Campus Updates - 2022 Collection

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CAMPUS UPDATE

A note from the president...

As we have entered a new year and begin moving through the spring semester, I know that many of us can’t help but reflect on this as a time of change, a chance for renewal, and an opportunity to make for ourselves a fresh, new beginning. The poet W.S. Merwin further asks us to embrace the new year as a symbol of promise and of hope, encouraging us to consider all that is “still possible.”

At this moment, the most significant example of change for ECU comes in the promise of new leadership as we work with our RUSO Board of Regents to conduct a national search for our next president. I am truly humbled and honored to be entrusted to serve as Interim President during the search. But even more so, I am blessed to work alongside a dedicated faculty and staff who, despite the many changes and challenges before them, have remained committed to fulfilling ECU’s mission to educate and empower our students to understand and transform our world. ECU has always been a shining example of resilience, and I am confident this same resilience will keep the ECU community moving forward during this period of transition.

Of course, our students may best represent this resilience as they continue to achieve and excel both in and out of the classroom. It is through their continued success, regardless of the many circumstances beyond their control, that we most clearly see the promise, hope, and all that is “still possible” in our future. And it is with this same spirit that we here at ECU will embrace the changes ahead and other opportunities yet to come.

Thank you.

February 2022

RUSO Regent Chair Connie Reilly (left) and Interim ECU President Dr. Jeffrey Gibson pose for a picture after employee convocation Jan. 7.

Dr. Gibson named Interim President

The Regional University System of Oklahoma taps ECU Provost Dr. Jeffrey Gibson to serve as interim president.

Gibson has been at ECU since 2020 and will assume presidential duties while the search for the 10th president of ECU is underway. Gibson has brought significant academic and administrative experience to ECU. A tenured professor in English at Wesley College (Dover, Delaware) since 2005, he also held the position of Associate Dean of Curriculum & Program Development and directed the college’s Honors Program before being named Provost there in 2015.

Connie Reilly, RUSO regent chair, said, “We will conduct a thorough national search to find the best candidate who is experienced in the particular strengths and opportunities at ECU. RUSO is optimistic that our search will result in a candidate who is well-positioned to lead the university into the future.”

Direct Descendant of President Thomas

Jefferson to

speak at ECU Feb. 22, 2022

In celebration of Black History Month, the ECU Black Alumni Association is proud to present Shannon LaNier at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 22, at ECU. LaNier is an entrepreneur, author, TV personality, social media influencer – and the sixth great-grandson of Thomas Jefferson.

LaNier will bring his motivational humor to Ataloa Theatre in Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center. The event is free and open to the public. He will share his life, touching on everything from his presidential lineage and genealogy to racial equality and his career in media.

LaNier is a direct descendant of the Declaration of Independence author and slave Sally Hemings.

SEE LaNier PAGE 8

SHANNON LANIER

Old air finds new life at ECU

ECU Theatre to present "Hello Dolly!"

ECU Theatre will present the musical “Hello, Dolly!” in February as its spring musical in the Ataloa Theatre inside the Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center.

Hello Dolly!

“Hello, Dolly!” with music and lyrics written by Jerry Herman will be performed at 7:30 p.m. nightly on Feb. 11 and 12, with a 2:30 p.m. Sunday matinee set for Feb. 13. The musical is under the direction of ECU Instructor Vickie Reifsnider, with musical direction by Rudy Lupinski and orchestral direction by Dr. Nick Meyers. Tickets for “Hello, Dolly!” are available at 580-559-5751, at boxoffice@ecok.edu, or from the Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center ticket booth. Prices are $10 for adults, and $5 for seniors and children. ECU students and faculty are admitted free.

Food bank receives generous donation

The ECU Foundation recently received an anonymous gift in the amount of $25,000 toward the advancement of the ECU Food Bank.

The ECU Food Bank provides supplemental food and supplies for students with a monthly box distribution. Each month, the ECU Food Bank provides support for approximately 25-30 students and their families. It was originally established in early 2020, prior to the pandemic’s arrival.

The donor has also pledged to match an additional $25,000 of gifts made over the coming year.

The ECU Food Bank is a collaborative partnership between the University and the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, managed by federal work study students and volunteers. Those interested in donating may do so online at www.givecampus.com/ykmroi or by contacting Buffy Lovelis, ECU Foundation chief operating officer, at blovelis@ecok.edu or 580-559-5655.

Some old air finds new life at ECU thanks to a donation from the City of Ada Fire Department.

“We’re glad to be able to donate this equipment where they will get more use in training ECU students,” Ada Fire Chief Rob Johnson said. The donation was possible due to a grant to the AFD.

Interim ECU President Dr. Jeffrey Gibson, right, thanks AFD Chief Rob Johnson, left, while Dr. Guy Sewell looks on.

The donation – 12 self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBA) and 24 bottles of air – was given to the Environmental Health Science program at ECU to give students hands on training before they graduate.

“This is a great opportunity,” Interim ECU President Jeffrey Gibson said. “We appreciate this donation and the relationship ECU has with the City of Ada.”

Dr. Guy Sewell, Environmental Health Science professor and Ada City Council member, explained the SCBA units will help students learn the proper use of personal protective equipment and obtain their 40-hour HAZWOPER certificate. HAZWOPER is an acronym that stands for “Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response.” This training is useful for careers working with hazardous waste, such as safety and compliance officers or hazardous material tracking and management.

SEE Air PAGE 8

Color Theory Pollen Show

ECU Students look on at the Color Theory Pollen Show on Dec. 1. Several art works depicting pollen were on display on the Centennial Plaza in front of Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center.

Campus Update February 2022

Faculty Senate recognizes employees

ECU Faculty Senate President Joe Dougherty presented two ECU employees with commendations, appreciating their areas' hard work.

IT Director Jeremy Bennett and Registrar ADeidra Simmons received the commendations after employee convocation on Jan. 7. Faculty Senate expressed their gratitude for the offices' hard work, level of professionalism, and many hours of overtime in transitioning technologies for ECU while exemplifying ECU's core values.

Holiday Cheer

Employees return to campus

Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Jeffrey Gibson addresses ECU's employee convocation as ECU's interim president while the executive council and guests look on. Seated from left are VP of Student Development

Brandon Hill, VP of Institutional Advancement Amy T. Ford, RUSO Regent Chair Connie Reilly, VP of Administration and Finance Jessica Kilby, Interim Athletic Director Al Johnson, and CEO of ECU Foundation Inc. John Hargrave. Faculty and Staff received an update in each speaker's area, with high hopes for the spring semester and presidential search. Interpreter Melissa Price, far right, provided ASL for attendees.

Jeremy Bennett (left) and Joe Dougherty
ADeidra Simmons (left) and Joe Dougherty
ECU employees enjoyed a holiday mixer on Dec. 9. At left, employees show off their "ugly" shirt designs, while above, employees gather for holiday pastries, at right.

Tacos were served on Taco Tuesday, Jan. 11, to welcome students back to campus for the spring semester.

Shundiin Bohan and Madeline Fairley represent ECU as they share highlights with a group tour from Strother High School.

ECU students Savannah Porter, left, and Emily Ford represent the ECU Spanish Club at a student organization fair held Jan. 20 at ECU's Stanley Wagner Ballroom. Several student organizations were on hand to share information with other ECU students.

The deadline for scholarships looms. If a student applies by Feb. 1, they will be considered for a University scholarship. To apply for ECU Foundation scholarships, visit: ecok.edu/scholarships

ECU Bands performed Dec. 1. Above, the Wind Ensemble performs under the direction of Director of Bands Nick Meyers. Below left, Dalaan Bassett performs a solo. Below right,percussionists Abraham Jett and Liam Neel focus intently on the director.

Tiger tough!

ECU Tiger student-athletes prepare to take spring sports by storm. Basketball teams are in full swing with softball, baseball and cross country starting up. To follow the teams, stay connected with www.ecutigers.com, the official ECU Athletics website! Now about these photos ...

Top left: Brennan Burns, a redshirt freshman from Bethany takes the ball to the hoop in a double-overtime win against the Southeastern Savage Storm.

Top right: Izzy Cummins, a redshirt sophomore from Elgin takes the ball down the court.

Above left: Tuttle and Frontier high school girls basketball teams battle it out at the Bertha Teague Mid-America Classic. ECU hosted the event. (Photo by Richard Barron)

Above right: Sophomore Jett Allen will be wearing #21 this season. He’s an infielder from Marion Junction, Alabama.

Right: Sophomore Madison Postier from Enid is shown in action, preparing for the upcoming season.

Graduates took the walk on Dec. 11

ECU’s 2021 Distinguished Alumnus Jeremy Humphers addressed graduates at the Fall Commencement Ceremony on Dec. 11 at Kerr Activities Center. Humphers is senior vice president and chief accounting officer for Devon Energy. He graduated with honors from ECU in 1996, earning his degree in Accounting.

Distinguished Alumnus Jeremy Humphers

Alpha Chi brings PAWS to campus

Alpha Chi helped warm PAWS

Dec. 2. PAWS – Pontotoc Animal Welfare Society –brought some furry friends to ECU campus for students to take a "paws" from studies for a service project. Alpha Chi received a Chapter Activity grant from the national chapter for the event. A total of $420 was raised and some pet supplies were gathered to donate to PAWS.

LaNier

(cont. from pg 1)

The man who wrote “all men are created equal” owned more than 600 slaves and fathered six children with one of them. While it’s a complicated family history LaNier grew up with (confirmed by DNA in 1998), nothing has stopped his success.

He co-authored the book “Jefferson’s Children: The Story of One American Family” along with photojournalist Jane Feldman. The book reads like a family album and follows LaNier on his journey across the country to meet relatives from both sides of the family: the Jeffersons and Hemings, those that have embraced their heritage and those that want nothing to do with the

third president of the United States.

Although LaNier has explored his heritage, he has been in the limelight his entire life. His first television job was as a teenager in Cincinnati, Ohio, on “Real Exchange,” a talk show focusing on issues important to young people. He graduated from Kent State University and jumped headfirst into media in front of the camera at CBS2 Morning Show, then as a writer, director, editor, videographer and reporter at News 12 Networks.

LaNier is also an entrepreneur and owner of “365 Productions,” the senior producer of “Black Enterprise Business Report” and Black Enterprise Magazine’s “Entrepreneur of the Week” correspondent.

Campus Update February 2022

Air (cont. from pg 2)

Typically, the 40-hour version of the HAZWOPER certificate costs over $500, Sewell said. That training is offered to ECU undergrads as part of their courses at no additional cost.

“This is worth thousands of dollars in training equipment for our students,” Sewell said. “This allows our students to be certified before they graduate.”

Sewell explained that as part of their training, the class will get into a hazmat suit while wearing a mask, the breathing apparatus and the bottle. The students then go through a circuit while performing tasks, like picking up dice or stepping over obstacles, tasks similar to experiences in the field.

All of this enhances the environmental health student experience thanks to the Ada

He is currently a television news anchor with BNC (Black News Channel). He has hosted and/or appeared on several television shows, including CW39’s morning show in Houston, Texas, and “Arise Entertainment 360” that aired on Centric (BET’s sister station), CNN – Newsroom, MSNBC with Katy Tur, The Today Show, CBS Sunday Morning, ABC’s here & Now, Black Enterprise Business Report, Our World with Black Enterprise, and Survivor’s Remorse.

LaNier is a family advocate. He regularly contributes to fatherly.com, and he is an editor at World Bride Magazine, and founder of #DaddyDuty365, a digital initiative celebrating positive and active fathers.

Fire Department.

“These have a 15-year life,” Johnson said, referring to the donated equipment, “but they are still functional.”

Sewell said he would now be able to “dress out” at least half of classes for the training. With a smile, Johnson said the students should get a good idea of the limited visibility and cumbersome heavy equipment.

LaNier has also participated in the White House’s “My Brothers’ Keeper” initiative and the National Entrepreneurship Tour, The Slave Dwelling Project (sleeping overnight at Jefferson’s home, Monticello), and works with Ancestry.com. He remains an active member of his church, the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., and the National Association of Black Journalists. He married his college sweetheart, Chandra. They live between New York City and Florida with their three children.

LaNier can be followed on all social media platforms @MrShannonLanier.

For more information on this event, please visit ecok.edu or call 580-5595213.

SCBA

UPDATE CAMPUS

A note from the president...

Signs of normalcy have returned to ECU.

Despite the recent weather closures, it has been a rather busy time on campus. In recent weeks we’ve had a visit to the State Capitol for Higher Education Day, with over 20 representatives of ECU making the journey to promote higher education in the state. Numerous faculty, staff, students, and alums also came together to celebrate Black History Month by honoring the MLK Spirit Award winners and attending an address by Shannon LaNier, a direct descendant of President Thomas Jefferson.

Likewise, the ECU production of "Hello, Dolly!" drew large crowds, as did our men’s and women’s basketball games, with both teams earning a spot in this year’s GAC Tournament.

Campus also saw many high school visitors for group tours, the annual “Junior Day,” the Regional Science Fair, and OSSAA vocal competitions.

And March and April look to follow suit, with additional Fine Arts presentations, athletic events, the Scissortail Creative Writing Festival, our many awards banquets all to come.

March 2022

Higher Education Day

More than 20 people traveled to the Oklahoma State Capitol to represent ECU at Higher Education Day Tuesday, Feb. 15. The students, faculty and administration gathered with hundreds of people from other Oklahoma universities and colleges to demonstrate the value and importance of higher education in Oklahoma. Above left, Chancellor Allison Garrett poses with Gov. Kevin Stitt and the many college and university students and administrators. Above right, ECU students, administrators and Roary pose with RUSO regents Chris Van Denhende and Connie Reilly.

Black History Month event a success

Shannon LaNier, a direct descendant of President Thomas Jefferson, spoke at ECU on Feb. 22 as part of Black History Month commemoration. At top left, LaNier speaks to students in a panel discussion. Above, the ECU Black Alumni Association poses with LaNier. At far left, Chancellor Allison Garrett visits with a student while Dr. Jeffrey Gibson speaks with reporters. At left, LaNier (center) poses with former Gov. George Nigh (right) and Donna Nigh.

Duo premieres new piece for flutes

ECU faculty Dr. Alexandra Aguirre and Dr. Nathaniel Berman premiered a new work Feb. 21 for two flutes by Mexican composer Samuel Zyman, who is an instructor at Vanderbilt University and The Julliard School. They also performed works by Astor Pizzolla, Paul Arma and Efraín Amaya. The premiere was part of a recital at Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center.

ECU students' art on display

The third annual “The Love Show” featuring ECU students’ artwork was displayed at Hot Shots Coffee House at 709 W. Main in Ada, just down the road from campus. A reception was held Feb. 10 for the artists and the show was scheduled to run through Feb. 28.

Palentines' Paint Night

Pals gathered in ECU's Stanley Wagner Ballroom Feb. 8 to create Valentine themed artwork.

Campus Update March 2022

Cole visits ECU

Congressman Tom Cole met with ECU Interim President Dr. Jeffrey Gibson, Oka’ Institute Director Duane Smith,VP of Institutional Advancement Amy Ford and GOLD (Guard Officer Leadership Development) program leaders and students on Monday, Feb. 14. Gibson, Smith and First Lieutenant Bryce Chitwood thanked Cole for his support of the various federal grants at ECU.

Three MLK Spirit Award winners named

Three East Central University students were recently honored with the MLK Spirit Award as part of ECU’s Black History Month Commemoration on Feb. 22. Jaymin McClarty, Delanie Seals, and Jakaveon Shaw all received the honor. Pictured above from left are Dr. Christine Pappas, Dr. Shirley Mixon, Jakaveon Shaw, Delanie Seals, Jaymin McClarty and Chandra Miller. The award requires two criteria: leadership and service.

ECU alum organize Clearview event

ECU Tigers were well represented Feb. 19, at Clearview's Black History Month "Life After Sports" presentation. ECU alum Dewey McClain and Darlean Calip shared about their lives post-graduation.

Campus Update March 2022

EYES ON CAMPUS!

Well, "Hello, Dolly!"

The ECU Theatre spring musical, featuring the notorious matchmaker Dolly Levi, took the stage for three performances on Feb. 11-13. “Hello, Dolly!”, with music and lyrics written by Jerry Herman, was under the direction of ECU Theatre Instructor Vickie Reifsnider, with musical direction by Rudy Lupinski, choreography by Shelby Davis, and orchestral direction by Dr. Nicholaus Meyers. ECU student Autumn Manus (right) starred as Dolly for two performances, while Nicole Erwin (pictured far right with Markus McClellan) took the lead for the third show.

Science fair

The Regional Science Fair was held at the ECU Stanley Wagner Ballroom on Thursday, Feb. 22.

Vocal Contest

ECU hosted OSSAA Vocal District Contest on Feb. 22. Many high school students visited ECU to compete.

Nearly 100 high school juniors visited ECU's campus to learn how to become an ECU Tiger.

Kyte speaks at 30th Parker Ethics Lecture

Dr. Richard Kyte delivered ECU’s 30th Annual Oscar L. Parker Ethics Lecture on Thursday, Feb. 17 in Foundation Hall of the Chickasaw Business and Conference Center. During this session, Kyte spoke about “Institutions, Justice, and the Common Good.”

Kyte is the endowed professor and director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin. There, he teaches a variety of ethics courses dealing with issues in business, leadership and the environment. He has published and lectured widely on topics related to justice, forgiveness, virtue, and the meaning of life.

The Oscar L. Parker Center for the Advancement of Ethical Standards in Business and Society was established in late 1988 as a fitting and lasting memorial to Oscar L. Parker, a highly respected educator, businessman, college administrator, civic leader of Ada, and an active supporter and longtime employee of ECU.

Pictured from left are Dr. Michael Scott, director of the Oscar L. Parker Center; Dr. Richard Kyte, keynote speaker; and Interim ECU President Jeffrey Gibson.

Professor contributes to awardwinning film

Professor Scott Ketchum contributed to and narrated an award-winning film about the last Choctaw removal to Oklahoma in 1902-1903. Ketchum is a descendant of a Choctaw citizen that was removed to Ardmore in 1903 from Mississippi.

The 36-minute short film "Ikhaiyana La Chi" (I Will Remember) has been receiving astounding recognition since its premiere. It has received the award for Achievement in Native Film Making at the 2021 NatiVisions Film Festival in Parker, Arizona and received recognition from the Bare Bones Film Festival.

It was nominated at the L.A. Skins Festival for Achievement in Short Film-making. "Ikhaiyana La Chi" recently won the award for Best American Indian/First Nation/Indigenous Feature at the Will Rogers Motion Picture Festival in Claremore.

Screenings have taken place in Wichita, Kansas at the alterNative Film Festival as the featured film; at the American Indian Film Festival in San Francisco; at the Fort Smith International Film Festival; and the Holba Pisachi Native Film Festival. Click for more information or to view the film

Campus Update March 2022

New Oka' Institute director named

A new director is at the helm of the Oka’ Institute at East Central University. Duane Smith, of Duane Smith and Associates, stepped into the role of executive director on Feb. 1. Former Senator Susan Paddack retired from the position in September, concluding Oka’s maiden voyage through water issues. Smith’s knowledge, experience and leadership will steer the institute into new waters. For more, please visit ecok.edu/news

Nursing applications

The ECU School of Nursing has recently increased the amount of applicants that can be accepted by opening up a second entry point to the nursing program. Doing so helps ECU meet the demand for nursing jobs throughout the state of Oklahoma and beyond.

School of Nursing Director Darcy Duncan said potential nursing students can apply in the spring to begin the following fall semester. The application deadline is April 4 for students wanting to begin the program for the fall 2022 semester. Those hoping to begin in spring 2023, may apply beginning May 2.

Visit ecok.edu/Nursing for more information.

Tiger tough!

Tiger student-athletes continue competing in Spring Sports. Basketball teams competed in conference playoffs while softball, baseball and cross country are just getting started. To follow the teams, stay connected with www.ecutigers.com, the official ECU Athletics website! Now about these photos ...

Above left: Freshman AJ Ferguson Jr. takes the ball to the hoop.

Above center: Senior Alexis Lyons directs traffic on the court.

Above right: Sophomore Christian Whitaker is shown in action at a recent game.

Right: Sophomore Josi Goodman launches the ball across the field.

Ketchum

Upcoming Events...

Spring Break! March

14-20

Have a relaxing and safe week!

Scissortail Creative Writing Festival March 31-April 2

The annual Scissortail Creative Writing Festival returns – in person – to ECU campus March 31-April 2, marking the 17th festival to take place.

A trio of celebrated authors – Arthur Sze, Jenn Givhan and Lou Berney, are the featured authors this year. The event is open and free to the public.

The Scissortail Creative Writing Festival, as always, features Oklahoma’s most prestigious high school creative writing competition, now in its 18th year. The annual Darryl Fisher Creative Writing Contest is open to all state high school students submitting poetry or short works of fiction. Awards for the state-wide competition will be announced on

Saturday, April 2. Winners from the Undergraduate Contest will be presented Friday, April 1 at the Estep Multimedia Center.

Sze, Berney and Givhan will highlight the three-day festival, which attracts some of the best known and unknown writing talents from around the country. More than 70 authors will be a part of the festival. The schedule, speaker bios and updates are available at ecuscissortail.blogspot.com

For more information on the Scissortail Creative Writing Festival or questions about group attendance, contact organizer Dr. Ken Hada at 580-559-5557 or via email at khada@ecok.edu.

Pete the Cat - March 8

For Pete the Cat, life is an adventure no matter where you wind up. So the minute the groovy blue cat meets The Biddles, he gets the whole family rocking. That is, except for young Jimmy Biddle, the most organized second grader on planet Earth.

But when Jimmy draws a blank in art class during the last week of school, it turns out Pete is the perfect pal to help him out. Together, they set out on a mission to help Jimmy conquer second grade art, and along the way, they both learn a little something new about inspiration. Join Jimmy and Pete on an adventure of friendship, all the way to Paris and back in a VW Bus!

Purchase tickets at ecok.edu/boxoffice

John Daversa - March 10

John Daversa is a distinguished trumpet-player, composer, arranger, producer, bandleader and educator. He is world-renowned for his dynamic and emotive style of trumpet and EVI playing, along with imaginative, genre-bending compositions and arrangements. Originally from Los Angeles, CA, and a one time Ada resident, he is currently residing in Miami, FL where he is Chair of Studio Music and Jazz at Frost School of Music, University of Miami.

In addition to multiple awards as a bandleader and educator, his large jazz ensemble album, American Dreamers: Voices of Hope, Music of Freedom received three Grammy Awards and his big band album Kaleidoscope Eyes: Music of the Beatles received three Grammy nominations. He returns to Ada to help the Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center celebrate ten years of fine arts programming!

Purchase tickets at ecok.edu/boxoffice

The Second City - March 28

The Second City has been bringing the funny for over 60 years. We began in 1959 as a small comedy cabaret and have grown to become the first name in improv and comedy, with theaters and Training Centers in Chicago, Toronto, and Hollywood.

We’ve also taken improv off the stage, expanding our reach to include creative collaborations with a wide range of creative and corporate partners, wellness and education programs, TV, film and digital productions. ...and our alumni list includes some of the funniest names on the planet...

Purchase tickets at ecok.edu/boxoffice

CAMPUS UPDATE

A note from the president...

Yes, spring is officially here, but many at ECU are already looking ahead and preparing to welcome new Tigers for the summer and fall semesters.

As of March 28, ECU has admitted more than 900 new students for the fall semester! Over 600 are beginning freshmen. With so many new faces, the Academic Success Center has led the charge to introduce “TEDs,” or Tiger Enrollment Days, a series of dates throughout the spring and summer that will introduce new students and their families to the ECU campus.

TED will give up to 60 students at a time the opportunity to enroll in courses, to get their student IDs, to explore organizations and services offered at ECU, and to prepare them to attend Tiger Prep Orientation on Aug. 12. The first TED, April 9, has already reached capacity, and subsequent dates are filling up quickly. A huge thank you to ASC’s Dr. Haley Matlock, Dean of Students Nick Buckley, and Dir. of Recruitment Ashlee Heck for coordinating this effort, and also to all the participating offices and departments. It truly is a team effort.

Yet, as the campus grounds begin to turn green and the March and April storms blow through, we’re also excited for the opportunity to honor our students, faculty, and staff during the season’s various award ceremonies and banquets. It’s wonderful to see so many members of the ECU community turn out and show their support at these events. With all these achievements to celebrate, we can look forward to a strong finish to the spring semester.

Thank you,

April 2022

OSC Justice Rowe speaks at Boswell Lecture

ECU alumnus Justice Dustin P. Rowe was the speaker at the annual Boswell Lecture Wednesday, March 30. Rowe, a justice for the Oklahoma Supreme Court, shared his journey that started in Tishomingo, then to ECU, and eventually to the OSC when Governor Kevin Stitt appointed Rowe as a Justice in November 2019. Pictured from left are Dr. Gibson, Deanna Hartley-Kelso, J.D., Rowe, and Regent Connie Reilly. ecok.edu/news

Summer/Fall '22 enrollment begins at ECU

ECU is gearing up to enroll students for the summer and fall 2022 semesters. Priority enrollment for current students begins April 4, with group enrollment returning for new freshmen beginning April 9. Group enrollment days – dubbed “Tiger Enrollment Days” – give new students a chance to get to know ECU's campus a little bit more before stepping foot on campus for Tiger Prep (orientation) August12.

For more information, call 580-559-5628. To apply to ECU, visit ecok.edu/apply. For more information on new freshman group enrollment, visit ecok.edu/ASC

Valley View Foundation receives partnership award

Valley View Foundation was recently awarded the Regents Business Partnership Excellence Award. The award is designed to highlight successful partnerships and to further cultivate the higher learning environment through State Regents’ Economic Development Grants. Valley View Foundation has provided a wonderful service to its community awarding millions of dollars over the years with more than $715,000 to ECU. With this support, ECU is able to continually advance the ECU School of Nursing. The foundation has provided support for nursing SimLab manikins, renovations, equipment, technology upgrades and so much more.

At the event, Kari Blakely (center) accepts the award on behalf of the foundation. Chancellor Allison Garrett (right) and ECU VP Amy Ford are pictured.

ECU Brass Band performs at OSU

The ECU Brass Band traveled to Stillwater and performed at the South Central Regional TubaEuphonium Conference (SCRTEC) held at Oklahoma State University on March 18. This is the band’s second conference performance of the year, after performing at the Oklahoma Music Educators Association Fall Conference at Oklahoma City University in October. The brass band will be competing at the North American Brass Band Association Championships in Huntsville, Alabama, at the end of April.

John Daversa holds clinic at ECU

World renowned musician John Daversa performed at ECU, March 10. The musician, formerly of Ada, also worked with students in a master's class the day before his performance.

For more, visit ecok.edu/news

For more on John Daversa, visit johndaversa.com.

Visit from US Congress Official

On March 25, Brendan Clark, program coordinator from U.S. Congresswoman Stephanie Bice's office, visited the Veterans Upward Bound office on ECU's campus.

Clark, a wounded warrior intern, plans to return to campus for Veterans and Military Appreciation Day on May 19. Pictured from left are VUB Director Mary Meeks, VUB Academic Counselor Robert Keel, Clark, and VUB Academic Counselor John Engel.

Campus Update April 2022

Week of the Young Child

City of Ada Mayor Randy McFarlin presents Pamla Armstrong with the ECU Child Care Resource and Referral Agency with a proclamation declaring April 4-8 Week of the Young Child.

Mihelic named Dean of CEP

Following a national search, Dr. Jerry Mihelic will assume the role of Dean of the College of Education and Psychology as of July 1. He will be taking the role from Dr. Phyllis Isaacs, who has announced her retirement at the end of the fiscal year.

Vice Chancellor of JOOUST speaks at ECU

Dr. Stephen Agong (center), vice chancellor of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo, Kenya, spoke at the 2022 Watkins Lecture, March 30.

“Global Crisis: Food and Water” was the topic of Agong’s address. Agong was introduced by Bahati Brian Oonga, a student from Kisumu, Kenya, who came to ECU to earn his master’s degree in Water Resource Policy and Management.

For more, visit ecok.edu/news.

ECU faculty competes with brass band

ECU Professor Dr. Jace Vickers traveled to St. Louis, Missouri, during spring break to compete with the renowned Fountain City Brass Band at the Gateway Brass Band Championships.

The FCBB won first place in the Championship section, and will be competing once again with Vickers in the tuba section at the North American Brass Band Championships at the end of April.

ECU joins RUSO with Ukraine Scholarship

ECU is joining efforts with RUSO universities for a scholarship for Ukrainian students. The six regional universities are united in their concern for the people of Ukraine who face many challenges including the loss of educational opportunities. RUSO universities aim to provide a path to a college degree for those Ukrainians gravely impacted by the war.

The scholarship program will cover tuition and room and board for undergraduate or graduate Ukrainian students who are seriously impacted and/or displaced by the Russian invasion as determined by each institution.

Dr. Jerry Mihelic
Dr. Jace Vickers

Around campus

State Band Festival held on ECU campus March 28-April 2

Hundreds of high school students swarmed ECU's campus the last week of March as part of the State Band Festival.

ECU brass players attended a master class in Oklahoma City Feb. 28 presented by Principal Trumpet of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Tom Hooten. He presented a class on playing techniques, time management, and audition preparation.

ECU's Spring Career Fair was held March 9, giving students a chance to explore career opportunities beyond graduation.

Students felt the effects of a hypnotist (below) visiting ECU as a campus life event on March 7.

ECU seniors prepare for commencement at the graduation fair, an event allowing students to get their regalia.

The Gamma Chapter of Alpha Chi inducted students on March 3. Alpha Chi is comprised of the top 10 percent of juniors and seniors at ECU across all academic disciplines. Students must maintain at least a 3.5 grade-point average to be eligible to join.

Alpha Chi Induction

Interim athletic director, football coach named

Interim ECU President Dr. Jeffrey Gibson has appointed women’s basketball head coach Matt Cole as interim athletic director and Kris McCullough as the interim head football coach.

Cole has served as the ECU head women’s basketball coach for eight

years, leading the Tigers to postseason play seven times.

McCollough has served as assistant head coach and offensive coordinator for the last four years.

He assisted Johnson as they led the Tigers to a winning season (7-4) in 2021, the first since 2015.

Tiger tough!

Baseball, softball seasons draw to a close

Track & Field teams claim nine top-three finishes at OBU Invitational

The ECU track & field teams continued strong performances during the 2022 campaign, earning three women's top-3 finishes and six men's top-3 placements at the Oklahoma Baptist University Invitational.

The men saw four first-place, one second-place and one third-place finishes from three participants, with

redshirt junior Zach Wells (below left) claiming first in the 800 meters (1:54.72) and 1,500 meters (3:55.65).

The women's team saw redshirt senior Aaliyah ReggWajid (below right) take second in the 5,000 meters (17:46.17), while teammates took a second- and thirdplace finish.

Senior Mekhi Edwards throws a pitch against Rogers State University. Sophomore Jayne Reid runs the bases against ArkansasMonticello.
Coach Matt Cole
Coach Kris McCollough

April 6

Awards Season

ECU looks forward to the upcoming awards season, honoring students, employees, athletes, and distinguished guests.

Asian Student Association

April 8

Education Department

April 8 Greek Banquet

April 13

Employee Recognition

April dates to watch for

April 4

Priority Enrollment begins

April 6

School of Nursing Recruitment Day

April 8

Professional Education Conference

April 15

Professional Programs in Human Services

April 19

Art+Design:Media+Communication

April 19

College of Health & Sciences

April 25

Athletic Awards Banquet

April 13

Duane C. Anderson Hedgehog & Fox Faculty Lecture

April 20

Pogue Lecture & Formal NSLS Induction

April 20-22

RUSO Board Meeting

April 26

Honors Banquet

April 28

School of Business Banquet

May 6

Evening of Honors & Recognition

May 13

Athletic Hall of Fame

CAMPUS UPDATE

A note from the president...

Congratulations to all of our employees and students on all of the awards and scholarships that have been bestowed over this last month. Hard work definitely pays off, and we are so pleased for the opportunity to celebrate our successes.

Across the campus, hundreds of students were awarded scholarships and recognized from their various colleges and departments. At the Employee Recognition Event, well over 100 employees were recognized for their service to ECU and their embodiment of ECU’s core values. Three retiring professors were granted Professor Emeritus as they look forward to their next chapter in life.

ECU is also recognizing and celebrating Distinguished Awards from 2020, 2021, and 2022.

Six of ECU’s top students became finalists for the George Nigh Award. Recently, they met with Gov. Nigh at a reception in their honor. The George Nigh Award winner will be announced at the Spring 2022 Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 7, in the Kerr Activities Center.

We hope you join us in celebrating our 2022 ECU graduates' achievements and the bright future that awaits them.

May 2022

Distinguished Alumni Honorees

After a two-year sabbatical, the 2022 East Central University Evening of Honors and Recognition returns to recognize distinguished persons. The event is scheduled for May 6 in the Chickasaw Business and Conference Center. Registration begins at 6 p.m. with the event starting at 6:30 p.m. ECU will honor the 2022 Distinguished Alumni, Distinguished Former Faculty, Distinguished Service, and Distinguished Family. The distinguished award recipients from 2020 and 2021 will also be honored at the event.

The RUSO Board Visits ECU Campus Spring Commencement 2022

ECU's 2022 Spring Commencement will be held Saturday, May 7 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. in Kerr Activities Center. We will honor 116 candidates for Master’s degrees, and 371 candidates for Bachelor’s degrees.

Chancellor Allison D. Garrett is slated as keynote speaker at ECU’s commencement ceremony at 10 a.m. Garrett was named chancellor of the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education in 2021, becoming the first woman to hold the position.

Distinguished ECU Alumni Dewey McClain is set to speak at the 2 p.m. ceremony. McClain earned a B.A. in History in 1976 from ECU, where he played football before his professional gridiron career. He played in the NFL with the Atlanta Falcons for five years and then with the United States Football League with the Oakland Invaders and Oklahoma Outlaws. McClain is currently a State Representative in Georgia, a voice for his constituents in Gwinnett County.

Group Tours

High school students are eager to tour ECU campus. Since January, the Office of Recruitment has hosted 164 individual tours and 13 group tours for 380 students from 16 different high schools!

Tiger Enrollment Day

During the first two Tiger Enrollment Days (freshman group enrollment) ECU enrolled more than 100 students for fall 2022 classes. These students also had the opportunity to signed up for housing.

Members of ECU's Presidential Leadership Class and Brass Band Quintet proudly assisted ECU administration in hosting the Regional University System of Oklahoma's April Board Meeting.

George Nigh Finalists

Gov. George Nigh Award Finalists – The six finalists for the George Nigh Award have been named. Pictured from left are finalists Amanda Daniel, Blake Thomas, Carson Sandvik; Gov. George Nigh, Dr. Jeffrey Gibson, Dr. Sarah Peters, finalists Kiley Moore, Abigail Fowler and Katie Cowger. The winner will be announced at commencement.

Visit from US Congress Official

Congressman Markwayne Mullins came to campus to speak and show support for ECU's Veterans Upward Bound Program.

Love's Cup

ECU students brought home $30,000 in prize money from the 2022 Love’s Cup contest, bringing the University’s 10-year

winnings total to $184,000. Entrepreneurial students

Faith Andrews, Nathan Fountain, Madalyn Hess, Logan Cosby, Jill Ballard and Linda Woodward all represented ECU at the competition.

Student Wins Gold Award

ECU Student Dakota Cao won Gold Award at the regional Yevgeniy Yevtushenko Russian poetry recital contest. Students from 9 universities participated. Dakota recited a poem “Two Cities” by Yevtushenko. He was also awarded a special prize for the best interpretation of a poem by Yevtushenko. The Prize was established by the poet’s family.

McNair's Poster Display

Honors Showcase

The ECU Enactus team traveled to the Enactus National Exposition in New York to present their project in a highly competitive environment. The team traveled to the University of Long Island to compete against 22 other U.S. universities. ECU placed third overall with The Eco-Snap Tiles project in Early-Stage Competition Final Four. In the Race to Feed the Planet, the team placed in the top 48 globally. Competing in 1 Race 4 Oceans, the team created a 77-second film to present the Eco-Snap Tiles project, placing 2nd in the United States, and in the top 44 globally. The team was also nominated for an Excellence Award for an ongoing project in Uganda.

BIC Internship

ECU Enactus student Allison Edwards was selected for an executive level summer internship with the CEO of BIC corporation. Allison is just the 2nd student in history of Enactus to receive this opportunity at Enactus. She was selected after a highly competitive interview process.

Distinguished Service Award

Financial Aid Director, Becky Isaacs won the 2022 Distinguished Service Award from the Oklahoma Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (OASFAA). The award is intended to recognize a student financial aid professional who has contributed unique and long-lasting efforts to the Association, the profession, or the cause of financial aid in Oklahoma.

This past month has been busy with events as the semester comes to a close. Orange Crush Week Paws for Thought Asian Night Concerts & more!

Greek student have fun participating in their events. Lip-sync Battle Chariot Races Awards & more.

Athletics Awards (Roary Awards)

Round up of Spring Sports

Wheeler named Men’s Basketball Head Coach

The ECU athletic department has announced the appointment of Daniel Wheeler as the 13th ECU Men’s Basketball Head Coach. Wheeler comes to the Tigers after spending the last seven years as an assistant coach at the University of Central Oklahoma. He started with the Bronchos in 2015 as a graduate assistant coach, moved to assistant coach in 2018 and spent the last two years as the lead assistant.

Track and Field

For just the third time in ECU track & field history, a member of the teams has set an NCAA Division II Provisional Mark and a new school record, with freshman Jackson Parrish earning the mark in the 800 Meters. Parrish finished first in the 800 meters, with a time of 1:51.10. He is the first freshman to set an NCAA Provisional mark and just the third in ECU history. Kaspars Briska set a provisional mark in the 3,000 Meter Steeplechase and Juan-Joel Pacheco Orcozo did so in the 5,000 meters.

The women's team also saw two first-place finishes and one second. Junior Abigael Kemboi finished first in the 1,500 meters (4:53.75) and added an eighthplace finish in the 800 meters (2:24.13). Redshirt senior Aaliyah Regg-Wajid also finished first in the 3,000-meter steeplechase (11:46.04). Redshirt Katie Cowger added a second-place finish in the 1,500 meters (4:57.14). On the men's side, senior Carson Sandvik added a third-place mark in the 3000-meter steeplechase

Softball

The 2022 ECU softball season came to an end at Harding in the final regular-season game of the year.

Tigers return to campus for Fall 2022 semester

East Central University came to life as new and returning students prowled onto the Tiger campus over the last two weeks. More than 1,000 new ECU tiger students enrolled in classes, bringing the campus to life for the fall semester. Residence halls filled up quickly with a 25% increase from the spring semester in ECU students calling campus home for the next year.

With the many new and returning faces on campus, fall activities are in full swing. Explore the new ECU Campus Updates to learn more.

The beginning of a new era for

Wendell Godwin became the 10th president of ECU on July 1, 2022, after a long career in the corporate world and more than a decade in academics, leading ECU’s Harland C. Stonecipher School of Business, its faculty and its students, to levels of great achievement and national recognition.

Godwin earned his Business Administration degree in 1984 from ECU and his Executive MBA in 2005 from Southern Methodist University. He graduated from Pauls Valley High School in 1980.

In 2010, Godwin was named Dean of the School of Business and worked to transform the culture of the school of business into one of excellence.

He supported university efforts to raise $14 million for the Chickasaw Business & Conference Center and the new building for the school of business.

Various programs were introduced as a result of additional fundraising efforts.

For more information on President Godwin, visit ecok.edu/news

ECU Tigers

Newly appointed ECU President Wendell Godwin (left) speaks with Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby (center) and Lt. Governor Chris Anoatubby at a comeand-go community event.

Hit the ground running

President Godwin wasted no time meeting ECU employees, alumni, and leaders from area communities. He shared his vision, answered questions and listened to concerns.

Join The President's Circle

The President’s Circle is an exclusive group of individuals and businesses who provide targeted support for the advancement of East Central University. This important group provides the University and the President with access to nondesignated funds that can be used to enhance educational experiences and opportunities for students, faculty, and staff. Individuals or businesses may join the President’s Circle with a tax-deductible minimum annual contribution of $1,000 to the ECU Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)3 charitable organization. To join or for more information, visit ecok.edu/presidents-circle.

Upcoming Events

Thursday, Sept. 1

3:30 p.m. ................. Tigers Tailgate (T&T) North Lawn

6 p.m. ........................ Football vs Harding Koi Ishto Stadium

Monday, Sept. 5

Labor Day ........................ Campus Closed

Saturday, Sept. 10

8 a.m. All State Work Shop Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center

10:30 a.m. Step Out Of The Darkness Kerr Activities Center

Tuesday, Sept 13

3:30 p.m. Weekly Music Dept. Recital Faust RM 136

Saturday, Sept 17

8 a.m. ......................................... Ada Fest Centennial Plaza

Tuesday, Sept 20

3:30 p.m. ...... Weekly Music Dept. Recital Faust RM 136

Wednesday, Sept 21

7 p.m. ....................................... Rival Rally Kerr Activities Center

Monday, Sept 26

8:45 a.m. Ada Area Wide College Fair

7:30 p.m. ........................... Faculty Recital Faust Auditorium

Tuesday, Sept 27

3:30 p.m. Weekly Music Dept. Recital Faust RM 136

Wednesday, Sept 28

10 a.m. Fall Career Expo CBCC

Thursday, Sept 29

2:30 p.m. ......... Ed.Hall of Fame Induction Estep Multimedia Room

4 p.m. ............... Troy Aiken Gallery Talk & Reception - Pogue Art Gallery

Please note that all fall athletic dates can be found on page 4. See the ECU Calendar at ecok.edu/calendar

Campus Life

Student life at ECU is full of adventure, from student orientation, learning traditions, move-in and summer camps, Tigers stay busy in and out of the classroom. Moving in

Welcome home to the dome
New Student Convocation Molecules of Nature Summer Camp
Robotics Camp
Capture the Flag
Howdy Fair Yard Games
Deck the Denim Mall Crawl

Meet the Coaches

Ada Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a meet-and-greet event with ECU coaches. Tiger fans and supporters visited the Bill S. Cole University Center for the event. Fall athletics kicked off with soccer, volleyball and football along with cross country competitions.

Tiger Athletics

Soccer

ECU football & basketball to stream with SCORE Broadcasting at xfactorradio.net.

Sept. 1 vs. Harding University

Sept. 10 @ Arkansas Tech

Sept. 17 @Southern Nazarene

Sept. 24 vs. Northwestern

Cross Country

Sept. 1 @ Rogers State

Sept. 9 Aggie Duels at Cameron University

Sept. 17 Southern Stampede at Missouri Southern

Sept. 30 Chile Pepper Festival at University of Arkansas

Sept. 1 @ UCO

Sept. 4 @ Lubbock Christian

Sept. 8 vs. Oklahoma Christian

Sept. 11 @ Midwestern State

Sept. 16 @ Southern Nazarene

Sept. 22 vs. Southwestern

Sept. 24 vs. Northwestern

Sept. 29 @ Oklahoma Baptist

Sept. 2-3 @ Denton, TX

Sept. 6 @ Southwestern

Sept. 8-9 @ Searcy, AR

Sept. 13 vs. Oklahoma Baptist

Sept. 17 @ Northwestern

Sept. 20 @ Southern Nazarene

Sept. 22 vs. Southeastern

Sept. 23 @ Oklahoma Christian

Sept. 29 vs. Harding University

Sept. 30 vs. Arkansas Tech

Once a Tiger... Registration open for Homecoming Golf Tourney

Entries are now being accepted for the 2022 East Central University Homecoming Golf Tournament. The event will be held on Friday, Oct. 21 at Oak Hills Golf and Country Club in Ada. The popular event is a homecoming staple and features a four-man scramble format. The entry fee is $125 and includes lunch at Oak Hills Country Club. The 18-hole tournament begins at 1 p.m. with a shotgun start. Golfers can register online at ecok.edu/HCGolf2022 or call the ECU Office of Alumni Affairs at 580-559-5724. Mulligans will be available for purchase during check in and each golfer will receive two drink tickets.

Reunited

Oklahoma City area alums gather for a reunion celebration. Reunions were also held in Ardmore, McAlester, Tulsa and Dallas. To follow alumni events, visit ecok.edu/alumni Graduation = New Alumni Congratulations Spring

Roary, Dewey McClain and Coach Pat O'Neal

State of the Campus

New year, new deans

Two of ECU's colleges are under new leadership for the new academic year.

Dr. Jerry Mihelic took over the College of Education and Psychology after Dr. Phyllis Isaacs retired.

Dr. Michael Scott is serving as interim dean of the Stonecipher School of Business as Wendell Godwin assumed the presidency.

Both began their duties as of July 1.

ECU faculty and staff return to campus ahead of students. President Godwin shares the state of the campus at employee convocation at left.
Dr. Jerry Mihelic
Dr. Michael Scott

East Central University Campus Updates

Two alum inducted into Keefer Hall of Fame

Officer Commissioning Ceremony The GOLD Program at ECU held the first commissioning ceremony since the program was reinstated in 2021, and the first since 2014. Alex Garcia received that honor. Above, a small crowd gathered for the event. Below from left are: Brian O'Hanlon, Bryce C. Chitwood, Alex Garcia, and ECU President Godwin.

Two East Central University alumni will be honored Thursday, Sept. 29, as inductees to the Gene and Evelyn Keefer Educators’ Hall of Fame.

Dr. Cindy Machado (pictured left) and Shelby Morgan were honored in the ceremony.

The Educators Hall of Fame is sponsored by Janice Diamond and Paul Keefer, the children of Gene and Evelyn Keefer, to recognize ECU-prepared educators at any level who have made a significant contribution to the field of education.

ECU President Godwin (right) informs Chancellor Allison Garrett of the wonderful progress at ECU this semester.

Rock the Native Vote was held on ECU campus Sept. 19 for National Voter Registration Day.

The Chickasaw Nation worked with ECU to make the event happen.

Campus Life

Campus life adventures continue through September, bringing Tigers together at various events.

BLA Roundup
Rival Rally
AdaFest
Tiger Tailgate
Game Day
School Spirit
Step Out of the Darkness
ACT II Presents Shrek the Musical

Caring, Trustworthy & Committed to Excellence

Elijah Woodward receives the first Allyson and Talor Stewart (pictured center) Honors Scholarship. The scholarship is designed to go to students who join the ECU Honors Program without the benefit of an Honors or other higher-level academic scholarship. Dr. Sarah Peters (left) and Dr. Steve Benton (right) are also pictured.

Seven ECU education majors received a grant from the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. The grant provides assistance with a portion of education costs, a monthly stipend, and also helps with job placement and mentor teaching support.

Hundreds of high school students flocked to ECU Sept. 26, for the Ada Area Wide College Fair. The event was held in conjunction with Oklahoma's College Application Week, giving the high school students a chance to explore the colleges or universities they may want to attend.

FRIDAY, OCT. 21

ECU Alumni Association Homecoming Golf Tournament

Oak Hills Country Club - Register by Oct. 10

11 a.m. Check-in & Lunch

1 p.m. 4-man Scramble Tee Time

Black Alumni Association Scholarship Gala & Dinner

Chickasaw Business & Conference Center - Register by Oct. 7

6:30 p.m. Check-in & Lunch

7 p.m. Gala & Dinner - Semi-Formal

Saturday, OCT. 22

Pancake Breakfast - Men's Basketball Fundraiser

The Perfect Blend - Tickets available online 9:30 a.m. All You Can Eat Pancake Breakfast

Golden Tiger Brunch *Event for ECU alums 50+ years (1972)* Chickasaw Business & Conference Center Register by Oct. 10

9:30 a.m. Check-in

10 a.m. Brunch

Homecoming Parade

Ada Main Street - Register parade entries by Oct. 10

11 a.m. Parade begins

Tiger Tailgating

Koi Ishto Stadium Lawn 12:30 p.m.

Football vs. Southwestern

Koi Ishto Stadium

2 p.m. Kick-Off

Orange & Black Party hosted by ECU Black Alumni Association

Chickasaw Business & Conference Center - Register by Oct. 7

7:30 p.m.

ECU Showtime presents Godspell

Ataloa Theatre

7:30 p.m.

Register for events at www.ecok.edu/Homecoming2022

ECU Tiger student athletes took to the fields, courts and tracks full throttle in September, with the ECU community rallying to the home games with record attendance.

Two cross country athletes earned GAC runners of the week. That honor went to juniors Amos Pkiach (below left) and Abigael Kemboi.

Tiger Athletics

Game Day

Soccer

Oct. 1 @ Southern Arkansas

Oct. 8 vs Henderson State

Oct. 15 @ OBU

Oct. 22 vs SWOSU - Homecoming

Oct. 27 @ Ouachita Baptist

Cross Country

Oct. 15 @ OBU

*Home games in orange.

Oct. 1 vs Southern Nazarene

Oct. 7 @ Harding

Oct. 9 @ Ouchita Baptist

Oct. 13 @ SWOSU

Oct. 15 @ Northwestern

Oct. 20 vs OBU

Oct. 27 vs Ouachita Baptist

Oct. 29 vs Harding

Oct. 6 @ Ouachita Baptist

Oct. 7 @ Henderson State

Oct. 13 vs U of Ark at Monticello

Oct. 14 vs Southern Arkansas

Oct. 18 @ Southeastern

Oct. 20 vs Southern Nazarene

Oct. 22 @ Midwestern State U of T

Oct. 25 @ OBU

Oct. 27 vs SWOSU

For full athletic schedules and game times, visit ecutigers.com

Campus Business

The Veterans Upward Bound Program at ECU signed a of a Memorandum of Understanding between ECU and the Coffee Bunker, allowing the program to benefit veterans in the Tulsa area.

The VUB has moved to a new location in Ada at 808 E. Main St. The ECU Veteran's Resource Center plans a ribbon cutting at 1 p.m. on Oct. 4.

Lectures hosted at ECU

Two lectures were held in September. The Rothbaum Lecture, delivered by Dr. Robin C. Henry, was held Sept. 15 to commemorate Constitution Day. Dr. Scott Barton coordinated the event.

The Oka Institute, housed at ECU, named Amy Hays the new Assistant Director of Development and Outreach.

Housed in Fentem Hall, the institute’s mission is to address water resource needs.

Three ECU students traveled to France to study abroad this semester. Dr. Mara Sukholutskaya (right) coordinates the Study Abroad program. The students pictured are (from left) Nathan Fountain, Allison Edwards and Deborah Thornton.

Judge Gregory H. Bigler delivered the Watkins Lecture Sept. 21. Drs. Christine Pappas and Jacintha Webster organized the lecture.

Stay up to date with ECU's press releases, upcoming events, photo galleries and more! Visit www.ecok.edu

Presented to the Queen

As the world mourned Queen Elizabeth II, an ECU professor recalled meeting the monarch. Read more of Dr. Steve Gardner's recollection.

Amy Hays
Rothbaum Lecture
Watkins Lecture

Once a Tiger...

Campus Update March 2022

Ready to reunite?

Watch ecok.edu/Homecoming2022 for updates on various reunions on Saturday, Oct. 22. Reunions could include Social Work, Band Alumni, Athletic Alumni and Greek Receptions.

Upcoming

Golden Tigers

Golden Tigers graduated 50+ years ago from ECU. This year, the class of 1972 is being honored at a Golden Tiger Brunch the morning of Homecoming, Oct. 22. Registration is due by Oct. 10. visit www. ecok.edu/Homecoming2022 or call 580-559-5724.

Events

Saturday, Oct. 1

1 p.m. Tigerpalooza Koi Ishto Stadium

Tuesday, Oct. 4

9 a.m. Go Global/Study Abroad Bill S. Cole University Center

10 a.m. Stand for the Silent Bullying Prevention Stanley Wagner Ballroom

1 p.m. ............ Veterans Upward Bound Open House 808 E. Main St., Ada

2 p.m. ECU Originals Open Mic Linscheid Library

3:30 p.m. Weekly Music Dept. Recital Faust RM 136

Thursday, Oct. 6

5 p.m. Intellectual Salon Estep Multimedia Center

5:30 p.m. East End Eats Centennial Plaza

Monday, Oct. 10

7:30 p.m. Jazz Concert Ataloa Theatre

Tuesday, Oct. 11

3:30 p.m. ...Weekly Music Dept. Recital Faust RM 136

Thursday-Friday, Oct. 13-14 Fall Break ...................... Campus Closed

Tuesday, Oct. 18

3:30 p.m. Weekly Music Dept. Recital Faust RM 136

Friday-Saturday, Oct. 21-22 HOMECOMING

(See page 3 for full schedule)

Monday, Oct. 24

8 a.m......... 68th Annual Faculty Exhibit Pogue Art Gallery

6:30 p.m. ...........Marvin Stokes Lecture Estep Multimedia Center

Tuesday, Oct. 25

3:30 p.m. Weekly Music Dept. Recital Faust RM 136

Wednesday, Oct. 26-27

8 a.m. Fall Choral Festival Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center

Thursday, Oct. 27

8 a.m.............. Grounded Chalk Festival Centennial Plaza

10 a.m......................... ECU Foundation Annual Meeting Chickasaw Business & Conference Center

Friday, Oct. 29

Noon. Cody Johnson Memorial Car Show - Centennial Plaza

Please note that all fall athletic dates can be found on page 4.

For complete list of events, see the ECU Calendar at ecok.edu/calendar

McCullough named ECU's fulltime head coach

Kris McCullough’s title at ECU no longer includes “interim.” He carried the title since March, taking the Tigers to a 6-3 winning season so far, including the first 6-game winning streak since 1984. A huge feat while also being the youngest head coach in college football.

“Coach McCullough has earned the title of head football coach at ECU,” President Wendell Godwin said. “He has been instrumental in building a culture of excellence on and off the field. When you consider what Coach McCullough has achieved in his college coaching career, it is quite impressive.”

“This is home to my wife and I. We absolutely love it here. We love this University. We look forward to being here for years to come," McCullough said. His wife, Hannah, is pictured with him at left. For more, visit ecok.edu/news.

U.S. Congressman Tom Cole visited ECU and met with officials. He also toured the School of Nursing to see the training tools available.

The Marvin Stokes Lecture was held Oct. 24. Oklahoma Teacher of the Year Rebecka Peterson and RUSO Regent Connie Reilly spoke at the event. More than $100,000 in education scholarships were awarded.

Tuesday, Nov. 1

3:30 p.m....... Weekly Music Dept. Recital Faust Hall Auditorium

7:30 p.m. .............................. Barron Ryan Ataloa Theatre

Wednesday, Nov. 2

8 a.m....................................... Senior Day ECU Campus

10 a.m.......................... Chickasaw Nation School-to-Work Application opens

Noon Majors Fair Bill S. Cole University Center

4 p.m. Conversing with Ken Hada Linscheid Library

3:30 p.m. Weekly Music Dept. Recital Faust RM 136

Thursday, Nov. 3

8 a.m........................ Interscholastic Meet ECU Campus

Monday, Nov. 7

8 a.m. Priority Enrollment begins

8 a.m...................... Day as a Music Major Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center

Tuesday, Nov. 8

8 a.m........ Oka' Sustainability Conference Ataloa Theatre

3:30 p.m. ...... Weekly Music Dept. Recital Faust Hall Auditorium

4 p.m. ......................................... Stickball University Center Lawn 5 p.m. ........ Student Art Show Reception Ada Public Library

Tuesday, Nov. 15

Upcoming Events

3:30 p.m....... Weekly Music Dept. Recital Faust Hall Auditorium

7:30 p.m.... Percussion Ensemble Concert Ataloa Theatre

Wednesday, Nov. 16

6 p.m. ......... Women's Club Salad Supper Regents Room

Thursday, Nov. 17

8 a.m. Tiger Tank Competition Chickasaw Business & Conference Center

9 a.m. Pout Pout Fish Performance for Schools

10:45 a.m. Pout Pout Fish Performance for Schools

11:45 a.m. Limes Lecture Chickasaw Business & Conference Center

5:30 p.m. Pout Pout Fish General Performance Ataloa Theatre

6:30 p.m. ..................... Faces of Ukraine: A Presentation by Dr. Sukholutskaya Estep Multimedia Center

Friday, Nov. 18

5 p.m. ...................... 68th Annual Faculty Exhibit Reception Pogue Art Gallery

7:30 p.m. ....................... One Act Festival Chalmers Theatre

7:30 p.m. ............................... ECU Opera Faust Hall Auditorium

Saturday, Nov. 19

7:30 p.m.

One Act Festival Chalmers Theatre

Sunday, Nov. 20

2:30 p.m. ........................... ECU Jazz Band Ataloa Theatre

Monday, Nov. 21

7:30 p.m. Choral Concert St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Ada

Tuesday, Nov. 22

8 a.m................. Senior Art Exhibit Begins Pogue Art Gallery

3:30 p.m. ...... Weekly Music Dept. Recital Faust Hall Auditorium

Wednesday-Friday Nov. 23-25

Thanksgiving Break Campus Closed

Monday, Nov. 28

8 a.m.................... Student Art Show Ends

Tuesday, Nov. 29

3:30 p.m. ...... Weekly Music Dept. Recital Faust Hall Auditorium

4 p.m. ......................................... Stickball University Center Lawn

Wednesday, Nov. 30

7:30 p.m. ................... ECU Bands Concert Ataloa theatre

Please note that all fall athletic dates can be found on page 4.

For complete list of events, see the ECU Calendar at ecok.edu/calendar

Events

Classic Meets Cool: Pianist to take the stage at ECU

Classic meets cool when pianist Barron Ryan takes the stage at the Ataloa Theatre 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 1.

Ryan, who is from Tulsa, takes classic piano music and merges them with a funk-, pop- or country-inspired sound.

The son of two musicians, his love for music started at a young age. He grew up in a house filled with the sounds of artists

ranging from Mozart to Michael Jackson, so he’s never been one to draw from a set influence. He combines all genres into a musical adventure.

Tickets are available at ecok.edu/ boxoffice and range from $10-$25.

For more information, contact the Hallie Brown Ford Fine Arts Center Box Office at boxoffice@ecok.edu or 580-559-5751.

ECU President Godwin poses with (from left) President Emeritus of Seminole State College Dr. Jim Utterback, President of SSC Lana Reynolds, Chancellor Emeritus of Oklahoma Higher Education Glen Johnson, and President Emeritus of ECU John Hargrave at the Marci Donaho Retirement Gala held earlier this semester at SSC.

Tiger Athletics

Cross Country sweeps GAC runners of the week for three consecutive races as a member of the ECU men's and women's cross country team has been named GAC Runner of the Week.

Week 3: Amos Pkiach & Abigael Kemboi

Week 5: Amos Pkiach & Abigael Kemboi

Week 7: Oliver Kiptoo & Abigael Kemboi

(ECU Cross Country did not compete in weeks 4 or 6)

Men's

Nov. 11 @ Upper Iowa University

Nov. 12 @ Minot State University

Nov. 18 vs Kansas Christian College

Nov. 19 vs Dallas Christian College

Nov. 26 @ Rogers State University

Dec. 1 @ Northwestern

Dec. 3 vs Southern Nazarene

Dec. 10 @ Southwestern

Dec. 13 vs Randall University

Dec. 17 vs Oklahoma Baptist

Women's

Nov. 18 @ Texas Women's

Nov. 19 @ Midwestern State - Texas

Nov. 25 @ Univ. of Puerto Rico Mayaguez

Nov. 26 @ Univ. of Puerto Rico Rio Piedras

Dec. 1 @ Northwestern

Dec. 3 vs Southern Nazarene

Dec. 10 @ Southwestern

Dec. 17 vs Oklahoma Baptist

November & December schedules listed. For full season, visit ecutigers.com

*Home games in orange.

Abigael Kemboi Amos Pkiach
Oliver Kiptoo

Tiger Football took control of their season with the first 6-game winning streak since 1984. The run ended with a close loss to GAC top-ranked Ouachita Baptist University.

The Tigers face two home games to wrap up the regular season, including Senior Night against rival Southeastern on Nov. 12.

Tiger Athletics

ECU Volleyball dominated October matchups with a 7-game winning streak, ended by a loss to the Southwestern Bulldogs.

Leah Lawson (21) earned the GAC Setter of the Week for Oct. 24, when she collected 107 assists, surpassing the 1,000 career assists mark with a new total of 1,013.

and McKenna Leveling were named the GAC Defender and Goalkeeper of the Week for Oct. 25.

Both Tigers picked up their first weekly conference recognition of the 2022 season following their performance against Oklahoma Baptist University that resulted in a 0-0 tie.

Nov. 5 vs U of Arkansas Monticello Nov. 12 vs Southeastern - Sr Night Football Game Day

Nov. 3-5: Great American Conference Tournament Soccer

Cross Country

Nov. 5: Great American Conference @ Shawnee

Nov. 5: NCAA DII Central Region @ Missouri Southern

Nov. 2 vs. Quincy University

Nov. 4 vs. Northwestern

Nov. 10-12 Great American Conference Tournament Volleyball

*Home games in orange.

For full athletic schedules and game times, visit ecutigers.com

ECU football & basketball stream with SCORE Broadcasting at xfactorradio.net.

ECU Soccer players Tanja Bauboeck
Tanja Bauboeck McKenna Leveling

Homecoming

Roary's Game Night came to life for Homecoming 2022!
Door Contest
Homecoming Royalty
Homecoming Parade
Showtime presents: Godspell
Win 42-28 Homecoming Dance
Game Night
Men's Basketball Pancake Breakfast Pep Rally
Black Alumni Association Gala

Around Campus

Lectures hosted at ECU

Ron Bussert returns to ECU to serve as Interim VP of Administration and Finance. He was previously at ECU 2003-2005 as VP of Fiscal Affairs before going to OSU-Tulsa for 15 years.

Lectures hosted at ECU

ECU Originals Open Mic
Indigenous People's Day
VUB Ribbon Cutting
ECU Showtime at the Go Global Event
Read to Nemo
Ron Bussert

ECU Tigers head to Fun Town RV Heritage Bowl

For the seventh time in school history, the ECU football team is headed to a postseason bowl game to play in the Fun Town RV Heritage Bowl.

ECU (8-3) will meet Lone Star Conference representative Texas A&M-Kingsville (7-4) at 12 p.m. CST on Saturday, Dec. 3, in Corsicana, Texas.

ECU and TAMUK were former conference foes in the Lone Star Conference from 1996 to 2011. They have met 18 times previously, with the last being in 2010.

The Tigers' bowl history includes the Christmas Bowl (1969), Rice Bowl (1960), All Sports Bowl (1962 & 1964), Bicentennial Bowl (1975), and Heart of Texas Bowl (2014).

For more information , visit www.ecutigers.com.

To purchase tickets to the game, visit heritagebowl.org.

The annual Oka' Sustainability Conference was held in November, inviting dignitaries, water experts, and lawmakers to the ECU campus. The immersive experience took place Nov. 8-9.

Thursday, Dec. 1

11 a.m. ...... .. Holiday Messages to Troops Bill S. Cole University Center

3:30 p.m. ..................... Honors Showcase CBCC RM 221

4 p.m. .......................... Paws for Thought Linscheid Library

5:30 p.m. ......Concurrent Enrollment Info Admin Bldg RM 207

6 p.m. .................... Honors Laude Dinner Regents Room

7:30 p.m. ........... ECU Chamber Ensemble Ataloa Theatre

Saturday, Dec. 3

11 a.m............ Bowl Football Watch Party Bill. S. Cole University Center

Monday, Dec. 5

8 a.m. Finals Week Begins

4 p.m. .. BFA Senior Art Exhibit Reception Pogue Art Gallery

Wednesday, Dec. 7

4 p.m. Honors Program Interviews

Thursday, Dec. 8

Upcoming Events

3:30 p.m. ... ECU Employee Holiday Party Lockmiller Lobby

7:30 p.m.... Percussion Ensemble Concert Ataloa Theatre

Saturday, Dec. 10

8 a.m.........Honors Graduation Ceremony Ataloa Theatre

10 a.m. ................... Fall Commencement Kerr Activities Center

Monday, Dec. 19 Winter Break Begins Campus Offices Close

Dec. 28-30

Bertha Teague Mid-America Classic Women's Basketball Tournament at Kerr Activities Center

Tuesday, Jan. 3

Winter Break Ends Campus Offices Open

Please note that all fall athletic dates can be found on page 3.

For complete list of events, see the ECU Calendar at ecok.edu/calendar

Senior Day was a success at ECU. More than 100 high school students visited campus with plans to attend next fall.

Cross Country runner Oliver Kiptoo will represent ECU at the NCAA Championships on Dec. 2.

Tiger Athletics

This is the first time since 2015 ECU Tigers are represented in the national competition. He will compete at noon CST in Washington. Watch the race live at www.NCAA.com

For more information on Kiptoo, visit ecutigers.com. Oliver Kiptoo

Tigers earn GAC honors

Tiger student athletes were named to Great American All-Conference teams. Sixteen Tiger Football players received the honor, while five soccer players and three volleyball players were also named to their respective teams. For more information on the Tigers, visit ecutigers.com.

Men's & Women's Basketball Game Day

Dec. 1 vs. Northwestern

Dec. 3 vs. Southern Nazarene

Dec. 10 vs. Southwestern

Dec. 17 vs. Oklahoma Baptist

Jan. 5 vs. Harding

Jan. 7 vs. Arkansas Tech

Jan. 12 vs. Southern Arkansas

Jan. 14 vs. Univ. of Ark. Monticello

Jan. 19 vs. Northwestern

Jan. 21 vs. Southern Nazarene

Jan. 23 vs. Southeastern

Jan. 26 vs. Henderson State

Jan. 28 vs. Ouachita Baptist

Feb. 2 vs. Arkansas Tech

Feb. 4 vs Harding

Feb. 9 vs. Univ. of Ark. Monticello

Feb. 11 vs. Southern Arkansas

Feb. 13 vs. Southeastern

Feb. 16 vs. Ouachita Baptist

Feb. 18 vs. Henderson State

Feb. 23 vs. Southwestern

Feb. 25 vs. Oklahoma Baptist

*Home games in orange.

For full athletic schedules and game times, visit ecutigers.com

ECU basketball streams with SCORE Broadcasting at xfactorradio.net.

Campus Update March 2022

Around Campus

November at ECU has kept students busy and engaged!
First Generation Student Celebration
ECU Chorale Concert
Tiger Tank Competition
Cultural Fusion Asian Thanksgiving
Veterans Day Celebration Stickball
Chi Omega Wish Week Basketball 'Paws' for Thought Volley Tennis

Around Campus

Alumni

Distinguished alumna to speak at fall commencement ceremony

ECU Distinguished Alumna Anita Holloway will be the keynote speaker at the Fall 2022 Commencement ceremony on Dec. 10 at 10 a.m.

She graduated from ECU in 1992 with a Bachelors of Science in Accounting with honors and high academic achievement.

ECU alumna named head coach for the Dallas Wings

Latricia Trammell is the new head coach of the Dallas Wings.

Trammell joins the Wings after spending the previous four seasons with the Los Angeles Sparks, primarily overseeing defense. Prior to her time in LA, Trammell spent one season as an assistant coach with the San Antonio Stars in 2017.

Latricia Trammell
Anita Holloway

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