Cowboy Family
Brandon Miller, Faculty
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hird generation Connors State alum Brandon Miller, ag instructor and shooting sports coach, began his life in the small town of Hitchita, Oklahoma. Miller has always had a passion for Connors State as the college gave him the tools needed to transfer to Oklahoma State University to complete his bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Ecology and Management. After graduation from OSU, Miller returned to Connors State, where he teaches multiple courses, from Computer Technology to Shotgun Safety, among others. As the shooting sports coach, Miller utilizes the shooting range at the Dr. Stuart Woods Shooting Sports Complex and Wetlands, located just outside of Warner. Miller says he’s grateful for all the opportunities Connors State has given him and continues to help students see their true potential. “I get to teach my students about the things I am most passionate about, natural
resources and shotgun shooting,” said Miller. “I also get to work with some of the best people around.” Miller truly loves his career and continues to push his students in order to get the most from this experience. He spoke fondly about the perks of living in a small town like Warner, because the teachers care about each individual person while still challenging student’s views, allowing them to grow. “This is where I have some of the best college memories of my life,” said Miller. “I loved going to Connors State and now I get to work here. Connors has given me the opportunity to be surrounded by the best employees, students, staff, and people in the state.” Miller is expanding the shooting team with the help of Mike Jackson, Dean of Students, as they are in the process of starting a collegiate Ducks Unlimited Chapter on campus.
Raney Johnson, Student
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aney Johnson grew up in the small rural town of Wright City, Oklahoma, with early aspirations to be a veterinarian – so that she may care for and help all types of animals. While Johnson was in high school, she began to learn more about the path to becoming a veterinarian and decided against the rigorous educational path of veterinarian school, and instead changed her focus to animal science. “One of my dreams is to own all the land and cows I can and raise my children the same way I was,” said Johnson. “The biggest blessing in my life was being able to grow up on a farm and show livestock. It not only influenced how I am as a person, but it also helped me choose my future career.” Johnson, a notable member of the Connors State softball team, said she chose the
college in Warner for a number of reasons, but mainly because it was one where none of her high school friends were attending. “I felt I needed to branch out of my comfort zone and meet new people,” said Johnson. “I am so glad I did. Connors has blessed me with some amazing friends who I will keep in touch with for the rest of my life.” Johnson is not only active in the ag side of her studies, but she is also a prominent member of FCA, BCM, and Student Activities. In her freshman year, Johnson was crowned the 2016 Homecoming Queen representing FCA and says it was a moment she will never forget. After Connors State, Johnson plans to continue her education at either the University of Arkansas or Oklahoma State.
CONNORS CONNECTION
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