Maria Garza, Sandra Murillo and Melissa Abilez. The news they were coming to her graduation all the way from Ft. Worth, Texas stunned Karina. Seventeen years earlier, Karina shyly stepped into Ms. Abliez’s kindergarten class at Manual Jara Elementary. The school placed Karina in the English speaking class because of her high scores on the language entrance test. But Karina was only in Ms. Abilez’s class until her mother could go through the proper channels to move her into Ms. Murillo’s bilingual class. Ms. Garza taught Karina’s first grade bilingual class. Rocio Aquayo, little Karina’s mother, insisted on preserving language for her daughter and celebrating their heritage. She succeeded! Karina draped the same stole around her gown that her mother wore when she graduated from Texas Wesleyan University with a degree in Bilingual Education. After the commencement ceremony, elementary teachers and family gathered around salad and pasta at Olive Garden to share memories of Karina’s journey thus far. They talked about how Ms. Garza helped Karina make friends when she was too shy and fearful to join a group. Ms. Murilllo trusted Karina to take the attendance sheet to the principal’s office each morning. Karina remembers playing dolls with Ms. Abliez’s daughters at their two-story house and having lunch. Throughout these years with texts, cards and direct messages, each of the teachers reminded Karina they were praying for her. They encouraged her with affirmation and Bible verses. Ms. Abilez faithfully sent Karina a card with money each month the entire four years she studied at OC. Language and culture continue to occupy a status of high value in Karina’s life. The just-graduated, Interdisciplinary Studies OC alum hopes to incorporate her language and culture with her career. She is currently applying for jobs in Oklahoma City and planning her wedding with fiance Ross Young (18), an engineering graduate.
OC welcomed Bryan Stevenson to speak about the state and national epidemic of incarceration. In 2010, OC held the first ever Complex Dialogues, a discussion about the high rate of incarcerated women in Oklahoma, and, since then, leaders from across the state joined in raising awareness by revisiting the conversation of incarceration and injustice. Stevenson is the founder and executive director of the Equal Justice Initiative in Montgomery, Alabama. EJI commits to changing and challenging injustice for the marginalized and impoverished to protect their fundamental human rights. Stevenson earned release for 125 prisoners on death row. He also won a U.S. Supreme Court case, ruling that mandatory life without parole sentences for all children 17 or younger are unconstitutional. Baugh Auditorium filled to capacity, and some watched a live stream from overflow seating, as Stevenson inspired the audience to seek solutions. He proposed that the institutional issues of incarceration nationally and within Oklahoma can be impacted by personal proximity. Stevenson encouraged everyone in attendance to close the gap between ourselves and the marginalized, to get close enough to touch, listen and understand. Stevenson’s passion for educating others about incarceration led him to write the New York Times best-seller, Just Mercy. His book travels through his experience as a young lawyer seeking racial justice, telling some of the stories of the individuals he represented. In January, OC students, faculty, and staff had the opportunity to receive a free copy of Just Mercy. By Cynthia Knox
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ANDREW YOUNG - DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.’S INNER CIRCLE, AMBASSADOR, CONGRESSMAN, MAYOR OF ATLANTA AND PREACHER Ambassador Andrew Young delivered messages of unity, love and understanding to a filled Baugh Auditorium and two overflow rooms during the sixth annual History Speaks event on February 4. Young demonstrated his skilled diplomacy when he bonded with President John deSteiguer over a love for small colleges. Then he related with Mayor David Holt in leading large cities when presented with a key to Oklahoma City. Young encouraged the same relationship building from his audience by emphasizing that we have many things in common in spite of the differences in the shade of our skin. Assistant Dean of Students Gary Jones shared the stage with Young, asking questions and facilitating student inquiries. Young was a great storyteller who needed little prompting. His
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involvement in civil rights began in 1956, with voter registration drives at two small churches where he pastored. He went home one day and soon saw 200 Klansmen on the road. Young said to his wife, “If the Klan comes here I will talk with them, but I want you to sit in the window with the rifle.” She refused and reminded him that he was a preacher and he needed to remember that under each sheet was a child of God. Young’s wife pushed him to think. To avoid doing anything violent in the face of physical assaults and racial slurs required thinking. He encouraged those present to think through their actions, carefully choose the battles against injustice, listen with empathy and practice forgiveness. One of the last living members of King’s inner circle, Young shared his first-hand account of civil rights
activism, leading alongside King and impacting race and cultural relations. Young led the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) as executive director, endured multiple beatings and arrests and was the last person to speak to King just before he was killed. Thank you to Jim Maple (71) and wife Sarah for sponsoring History Speaks and Jones’ efforts to bring to our campus leaders like Wheeler Parker Jr., Diane Nash and John Carlos with Tommie Smith.
View John deSteiguer’s interview with Young and other History Speaks guests at YouTube.com/oklahomachristian.
THUNDER AND OC MAKE A GOOD TEAM THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR ASSOCIATES! Once each year, we invite Associates, general scholarship donors who have given $1,000 or more, to a special evening to say, “Thank you,” for supporting our mission and ministry. The 16th Annual Associates Gala hosted at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum was a showcase of student talent. More than 700 guests entered to the happy, tropical sounds of the steel drum band, tapped their toes to cover songs from the Summer Singers and Cabaret and dined to the rhythm of Jazz Ensemble. The evening’s honored guests were the Oklahoma City Thunder organization. General Manager Sam Presti, Assistant Coach Mo Cheeks, Thunder mascot Rumble the Bison and OC alumni employed as a part of the Thunder family were on hand to receive the Lee Allan Smith Spirit of Oklahoma award on behalf of the NBA organization. “We could think of no better recipient of this deeply rooted Oklahoma honor than the Thunder. Realizing the impact of this team on our city and our state makes it easy for Oklahomans to be committed fans no matter what the scoreboard says. We truly love the Thunder,” said university President John deSteiguer.
Presti and Cheeks joined deSteiguer on stage for an informal and entertaining interview. Of course deSteiguer asked about Russell Westbrook’s record setting, 20-20-20 game against the Lakers. “We are blessed to have Russell Westbrook and be able to watch him. I don’t want to ever take that for granted,” said Presti. “Russ does a great job knowing it’s a team. In order to get an assist, someone has to make a shot. Russ always remembers that. He made history. Great events like that, you’ll always remember where you were when it happened and who you were with. Memories are a very special thing.” When deSteiguer asked Presti to share his favorite memory, Presti told about the rough start with a young team. They finally began to come together and win a couple of games. Late after a home game when the Thunder bested the Knicks, Presti encountered an usher who was exceedingly happy. Presti asked why and he responded, “Are you kidding me? We just beat the Big Apple!” The exchange opened Presti’s eyes to the impact of the Thunder is bigger than the team, bigger than the sport. The national perspective brought to the NBA’s second smallest market is profound in pride, economic impact and jobs.
Lee Allan Smith presented the Spirit of Oklahoma award to a great family, naming the Thunder a true family organization. Presti received the award on behalf of the team. “Thank you for allowing us to represent Oklahoma City. It is an honor. On a night we are celebrating student accomplishment, it’s easy to see that youth is really where we see the spirit of the state. I encourage you to take the time to mentor. Take the time to listen. Take the time to understand and meet young people where they are at,” said Presti. This came on the heels of Presti highlighting the way the players invest in youth. They give their time not only as a team but also through individual foundations and initiatives. The evening came to a close with OC change-makers joining deSteiguer on stage. deSteiguer shared the stories of high-impact individual students, faculty and staff who inspire others because of their success, perseverance, passion and accomplishments.
Watch video from Associates Gala 2019 at YouTube.com/oklahomachristian.
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INTRODUCING THE NEW OC BRAND:
THE WORLD AWAITS YOUR STORY
The World Awaits Your Story... Here’s a sneak peak at our new brand that launches this fall. You will see OC.edu, social media and your next issue of Vision magazine transition into a new look boldly stating who we are and what we stand for. Our new tagline is anchored in narrative. And if you know me, you know I love a great story. I love to hear them. I love to tell them. And I’m thrilled our new brand provides an improved way to tell the stories of our many incredible individuals. Our faculty, students, and alumni consistently produce the kind of excellent academic outcomes that make much bigger institutions envious. I can’t wait to tell those stories with the enhancements of our new look and messaging. Behind great University stories are the details, principles, and people that make brands come alive. And so, I wholeheartedly endorse the new OC brand. The world is indeed waiting for the powerful, mission driven narrative of OC’s Christ followers. Join me in shouting those stories from the rooftops! May God bless you and yours,
John deSteiguer, President
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OC IS HOME TO: UNCOMMON STORIES AMBITIOUS PROGRESS COMPLEX DIALOGUE
OC.EDU
EXTRAORDINARY CALLINGS
“BAUGHDITORIUM” AUDITORIUM GETS NEW NAME
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For the third time in six years, Oklahoma Christian University is the beneficiary of a seven-figure gift from Houston-based couple Benton and Paula Baugh. In recognition of the Baughs’ $1 million unrestricted gift, university leadership named the institution’s main auditorium (formerly Hardeman) after the family. The OC community celebrated the Baugh family in the newly named Baugh Auditorium that students cleverly shortened to Baughditorium. “We are thrilled to again support Oklahoma Christian University,” Benton Baugh said. “OC is a place we love and a place we have come to think of as home. We are especially honored that university leadership chose to recognize the gift in the naming of such an important community space on campus - a space where students worship, connect and grow.” The Baughs gave $1.7 million in 2013 to endow a preaching chair in OC’s College of Biblical Studies and $1 million in 2014 to serve as startup capital for the College of Engineering and Computer Science. Thousands of dollars funded by the Baugh family are also awarded each year to middle and high school students
competing in OC’s annual Baugh Wind Energy Design Competition. Almost $200,000 in donations also funded the Baugh Motion Capture Studio enjoyed by OC’s Gaming and Animation students. “Benton and Paula Baugh have blessed Oklahoma Christian University with their resources, time and talent over and over again,” OC President John deSteiguer said. “This special family has a heart for students, for unity, and for evangelism. So it is especially fitting that the university’s most lively community space will carry their name.” An engineer and inventor, Benton has 50 years of experience in oil field and sub-sea systems. He holds more than 100 patents and founded Radoil, Inc. in 1980. Paula served as vice president at Radoil for 17 years. Active members at Memorial Church of Christ in Houston, Texas, the Baughs were introduced to OC by alum, preaching minister and vice chair of our Board of Trustees, David Duncan (88). The Baughs devote themselves to leading unity efforts among Houston churches of diverse backgrounds, helping develop the Spring Branch Iglesia de Cristo, teaching through World Bible School and Impact Houston. The Baughs have two grandchildren who are current OC students.
AT
OC HOMECOMING NOV. 1-2, 2019
SAVE THE DATE! Join us for this production and more family fun at Homecoming 2019! See a full schedule and ticket information online.
oc.edu/homecoming
EAGLES F LY A B O V E N AT I O N A L AVERAGE OUT OF
YEARS! HIGHER ALUMNI PA RT I C I PAT I O N R A I S E S:
HOMEWARD Alumni giving has been trending down at colleges & universities nationwide, but trends have yet to contain us! OC alumni givers have beat the national average for six of the past seven years! Our story is impossible without alumni like you. Need proof? When you give ANY AMOUNT your love for your Alma Mater shows. Your participation ups OC’s alumni participation stats which raise our rankings as a University - because schools with alumni support are better schools. We don’t want your money. Well, we do, but what we really want is your heart. Any amount, from one dollar to one million, sets OC up to be better tomorrow than we are today.
GIVE NOW!
OC.EDU/HOMEWARD
HELP US SOAR TO OUR ALUMNI GIVER GOALS:
12% 15% % of OC Alumni R A N K I N G | U.S. News & World Report D E G R E E V A L U E | We soar together G R A N T M O N E Y | Giving ups giving & STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES!
1,610
CURRENT
1,950
#GOALS
Individual Alumni Givers
GARY SHRECK IS HOME Heaven welcomed Dr. Gary Shreck (62) home March 24, after using him to help transform lives on our campus. Dr. Shreck’s far reaching impact included building the teacher education program, leading mission trips into communist Yugoslavia and Hungary, sponsoring Delta Gamma Sigma and leading the Vienna Studies Program. Dr. Shreck retired from OC as a Master Teacher after instructing here for 36 years, but he never stopped teaching from the word of God. The Bible was his favorite textbook. Enduring multiple encounters with cancer, stroke and illness, Dr. Shreck praised God through it all. He believed everything happened exactly as it should and that he was better off because of each challenge. A long-time faculty sponsor for Delta Gamma Sigma, hundreds of young men embraced Dr. Shreck as a mentor. The club’s motto, strength through unity, dependability and pride, was lived out by Dr. Shreck, and he encouraged the same. David (94) and Shanna (Corley 92) Byrnes met while on an Eastern European campaign led by Shreck in 1993. The life-shaping experience illustrated loving others and serving sacrificially. Dr. Shreck demonstrated how to be blessed by blessing others. “You could never count the number of lives that Gary You could never count the touched or how many people number of lives that Gary have been exposed to the love touched or how many people of Christ through those that he led, taught and mentored,” said have been exposed to the love of Shanna. Christ through those that he led That impact is multiplied by and taught and mentored. mission trips led by the Byrnes and so many others first exposed Shanna Byrnes to missions with Dr. Shreck. Known for his giant capacity for love and limitless laughter, Dr. Shreck leaves behind wife and professor Paulette (75), children Brett (92), Garrick (94) and Tiffany Smith (98) and 12 grandchildren. His work and legacy will continue for generations.
D E LTA BOASTS HOMEWARD PRIDE Delta Gamma Sigma took first place in the Homeward Pride competition. Annually, social clubs choose a passion project and encourage their alumni to donate. Clubs on campus get to reach out and reconnect with their alumni, and increasing the percentage of alumni who support the university bumps up our ranking in “US News & World Report.” Delta’s passion project is student scholarships. Money donated by alumni supporting Delta is deposited into the Delta Scholarship Fund. By encouraging the highest percentage of alumni participation at 40 percent, Delta won the title and a $1,000 check for the club. Psi Epsilon secured a second place finish with 32 percent participation and funds benefiting the Psi Samurai Scholarship. Chi Lambda Phi came in a close third with 31 percent contributing to the Adam Langford Scholarship.
OC.EDU/HOMEWARD
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SPORTS NEWS KEEP UP WITH OC SPORTS AT WWW.OCEAGLES.COM
A.J. HINCH SPEAKS DURING OC’S ANNUAL BASEBALL BANQUET Houston Astros manager A.J. Hinch, who guided his team to the 2017 World Series title after an honor-filled playing career, spoke at the Eagles’ annual preseason banquet at the Gaylord University Center. Hinch’s nephew, Garrett Wages, is a senior infielder for OC. Hinch talked about principles of baseball success, which he summarized in three key points. Believe it before you see it, prepare like you’ve never prepared before and play each game like an elimination game. “If you can do those three things, you’ll be the best version of yourself as a team,” said Hinch. Hinch told stories about how the Astros came from a moribund losing team into a franchise that has ranked among the best in Major League Baseball. He spoke about the emotional run to the World Series in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, which devastated the Houston area that August. Hinch also talked about coming home to Oklahoma, where he first made a name for himself as The Oklahoman’s State Prep Player of the Year and the Gatorade Circle of Champions National Player of the Year in 1992.
McGuinness, Deer Creek, Mustang, Putnam City West and Southwest Covenant.
LADY EAGLES SOFTBALL TEAM WINS CONFERENCE Eagles took their first Heartland Conference Championship
tournament title with a 4-3 win over Lubbock Christian. OC loaded the bases in the bottom of the seventh before Bridget White scampered home on a wild pitch with the decisive run. On to the DII South Central Regional where Lady Eagles were bottom seed, but proved they belong in the discussion of top teams in the region by taking down two top-15 teams in stunning fashion. “It was a great day for us,” said Coach Shanon Hays. “Our girls really battled. Everybody in our lineup did something well today. We’re grateful for the opportunity.” OC fell in the regional championship round against No. 3-ranked Texas A&M-Kingsville.
OC ADDS CHEER AND STUNT AS NEW SPORT Competitive cheer will be offered as an intercollegiate club sport beginning with the 2019-20 academic year. Plans also call for stunt – a fast-growing sport in colleges and high schools – to be added in 2020-21. Susan Jones, academic coach in our Student Success office, will coach both programs, which will offer scholarships. “We are excited to add cheer back to our athletic department,” Athletic Director David Lynn said. “I couldn’t be more pleased to find such an enthusiastic and talented coach as Susan Jones. Her experience and love for cheer is evident, and I know she will do great things with our program.” Jones, a Clinton native, cheered at Oklahoma State, became a private cheer coach in 1984 and worked with cheer squads at Oklahoma City Susan Jones, academic coach and new cheer and stunt University and Langston as well as coach. at high schools including Bishop
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Eagles Softball Team after Heartland Conference Win
EAGLES DRIVE TO TOP RANKING Fresh off a Heartland Conference championship, OC’s men’s golf team edged past St. Mary’s (Texas) into the No. 1 spot in the NCAA Division II regional rankings. The Heartland title earned the Eagles an automatic spot in the Division II South CentralWest Super Regional, where the Eagles season ended. Coach David Lynn was named the Heartland Conference Coach of the Year. OC did not finished outside the top five in any tournament this season in which its usual starting lineup – Andres Brictson,
OC’s men’s golf team celebrates after winning the Heartland title. From left are head coach David Lynn, Trevor Norby, Cameron Brown, Garrett White, medalist Andres Brictson, Juan Pallach and graduate assistant coach Casey Rebmann.
Cameron Brown, Trevor Norby, Juan Pallach and Garrett White played. Brictson and Norby each won individual tournaments. The Eagles won five tournaments – the Missouri Southern Fall Invitational at Shangri-La Golf Club at Monkey Island, The Territory Classic at The Territory Golf Club in Duncan, the Fujikura Invitational at Shadowridge Golf Club in Vista, Calif., the St. Edward’s Invitational at Onion Creek Club’s North Course in Austin, Texas, and the Heartland Championship at Slick Rock Golf Course in Horseshoe Bay, Texas. Congratulations to the Eagles golf team on a winning season!
WHEELER IN CHARGE OF BUILDING VOLLEYBALL PROGRAM Barry Wheeler, formerly women’s volleyball coach at Crowley’s Ridge (Ark.), was named as OC’s new coach, charged with reviving a program that was dropped in 1983. Wheeler helped build successful programs at both Crowley’s Ridge and Rochester (Mich.) – formerly known as Michigan Christian College. He spent 12 seasons at Barry Wheeler, OC head Rochester, guiding that program volleyball coach. to a pair of national titles in what now is known as the United States Collegiate Athletic Association. He then was a successful prep coach for 14 seasons in Missouri and Arkansas, winning a Missouri Class 2 state title in 2007 at Stockton High School. At OC, he will be building a program that will resume competition with the 2020 season, by which time OC will be a member of the Lone Star Conference. Contact Wheeler at barry. wheeler@oc.edu.
CLIFT DRIBBLES INTO RECORD BOOKS The 5-foot-7 senior guard from Kiowa, Okla., Addy Clift is the first OC player to make all three Division II All-America lists in a single season. She’s also only the fourth player in Heartland Conference history to make all three major All-America lists in a season. Clift led Division II in scoring this season, averaging 26.4 points per game – a total that also set OC and Heartland singleseason records. She shattered the Heartland career, season and single-game scoring records this season while becoming OC’s highest-scoring guard ever, with 2,104 career points. She finished fifth on the overall program scoring list. Heartland named Clift Player of the Year, she received AllHeartland honors for three consecutive seasons, then made the D2CCA All-South Central Region first-team list. Clift received the Heartland’s Player-of-the-Week award four times this season and nine times in her career. She was named as the U.S. Basketball Writers Association Division II Player of the week.
Addy Clift pushes defenders onto their heels for a record setting senior season.
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NEWS KEEP UP WITH YOUR ALMA MATER AT WWW.OC.EDU/NEWS
CONCERT IN THE FORUM The progressive bluegrass band The Arcadian Wild made its Oklahoma City debut April 12 at Oklahoma Christian University. Based out of Nashville, Tennessee, the folk band formed in the fall of 2013. Former Lipscomb University choir students Isaac Horn, Lincoln Mick and Paige Park decided to have a jam session after class, which led them to form the band. The Arcadian Wild produced their first album in 2015 and their second just released. OC sophomore Tucker Fuller opened for the trio singing his original work as well as a few covers.
Spring Break Cruise at the invitation of Royal Caribbean. The students were a headline act performing while visiting Honduras, Puerto Costa Maya and Cozumel. More than 100 alumni and OC family members enjoyed the fun filled week.
ANNUAL PSYCHOLOGY CONFERENCE OC’s Psi Chi chapter of the Oklahoma Psychological Society hosted the 37th annual conference on April 19. Senior Psychology students presented their research to professionals from across the state to receive feedback on their work. “This conference gives students experience in presenting the results of their studies,” said Psychology Professor Ryan Newell. “That’s our goal: to promote undergraduate research in psychological sciences.” Nearly 80 students presented, while UCLA’s Dr. Kerri L. Johnson filled the keynote slot with her presentation entitled “Can You Judge a Book by its Cover? Insights from Social Vision Research.”
The Arcadian Wild
OC STUDENTS TAKE THE STAGE STEINWAY HALL AND CARNIVAL CRUISE OC Friend of Music, Mo Anderson sponsored student performances at Steinway Hall in April. Music Department leaders considered this a wonderful opportunity to showcase OC’s program and students. While in NYC, students attended an area alumni reception, toured the Steinway factory, saw “Come From Away” on Broadway and explored the city. OC’s Cabaret cast and Jazz Band performed on the Alumni
Cabaret performers headlined on the Liberty of the Seas cruise liner.
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Caroline Hose and Victoria (Mullins) Lingo present at the psychology conference.
TEAM TRUSS THE PROCESS FINISHES IN TOP 10
OC HOSTED NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED CHEMIST
A team of engineering students placed third in flying among U.S. schools behind the universities of Michigan and Vermont, top aero design schools. Imagine how well we would have done if we had an aerospace engineering degree program! Truss the Process competed at the Society of Automotive Engineering Aero Design East competition in Dallas, Texas, against 82 teams from nine countries. “After struggling through the loss of three aircraft, the team solved a tough problem,” said Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering Bradley Buxton. “They persevered and finished building the aircraft in the early morning hours of the day we left for competition.” This is the third year in a row that our Aero Design team has placed in the top ten.
OC’s chapter of Alpha Chi, a nationally-recognized student honor society, hosted Donna Nelson, professor of chemistry at the University of Oklahoma, a nationally recognized researcher on organic chemistry and the former president of the American Chemical Society, at their annual lecture March 25. Each year, the president of Alpha Chi hosts a lecture focusing on the area of study in which the chapter’s president is majoring. OC’s chapter of Alpha Chi Honor Society accepts junior and senior members who represent the top 10 percent of their class, typically a minimum 3.9 GPA. Past speakers for the Alpha Chi lecture include Jim Gash, director of the Global Justice Program at Pepperdine University, and Don Bentz, who worked for United Nations.
HARMONY UNITES SISTER CAMPUSES OC’s Student Government Association planned and produced Harmony, an event that unified Church of Christ sister schools for a SpringSing|SingSong|Songfest|MasterFollies mash up. Hosts from Lubbock, Pepperdine, Abilene, Lipscomb, Ohio Valley, Freed ... traveled to OKC to represent their school and showed a video of the winning musical show from their home campus. Tickets to Judd Theater quickly sold out and more than 350 people cheered on their alma mater via live stream.
Team members Burgon Peterson, Joshua Nelson, Tristan Minor, Ben Bray, Peter Miller, Christian Stewart and Sean Kneuper.
SOCIAL MEDIA COMMAND CENTER LAUNCHES Generous donations to the university funded a Social Media Command Center in the Department of Communication. Eagle PR was remodeled and social media analytics tracking software was installed. Eagle PR, the award-winning, student-run PR firm on campus, works with real clients and competes in national campaigns. “It will serve as a place to complement class work as social media grows every year,” Assistant Professor of Communication Josh Watson said. “As traditional media get used less, students can be educated on how to run and evaluate social campaigns, especially analytics.” On nights such as elections and the Super Bowl, this space will have the capacity to host watch parties for viewing and tracking trends and topics. Oklahoma Christian is one of the first private Christian schools to have a social media command center. Learn more about Eagle PR at www.EaglePR.org.
Hosts rehearse and ACU took home this year’s top prize..
ENTREPRENEUR TEAM TOP FINISHER AGAIN An OC multidisciplinary team earned a top spot for the third year in a row in a state-wide competition. The team named Project Eden, placed 2nd in the Love’s Entrepreneur’s Cup small business division with the concept of creating a sustainable food source for local restaurants. These students represent the best the university has to offer and consistently prove that the quality of their learning and leadership stacks up well compared with every other school in Oklahoma. In addition to developing detailed plans to launch a business, individuals on the team learned to work together in trust, receive constructive criticism and even ask for help. The Love’s Cup annual competition has proven to be a beneficial avenue for OC students to network with professionals and build confidence in themselves.
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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. There are only a few rooms left. For more info on upcoming trips, contact us at alumni@oc.edu or 405.425.5110. See oc.edu/alumnitours.
HOMECOMING
Make plans to attend Homecoming! It is 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. Reunions are for 2000’s decade and the Class of 1969. This year’s musical will be The Little Mermaid.
SENIOR SEND-OFF
The Alumni Office sponsors activities and events for graduating students soon transitioning into OC’s alumni ranks. We hope new graduates become OC alumni with a strong sense of belonging to the Oklahoma Christian family. Activities funded by Alumni Relations includes 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 Send-off.”
EAGLE EXCERPTS Subscribe to Eagle Excerpts, our monthly email newsletter, for recent stories and upcoming events. It’s a great way to keep up with what’s happening at your alma mater and among fellow alumni. Send a request to alumni@oc.edu.
NATIONAL ALUMNI COUNCIL This select group of alumni serve three-year terms as ambassadors and representatives of OC’s alumni base. They meet as a council twice each year and are active advocates in student recruiting, graduate employment, and financial partnership. 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. Some cities host recruiting/alumni gatherings in alumni homes (Road Shows), summer send-offs 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 SEND-OFF, SPRING 2019
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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Lewis (63) and Linda (Todd 63) Armstrong published a cookbook together entitled Todd Family and Friends Cookbook. Lewis also wrote his autobiography entitled Oklahoma Boy on the bumpy Road of Life, which includes his marriage to Linda for over 55 years. Both books are available on Amazon.
Aaron (97) and Jeanine (Barnes) Sayles, II were married on November 11, 2018 in Newport News, Virginia. They now live in Carrolton, VA.
Trevor and Eryen (Byrd 08) Nelson are happy to announce the birth of Hal Lewis Nelson born on May 3, 2018.
Jared (12) and Danica (Marcotte 12) Ward proudly announce the birth of Noah Alan Ward, born on May 7, 2018.
Trevo r and Eryen (Byrd ) Nelso n
Aaron and Jeanine (Barnes) Sayles
2010 David (10) and Meagan (Martin 10) Bowden welcomed Ezra Martin Bowden on July 16, 2018.
2003
Winona (Fitz 68) Maxon recently wrote and published her book “Water in the Word: A Daily Bible Reading and Activity Workbook�. The workbook is for preteens and teens to nourish their faith in God and become lifelong Christians. David and Winona reside in Lincoln, NE.
David and Meagan (Martin) Bowden
Syd nee Elai ne Sym es
1976 Martha (Denton 76) Elford is featured in the Fulbright Finland News Magazine. See it at: https://bit.ly/2GcCyxR.
2013 Todd (13) and Rachel (Kurt 15) Williams were excited to welcome Daucie Ann Williams, born November 7, 2018.
Clay and Tara (Lytton 03) Symes, along with big brother, Trevor, age 2, would like to announce the birth of their daughter, Sydnee Elaine, born December 31, 2018.
1968
Jared and Danica (Marcotte) Ward
2005 Andy and Whitney (Edwards 05) Hershey were married November 17, 2018. They reside in Lubbock Texas where they are both teachers.
Michael Belt and Lara Killingsworlth (10) are excited to announce the birth of their daughter, Blakely Sawyer Belt born March 25, 2018.
2012
Todd and Rach el (Kurt) Willia ms
Caleb (13) and Mackenna (Jones 15) King are excited to present their daughter, Lydia King, born September 9, 2018.
Congratulations to Nathan (10) and Brittany (Simmons 11) Tholen who welcomed Soren Michael on September 7, 2017.
Magaz ine feature on Martha Elford
Andy and Whitney (Edwards) Hershey
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Nath an and Britta ny (Simm ons) Thole n
Caleb and Mack enna (Jone s) King
CONDOLENCES KEEP UP WITH MILESTONES ONLINE AT WWW.OC.EDU/ALUMNI
VERNON MERCER (1941-2018)
Ralph Chain
RALPH CHAIN
Honorary Alumnus/Trustee
Ralph served as a Trustee at OC for over forty years and was honored along with his wife, Darla, as an Honorary Alumnus at Homecoming in November. Ralph passed away on December 8. Please keep the Chain family in your prayers. Ralph will be dearly missed.
Vernon was a member of the church of Christ from his early youth, teaching Bible classes, leading singing, overseeing building maintenance and upkeep, and supporting mission of congregations in the Oklahoma and Texas Panhandles. He attended Oklahoma Christian College 19611963 until drafted into the Army Medical Corps. Vernon followed the family tradition as a farmer and cattleman recognized for outstanding soil conservation practices and serving on agricultural committees. He served on the local school board and boards of numerous others community service organizations. He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley, and is survived by their son, John (09) and two sisters, Carol (Mercer) Scott and Dorothy Mercer.
Gary Shre ck (62)
DR. GARY SHRECK Dr. Gary Shreck passed away Sunday, March 24th. He will be forever remembered as a Master Teacher at Oklahoma Christian. Dr. Shreck’s memorial service was at the Memorial Road Church of Christ. Please keep Paulette (Patten 75) Shreck, Brett (92), Garrick (94), Tiffany (Shreck 98) Smith, and their families in your prayers. See more on page 21.
LIL’ EAGLES We want to see your Lil’ Eagles! Send your photos to alumni@oc.edu or tag @OCAlumni in a tweet! Email kimberly.reiter@oc.edu to get a Lil’ Eagle tee for your newborn or toddler.
2007
2009
Will (07) and Amy (Pierce 09) Blanchard were excited to welcome Charlotte Blanchard born on April 15, 2018, joining brother, Lincoln (3) and sister, Penny (5)
David (09) and Lannea (Blackerby 09) Pemberton, along with son, James, welcomed Amelia Rose Pemberton to their family on June 25, 2017.
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A E R I AERIE E A R ARCHIVE CHIVE A BLAST FROM THE PAST
FLASHBACK TO THE 1960S, 1970s & 1980s 1 The class of 1968 2 The hooding of graduates is a meaningful part of the commencement ceremony. 3 Dr. Gary Shreck and Dr. Lois Exendine in a department meeting 4-6 The tradition of Spring Sing is a perennial favorite and remains the source of a well of alumni memories.
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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!
Neal (78) and Lita (Smith 78) Blevins are at the Church of St. Catherine, Bethlehem, Israel on a Holy Land Tour on January 1, 2019.
1 Take some OC gear. 2 Take your picture with you wearing it. 3 Tell us where you are and what you’re doing. Send your photo to alumni@oc.edu and it might appear in the next Vision. We look forward to seeing those pictures!
Tim (90) and Laura (Young 90) Welch participated in the 1989 Vienna Studies Program. On their 30th wedding anniversary, they went back to Austria. Here is Laura Welch on Mt. Untersberg (outside Salzburg).
Tom (64) and Helen (Howell 66) Norris in Bangkok, Thailand on a short term mission trip teaching English.
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Luke Swanson (17) in Estes Park, CO. OC takes CO!
MASTERS OF PURPOSE MASTER’S DEGREES IN: ACCOUNTANCY BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION THEOLOGY
ENGINEERING COMPUTER SCIENCE CYBERSECURITY
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
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TWITTER, INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK 1
@JdeSteiguer Honored to see OC Volleyball’s 1st signee, Cloie Mitchell, at today’s OC Baseball game! Go Eagles! #OCisHome for great student athletes!
2 @Karinarocioagua I’m a published author y’all!!! Thanks to @OCsoundings for being my publisher of my Spanish Haikus. #haikudaily #ocishome #writinglife 3 @bobbyross After 50 years, an apology: Oklahoma Christian University asks for forgiveness from former students, arrested and expelled on racially tinged charges, by @eriktryggestad @okchristian Bryan Stevenson of @eji_org says the solution to our criminal justice crisis is proximity and changing the narrative. #OCisHome to Complex Dialogues
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@HaiileyCobble This morning Joey looks at me and says “bye ha ha”. I asked where he was going.. he tells me “see pops an guys at ball field”. #OCishome
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@kay_mckinnon Extremely excited and honored to announce my commitment to swim and study at Oklahoma Christian University! Huge thank you to my family, coaches, and friends. #OCishome #goeagles @WesMcKinzie Third place (tied with Clemson) at the National Ethics Bowl for Oklahoma Christian University! It’s been a blast and a blessing to do this trip with such amazing and talented students! #smartswithheart #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
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