CONNECTION A Publication of Connors State College
Students Kick off the 2026-2027 School Year with the Back to School Bash.
September 2026
INSIDE THISSeptember 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. James S Rook VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS Dr. Chris McBeath VICE PRESIDENT FOR FISAL SERVICES Mike Lewis VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT AFFAIRS Jake Lawson
FEATURE
Dr. Steve Rook
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EDUCATION
5
ATHLETICS
8
CAMPUS LIFE
12
AGRICULTURE
14
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Eddie Warrior Graduation Jess Dunn Graduation Connors College Fair Academic All Americans New Coaches and Athletic Director Upcoming Soccer and Basketball Season Athletic Meet and Greet
New Golf Simulator Back to School Bash
Agriculture Meet and Greet
SPOTLIGHTS •
Alumni Spotlight
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CONNECTION CONTRIBUTIORS Josie Correll Amber McKibben Derotha Rivenbark Jordan Barry Christian Jones Clint Maxey
CSC SOCIAL MEDIA
#CONNORSSTATE
facebook.com/ @ConnorsState @ConnorsState youtube.com/ connors connors statecollege statecollege
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 Dr. Steve Rook Begins New Chapter as President of Connors State College by Josie Correll, Marketing and Communications Coordinator Connors State College welcomed Dr. Steve Rook as its new president, bringing 38 years of experience in higher education and a career shaped by mentorship, service and a belief in the lasting impact of education. Connors State is the fifth institution Rook has served throughout his career. Most recently, he served as chancellor of Arkansas State University Three Rivers, where he had been since 2016. Before that, Rook spent 16 years at Rich Mountain Community College, now the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain. During this time he served in several leadership positions, including vice president for student affairs, vice president for academic affairs, vice president for academic and student affairs and interim president. A career in higher education, however, was not what Rook originally envisioned for himself. From the age of nine, he planned to become a lawyer. That direction began to change during his junior year of college when Dr. Jack Lassiter encouraged him to become involved in student activities. Lassiter became Rook’s first mentor and helped introduce him to a career path that would ultimately span nearly four decades. Looking back, Rook credits much of his journey to the people who invested in him along the way. Dr. Charles Donelson became another profound mentor, while Rook’s grandfather played an especially important role in shaping how he viewed education. Although his grandfather only had a thirdgrade education, he strongly supported
Rook’s academic endeavors. One piece of advice has remained with Rook throughout his life: “Education is one thing people cannot take away from you.” That influence continues to shape the way Rook approaches leadership. “I owe sitting in this chair to a lot of different people,” Rook said. “I want to pass on what I have been given and help the next person.” Rook earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Arkansas at Monticello, a master’s degree in education with an emphasis in guidance and counseling/student personnel Connection: September 2026 3
FEATURE
from Eastern Illinois University and a Doctorate of Education in Higher Education Administration from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. He also completed the Summer Institute in Higher Education Management at Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College of Education and Human Development. Throughout his career, Rook has worked in nearly every area of higher education, from student activities and student affairs to academics and executive leadership. His experience has included leading accreditation efforts, strategic planning, campus expansion, workforce development and institutional growth. As he begins his newest chapter at Connors, Rook emphasized his gratitude for the welcome he and his family have received. 4 Connection: September 2026
“We are so appreciative of the support from Connors State College family and the OSU A&M Board of Regents,” Rook said. Rook and his wife, Connie, have been married for 13 years. He has two sons, Taylor and Greyson. With decades of experience behind him, Rook comes to Connors with an appreciation for the mentors and family members who helped shape his own path and a desire to provide that same support for others. As he takes on his new role, that commitment to education, service and investing in the next generation will help guide his leadership at Connors State College.
EDUCATION
Connors State College Celebrates 32 Graduates at Eddie Warrior Correctional Center by Josie Correll, Marketing and Communications Coordinator Connors State College recently celebrated the accomplishments of 32 women who completed their educational programs at Eddie Warrior Correctional Center. Among the graduating class, 21 students graduated with honors. This recognition reflects the time, effort and dedication they put into their education. Each graduate worked toward this milestone while remaining committed to completing her coursework and reaching her academic goals. The graduation provided an opportunity to recognize the students’ achievements and celebrate the progress they made throughout their programs. Earning a college education can create new opportunities, build confidence and provide students with knowledge they can carry into the future.
Prison education programs allow students to continue learning while preparing for the next chapter of their lives. For many students, graduation represents more than completing a program. It is also a reminder that hard work and determination can lead to meaningful change. Connors State College is proud to recognize all 32 graduates and congratulate the 21 students who earned honors. The college also appreciates the faculty, staff and supporters who provided encouragement and guidance throughout the students’ educational journeys. The achievements of these graduates demonstrate the difference education can make and the new possibilities it can help create.
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EDUCATION
Connors State College Recognizes 15 Graduates at Jess Dunn Correctional Center by Josie Correll, Marketing and Communications Coordinator Connors State College recently recognized 15 men who completed their educational programs at Jess Dunn Correctional Center. Of the 15 graduates, seven earned honors for their academic achievements. Their recognition reflects a strong commitment to their education and the effort they put into successfully completing their programs. The graduation celebrated an important milestone for each student. Completing a college program requires students to stay focused and continue working toward their goals, even when challenges arise. Their accomplishments show the value of perseverance and a willingness to invest in the future. Through prison education programs, students have the opportunity to expand 6 Connection: September 2026
their knowledge and develop skills that can help them prepare for life after incarceration. Education can provide a foundation for personal growth while opening the door to new goals and opportunities. Each graduate’s success is a reminder of the positive impact education can have. Connors State College congratulates the graduating class and looks forward to seeing how the students use their education as they move into the next chapter of their lives.
EDUCATION
Connors Welcomes More Than 300 High School Students for the Warner Area College Fair by Josie Correll, Marketing and Communications Coordinator Connors State College welcomed more than 300 high school students to the Warner Campus on August 27 for the Warner Area College Fair. The event gave students the opportunity to explore a variety of college and educational opportunities as they begin planning for life after high school. Representatives from approximately 50 colleges and institutions attended the fair to share information about their schools, academic programs, admissions processes, scholarships and other opportunities available to prospective students. Throughout the event, students were able to visit with representatives, ask questions and learn more about the different paths available to them after graduation. The strong turnout made the Warner Area College Fair a great opportunity for students to explore their options while allowing colleges and institutions from across the region to connect with area high school students. Connors State College was proud to host the event and welcome students and representatives to the Warner Campus for a day focused on future educational opportunities. Connection: September 2026 7
ATHLETICS Connors State Student-Athletes Recognized for Academic Excellence by Clint Maxey, Head Cheer and Dance Coach Josie Correll, Marketing and Communications Coordinator Each year, the National Junior College Athletic Association recognizes studentathletes who demonstrate a strong commitment to their education through the NJCAA All-Academic Teams. During the 2025–26 academic year, 13,723 studentathletes from across the country received this honor. To qualify, student-athletes were required to earn a grade-point average of 3.60 or higher for the academic year. Students with a GPA between 3.60 and 3.79 were named to the NJCAA All-Academic Third Team, while those with a GPA between 3.80 and 3.99 earned Second Team honors. Studentathletes who achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA were selected for the First Team. Connors State College is proud to have 49 student-athletes named to the NJCAA All-Academic Teams this year. Their achievements reflect the time and effort required to balance the demands of college athletics with a commitment to academic success. In addition to individual honors, the NJCAA recognized athletic programs that earned a team GPA of 3.0 or higher. Seven Connors State teams received recognition: baseball with a 3.47 GPA, women’s basketball with a 3.20 GPA, competitive cheerleading with a 3.41 GPA, women’s cross country with a 3.22 GPA, men’s soccer with a 3.40 GPA, women’s soccer with a 3.11 GPA and softball with a 3.20 GPA. Success is not measured only by performance in competition. It is also earned through dedication in the 8 Connection: September 2026
classroom. Connors State College congratulates its student-athletes and teams for representing the college through their commitment to academic excellence.
ATHLETICS Connors State College Welcomes New Coaches and Athletic Director by Josie Correll, Marketing and Communications Coordinator Connors State College is welcoming new leadership across several programs with Cody Hastings joining the college as head men’s basketball coach, Steve Moore as head men’s soccer coach and Ethan Jones as show team coach. Longtime head baseball coach Perry Keith has also taken on a new role as athletic director. Hastings comes to Connors State after seven years at ASU Mid-South, including three seasons as head coach. During the 2025-26 season, he led the Greyhounds to a 27-8 record, Region 2 Regular Season and Tournament Championships and a berth in the NJCAA National Tournament. He was named Region 2 Coach of the Year and Central Plains District Coach of the Year. In addition to success on the court, Hastings emphasizes academic achievement and preparing studentathletes for life after basketball. During his time at ASU Mid-South, the team earned a 3.3 GPA and maintained a 100 percent graduation rate among sophomores. Moore brings more than 20 years of collegiate coaching and recruiting experience to the Connors State soccer program. He most recently served as chief operating officer for The Florida Soccer School. Before that, he spent seven seasons as the inaugural head men’s soccer coach at Indiana University East, where he built the program and led the Red Wolves to seven consecutive conference tournament appearances. Jones, a native of Logansport, Indiana, brings extensive experience in the show cattle industry to Connors State. He is the
owner of Diamond Crown Genetics and a graduate of Black Hawk College and Oklahoma State University. After graduating from OSU in 2022, Jones returned home to work with his family’s show cattle operation. He has exhibited Hereford and Maine-Anjou cattle at junior national breed shows and major events, including the North American International Livestock Exposition, National Western Stock Show and Houston Livestock Show. Keith brings 42 years of experience at Connors State to his new position as athletic director while continuing to serve as head baseball coach. The winningest coach in NJCAA baseball history, Keith has led the Cowboys to numerous conference championships, eight Region II titles and six appearances at the NJCAA Division I JUCO World Series. Keith was inducted into the NJCAA Baseball Hall of Fame in 2008, and his jersey number seven was retired that same year. Throughout his career, he has coached numerous NJCAA All-Americans and helped more than 130 players reach the Major League Baseball Draft. In 2016, the Connors State baseball facility was renamed Biff Thompson Field at Perry Keith Park in recognition of his impact on the program. Connors State looks forward to the experience and leadership Keith, Hastings, Moore and Jones will bring to their programs and student athletes.
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ATHLETICS Cowboy Athletics Gears Up for Soccer and Basketball Seasons by Josie Correll, Marketing and Communications Coordinator Fall sports are underway at Connors State College, and Cowboy fans have plenty of opportunities to get out and support CSC Athletics in the coming months. The men’s soccer team has already kicked off its season. This year, all home games will be played at Hilldale High School in Muskogee. Fans are encouraged to make the trip and cheer on the Cowboys throughout the season. As soccer continues, basketball season is right around the corner. Connors State basketball will tip off November 2 inside Melvin Self Fieldhouse. Both the Cowboys and Cowgirls are preparing for another season on the court, and fans are encouraged to come out, fill the stands and support the teams throughout the season. Season tickets are now available for fans who want to catch the action all season long. Whether cheering from the sidelines at Hilldale High School or filling the stands inside Melvin Self Fieldhouse, the Connors State community has plenty of opportunities to show its Cowboy pride and support CSC student-athletes this year.
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ATHLETICS
Athletic Meet and Greet Brings the Cowboy Family Together by Josie Correll, Marketing and Communications Coordinator Connors State College student-athletes, coaches, employees and community members recently came together for the Athletic Meet and Greet in the Fine Arts Building. The event began with student-athletes from each of Connors State’s athletic programs gathering for an opportunity to mingle and get to know one another. With athletes representing different sports and programs across campus, the event gave them a chance to meet new faces and build connections outside of their own teams. Later, Connors employees and members of the community were invited to meet this year’s Cowboys and Cowgirls. Each team took the stage, where coaches shared information about their programs and introduced their teams. Student-athletes then had the opportunity to introduce themselves, giving those in attendance a chance to learn more about the individuals representing Connors State this season. The Athletic Meet and Greet provided an opportunity to bring the Connors community together while celebrating the student-athletes and coaches who represent Cowboy Country. Connection: September 2026 11
CAMPUS LIFE Connors State Adds New Golf Simulator by Christian Jones, Student Activities Director Connors State College is excited to announce the addition of a new golf simulator to campus. Located in the Student Center, the simulator gives students, faculty and visitors a new way to experience the game of golf and practice their skills. Golf simulators use technology to track different aspects of a player’s swing and shot, allowing golfers to see their results and work on different areas of their game. Players can also experience virtual rounds on a variety of golf courses without leaving campus. The new simulator provides another recreational activity for the Connors State community to enjoy. Golfers of all experience levels can take advantage of the simulator, from experienced players looking to practice their skills to beginners interested in learning the game. It also provides students with another opportunity to socialize and enjoy friendly competition with others on campus. The simulator will be a unique addition to the Student Center and can provide new opportunities for Student Activities 12 Connection: September 2026
programming throughout the year. Golf competitions, themed golf nights and events introducing students to the game are just a few ways the new space can bring students together. As technology continues to change the way people experience sports and recreation, the golf simulator offers Connors State students a fun and interactive way to enjoy the game. Whether practicing a swing, playing a virtual round or trying golf for the first time, students now have another way to connect and get involved on campus.
CAMPUS LIFE
Back to School Bash Welcomes Students to Campus by Josie Correll, Marketing and Communications Coordinator Connors State College kicked off the new school year with its annual Back to School Bash, giving students an evening to have fun, meet new people and connect with the Connors community. Students enjoyed activities including cornhole, free Connors merchandise, snow cones and more. “My favorite part of the Back to School Bash was getting to hang out with everyone,” said Rayleigh Yocham. “I loved getting to meet people and just enjoy being part of the Connors community. It made me feel very welcome and excited for the school year!” Amelia Steely shared a similar experience, saying the event made her “feel welcome and excited to start this new journey as a
Cowgirl.” She especially enjoyed the free Connors merchandise, snow cones and opportunity to meet new people. Shaylee Black said one of her favorite parts was seeing everyone come together and have fun, while Emiliee Woodward enjoyed spending time with friends and connecting with other students. “It made me feel excited and welcomed to be part of the Connors State community,” Woodward said. “Overall, it was a great way to kick off the school year and make memories with other Cowboys!” The Back to School Bash provided a fun start to the semester and an opportunity for students to feel at home in Cowboy Country. Connection: September 2026 13
AGRICULTURE
Agriculture Meet and Greet Connects Students and Community by Josie Correll, Marketing and Communications Coordinator Connors State College recently hosted its Agriculture Meet and Greet, bringing together students, coaches, employees and community members to learn more about the college’s agriculture programs and the students involved in them. The event began with agriculture students gathering to mingle and get to know others involved in programs across campus. The evening gave students an opportunity to make connections with one another while learning more about the different areas of Connors State Agriculture. During the program, coaches took the stage to share more about their respective teams and programs. Students were then introduced and shared where they were from, giving those in attendance an opportunity to get to know the faces representing Connors State Agriculture. The Meet and Greet offered students a chance to connect outside of their individual programs while allowing employees and community members to learn more about the students who make up Connors State Agriculture. 14 Connection: September 2026
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT Alumni Spotlight: Cassandra Robledo by Josie Correll, Marketing and Communications Coordinator For Cassandra Robledo, Connors State College was where she began her collegiate journey, built lasting friendships and found a community that remains part of her life today. Robledo attended Connors from August 2014 through summer 2016, earning an Associate of Applied Science degree in Animal Science. She first considered Connors because her best friend from high school was attending on a rodeo scholarship, but after visiting campus, she knew it was the right place for her. “I just felt at home enough during my campus tour that I wanted to begin my college career at Connors,” Robledo said. After graduating from Connors, Robledo transferred to Oklahoma State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Communications in fall 2018. One of her favorite classes at Connors was horticulture with the late Debby Golden, whose enthusiasm for the subject made a lasting impression. “Her love for teaching and for horticulture itself was admirable and made the class so enjoyable and interesting,” she said. Although Robledo was not involved in a team or club, many of her closest friends were members of the livestock judging and rodeo teams. She remains friends with many of them and has even photographed some of their weddings and families. Today, Robledo serves as a Business Engagement Specialist with the Tahlequah Chamber of Commerce, working in marketing and membership recruitment and retention. She also owns her wedding and portrait photography business, Photographs by Cass. In spring 2026, photography brought Robledo back to Connors when she was contracted to photograph the college’s commencement ceremony. It was a full-circle moment as she captured graduates crossing the same stage she had walked across 10 years earlier. Robledo’s connection to Connors continues through the friendships and experiences that began during her time on campus. Connection: September 2026 15
CONNORS STATE COLLEGE 700 COLLEGE RD WARNER, OK 74469