Jermaine Wade, ’02, owner of Zoom Diagnostic Imaging, the company he founded in 2017.
University President: Dr. Bo Hannaford
Official Publication
Published annually by the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association
Editors: John Allen & Kennedy Dietz
Art Direction/Designer: Kennedy Dietz
Writers: John Allen & Kennedy Dietz
Photographers: Kennedy Dietz, Jana Lindley, Stephanie Lambert & Valarie Case
2023-2024 Alumni Association Board Officers
President: Ali Kirtley
Vice President: Sherry Ward
Secretary/Treasurer: John Allen
Recording Secretary: Kandee Almgren
Correspondence regarding roundUP or alumni activities may be sent to: John Allen
Director, Alumni Relations
Northwestern Student Center 709 Oklahoma Blvd.
Alva, OK 73717
580-327-8593
jwallen@nwosu.edu
For information about making a contribution to Northwestern Oklahoma State University, contact:
Allen E. “Skeeter” Bird
Chief Executive Officer
Northwestern Student Center 709 Oklahoma Blvd.
Alva, OK 73717
580-327-8593
aebird@nwosu.edu
Front, left to right: Jeremy Judd, Antonio Loustaunau, Kennedy Dietz, Michelle Shelite
Back: Stephanie Lambert, John Allen, Skeeter Bird
Welcome to this year’s issue of roundUP. Once again, we have been fortunate in learning about the journeys of our Ranger alumni and, in turn, are honored to share these stories with you.
We are placing the spotlight on three Rangers who have been successful in their professional careers while making the world a better place for others.
Jeff Allen and Jermaine Wade have built successful companies through proficient business sense, strong leadership, and undeniable entrepreneurial spirit. Both of these individuals embrace the opportunity of giving back and making the lives of others better.
Cynthia Bierig chose a nursing career to feed her passion for caring for others. Beyond her current role as a school nurse, she invests in the wellbeing and confidence building of youth through volunteering at a summer camp.
These three Rangers are making a difference in our world.
If you haven’t been back on campus in a few years, please make plans now to visit and see the recent updates to Northwestern.
The new Dr. Charles and Jane Tucker Plaza, sitting between the Science Building and the Student Center, serves as a venue for students, alumni and community gatherings, as well as providing our students and faculty with an outdoor classroom.
The auditorium in Herod Hall – renamed The Fellers Family Auditorium – has undergone a wonderful transformation made possible by the generosity of alumni Kenneth and Sue Fellers, the Charles Morton Share Trust and other donors. The updated performing arts center includes new seating and flooring, wall treatment, updated restrooms and other improvements. The opportunity to honor a loved one is available by purchasing a nameplate that will be placed on an auditorium chair. See page 28 for more information.
In our academics, the Division of Business has developed its Master of Business Administration degree program that offers two areas of concentration including a management option and a health care administration option.
Fall enrollment 2024 is up eight percent, with student numbers nearing 2,100. For a fourth consecutive year, Northwestern did not increase tuition and mandatory fees for undergraduate students.
Ranger Family, there is an abundance of energy and enthusiasm here at Northwestern. We invite you back on campus to embrace and celebrate the indomitable Ranger Spirit.
Ride, Rangers, Ride,
John Allen Director, Alumni Relations Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association
It has been a true privilege to serve on the Northwestern Alumni Board over the past few years. Every time we hear new stories of success and inspiration from our students and alumni, it reminds me just how vibrant and impactful our Ranger Family is and it warms my heart to continue to see the Ranger legacy grow. The qualities of compassion, leadership, adaptability, and the drive for personal growth are what truly set apart our Northwestern community.
Students come to Northwestern with a clear sense of purpose, ready to dive into their passions and take on the world. On the Northwestern Alumni Board, we have the unique opportunity to witness this firsthand, especially as we select our Outstanding Seniors and Outstanding Graduates each year.
Our committee chooses the Outstanding Seniors for their dedication to academic excellence and their promise for future achievement. It’s never an easy decision — every candidate demonstrates incredible commitment — but we are always honored to recognize their hard work and wish them continued success as they join the Northwestern Alumni community.
As for our Outstanding Graduates, we are continually impressed by the way our alumni carry forward the Ranger Spirit into their fields and communities while building on the Northwestern legacy. Celebrating these individuals at our annual Spring Alumni Banquet is always a highlight, offering the opportunity to reconnect and reflect on all the amazing things our alumni are accomplishing. I encourage each alumnus to participate in nominating a deserving alum for the Outstanding Graduate award, as well as join us in the Spring Alumni Banquet for an evening of nostalgia and celebration.
The community involvement doesn’t end there. As our Ranger Family grows, I encourage each of you to get involved in the exciting events we have planned for the year, whether it’s Homecoming, sporting events, volunteer opportunities, or arts and music showcases.
Specifically, I’m extending a special invitation to participate in the Ranger2Ranger mentorship program. By sharing your experience and insights, you can have a lasting impact on a student’s future. By offering career advice, networking tips, or helping with interview skills, your guidance could make all the difference.
Supporting the next generation of Rangers is a wonderful way to give back and stay connected to our community.
Finally, I want to express my deepest thanks to my fellow board members and the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association for their tireless dedication and their passion for our students and alumni. As the year continues, I look forward to celebrating even more achievements together and furthering the legacy of the Ranger Family.
Ride, Rangers, Ride!
Alexandra “Ali” Kirtley President, Northwestern Alumni Board Class of 2015 & 2017
Ranger Wake-Up
August 14, 2023
EVENTS
Donuts, apples, bottles of water, coffee and encouragement were offered to students, faculty and staff on the first day of Northwestern classes. Several giveaway prizes were also awarded to students.
Family Day
September 16 , 2023
It’s all about the Ranger Family. The day started with a breakfast for Northwestern alumni parents and their Ranger students. “Shopping for Tuition” – by visiting Alva merchants – resulted in three scholarships valued at $500, $300 and $200 being presented to three students during half-time of the football game.
Homecoming
October 7, 2023
The theme was “Rock Rangers Rock,” and Northwestern Homecoming 2023 showed the Ranger Spirit.
Alumni from all directions gathered at the downtown square on Saturday, Oct. 7, for Northwestern Oklahoma State University’s Homecoming. The morning started with the Ranger run and the annual parade. Activities continued at Ranger Field with the massed band performance, Ranger Royalty coronation, and Ranger football.
Skeeter Bird with Grace and Darrell Wessles, parade marshals.
Dr. Steve Maier, right, greets Northwestern alumni before the parade begins.
President Bo Hannaford with his wife, Tara, and their son, Tucker.
Cody
is
Sports Hall of Fame
January 27, 2024
Shane Hansen offers his remarks during the luncheon.
Ride, Rangers, Ride!
Four Ranger legends were inducted into the 32nd Northwestern Sports Hall of Fame class on Saturday, January 27, 2024. Steve Barrows (football), Steve Byford (football), Shane Hansen (basketball) and Cody Hooper (baseball/softball) were honored at the annual luncheon. The formal induction ceremony took place during half-time of the men’s basketball game against East Central University…and the Ranger men won with a final score of 56-50! The Ranger Women also won their game 65-55.
Rosemary Rivera, the Sports Hall of Fame Scholarship Award winner, with Mitzi and Dr. Randy Smith, and Brad Franz, Athletic Director.
To nominate a Ranger for the Sports Hall of Fame, go to https://ournorthwestern.org/get-involved/eventsprograms/sports-hall-of-fame.
The guests
The 2024 Northwestern Sports Hall of Fame inductees, left to right, are Steve Barrows, Cody Hooper, Shane Hansen and Steve Byford.
Hooper
congratulated by his former baseball coach, Joe Phillips.
Former Hall of Fame inductees were recognized on the court.
Rock Our For Rangers
February 1, 2024
The University
Alumni and community friends of Northwestern arrived at the Woodward Conference Center on February 1, 2024, to celebrate Northwestern in the era of ’80s rock and beyond. Max Ridgway, adjunct instructor of music at Northwestern, set the mood with his guitar, and the University Singers added their gift of voice to the evening event.
Allen Case, president, Woodward Industrial Foundation,
Ramona and Don Dauphin.
Singers entertained guests with their talents.
stepped in as host of a game of “Name That Tune.”
Dr. Jonathan Thomason, Dean, Woodward campus, with Mary Jane Simmons.
Dr. Jonathan and Denise Thomason rock out with Dr. Deena and Tom Fisher.
Baseball, Hot Dogs & Apple Pie
April 9, 2024
Hosted by the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association and the Enid campus, this annual event provided an opportunity for alumni and friends to cheer on the Ranger baseball team as they took on Southern Nazarene University. More than 1,000 hot dogs were prepared by the Rowdy Rangers, and free tee shirts were provided to 440 youth league baseball players.
Rowdy poses with winners of a drawing.
Baseball alumni were recognized on the field: (left to right) Joe Phillips, Mike Perkins, Dale Swiggett, Dr. Randy Smith, Shane Hansen, Scott Pendleton, Cody Hooper and Antonio Loustaunau.
Myra Outstanding Spirit Ranger baseball athletes greet the youth after the base run.
Youth baseball players run the bases before the start of the game.
Spring Alumni Reunion
April 27, 2024
Northwestern celebrated its alumni at the annual Spring Alumni Reunion on Saturday, April 27, 2024. Six Outstanding Gradutes were honored for their achievements, as were the classes of 1954, 1964, 1974, 1984, 1999, 2014 and 2019.
Save the Date! The 2025 Spring Alumni Reunion will be April 26, 2025. To nominate an Outstanding Graduate, visit https:// ournorthwestern.org/get-involved/events-programs/ spring-alumni-reunion or scan the QR code above.
The 2024 Outstanding Seniors (left to right) Dr. Bo Hannaford, Alex Baxter, Shaylee Beck, Archer Bohlen, Jillian Bouse, Jadyn Budig, Tabor Budy, Jonas Decker, Abigail Gregory, Draven Hidalgo, Nahi Ramirez, Austin Rankin and Rebecca Wagner
Mickey Jordan, Outstanding Graduate, Arts, offers his acceptance remarks.
Cynthia Bierig, class of 1999, receives her 25-year pin from President Bo Hannaford.
Monica Schmidt, Bob Schmidt and Pam Malone get a campus tour from Tara Owen, Northwestern Scholar Ambassador.
The University Singers perform their repertoire for the banqet guests.
Dana Jo Stanton receives the Outstanding Graduate award in the Humanitarian Category.
Myra Davison, receives the Outstanding Graduate, Ranger Spirit award, from John Allen.
Spring Alumni Reunion
April 27, 2024
2024 Outstanding Graduates
Kenneth Hamilton Education
Dana Jo Stanton Humanitarian
Mickey Jordan Arts
Sara Acosta Ranger Recognition
Jeff Allen Business/Professional
Myra Davison Ranger Spirit
2024 Senior Award Winners
T.C. Carter Award – Jonas Decker, Kynsey Dixon, Henrique Jun Koyoma Date, Shayna Miller, Anna Motycka and Juliana Murray
Sara L. Bosworth and Mary DeLisle Scholarship Award – Abigail Gregory
John Sheffield Teacher of the Year Award – Dr. Mindi Clark
John Ted Meier Student Teaching Award – Chase McCurley
Dr. Joe Dollins Merit Award – Shayna Miller
deSERVING Ranger Award – Ashley Garner
John F. Kennedy Award – Jillian Bouse
Anna Motycka receiving the T.C. Carter Award from Dr. James Bell.
Henrique Jun Koyoma Date receiving the T.C Carter Award from Dr. James Bell.
Jillian Bouse receiving the John F. Kennedy Award from Austin Rankin, president, Student Government Association.
Chase McCurley receiving the John Ted Meier Student Teaching Award from Trevor Meier, grandson of John Ted Meier.
Campus Updates
Verne Metcalf Family Track
The ribbon was cut for the official dedication of the Verne Metcalf Family Track on Wednesday, February 21, 2024. Construction for the track began in 2023.
Verne and his wife, Gloria – long-time Alva residents – were joined by family, community friends, and the men’s and women’s track teams in celebrating the opening of a great asset to both Northwestern athletics and the Alva community.
Verne Metcalf poses with members of Northwestern’s track & field teams.
Dr. Charles and Jane Tucker Ranger Plaza
Students are enjoying one of the newest additions to Northwestern’s University Mall. On pleasant weather days, Rangers are often seen sitting at the tables located on the Dr. Charles and Jane Tucker Ranger Plaza.
This new open-air venue honors the legacy of the Tuckers, a couple known for actively investing in the health and well-being of their community and that of Northwestern Oklahoma State University.
The site provides multiple academic and creative opportunities for the campus and greater Northwestern community.
Students enjoying a game of hacky sack.
Dr. Charles and Jane Tucker
Compassion in the Corral, Healing in the Hallways
When Cynthia Bierig steps onto the campground of Enter His Gates, she is in her element. For the past few years, she has spent her summers working with youth from all walks of life and socioeconomic backgrounds, supporting them in developing traits and learning lessons they might not have the opportunity to learn elsewhere.
Enter His Gates is a summer camp for children between the ages of eight and 14. In a week-long session, they receive lessons in archery, canoeing, gun safety, horseback riding and team building. They also have an afternoon Bible study.
Bierig volunteers with the horseback riding section. Over the course of the summer, she teaches campers the importance of treating animals with respect as they learn to ride and care for horses.
“I love the whole aspect of being there for the kids,” said Bierig.
by Kennedy Dietz
Blending faith with elements of equine therapy, Enter His Gates is helping the children develop concentration and selflessness, which draws deeper than surface level. Simultaneously, the students are developing empathy and confidence they will be able to use in their lives.
“Caring for the horses has a way of reducing stress and boosting the children’s moods,” said Bierig.
From a young age, Bierig knew her passion was to care for others.
Overcoming adversity
At 11 years old, a summer visit to Oklahoma turned into a permanent residency.
“I grew up in a broken home,” said Bierig. “My parents divorced when I was about five. Moving to Oklahoma was very scary and at the same time it was exciting as I was going to finally get to see my dad.”
Unfortunately, Bierig and her family faced adversity after relocating to Oklahoma.
Continued
“Things don’t always happen the way you envision; I went from a broken home to a blended family and yet I faced a lot of challenges.”
She persevered through faith. At 18 years old, she was a single mom pursuing her GED with the goal to become a nurse. She received her associate’s degree from NOC Enid in 1988. Her second daughter was born in 1991.
“The one thing that has remained strong since my childhood is my relationship with Lord Jesus Christ. He is my rock; through every adversity I faced I knew my faith was the one stable thing in my life. I wanted my girls to know that through adversity and challenges of life, I would be there for them unconditionally.”
For ten years, Bierig served as the administrator for a home health agency. She covered several areas of Oklahoma while living in Tulsa. When visiting a practice in Alva, she met her future husband, Dr. Kirt Bierig.
Northwestern ties
After her marriage, Bierig moved to Alva in 1997 with her two daughters. Bierig decided it was time to complete her bachelor’s degree in nursing, and Northwestern provided her with the opportunity to do so.
As a non-traditional student who had no previous ties to the Alva community, she noticed how open and supportive the community was.
“I often think about going to Northwestern, a smaller college, where I feel like there is family and encouragement from the community. I carry those attributes into my own community.”
After graduating with her degree in nursing from Northwestern, Bierig worked for Oklahoma’s Children First Program. Children First is a free program for first-time mothers in Oklahoma that provides personal visits with specially-trained nurses beginning early in the pregnancy and continuing through the child’s second birthday.
Bierig eventually became the office manager at her husband’s practice in Alva and continued for 14 ½ years. She handled day-to-day business and worked directly with patients. She watched the community’s children, including her own, grow to adulthood.
“You build these relationships easier in a small community like Alva.”
In December 2014, the Bierigs closed their practice and moved near Dr. Bierig’s parents in the Okeene, Okla., area. She began working at the Okeene Hospital ER/inpatient/outpatient and St. Mary’s in Enid, Okla. as a case manager, a position she helped develop. As case manager, Bierig supported patients in their transition from hospital to the alternative level of care, including home health, equipment needs, transition assistance and transportation.
In 2023, she began the role of school nurse at Enid High School. This year, she oversees the nurse offices for three middle schools.
“My job involves constant communication and collaboration between students, faculty and family. I see many students throughout the day and develop individual health plans for students with specific medical needs with collaboration of their specialist or primary care provider. I also educate staff and students regarding various medical responses to emergency student situations and I teach CPR/first aid.
“In one week, I had to send a student to the hospital, use a translator for a student to see a specialist, care for students with varying degrees of illness, and assist colleagues who have students needing special medical assistance.”
Caring for others continues to be a lifelong vocation for Bierig. Even now, she translates the experiences of her past into compassionate nursing practices and support for children through Enter His Gates.
“Being able to help kids was my main goal, because of the way I grew up and how I wanted my girls to grow up.”
Jermaine Wade Gives Back to Communities
by John Allen
Opening the doors to Zoom Diagnostic Imaging in his hometown of Enid, Okla., in 2017, was a significant milestone for Jermaine Wade. The long-time dream of becoming a successful business owner was coming true. The drive and hard work were paying off for the Northwestern graduate who earned his business administration degree in 2002.
“Launching my own business with incredible partners continues to be rewarding,” said Wade. “I had developed a business plan and fine-tuned it for a year. Finally, the dream had become real.”
Zoom Diagnostic Imaging (Zoom) provides patients with low cost, high quality and timely diagnostic imaging services.
“I had heard so many stories of patients in Enid and surrounding communities who couldn’t afford imaging services due to being uninsured or having high deductibles in their insurance plans. Zoom is committed to eliminating the price barrier.”
Wade’s commitment to giving back to his community was a lesson he learned from his grandfather.
“My grandfather would repair the cars and trucks of friends, neighbors and relatives in his driveway. He wouldn’t charge them anything. I asked him once, ‘Grandpa, why didn’t you charge them for your work? We need the money.’ He said, ‘They have mouths to feed and they need their money more than we do.’ He was giving to those who needed a hand, those who had greater needs. This lesson stuck with me.”
Keeping focus through chaos
Wade’s childhood environment was challenging at best; he recognizes it was dysfunctional. He and his siblings maneuvered the constant moving back and forth between his young single mother and his divorced grandparents in Enid. At an early age, Wade chose to look past the distractions and focused on his goals for a better future.
“There was nowhere to go but up.”
Others in the Enid community recognized the strengths Wade possessed. He had a positive spirit, great energy and a drive to succeed. Teachers, coaches and counselors were willing and ready to provide encouragement and support.
“And along the way, I gained a family.”
“We love you like our own”
Dr. Richard Rivers, a family practice physician, and his wife, Janie, were accustomed to finding a houseful of friends of their son, Briley, and daughter, Emily. It wasn’t unusual for either parent to arrive home and turn around to purchase sandwiches or pizza to feed an army of teenagers who loved being in the Rivers home.
Wade came to know the Rivers family through the connections of several of the Rivers’ houseguests. And he came to learn the unconditional love and the commitment required to be part of a family. As a senior at Enid High School, he moved in to the Rivers’ home.
“Janie and I had spoken with our children about Jermaine coming to live with us,” said Dr. Rivers. “They were all for it. And Jermaine was ready to move in immediately. But I asked him to think about the commitment, the responsibility, and the rules of being a member of the family. He moved in the next day with a duffle bag to his name.”
“We taught him that the actions, the behavior and the speech in a family affect every person in the family,” added Janie. “In a family, we all learn to deal with disagreements and still celebrate with love. Jermaine had never had a safety net; we were adamant to give him one as we did for our own children. We told him more than once, ‘we love you like our own.’”
“Jermaine gave us the experience of witnessing his happy outlook on life,” added Janie. “It has served him, and us, well.”
“The Rivers brought me into their home and into their lives,” Wade said. “They refer to me as their oldest child. They continue to be instrumental to who I am.”
Continued
Jermaine Wade at his Northwestern Commencement.
Pictured left to right: Briley Rivers, Dr. Richard Rivers, Jermaine Wade, Janie Rivers and Emily Rivers.
Life as a Ranger
After two years at Western Oklahoma State College, Wade was recruited by then-head coach Bob Battisti to play on the Rangers basketball team.
“Coach was tough and I didn’t want him yelling at me,” Wade said with a laugh. “I thought, ‘This may be like boot camp in the Army,’ but I appreciated his philosophy of ‘no excuses and work hard all the time.’ There is no doubt that Coach impacted my life.”
While taking business classes at Northwestern, Wade became reacquainted with Joni Aldrich, from Hunter, Okla., who earned her business degree in 1999. The couple had their first dance at the Nite Lite, a favorite night spot for Ranger students. They married on September 1, 2001.
Working his way to business owner
After graduation, Wade worked in Enid as a sales manager and financial manager in auto sales. He eventually moved to the Dallas, Texas, area and worked in the mortgage industry, rental car business and eventually a diagnostic imaging company. His high-level energy and business acumen led to successfully growing this imaging company from seven to more than 1,000 employees. He was ready to step out on his own.
Wade has grown his business with centers in the Oklahoma communities of Ardmore and Durant.
He is looking at securing other locations to serve those in need of the services Zoom offers.
“We are a low-cost service provider,” said Wade. “Every employee – 50 at this time – is committed to patient care and satisfaction. It is satisfying to hear our employees say ‘I love coming to work here.’ We also form strong partnerships with suppliers in order to offer the best in imaging technology.”
Family time
When not on the road between locations, Wade relishes his life with Joni and their sons, Kylan, 15, and Tristan, 13, in the Dallas suburb of Frisco. Joni has been successful in her banking career, and is currently a senior vice president with Bank of America.
“I have been fortunate to benefit from great role models in my life who were willing to invest in ‘Jermaine’. Work ethic, family values and giving back were instilled in me from people who cared. I owe the same to my family and my community.”
At home, Wade will occasionally engage in a pickup game of basketball with his sons.
“Life is great. It is busy. And it is fun. When I’m missing shots and losing to my sons, it’s ‘Game over. Time to mow the lawn, boys.’”
“Success is not an accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do.”
-Stephen Curry, Professional NBA Player
Proud of his family, Wade poses with his wife, Joni, and sons, Tristan (l) and Kylan (r).
Changing Lives is the Business
In 1984, Jeff Allen made his initial dive into entrepreneurship early in his first year at Northwestern.
“Athletes on the Ranger baseball team received two tee shirts and a baseball cap,” recalled Allen. “I thought we should have more. I went to a company back home in Tulsa and ordered different types of merchandise with Ranger branding, then brought them back and sold them to my teammates. I earned the nick name ‘Make-a-Buck Allen.’”
As a senior at Northwestern, Allen’s keen understanding for business found him offering his first bid for business in the commercial world. At the suggestion of a friend’s father, Allen met with American Airlines representatives with a proposal to clean the airline’s seatbelts and other interior items. This business continued until 2002 as Allen’s success in business led to other acquisitions and startups.
At Northwestern, his work ethic, energy and drive for excellence were recognized and respected by Allen’s coaches and fellow players.
“Jeff Allen was not only one of the greatest players I ever had, he was one of the finest young men I ever coached,” said Dr. Randy Smith, former head baseball coach and athletic director at Northwestern. “His teammates called him ‘The Iron Man’ because he could literally do it all and do it every day. He could hit for power and average, he could both start and relieve on the mound, and he could play any position on the field. And he did it all at a high level.
“He was the kind of player every coach wants. He was a great teammate, a great student, and a great leader. He never missed a practice or a game and he was an inspiration to everyone around him. He made everyone better, including me.”
After graduating with a business administration degree in 1987, Allen accepted the offer to serve as
by John Allen
assistant coach with newly named head coach, Joe Phillips. In July 1988, he married the love of his life, Joy. The Allens remained in Alva for a year while Joy attended classes at Northwestern and her husband coached the Ranger baseball athletes. Eventually, the opportunities in the business world took them back to Tulsa.
AMC Mortgage – from partner to owner
During a visit in downtown Tulsa, Allen stopped in to check on mortgage rates at AMC Mortgage. That visit in 1992 transitioned to a partnership with three individuals. After a short period of time, Allen found himself reorganizing the business model to better serve the clients, the vendors and the employees. He soon bought out the three partners and turned his focus on growing the company to meet the needs of a diverse clientele. Allen now serves as the company’s chief executive officer.
The value and growth of his employees remain strong priorities for Allen. He believes development, trust, empowerment and opportunity invested in employees pay immeasurable dividends to the bottom line and to the health of the company.
Micah Macias, president of AMC Mortgage, is proof that Allen’s investment in people and their talent is critical for a strong business. Macias started at the company as its receptionist in 2004. Over several years, Allen has recognized her keen organization, a drive for excellence and the respect from her colleagues. Macias learned the mortgage business through several promotions and in 2016 was named president.
Together, Allen and Macias adopted the “212° The Extra Degree” model, launched by author and motivational speaker S.L. Parker. The concept starts with “at 211 degrees, water is hot. At 212 degrees, it boils. And with boiling water, comes steam. And with steam, you can power a train.”
The model is working well given the rankings AMC Mortgage has earned, including number one independent mortgage company in the state of Oklahoma; number two mortgage lender in the state; and number one on the east side of the state by more than double, based on volume. Allen believes these accomplishments come from his employees’ drive to excel.
“I learned early to not fear change, but to be motivated by it,” said Allen. “As our demographic changed, we changed. We serve a diverse clientele. We are willing and able to go into an underserved community and give them the knowledge and power to be able to buy a home. Our staff is as diverse as our clients. We change people’s lives, and our employees go above and beyond to make it happen.”
Into the community
Changing lives goes beyond the office walls for Allen. He is involved in several non-profit organizations, including Lindsey House in Tulsa. Lindsey House provides housing for women and children with situational homelessness. Through their volunteer activity, Allen and Macias saw the intense desire to succeed in life in one young single mother. She eventually went to work at AMC and, while now a stay-at-home mother, returns to her AMC family for celebrations and get-togethers.
Allen and Macias have seen the generosity of time, talents and ingenuity from their employees go into volunteer activities. The Kindness Fund was established in the Oklahoma City office where an employee is chosen each month and receives cash to help someone in the community.
The foundation for leadership, Allen style Allen’s strong leadership may come from recognizing the potential in someone who doesn’t realize they have it.
“I have grown in my profession, in my confidence, and as a person because of Jeff’s belief that I can achieve whatever is before me,” said Macias. “He has also done that for others.”
Allen accepted the Northwestern Outstanding Graduate award in the Business/Professional category at the Spring Alumni Reunion banquet on April 27, 2024. In one of the nomination letters, Allen was described as a leader “who builds loyalty with customers and with employees through intellect, compassion and heart. With his enthusiasm and encouragement, we all stand taller, more confident –as individuals and as a team.”
Allen recognizes he has benefited from the same encouragement that his mentors provided.
“Coach Smith and my youth baseball coach did the same thing for me,” admits Allen. “They saw something in me and their belief made me feel like I could do it.”
Family
Allen enjoys spending time with his wife, Joy, and their children. The lake is a special place for them when they want to wind down from work. Joy sells real estate on a part-time basis. Two of their children – Tyler and Kaitlin – work in the mortgage lending industry at AMC. Another daughter, Lauren, is studying psychology and criminal justice at the University of Alabama.
The love of the game brought Allen to serve as softball coach at Jenks (Okla.) Public Schools and The University of Tulsa, often coaching his daughters. Allen even extended his coaching time one year past a daughter’s senior year in college.
“I love to coach and I love to teach,” said Allen. “And I play to win. My coaches taught me this and
I brought the same mentality to my daughter and her teammates.”
The mind is always working
At press time, Allen owns 22 businesses and is responsible for 145 employees. He owns the adrenaline that comes from business deals.
“My mind is always working. As our employees grow to accept more responsibility to do what I once did, I have the space and time to consider the next business deal.”
Without question, Allen will continue to close successful business deals. Without a doubt, he will change lives.
Pictured left to right: Tyler, Kaitlin, Joy, Jeff and Lauren
Kenneth and Sue Fellers – Northwestern alumni and visionaries – recently made a lead investment to begin the renovation of the Herod Hall Auditorium, now renamed The Fellers Family Auditorium. This donation, combined with investments from the Charles Morton Share Trust and other donors, funded new auditorium seating, flooring, wall treatment, updated restrooms and other improvements.
These investments will clearly make a transformational difference at Northwestern. Yet, our community investment must increase beyond these initial major updates. Now we are establishing an endowment and seeking your support for the proper maintenance and improvements of this prominent, historical venue for the future.
You can help ensure the physical sustainability and prominence of The Fellers Family Auditorium through a charitable contribution to the Northwestern Performing Arts Operational Endowment.
In return, your gift - available at levels of $1,500, $1,000 or $500 - will be honored with a bronze nameplate recognizing your investment in the performing arts of Northwestern Oklahoma State University. This nameplate will be affixed to one of the new seats in the renovated facility, honoring you and your investment. If you prefer, you may choose to honor a student, an alum, a loved one or your organization.
For more information on how you can play a vital role in Northwestern’s performing arts excellence, scan the QR code or go to https://ournorthwestern.org/ffanp.
Herod Hall A Beloved Landmark
Page from the 1924 yearbook announcing the plans for Herod Hall. (the photo featured at the bottom is actually the administration building of Oklahoma City University).
A 1923 photo of the bill signing authorizing the construction of Herod Hall.
Photo credit, Mickey Jordan.
Giveback Giveaway Annual Membership Drawings
For the past several months, the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association has been showing appreciation to our annual Alumni Association members for their support of alumni programming throughout the year. Since February 2024, an annual member’s name has been drawn monthly and the winners receive a gift of appreciation.
GRADUATE TO A WORLD OF BENEFITS
As a card-carrying Northwestern Alumni Association member, you can enjoy several membership benefits including 20% off selected merchandise at the Northwestern Alva Bookstore.
Other benefits include:
• Discounts at participating area merchants
• A temporary visitor’s pass to Northwestern’s J.R. Holder Wellness Center if you live more than 60 miles outside of Alva
• The alumni magazine, roundUP, and the Foundation’s Annual Report
• Discounts on selected alumni merchandise throughout the year
• Invitations to University and alumni events
• Free “Lunch on the Square” at homecoming
Membership Dues
Annual
$25 (singles) or $45 w/Northwestern News*
$30 (family) or $50 w/Northwestern News*
Lifetime
$300 (single)
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In Remembrance
’49 Phyllis Brunsteter 02/12/2024
’53 Monte Roach 12/24/2023
’53 Grace Lansdown 08/11/2024
’55 Darrel Ray 12/05/2023
’58 Harold E. Pendleton 11/21/2020
’58 Paul K. Sanford 09/29/2023
’59, ’66 Albert Bouse 01/20/2023
’59 Harold Wanger 01/29/2024
’60 Tony Beadles 05/16/2024
’61 Robin Clyne 12/1/2023
’61 Glenda Epp 02/01/2024
’61 Jerry Headrick 02/24/2024
’61 Keith Young 04/14/2024
’62 Bobby Helmuth 07/14/2023
’62, ’70 Marion Millege 11/21/2023
’63 Glen Piper 05/23/2024
’64 Dr. Charles Fischer 06/11/2023
’64 Mardis Hess 02/08/2024
’65 Robert Freed 03/23/2024
’65 Shirley Moore 01/12/2024
’65 Calvin Patterson 11/25/2023
’65 Lloyd Stebbins 02/13/2024
’66 John McCracken 07/12/2024
’66 Billy Savely 04/30/2024
’67 Charles Parkins 05/06/2024
’67 Rita Schoonover 01/09/2024
’68 Michael Collins 01/15/24
’69 Linda J. Dobbins 08/23/2023
’69 Patricia Wheeler 11/22/2023
’70 Elwyn Hofen 12/01/2023
’71 Dr. Joe L. Conner 09/12/2023
’71 Reva Maddox 11/21/2023
’71 Albert Riddle 05/24/2024
’72 Dorothy Jo Taylor 07/29/2023
’72 Dr. Larry Anton 06/09/2023
’73 Joe Feeley 06/07/2024
’73 Nancy Smith 05/08/2024
’73 Judy Vore 03/30/2024
’74 Dottie Gatz 12/02/2023
’75 Curtis Clark 07/22/2024
’75 John Dowers 12/08/2023
’76 Joe Davis 07/22/2024
’77 Paul Bischoff 03/08/2024
’79 Janice Fisher 04/29/2024
’79 Velma Jensen 02/20/2024
’81 Bruce Isaacs 11/22/2023
’89 Barbara James 12/12/2023
’90 James Hankins 06/20/2024
’96 Blossom Sakura Kala 05/13/2024
’98 Sabra Briggs 01/30/2024
’01 Amy Quinn 04/19/2024
’04 Quincy Nolen 12/24/2023
Get out of town...
...with your Ranger friends. The next alumni trip is set for Switzerland, Austria and Bavaria beginning June 4, 2025. Please make plans now to celebrate Northwestern in Europe.
Scan here for more details on the Alumni and Friends Trip.
