Connection: Volume 5, Number 2

A Publication of Connors State College

V O L U M E

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N U M B E R

LT. GOV. LAMB VISITS CONNORS

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C O N N O R S S TAT E C O L L E G E WARNER CAMPUS 700 College Road Warner, OK 74469

Inside this issue V O L U M E

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M US K OGE E WEST CAMPUS 2404 W Shawnee Ave Muskogee, OK 74401 T HR E E R IV E R S PORT CAMPUS 2501 N 41st St E Muskogee, OK 74403

A D M I N I S T R AT I O N PRESID ENT Dr. Tim Faltyn S E N IOR V IC E PRESID ENT FOR ACADEMIC & STUDENT AFFAIRS Dr. Ron Ramming V IC E PRESID ENT FOR FISCAL SERVICES Mike Lewis

CONNECTION LA YOUT & D ESIGN Stacy Pearce CONT RIBUT ORS Cindy Anderson Morgan Anderson Dr. Ryan Blanton Wayne Bunch Von Castor Jonathan Dallis Ami Maddocks Stacy Pearce Jennifer Rose Allison Tarvin Lindsey Taylor Lisa Wade

3 COMMUNITY 5 C O W B OY FA M I LY 9 AT H L E T I C S 11 E D U C AT I O N 16 C A M P U S L I F E 17 F E AT U R E

D evel opm ent Foundat ion R eac hes $1 M illion • E nrollm ent U p at CS C Lt . G ov. Lam b V is i t s C S C S eni or D ay • C ham ber Award Black Histor y Month • Community Garden

M eet M c C lurg, G rady, B err y and S t or t s Hopes High for Nationals • Softball Nabs Top Transfer • Baseball Ranked • Opening Day Bash • Alumni Reunion • Basketball Wins Conference • Judging Team Highlights

G at es M i llennium S c holars

A ggi e C oronat ion & H om ec om i ng S t udent U nion O pens W here’s C onnors ?

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Media

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Connors State College, in compliance with Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other federal laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, financial aid, and educational services. This publication was printed and issued by Connors State College as authorized by the Director of College and Community Relations. The information given herein is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names is made with the understanding that no discrimination or endorsement is intended by Connors State College.

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feature

Connors Development Foundation’s Endowment Reaches $1 Million

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he Connors State College Development Foundation reached a new milestone in December, increasing endowed scholarship holdings to over $1.16 million.

Endowed scholarship funds provide a permanent source of scholarship revenue to CSC students by investing the funds and utilizing part of the interest for scholarships, and reinvesting the remaining interest to further grow the fund. The Foundation has seen significant growth in the last four years, increasing endowed funds by 121 percent.

“A large part of that growth was the sale of the Haskell Building,” said Dr. Ryan Blanton, Associate Vice President for External Affairs and Executive Director of the Foundation. “We were able to direct the proceeds of that sale to an endowment that provides a permanent scholarship resource to our students.”

The endowment makes up part of the President’s Book Scholarship, which now totals more than $429,000.

“The President’s Book Scholarship is a game-changer for a college like CSC,” said Dr. Tim Faltyn, CSC President. “A large scholarship fund that attracts donors from all around the community allows us more opportunity to reduce the financial roadblocks our students face in purchasing textbooks.”

The Foundation has been extremely successful is raising other assets as well, recently reaching more than $2 million in total assets. One program, the Muskogee Difference Healthcare Scholarship, provides $100,000 a year in nursing and allied health scholarships. Another donor, Mr. Ken Ogdon, has provided $300,000 to transform portions of Russell Hall into a museum.

“The athletic, rodeo and equine, and livestock judging programs have done an amazing job in raising funds for their programs and developing their own scholarships,” said Blanton. “It is a team effort, and our hard work is paying big dividends for our

students.”

“Giving our alumni, faculty, staff, and community supporters a vision of CSC’s future and a way they can be part of our growth is why we have been so successful,” said Faltyn. “We have a great legacy to build on, and a great vision of where we are headed.”

Asset Growth Graph: Connors Development Foundation has experienced unprecedented growth since 2011. Today, the Foundation holds more than $1.9 million in assets, a 125% increase over 2011.

Endowment Growth Graph: The Connors Development Foundation holds more than $1.16 million in endowed scholarship funds, a 121 percent increase over 2011.

For academic year 2013-2014, Connors Development Foundation awarded $118,473 in scholarships to deserving students, a 550 percent increase over 2011.

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Enrollment Numbers Up for Connors State

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nrollment is up at Connors State College; a claim only three community colleges in the state of Oklahoma can make according to the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education preliminary enrollment survey. The increase at CSC is due to the strategic push by college leaders to increase degree options, online courses, facilities, marketing and recruitment.

“We have taken a systematic, planned approach to increasing our enrollment numbers,” said Senior Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs, Dr. Ron Ramming. “In addition, we offer a quality education at one of the lowest tuition rates in the region.”

As state appropriations to higher education have decreased, it has become increasingly important for colleges and universities to increase enrollment. To make up for the lack of state dollars, many institutions have raised tuition, thereby passing the costs associated with education onto the student. Connors State College, however, has remained one of the lowest priced colleges in the region.

“Many of our students are facing economic hardships,” said CSC President, Dr. Tim Faltyn. “We want to offer them the opportunity to pursue their passion and improve their livelihood. High tuition rates can be a major roadblock to achieving this goal.”

Lower tuition rates alone are not responsible for increased enrollment at Connors State College. During his threeyear tenure, Faltyn has focused much of his energy on improving campus facilities, increasing degree options and making college more convenient for students through a variety of online class offerings.

“Many of our students are working adults,” said Faltyn. “They need class options that fit their busy lifestyle. Online

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classes are a great option to meet their needs while still offering a personal experience with instructors.”

For several years Connors has been featured as one of the “Top 100 Associate Degree Producers” by Diverse Magazine, as well as one of the “Top 100 Online Degree Producers.” In 2015 Connors was named first in the nation for Native American healthcare education.

For students interested in a more traditional college experience, the small class sizes, familiarity with professors and campus infrastructure make Connors an ideal choice. Recently CSC completed a new Student Union on the Warner campus. The $6 million dollar project was completed in the Spring of 2015. The new Student Union houses a ball room, community meeting space, student activity space, art gallery, three distinct entrances to better accommodate student traffic and state-of-the-art facilities.

In Muskogee, the all new Nursing and Allied Health facility is expected to open in March. The 35,000 square foot building will house state-of-the-art classroom and

lab space, a students’ common area, a lecture hall and student courtyard.

“If we want to continue to grow then we must give our students the space they need,” said Faltyn. “Providing facilities, programs, equipment and supplies to help them be successful is one of our top priorities.”

CSC is a two-year agricultural and mechanical college located in Warner and Muskogee. The college has a number of degree options as well as an award-winning athletics department, 11 agriculture degree options, high nursing NCLEX-RN pass rates, and is one of the leading A&M colleges in the region. ”We work hard to be the best for our students, employees and community,” said Faltyn. “Students are choosing Connors because they recognize that not only are we affordable, but our faculty and staff have a passion for improving the lives of others. As long as we remember to keep people first there is no reason our enrollment numbers shouldn’t continue to grow.”

Community

Lt. Gov. Lamb’s 77 Counties in 77 Days Tour Stops in Muskogee

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n Thursday, February 12, Oklahoma’s Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb visited the new Connors State College Nursing and Allied Health Center at the Three Rivers Port Campus to tour the facility, meet with students, faculty and staff and to hold an open forum to speak about the economic and educational development of the state.

In 2015, Lamb plans to visit all 77 counties in Oklahoma, which he will complete in March.

“Every year I make it a priority to be accessible to the people of Oklahoma.

The best way to accomplish this goal is to visit with the people where they work and live,” said Lamb. “Having personal face-to-face interaction with the men and women across this state will allow them to have their ideas and suggestions heard,

without them having to come all the way to Oklahoma City.”

Lamb said when he visits the counties, he does more than a simple drive through; he meets with the men and women who make up the cities and engages in a real conversation with them.

While in Muskogee, Lamb held an open forum for community members, educators, and all in attendance, to voice their opinions on the state of Oklahoma and ask hard-hitting questions about the growth and development of the state.

During his time at CSC, Lamb also met with members of the college’s President’s Leadership Class, Student Government Association and Leadership Connors.

“It was a fantastic experience meeting Lt. Gov. Lamb,” said Jonathan Rowe, a

member of Leadership Connors.

“I enjoyed having the opportunity to hear the responses given when the tough questions concerning education and the financial state of Oklahoma were dished out,” Rowe continued. “Some of the smaller communities in Oklahoma may often feel like their voice isn’t heard, but this tour has given those city council members, school superintendents and regular citizens the chance to speak one-on-one with someone from the government, who can bring positive change to the state. The Lt. Governor understands the importance of funding for education and he knows that providing financial support now will go on to create more jobs and opportunity for tomorrow.”

Leadership Connors

President’s Leadership Class

Student Government Association

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High School Seniors Visit Connors for Senior Day

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n January 3, high school seniors from across Oklahoma filled the Connors State College Fine Arts Auditorium to learn what the college has to offer.

“We surround students with people who care about their success as much as they do,” said Dr. Tim Faltyn, CSC President.

Senior Day provides our staff with the opportunity to introduce students and parents to our campus and allow them to see the vast array of possibilities they have to pursue their future.”

More than 200 students and parents listened as representatives from the Connors Development Foundation, financial aid, scholarships and admissions offices spoke about their respective departments. Following the presentations, Senior Day participants dispersed in

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groups, determined by degree interest, and took student-led campus tours. During the tours, participants also met with faculty based on their degree interest.

Senior Day festivities concluded with lunch in the newly renovated Student Union cafeteria. Before leaving campus, participants were given informational bags and free t-shirts.

“We wanted to provide seniors with the opportunity to experience college life on the Connors campus by visiting with our instructors and eating college food,” said CSC Recruitment Director Logan Knapper.

“We have a lot to offer students, and Senior Day gave us the ability to talk to prospective students and welcome them to the Connors State family.”

Connors State College is a two-year

Agricultural and Mechanical college located in Warner and Muskogee. The college boasts an impressive number of degree options as well as an awardwinning athletics department, 11 agriculture degree options, high nursing NCLEX-RN pass rates, and is one of the leading A&M colleges in the region.

Those unable to attend Senior Day, can still sign up for a tour or visit with a recruiter. Visit www.connorsstate.edu/ starthere for more information or call (918) 463-6270 to schedule a tour today.

Photo: Students participate in Connors State College’s Senior Day activities. More than 200 students from across the state visited Connors to get a taste of college life.

Chamber Bestows Chairman’s Award on CSC Leaders

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he Muskogee Area Chamber of Commerce recently recognized Connors State College President, Dr. Tim Faltyn and Connors’ Director of the Muskogee Difference Healthcare Scholarship, Lisa Wade Berry, with the 2014 Chairman’s award. This award is given annually to individuals who have adopted a project that is near and dear to the heart of the Chairman of the Board, or who may have produced extraordinary results from an ordinary assignment.

Faltyn and Wade were awarded for their work on the Action in Muskogee (AIM) committee.

“This year’s Chairman’s award goes to two individuals that not only worked with one another as a team to achieve extraordinary long-term results for

all Muskogee citizens, but they also assembled, motivated, led, engaged, educated and encouraged a team of another 500 plus people to make ideas and solutions come to life over the past two years,” said Treasure McKenzie, President and CEO of the Muskogee Area Chamber of Commerce. “By giving of their immense talents, and a lot of time, they strategically guided community leaders and citizen volunteer committees to take Action in Muskogee.”

The AIM Committee was formed in mid-2012 and is a project of the Muskogee City-County Port Authority to develop a community inspired implementation plan with accountability to improve Muskogee.

Faltyn served as the chair of the AIM committee and was its catalyst.

Through five public community visioning sessions, the insights, priorities and visions of more than 370 area residents were compiled into an Action in Muskogee Plan to make Muskogee a more vibrant community in which to live, work, learn and play.

“AIM is now a well-established, strong and effective initiative that has been passed to new leadership,” said McKenzie.

“This is due, in large part, to the leadership of Dr. Faltyn and Mrs. Wade Berry.”

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CSC Celebrates Black History Month

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uring the month of February, Connors State College honored Black History Month by holding two events with special guest speakers Dr. Samuel Craig and Ms. Wilma Newton.

“It is important to celebrate Black History Month to highlight the various contributions that have been made in our society,” said Freeman Culver, history instructor.

“Students will learn amazing facts about black history that are rarely mentioned in textbooks. The traffic signal, gas mask, electrified third rail, light bulb, gas furnace, and the famous Supersoaker water gun were invented by black Americans.

Because of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the founder of Black History week, and countless other major players in American history, we can lift every voice and sing during the entire month of February.”

The CSC/NSUM Library organized a Black History Month display, and Wilma

Newton, the Muskogee Juneteenth Historical Foundation President, spoke on the Muskogee Area African American Experience. Karen Harmon, librarian, assisted Majic Fink, library technician, with advertising and organizing the event.

“Majic created displays in the CSC/ NSUM library highlighting African American groups that led the charge for civil rights change and little known facts about African American history,” said Harmon.

On February 17, students heard from Dr. Samuel Craig at the Warner Campus Fine Arts Auditorium. Dr. Craig took part in the 1963 March on Washington.

“In any environment, it is important to educate yourself on the past, present, and potential of ethnic groups and the individuals whose lives you happen to be a part of or come in contact with on a regular basis,” said Harmon. “It is

especially important in a college setting such as Connors State where helping students build their future, one at a time, is the mission of the school. One way to accomplish this is to discover anew, or be reminded of, accomplishments achieved by groups. Having a month to honor different groups and their accomplishments gives us a chance to learn so much and we are happy to give that opportunity to our students, faculty, and staff.”

Students Organize Gardening Program for Countryside

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onnors State College students Jacob Green, of Muldrow, Okla., and Jennifer Rose, of Gore, Okla, have helped create a gardening program for residents at Countryside nursing facility in Warner.

Both Green and Rose, Aggie Club officers, donated their time and the skills they learned in the CSC horticulture program to ensure the garden’s success.

Rose, who has earned an associate of science in horticulture, looked at the program as a way to put her knowledge to good use in the community. She approached Green with the idea of starting this program for the residents, to help make their stay at Countryside more fulfilling.

“I felt that if the residents were to become more active and get outside, or even just out of their rooms, they might

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open up and enjoy a new hobby,” said Rose. “Jacob began the process in the Connors greenhouse, starting plants for the residents.

“He went to the division chair for agriculture, Debbie Golden, and was approved to set aside some starter plants for the Countryside residents,” Rose continued.

The two have started the residents on indoor plants for the winter months. As spring nears, raised beds will be installed by the local community.

“The raised beds will allow residents to take part in raising and gathering fresh fruits and vegetables,” said Rose.

With Rose, members of the Warner community have developed a schedule to maintain the raised beds throughout the summer months.

“Up-keep is a must for the residents to

be able to enjoy their raised beds,” said Rose.

Because Countryside employees will not be responsible for maintaining this project, Rose invites help from community members and Connors clubs in this endeavor. For more information, or to help with the project, contact Rose at jennifer.lynn.rose@connorsstate.edu.

Cowboy Family

Lisa Wade Berry, Staff

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n February 4, Lisa Wade Berry, director, Muskogee Difference Healthcare Scholarship, Wellness and Outreach, was invited to be part of a panel discussion concerning wellness programs sponsored by Oklahoma Turning Point and the Oklahoma State Health Department. The statewide Certified Healthy awards ceremony held workshops in which panel presenters had up to 30 minutes to share their experiences.

“Thanks to supportive leadership and the teamwork of staff on all three campuses, CSC works to continuously create and improve an environment in which staff, faculty and students are encouraged and empowered to make their personal health and wellness a priority,” said Wade Berry. “As the director of wellness efforts, I enjoy the opportunity to work with our wellness teams and create programs and opportunities for our CSC family to cheer each other’s wellness success and find ways to make the healthy choice the easy choice while on campus.”

The five presenters, including Wade Berry,

discussed wellness programs at both the higher education and K-12 level. They spoke on how best to encourage and engage participants at every level. As the director of wellness efforts at CSC, she represented the perspective from higher education.

“Being invited to share information about the CSC wellness programs was a fun and humbling experience,” said Wade Berry. “I appreciate the chance to brag on our staff who have made such great strides in their personal wellness journeys, to recognize our team for their creativity and encouragement, and to thank our leadership for support in making wellness a college priority.”

Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the presenters’ experiences in implementing wellness programs and whether those efforts were successful or not. Wade Berry shared her Top 10 list of lessons CSC has learned.

“Mostly, I hope attendees learned that with strong support from leadership, wellness programs do make a positive difference for personal health, morale, camaraderie, and

they can be fun,” said Wade Berry. “CSC has shown that even small colleges in rural areas can make great strides to make a campus a healthier place to work and learn.”

CSC is a Certified Healthy Campus and a Certified Healthy Business and has been recognized for the past two years. Wade Berry said that achievement is a motivator to make the CSC campus and family even healthier.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the widespread support of the program, for the encouragement staff and faculty give each other, and for hearing when one of our wellness efforts was the catalyst for someone to make positive changes in their life,” said Wade Berry. “That’s why we do it.”

Dr. Gary Grady, Instructor

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nstructor of Psychology, Dr. Gary Grady, had his recent article “The I am Not Creative Myth” published in the online journal of Society for the Teaching of Psychology. As a member of the society on Facebook, he found an editor and interested colleague in his ideas about

creativity.

“The I am Not Creative Myth” is an article on how teachers can foster creativity in their students by such things as making it clear to their students that “being creative” does not mean “being born creative,” by changing their own expectations about creativity as well as their students’, and by including divergent thinking in their classes,” said Grady.

As a board member of the Oklahoma DaVinci Institute, Oklahoma’s Creativity Think Tank, creativity in education is important to Grady.

“Creativity is the focus of our organization,” said Grady. “We have produced an online repository for creativity (http://

davinciok.org/dart/) and are very intentional about our efforts to support creative teaching and teaching creatively. I represent Connors on the board.”

Grady said he doesn’t write with ideas to advance his career, but because he enjoys writing. He was first published at just 14 years of age.

“Now, Connors is attached to my name in every article I get published and every conference-presentation I make,” said Grady. “By writing and presenting I get to introduce people around the country to Connors. That brings me pleasure.”

You can find Dr. Gary Grady’s paper on the myth of creativity at http://teachpsych. org/ebooks/eit2014/index.php.

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Alumnus Carri Hayes Storts

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arri Hayes Storts is a graduate of Latta High School, where she led her team to two straight state tournament appearances and was selected to the

Oklahoma Girls Coaches Association All-State Team before being recruited

by Cowgirls basketball coach Monte Madewell.

While attending Connors State College in 1981 and 1982, she helped guide the team to two straight Bi-State Conference championships, two Region II Championships and the Cowgirls’ first NJCAA National Championship Tournament appearance.

During her sophomore year, she led the nation in assists and was selected a first team NJCAA All-American and Who’s Who Among American Junior College Students.

Following graduation, she attended Southwestern Oklahoma State University and led the Bulldogs to the semifinals

of the NAIA National Championship her junior season and then won the title her senior year with a 34-0 record.

She graduated SWOSU with a degree in math and physical education and earned a master’s degree at East Central University, where she was a graduate assistant coach for the women’s basketball team.

Storts has taught for 25 years, coached for 23 years, two years each at Ada and Calera High School and the past 21 years at Latta Public Schools as a math teacher.

She is currently the assistant coach for the girl’s basketball team and was selected the 2010-11 LPS Teacher of the Year.

She is married to Doug Storts and they have three children, Nathan, Keeton and Trent. They also have three grandchildren.

Stephen McClurg, Student

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ach year 1,000 students receive the Gates Millennium Scholarship funded

by Bill and Melinda Gates, which helps students financially through college.

Stephen McClurg, Fort Gibson, received the competitive scholarship, which will last until he graduates.

“I have been a Gates Millennium Scholar since 2013, and it has helped me out most definitely,” said McClurg. “The Gates Millennium Scholarship is available to a select few students that are of some minority descent. I myself am part Cherokee.”

As a Gates Millennium Scholar, I am supposed to earn an education that will allow me to better our society. The Gates Millennium Scholarship ensures that my education is paid for; coming from a lowincome family, this means a lot. I can make it through college without having to worry

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about debts and loans, and it just doesn’t get much better than that!”

McClurg is currently working through his second semester of the nursing program at CSC. He chose to major in healthcare because he believes it is a great occupation.

“I am a Christian, and as a Christian, I believe that I should help where help is needed,” said McClurg. “I should make a difference wherever I’m working and whatever I’m doing. As a nurse, I will be able to help people when they are in need.

Also, the healthcare field can always stand to have more nurses with positive attitudes, so I might as well step up and do the job.”

McClurg has a double benefit attending Connors. He can help out his dad because he is close to home, and CSC has a good record of nursing students passing

the NCLEX-RN exam. McClurg added he is not ashamed that he is a Christian and included that fact when filling out his scholarship form.

“As a follower of Jesus, it is my duty to serve God and proclaim His goodness; it’s His job to make sure I’m fed and clothed,” said McClurg. “I can witness to His truth because I’m living it. I have tough times indeed, but I have a hope, and I have security, trusting in God for His wisdom and guidance.”

athletics

Hopes are High at Connors State for Nationals Trip

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ot since 1996 when the Connors State softball team reached the National Junior College Athletic Association World Series has the optimism been so high for a return trip.

Cowgirls Coach Rick Carbone, who is entering 20 years at the helm, believes this club has the potential to reach the College World Series in St. George, Utah in June.

The reason for such optimism?

Its depth in pitching and a strong offense and defense.

The Cowgirls begin their quest for a national tournament berth when they opened the 2015 season at Bacone College on Feb. 18, 2015.

A year ago, the Cowgirls reached the finals of the Region II Tournament just missing a berth in the District Tournament after losing to arch-rival Northeastern A&M 4-3 in the championship game and finishing with a 38-17 record.

“We are returning four starters from a year ago which includes some

experienced pitching,” said Carbone. “I think we have a chance for a really good season.”

Carbone’s optimism is focused around Region II first-team selection and Marucci award winner Kristen Reasnor and University of Tulsa (TU) transfer Jill Roye.

Both Reasnor and Roye are outstanding pitchers and hitters. The sophomores are expected to carry the Cowgirls inside the circle and at the plate.

“With Reasnor and Roye and some really good freshman coming into the program, I really think we will challenge for the conference championship,” said Carbone.

Carbone also has returning sophomore infielders Taylor Canida, Taylor Purdue and catcher Casey Kelley.

However, it’s the depth of the pitching staff that brings a smile to Carbone’s face.

“We are bringing four into the season, three sophomores (Reasnor, Roye, Canida) and a freshman (Kylie Large).”

Reasnor posted a 14-8 pitching record and led the nation in hitting with a .568 batting average which included 12 home runs. Canida was 11-5 inside the circle and hit .326. Roye hit .531 her freshman season at TU, while being named to the Conference-USA second team All-Freshman squad and was one of 25 finalists for the Division I Freshman of the Year by the National Fast Pitch Coaches Association.

“Jill didn’t throw a lot of innings at Tulsa and that’s one of the reasons we have her here at Connors,” said Carbone. “She is left-handed, and they are usually very hard to hit. And with Reasnor and Canida it will be a very good combination for us.”

Carbone said offensively his club will have above average speed with a linedrive hitting ball club.

“We will hit all down the lineup, one through nine,” said Carbone. “We have the top hitter in the nation back in Kristen, who has a really good eye and controls the bat CONNORS CONNECTION

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home runs and collected 258 RBIs. Jill will help Connors at the plate and in the circle.

“Jill is an excellent hitter and will give us a big punch at the plate. We are very excited to have her here at Connors this season,” said Carbone.

Baseball Ranked Third in Preseason Crowder has eight starters back returning with 14 reserves. Delgado is 6 and 18, while Seminole is 5 and 16.

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onnors State’s baseball team, fresh off a 47-12 record a year ago, is a preseason third in the South Central District according to a National Junior College Athletic Association release from Colorado Springs, Colo.

The South Central District represents Regions 2, 16 and 23. Crowder College was the top pick after a 45-17 mark a year ago, while Delgado College of New Orleans, La., was second. Delgado was 43-13 last spring. Seminole State was fourth with a 41-18 record last year.

The Cowboys return four starters from last season’s club with 14 squad men.

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ill Roye, left-handed pitcher and batter from the University of Tulsa, has transferred to play softball at Connors State College for head coach Rick Carbone.

The sophomore, who is eligible to play for the Cowgirls this spring, was named by the National Junior College Athletic Association (CNJCAA) as one of the top transfers in Region II. Roye, who is from Red Oak, Okla., started 41 games, hitting .343 with 32 RBIs with a .558 slugging percentage for the Golden Hurricanes her freshman season a year ago.

She was a second team All-CUSA selection and C-USA Freshman first team selection. Roye was 1-of-25 finalists for Division I National Freshman of the Year by the National Fast Pitch Coaches Association.

While at Red Oak High School she led her team to four state appearances, taking two championships. Her pitching record in high school was 61-11 with a 0.74 earned run average, 413 strikeouts and 31 shutouts. At the plate she hit .531 with 31

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Softball Picks Up NJCAA Top Transfer

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well.”

Turning to the defense, Carbone believes his club has the chance to be better than a year ago.

“Our infield will be very smooth and the outfield quick,” he said. “Behind the plate Casey has a year behind her and has been doing a really good job there.”

Heading into the 2015 season Carbone would have an opening day lineup of Kelley behind the plate, Myranda Rowland at shortstop, Bailey Hulet at third base, Taylor Purdue at second with first by committee when not pitching – Reasnor, Roye and Canida.

The out field will have Madison Bright in left field, Hanna Smith in center field and right field by committee and designated hitter will be a pitcher who is not inside the circle or at first base.

“We have to get off to a fast start just like we did a year ago. We started 12-0 before we lost a ball game. I can see us getting there this year also,” said Carbone.

“Our key to reaching the nationals is winning the conference and the region tournament. Last year we got to the finals of the Region and just ran out of gas. We don’t want that again.”

While Carbone is confident in his team’s ability, he’s quick to point out that there are other factors in determining how far the Cowgirls can go.

“It will be Seminole and Northeastern A&M once again to contend with for the regional title. Along with us there are no pushovers in this region,” he said. “If we stay injury free and our young ladies play up to their potential, we have a great opportunity to go to St. George and the national tournament. But you have to have a lot of luck too.”

Reprinted from the February 17, 2015, edition of the Muskogee Daily Phoenix.

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Opening Day Bash Raises Funds for Baseball Turf

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onnors State College introduced the 2015 Cowboys with its first Opening Day Bash and Auction on Saturday, January 24, at the new Student Union on the Warner Campus. The fundraising event was the first public event to be held in the new space and raised approximately $10,000 towards the addition of turf on Biff Thompson Field.

Many former players attended the event, including several from the 1985 Connors

State Cowboys World Series Team.

“I am very pleased with the outcome of the event,” said Head Baseball Coach Perry Keith. “We are blessed to have so many supporters, past players and fans.

We are one step closer to being able to make improvements to our field.”

The event featured a live and silent auction which included items such as Texas Rangers tickets with hotel room and dinner at Two Rows Restaurant, four St.

Louis Cardinals and Chicago Cub tickets, four Kansas City Royals tickets, tickets to a Tampa Bay Rays game, a guided fishing trip and an Arrowhead Float trip.

“I am very proud of Coach Keith and his team,” said CSC President Dr. Tim Faltyn. “Not only is he a great coach, but he truly cares about the overall welfare of his players. He doesn’t just produce great baseball players, he produces great men.”

Basketball Alumni Reunion Hosts 25 Former Players

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total of 25 former Connors State Cowboys and Cowgirls basketball players attended Alumni Night at the CSC and Northern Oklahoma-Tonkawa basketball game on Thursday, Feb.19th at Melvin Self Field House.

The former players were introduced at halftime of the men’s game by Connors

State President Dr. Tim Faltyn and received a miniature Connors State basketball for their attendance.

Players returning included Pete Evans, C.W. Lynch, Charles Davis, Lloyd Jernigan, Luther Martin, Dewey Gnigsby, Joel Fast, James Fast, Kieran Boykins, Tom Clayton, Kyle King, Bill Martin, Monte

Madewell, Susan Madewell, Carl Scott, David Walkingstick, Jerry Walker Sr., Jerry Walker Jr., Mike Kelly, Reginald Terry representing his son Brannan Kelly, Jamie Berry, Dakota Garrett, Megan Alsney, Bruce Shropshire and Aarron Mosley.

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Men’s Basketball Wins OCAC Championship and Individual Titles

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he Connors State Cowboys basketball team recently became the first Oklahoma Collegiate Athletic Conference (OCAC) team to complete the regular season conference games undefeated since the league was formed six seasons ago. The team has also been ranked No. 2 in the nation by the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA), and will advance to the Region II Tournament held March 4-7 at St. Gregory’s University in Shawnee, Okla.

The Region II Tournament will determine the representative to the NJCAA National Tournament in Hutchinson, Kansas, March 16-21. The Cowboys will enter the

tournament as the No. 1 seed.

“We have been playing some excellent basketball this season, but we still have several goals remaining,” said Head Coach Bill Muse. “We reached one of our goals, winning the conference title, but we want a Region II championship and a trip to the national tournament.”

Individually, four of the Cowboys were recently voted to the OCAC Region II basketball teams and Muse was named Coach of the Year.

It is the seventh time Muse has been named Coach of the Year in his 23 years as head coach of the Cowboys. The NJCAA Hall of Fame Coach has a career

record of 535-206, which includes seven trips to the NJCAA national tournament.

Corlbe Ervin, 6-3 point guard from Oklahoma City, was named the Region II Player of the Year and First Team OCAC Selection. He was joined by Ronnie Boyce, 6-4 sophomore guard, who was also a First Team All-Region II Selection and OCAC First Teamer along with 6-6 post player Phabian Glasco, from Tulsa, an All-Region pick and Second Team All-OCAC selection.

Arlando Cook, 6-9 freshman from St. Louis, Mo., was an OCAC selection and Cowgirls player Christina Devers was an All-Region and All-OCAC Selection.

Corlbe Ervin – Player of the Year

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onnors State College Cowboy’s point guard, Corlbe Ervin, was named Player of the Year and First Team OCAC Selection. Ervin averaged 16.1 points per game this season scoring 435 points in 27 games. He ranks No. 4 in the nation in assists with 8.6 per game, while shooting 55.8 percent from the

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floor (153-of-274). He is a 33.3 percent shooter from behind the arc, connecting on 16-of-48 attempts.

Ervin has led the Cowboys to a 50-8 record the past two seasons, two OCAC championships and a No. 2 National Junior College Athletic Association national ranking.

Livestock Judgers Mid-Season Update

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he Connors State College livestock judging team has had a very busy schedule this fall and winter. The team, led by new coach, Clint Mefford, has spent many hours and miles on the road in preparation for numerous contests across the country.

“My first year at Connors has been nothing short of exemplary,” said Mefford.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with this group of students and look forward to seeing them excel at the next level of their careers. I truly believe we have some of the best agricultural students in the country. Their unrivaled dedication to both school and competition is a significant selling point. Because of this, I feel we are in a position to have a great run of success in the near future.

“Our judging team members put in many long hours and late nights each and every week so that they can excel in judging contests,” Mefford continued. “Moreover, the level of preparation required to truly be successful, I feel, mirrors that of any sporting event.”

The sophomores kicked off their season at the American Royal, where the team placed sixth overall. Individually, Zane Webster placed fifth overall.

“I’m really happy with how I did and I’m proud of how hard our team has worked thus far and I give all the glory to God,”

said Webster.

The team then traveled to Louisville to compete at the North American International Livestock Exposition, where they placed 10th in the closest junior college contest in recent years, and third in performance cattle. Individually, Webster was sixth in cattle and Allison Tarvin eighth in sheep.

Both the freshmen and sophomores experienced a hectic and crucial 10-day winter workout after the conclusion of the fall semester. They traveled to many different operations and talked a number of reasons to highly respected individuals in the livestock industry. The team rounded out their workout at the Griswold Cattle Company Classic, where the highest placing team stood third and Tarvin was third individually.

The teams traveled to Phoenix to compete in the Arizona Nationals. Both teams had a fantastic day, which was highlighted by the sophomores’ first-place victory in the junior college contest and the freshmen finishing second in the novice division. Cassi Allread was high individual, Paydon Kautzman was third, Jordan Moubry fourth, and Webster was high individual in reasons. The team placed first in all species.

In preparation for January’s contests, the team competed at the OSU Mock Contest

and Willow Springs Classic. At Willow Springs, they placed second overall, while Tarvin was second individually. The team then traveled to the National Western in Denver, Colo., earning ninth overall.

Webster was fifth in sheep and Tarvin was eighth in swine and eighth overall.

After a few weeks off, the team then headed to Fort Worth to compete, placing ninth, while Tarvin was second individually in the swine division.

In February, the freshmen and sophomore teams both traveled to Jackson, MS, for Dixie Nationals. The team was fourth high and had numerous individual awards.

The team had a very successful run at the San Antonio Intercollegiate contest, February 28, bringing home third overall, and placing second in swine, third in sheep and fourth in oral reasons.

Individually, Webster placed fifth in cattle and ninth overall; Bryce Hauenstein placed fourth in goats, 10th in sheep and swine, and fourth overall; Wyatt Smith was eighth in goats, third in sheep, fifth in swine and 11th overall; while Moubry placed second in the sheep division.

“The team and I would like to say a special thank you to all the farms, ranches, and individuals who have helped us on our journey this year,” said Mefford. “We are looking forward to continuing a successful spring season.”

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Education

Three Students Named Gates Millennium Scholars

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onnors State College has partnered with the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education to offer a degree completion program for working adults.

The program, known as Reach Higher, allows individuals who have begun, but not completed, their education to do so with more options to fit their schedule.

Three Connors State College students were recently named 2015 Gates Millennium Scholars. Bailey Latta, Stephen McClurg and Richard Robbins will each receive a good-through-graduation scholarship that can be used to pursue a degree in any undergraduate major at the accredited college or university of his or her choice.

The Gate’s Millennium Scholars Program is a flagship program of the United Negro College Fund. To date, Connors State College students have received scholarships through this fund

totaling more than $170 thousand.

“We are very proud of the hard work our Millennium Scholars have put into achieving this scholarship,” said Robin O’Quinn, assistant VP of Academic & Student Affairs-Student Services. “These students are committed to completing their education and this scholarship will help them achieve that goal.”

Established in 1999, with the goal of developing Leaders for America’s Future™, the Gates Millennium Scholars Program is funded by a $1.6 billion grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

The GMS Program is removing barriers to education for high-performing, lowincome students. Each year it enables 5,000 students to attend and graduate from 800 of the most selective private and public schools in the country, including Ivy League colleges, flagship state universities, UNCF member institutions and other

minority-serving institutions.

“Today more than ever it is important that our young people get the education they need, and that we need them to have, in order to remain competitive in the 21st century. For the 20,000 young men and women who will attend college as Gates Millennium Scholars, the financial support, leadership training, mentoring and academic and social support they receive will enable them to become college graduates and our next generation of leaders,” said Michael L. Lomax, Ph.D., president and CEO, UNCF. “We are grateful for students receiving the support of the Gates Millennium Scholars Program because it is not only an investment in the futures of these extraordinary young people, but also in the country’s economic strength and competitiveness.”

Cook Crowned During Aggie Coronation

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onnors State College held its annual Aggie Homecoming coronation at halftime of the CSC and Western Oklahoma State men’s basketball game on January 26 at Melvin Self Field House.

Sophomore Morgan Cook of Reed City, MI, was selected the Aggie Homecoming queen among the 22 contestants.

Cook is an Animal Science major.

She is vice-president of Aggie Club, and reporter for the Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow. Cook is also a part of the livestock judging team. Cook was escorted by sophomore Justin Willard of Carthage, MO. Willard is an Animal Science major and a member of the Aggie Club and Show Team.

Crown bearer was Brigham Nelson, son of Blake and Ruth Nelson, and the flower girl was Kaizlei Keith, the daughter of Heather Keith.

Other members of the Aggie

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Homecoming court were sophomores Cass Allred, Union City, escort Keegan Vander Molen, Pella, IA; Robyn Smalley, Nowata, escort Ross Taylor, Okemah; Jordan Moubry, Russell, KS, escort Preston Ogden, Quinton; Morgan Anderson, Tahlequah, escort Reece Harvey, Hydro; Samantha Gillespie, Bellville, AR, escort Sam Bynum, Beggs; Emily Bilbrey, Walnut Ridge, AR, escort Tanner Miller, Morris; Carlie Duggan, Gillham, AR, escort Dakota Macom, Porum; Whitney McCollum, Westville, escort Justin Burney, Hooks, TX; and Allison Tarvin, French Lick, KY, escort Triston Hope, Priceton, IN. Freshmen: Paige Stevens, Yukon, escort Colton Keel, Coweta; Claire Burnett, Salt Point, NY, escort Kolby Coclay, Coweta; Kaylee Casey, Malvern, AR, escort Clark Reuter, El Reno; Shawnee Fenton, Sale City, GA, escort Clayton Maubry, Russell, KS; Sara Lawson, Canadian, escort Dalton

Shepard, Seminole; Amber Croisant, Yukon, escort Jake Green, Muldrow; Kylie Powell, Porum, escort Sam Wallace, Mt. Vernon, MO; Shandee Johnson, Nowata, escort Hunter Yates, Walnut Ridge, AR; Autumn Tibbits, Greenwood, AR, escort Braxton Taylor, Guymon; Hailey Stottlemyre, Luther, escort Justin Wasson, Spiro; and Shannon Tacy, Bend, OR, escort Tyler Barton, Alva.

Campus Life

Homecoming Celebration Honors Worthan and Bright

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ella Worthan and Paul Bright were ecstatic to be elected King and Queen for the 2015 Connors State College Homecoming. Connors held its annual Homecoming on Tuesday, February 17, at Melvin Self Field House at half time of the CSC men’s basketball game against Seminole State College.

Applicants were interviewed by the Homecoming committee and six were chosen based on their verbal and written responses as well as their transcripts.

The six selected, Paul Bright, Brandie Center, Morgan Cook, Bryce Hauenstein, Wyatt Smith and Nella Worthan, then campaigned for votes from CSC students, faculty and staff.

Worthan, Queen, is a psychology major from Westville, Oklahoma. She is the daughter of Kaylee Tanner of Westville.

She represents the Student Government Association where she serves as President. After graduating from Connors, she plans to attend Oklahoma State

University to earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology followed by a master’s degree in counseling or social work. Worthan was escorted by Desmond Thompson, son of Courtney Thompson and Ty Wilson. He is a member of the Cheer squad and is majoring in animal/wildlife biology.

Bright, King, is a biology major from Oktaha, Oklahoma. He is the son of Johnny and Rita Bright, also of Oktaha.

He represents the President’s Leadership Class. Bright is majoring in general biology at Connors. Upon graduation he plans to attend NSU to become a biology teacher.

Homecoming attendants were: Ronna Bell, escorted by Connor Osborn, both representing the Rodeo Team; Ravene Bolden, escorted by Kyler Morgan, both representing Social Sciences; Brandie Center, Phi Theta Kappa honor society, escorted by Tyler Sutton, CSC baseball team; Morgan Cook, escorted by Bryce Hauenstein, both representing the Aggie

Club; Kylie Phillips, escorted by Wyatt Smith, both representing the Native American Student Association; Mallory Smith, President’s Leadership Class, escorted by Bright; Shelby Strain, escorted

by Tyler Scott, both representing the Cheerleading team.

The junior attendants were Kaizlei Keith and Preston McBride.

Photos: (Top) Nella Worthan and Paul Bright, 2015 CSC Homecoming Queen and King. (Homecoming Group, L-R) (Back Row): Tyler Sutton, Connor Osborn, Tyler Scott, Ty Wilson, Paul Bright, Wyatt Smith, Kyler Morgan, Bryce Hauenstein; (Front Row): Brandie Center, Ronna Bell, Shelby Strain, Mallory Smith, Nella Worthan, Kylie Phillips, Ravene Bolden, Morgan Cook.

(Bottom, L-R) Brandie Center, candidate for queen, escorted by Tyler Sutton.

Morgan Cook, candidate for queen, escorted by Bryce Hauenstein, candidate for king. Wyatt Smith, candidate for king, escorting Kylie Phillips, attendant.

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Student Union Now Open

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t the start of the 2015 spring semester, Connors State College opened the doors to the new Student Union on the Warner campus.

The $6 million dollar renovated Student Union houses a ballroom, community meeting space, student activity space, art gallery, three distinct entrances to better accommodate student traffic and stateof-the-art facilities. Students, faculty and staff are all excited for the new facility, now having a great place to dine for lunch and dinner without leaving campus or breaking the bank.

“The new cafeteria in the Student Union makes working in Warner and eating on campus so much better,” said Phalecia Gragg, IT helpdesk administrator. “Chef and the entire crew are amazing, the food is prepared fantastically and everyone working here is extremely nice and helpful.”

Since its opening, the Student Union has already been host to the Baseball Auction, the Faculty/Staff Christmas Party, Senior Day, Transfer Day and various Campus Life events. Mike Jackson, Director of Campus Life said very soon all of the student dances will be held in the new facility and eventually they will begin holding more events on the south-side lawn closer to Millers Crossing, which will increase the number of students who are looking to get involved.

“The students really seem to enjoy the newly renovated facility,” said Jackson.

“This campus needed a place for students to feel at home and the Student Union will become just that. In addition to the cafeteria and ballroom, we have a conference room just for students, complete with ITV, for use by Student Government or anyone else who wants to

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reserve and use it.”

Jackson said soon students will have a new computer lab to do homework or browse the web and they will also have a few quiet places for those students who just need some peace.

Jonathan Rowe, Coordinator of Resident Life and Special Events said by being in the center of campus, more students will see the entertainment and fun activities going on and hopefully will want to be a part of it.

“The facility is a multi-purpose building, which will house the Student Activities Coordinator and will be more accessible to any student who may have a question, want to volunteer or even suggest other activates to have,” said Rowe.

Logan Knapper, director of recruitment said on Senior Day, which was held

in February, the High School students who came were ecstatic to see the new Student Union, because they knew if they came here, this would be part of their daily experience and they would be able to utilize the space and eat from a wonderful buffet every single day.

“When the prospective students and their families tour the campus they see first-hand the amount of work we have put into making the campus look new and clean and have more of a university feel,” said Knapper. “One thing I love about the Student Union is that it’s open to all faculty, staff and students during lunch and dinner.

I encourage everyone to eat on campus and while doing so, start a conversation with these students and build a meaningful relationship with them.”

WHERE’S

CONNORS

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t’s been said your college years are always with you. While this is true, we want to know where you are taking Connors State College! Send a photo of you wearing your CSC gear – we want to see where CSC travels. Wear it on vacation, out to dinner … anywhere you go!

Photos will be featured in the next issue of the CONNECTION and uploaded to Facebook. Send photos to: dearconnor@connorsstate.edu.

Second Row, Garth Brooks Concert

Polar Motorcycle Run

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C O N N O R S S TAT E C O L L E G E 700 College Road | Warner, OK 74469

Construction is nearly complete on the Nursing and Allied Health Facility at the Three Rivers Port Campus.

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