CSC_Connection_April

CONNECTION A Publication of Connors State College

Remembering Debby Golden

April 2026

INSIDE THIS [Month] ISSUE 2026

CONNORS STATE COLLEGE WARNER CAMPUS 700 COLLEGE RD WARNER, OK 74469 THREE RIVERS PORT CAMPUS 2501 N 41st St. E MUSKOGEE, OK 74403

ADMINISTRATION PRESIDENT Dr. Ronald S. Ramming

FEATURE •

Remembering Debby Golden

AGRICULTURE • •

79th Annual Aggie Day Rodeo Hosts Annual Equine & Rodeo Banquet

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EDUCATION • • •

Helping Students Cross the Finish Line Connors State at the Capitol More Than a Visit

VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS Dr. Chris McBeath

ATHLETICS

VICE PRESIDENT FOR FISAL SERVICES Mike Lewis

SPOTLIGHTS

VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT AFFAIRS Jake Lawson

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• •

• •

Cowboys Win Big Resilience on the Mat

Student Spotlight Alumni Spotlight

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CONNECTION CONTRIBUTIORS Amber McKibbin Derotha Rivenbark Becca McLemore Christian Jones Josie Correll Avery Wisdom Macey McCoy Jordan Barry

CSC SOCIAL MEDIA

#CONNORSSTATE

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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, nation 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. In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, crime statistics for both the Warner and Muskogee campuses may be reviewed at http://connorsstate.edu/asr. This publication was printed by Connors State College as authorized by the Director of College & 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

Remembering Debby Golden

by Amber McKibben, CSC Recruitment & Marketing In the words of most people who knew Mrs. Debby Golden, she was a gem. Extremely dedicated to the Agriculture Department at Connors State, but especially, Horticulture.

She spent 24 years here at CSC. She “retired” in May of 2025, but Debby was too dedicated to leave her life’s work. She still spent most of her time teaching classes and running the Horticulture department, along with the green houses.

Before her time at Connors, Debby was a devoted Agriculture Instructor and FFA Advisor for 16 years. She was the first female member of the Beggs FFA, becoming the first female President of the Beggs FFA chapter her senior year. She then went on to Oklahoma State University where she earned her Master’s Degree in Agricultural Education in 1985. Debby began her teaching career in Guthrie, Oklahoma, where she quickly became known for her passion, dedication, and ability to truly connect with her students. As one of the first female agriculture teachers in Oklahoma, she helped break barriers and open doors for many who would follow in her footsteps.

A former student, Emma Rhoden, shared that Debby consistently placed her trust in her students, always believing in their ability to get things done and find a way forward. “I have never seen anyone more dedicated to her job and her students in my life,” Rhoden said. “She was someone I could always turn to—for a bad day or a problem with class.

She truly had her students’ best interests at heart. Her main goal was to see her students succeed.”

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FEATURE

Debby was more than the Agriculture Division Chair and a horticulture instructor—she was a mentor, a friend, and a mother figure to many. As McKenzie Sinclair shared, “She would have your back until she was blue in the face—you just wanted to make sure you were the one she was defending.” She was also known for her wonderful sense of humor and her love of a good joke.

Debby passed away unexpectedly on March 28, 2026. She is survived by her loving husband of 40 years, Bill Golden, and their two daughters, Kendall and Katelyn. She will be deeply missed not only by her family, but also by her Connors family.

Her life was centered around the things she loved most—her family and her flowers. Debby’s impact will be felt for years to come, and she will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

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AGRICULTURE

79th Annual Aggie Day

by Amber McKibben, CSC Recruitment & Marketing Connors State College recently hosted their 79th annual Aggie Day interscholastic competition. This year’s event carries a much deeper meaning for all of us. With the passing of Mrs. Golden, we gathered not only to compete and participate, but to honor her legacy, her passion, and the countless lives she impacted through agriculture and education.

State community, as well as the agriculture faculty and staff that contribute their time.

This event extends further than just the Connors State campus. There are contests held at the Warner School gymnasium, as well as South Ranch. It’s safe to say that we are already looking forward to next year’s 80th Aggie Day!

Across campus students competed in 23 events throughout the day. These events included Livestock Judging, Floriculture, Vet Science, Land Judging, and many more. Students showed their expertise in a variety of different disciplines. A total of 2,455 students from more than 220 schools attended this year’s event: traveling from six states (Oklahoma, Iowa, Indiana, Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas). Running such a large campus wide event requires extensive support from the entire Connors Connection: April 2026 5

AGRICULTURE

Rodeo Hosts Annual Equine & Rodeo Banquet

by Amber McKibben, CSC Recruitment & Marketing

Easter weekend did not slow down the Equine & Rodeo Team, as members, alumni, and friends gathered to celebrate a year of hard work and achievement. The evening was filled with energy, highlighted by live music from Nashville musician, songwriter, and rodeo alumnus Paul Bogart, which kept attendees on their feet throughout the night.

The 2025–2026 Rodeo & Equine students were recognized for their dedication both in and out of the arena, with numerous scholarships awarded to honor their accomplishments.

Throughout the evening, guests participated in a variety of silent auctions, including a popular dessert auction where one standout pie sold for an impressive $300.

The celebration concluded with the highly anticipated prize drawings, featuring crowd favorites such as a Priefert round pen kit, Priefert dog kennel, 30X Rodeo King felt hat, and a Priefert hay feeder—bringing an exciting close to a memorable night.

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EDUCATION

Helping Students Cross the Finish Line

by Becca McLemore, CSC Director of Advising Connors State College Awards $11,540 in Reach Higher Finish Line Scholarships At Connors State College, student success isn’t just a goal, it’s a promise. This spring, that promise took a meaningful step forward as the college awarded $11,540 in Reach Higher Finish Line Scholarships to support adult learners working to complete their degrees.

For many students, the path to a college degree isn’t a straight line. Life brings careers, families, and unexpected detours that can put education on pause. The Reach Higher Finish Line Scholarship is designed with those realities in mind, offering financial support to Oklahoma adults who have already earned college credit but need a final push to reach graduation.

This spring’s scholarship recipients represent determination in motion. They are students who have returned to the classroom while balancing jobs, raising families, and managing full schedules. With the help of these funds, they are now closer to turning unfinished goals into completed degrees.

“At Connors State College, we are committed to meeting students where they are and helping them succeed,” said Becca McLemore, Director of Advising and Career Services and Reach Higher Coordinator.

“These scholarships provide critical support for adult learners who are working hard to finish what they started.”

Beyond financial assistance, Connors State College continues to create opportunities that fit the lives of its students. Flexible course offerings, including online and evening classes, allow adult learners to pursue their education without stepping away from their responsibilities.

“Programs like Reach Higher Finish Line are vital to helping students cross the finish line,” said Dr. Chris McBeath, Vice President of Academic Affairs. “We are proud to play a role in supporting their success.”

The impact of the Reach Higher Finish Line Scholarship extends beyond the classroom. Completing a degree can open doors to career advancement, increased earning potential, and long-term stability for students and their families. It also strengthens the local workforce and community, reinforcing the college’s role as a catalyst for growth in the region.

Each scholarship awarded tells a story, not just of financial support, but of persistence, resilience, and forward momentum. For these Connors State students, the finish line is no longer a distant goal. It’s within reach.

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EDUCATION

Connors State at the Capitol

by Christian Jones, Student Life Coordinator & SGA Advisor Oklahoma Higher Education Day was another great opportunity for us to represent Connors State College to the State Capitol and to demonstrate the importance of higher education within the state of Oklahoma. We were joined by numerous students, faculty, and staff members from various schools and colleges across Oklahoma.

Some of the most important highlights of the day included meeting with several state leaders, including Avery Frix, Bryan Logan, and a few other representatives.

We were able to discuss the value of higher education and how schools like Connors State College provide important benefits to the students that attend the college.

In addition to these meetings, several of our Oklahoma’s Promise students also 8 Connection: April 2026

attended the Oklahoma’s Promise School meeting. This allowed our students to become further educated about the scholarship and how they could take advantage of it.

Lastly, we were also able to take a group photograph with both Kevin Stitt and various representatives from other colleges and universities across Oklahoma. This provided an opportunity for all the colleges to come together as one team to support the future of education in Oklahoma.

Oklahoma Higher Education Day was a day that will be remembered by all who attended. It was another great opportunity for us to advocate for Connors State College and its students, as well as to support the programs that help students across Oklahoma.

EDUCATION

More Than a Visit

by Derotha Rivenbark, CSC PLC Advisor There are moments in life that quietly remind us of what truly matters, and our recent PLC trip to Countryside Estates Nursing Home was one of those moments.

connections. What began as a service project quickly became something much deeper and a powerful exchange of joy between generations.

With hearts full of excitement and hands full of over 100 thoughtfully prepared Valentine’s goody bags, our students stepped into a space where kindness, connection, and compassion took center stage. Each bag, filled with fidget toys, candy, and soft Valentine’s stuffed animals, was more than just a gift; it was a small expression of love, a reminder to each resident that they are seen, valued, and remembered.

One of the most memorable moments of the day was our visit with Mr. Phillip Smith, a retired rodeo cowboy and ranch hand whose life stories carried both grit and grace. With pride in his voice and a sparkle in his eye, he welcomed us into his room, sharing tales from his years in the arena and on the ranch. His wall of buckles told a story all its own, and each one represented hard work, perseverance, and a life well lived. Our students listened intently, captivated not just by his experiences but by the passion and pride he still holds.

As our students moved from room to room, laughter echoed through the halls, smiles were shared, and simple conversations turned into meaningful

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EDUCATION It was in moments like these that the true impact of the visit became clear. This wasn’t just about delivering Valentine’s gifts. It was about building bridges, honoring stories, and learning the value of presence. The experience left a lasting impression on everyone involved: my students, residents, and staff alike. I stood in the background with tears watching these students love on the sweet residents, which made my heart glow with pride.

In a world that often moves too fast, this day reminded us to slow down, to listen, and to love a little more intentionally. The joy we witnessed, the connections we made, and the memories we created will stay with us long after Valentine’s Day has passed.

Sometimes, the smallest gestures create the greatest impact, and this was one of those moments we will carry with us for a lifetime.

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ATHLETICS

Cowboys Win Big

by Derotha Rivenbark, CSC PLC Advisor The Connors State College community gathered once again for a beloved tradition as the 3rd Annual A&M Classic brought together alumni, supporters, and Cowboy fans for an evening of connection, celebration, and unforgettable baseball.

Held in an atmosphere full of energy and school pride, this year’s event continued to build on its growing reputation as a cornerstone experience for the Connors family. Nearly 100 alumni and friends attended the pregame reception, enjoying time to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate the legacy of Connors State athletics.

Jake Lawson, Vice President for Student Affairs, reflected on the event’s continued success, stating: “With nearly 100 alumni and friends attending the pregame reception, the A&M Classic continues to grow into a marquee event, celebrating a great program while strengthening connections with our alumni and supporters. We are grateful to the Cherokee Nation for sponsoring the event and to the Drillers organization for their hospitality.”

The College extends its sincere appreciation to the Cherokee Nation for their generous sponsorship and to the Drillers organization for providing exceptional hospitality that helped make the evening so special.

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ATHLETICS The excitement carried seamlessly from the reception into a thrilling matchup on the field, where the Connors State Cowboys delivered a game to remember against NEO A&M. In a contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the Cowboys secured a dramatic 7-6 walk-off victory in the bottom of the eleventh inning. With the score tied at six, Hedrick delivered the game-winning hit, singing to bring home the final run and seal the victory in spectacular fashion.

The combination of a meaningful alumni gathering and a thrilling walkoff victory made the 3rd Annual A&M Classic a resounding success. Events like these continue to strengthen the bond between Connors State College and its extended family, while showcasing the grit, determination, and excellence of Cowboy athletics.

As the Cowboys look ahead to their next matchup at NEO A&M, the momentum from this unforgettable night will undoubtedly carry forward, both on the field and within the evergrowing Connors community.

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ATHLETICS

Resilience on the Mat

by Amber McKibben, CSC Recruitment & Marketing The season proved to be a hard-fought journey, defined by resilience, growth, and determination. From the start, both teams set clear goals and remained committed despite constant adjustments and challenges.

Individual accomplishments stood out throughout the year, with Emma excelling in sign work, Cassadee in her grips, and Libby hitting her two-to-full on the bandshell. As a team, both Advanced and Spirit Rally delivered strong performances in Daytona, at the National Cheerleaders Association each earning 3rd place.

Coaches reflected on the season as especially meaningful due to the number of non-traditional veterans who returned to the mat, many experiencing the bandshell for the first time. Watching athletes embrace the moment and see their hard

work pay off was a defining highlight.

Adversity was a constant, with two teams competing, the addition of Spirit Rally, and frequent roster changes. Still, the athletes remained focused and pushed through every challenge. As Coach Boog Foreman emphasized, “What happens in the warmup room doesn’t matter, it’s just warm-up. The judges don’t see warm-up.

So, whatever happens in warm up doesn’t matter, all that matters is what happens on the mat.”

The Advanced team set out to return to the bandshell and take on more difficult skills, while Spirit Rally aimed to prove they could complete their routine and finish the season strong—goals both teams achieved.

Leadership played a key role, with Grace Riley energizing the Spirit Rally team and Connection: April 2026 13

ATHLETICS Candance Jewel contributing across both teams in demanding roles.

Looking ahead, the focus is on growing the Spirit Rally program, identifying strong leaders, and building on this year’s momentum. Described as “rewarding” and “reinvigorating,” the season left a lasting impact.

One unforgettable moment came in Daytona when, after every restaurant was booked, the team embraced flexibility and enjoyed a “fancy” dinner at Captain Pizza, turning it into a fun and memorable experience.

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SPOTLIGHTS

Student Spotlight

by Avery Wisdom

Avery Wisdom of Gore, Oklahoma, is a sophomore at Connors State College pursuing a double major in Agriculture and Multidisciplinary Studies. In addition to her degrees, she is earning certificates in Agriculture, Horticulture, Agronomy/ Natural Resources, Food/Meat/Animal Science, Agribusiness, and General Education. She chose Connors State because of the wide range of leadership and scholarship opportunities available to students.

Outside of her schoolwork, Avery stays extremely busy with both work and campus involvement. On campus, she works as a work-study in the President’s Office, and off campus, she recruits for an international mission’s organization and serves as a substitute teacher. Avery is highly involved in student organizations

across campus. She serves as president of the Baptist Collegiate Ministries (BCM) and the Aggie Club. Through BCM, she has also been a member of the worship team for the past two years, playing piano. She is the vice president of President’s Leadership Class, Cowboy Corral, and CSC Collegiate CattleWomen, where she previously served as treasurer during her freshman year. In addition, she is an Agriculture Ambassador and a member of Phi Theta Kappa. Avery takes great pride in her involvement and will be sad to leave these organizations upon graduation.

Her dedication to personal and leadership growth has earned her numerous scholarships and awards. During both years at Connors, she has received CSC Foundation scholarships, Cherokee Connection: April 2026 15

SPOTLIGHTS Ozarks in Point Lookout, Missouri. With an acceptance rate of just 12%, gaining admission is highly competitive, but Avery’s hard work at Connors helped her secure a place in the program. “Leaving CSC is a bittersweet feeling because these have been some of the best years of my life, but I know God has good plans for me at C of O,” she said. After completing her bachelor’s degree, she plans to earn her master’s degree and return to Northeast Oklahoma to become an agriculture educator. When asked what advice she has for current or future Connors students, Avery said, “Get involved! Don’t be scared to try new things. This is the most unique and strategic time of your life, don’t waste it. Do the scary and hard things!”

Nation scholarships, and tuition waivers from the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. After her freshman year, she was awarded scholarships from Connors BCM, CSC CattleWomen, and the Oklahoma CattleWomen. Recently, she was nominated by executive staff for the prestigious Glenn D. Johnson Scholarship, for which only one student from each institution may be selected.

In addition to her scholarships, Avery received the Freshman Horizon Award from the Agriculture Division, represented President’s Leadership Class during Homecoming, earned her American FFA Degree, participated in a study abroad program, and was named to the Vice President’s Honor Roll for three semesters and the President’s Honor Roll for one semester.

After graduating from Connors, Avery plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education at the College of the 14 Connection: April 2026

SPOTLIGHTS Alumni Spotlight

by Amber McKibben, CSC Recruitment & Marketing The culture at Connors State College has always been rooted in a strong sense of family, and Trent Todd is a true embodiment of that tradition. He comes from a long legacy of Connors alumni, with his parents, sister, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins all having attended the college. Both of his parents also dedicated many years of service as employees, giving Trent the unique experience of growing up on campus. It was only natural that he would choose to continue his education at Connors after graduating from high school.

In addition to his deep family ties to Connors, Trent has strong personal and family roots in agriculture. He grew up on a family farm near Checotah, Oklahoma, where he developed a strong work ethic and an early appreciation for the agricultural way of life. He was actively involved in his local 4-H program, where he began showing hogs, sheep, and cattle, and continued through high school. During that time, he also served as president of his FFA chapter and went on to earn his National FFA Degree during his first semester at Connors. His passion for agriculture has remained a driving force throughout his life and career, further strengthening his connection to Connors State College.

Trent attended Connors from 2009 to 2012 before continuing his academic journey at Oklahoma State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Leadership. In 2025, he further advanced his education by earning an MBA in Agribusiness from Arkansas State University.

Trent has never truly left Connors. He began working on campus as a work-study student and, in the spring of 2012, transitioned into a full-time role as a cashier in the Bursar’s Office. Over the past fourteen years, he has served the college in a variety of roles, including Assistant Bursar, Accounts Payable Accountant, Success Coach, Dual Enrollment and Early College Coordinator, and Interim Assistant Division Chair for the Agriculture Department. He has also served as the Aggie Club sponsor for several years and has contributed to numerous campus committees. In addition, Trent remains actively involved in the Connors alumni community and currently serves on the Alumni Gala Committee.

Trent’s passion for Connors State College has only deepened through his years of service.

During his time at the college, he has experienced significant personal and professional growth, with Connors playing a central role in that journey. He looks forward to continuing to serve and support the institution that has meant so much to him for many years to come.

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CONNORS STATE COLLEGE 700 COLLEGE RD WARNER, OK 74469

Riley Grace takes the mat in Daytona with the Connors State College Spririt Rally team.