roundUP 2024-2025

ROUNDUP

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N O R T H W E S T E R N F O U N D AT I O N & A L U M N I A S S O C I AT I O N

Jana Walker ’12, Owner of Jana A. Walker Certified Public Accountant, PLLC, Walker Mercantile and Walker’s Western Stores.

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Contents 4. Alumni Director Letter

5. Alumni Board President Letter 6. A Life Built on Passion & Community

Dr. Cori Hoffman’s journey started on the basketball court at Northwestern. After earning his veterinary degree, he came back to care for the community who cheered him on.

10. Campus Events 17. Grit & Grace

Jana Walker balances determination and compassion that define true entrepreneurship. As a CPA and multi-business owner, she has built several successful ventures while mentoring others and igniting her passion for northwest Oklahoma communities.

23. A Push Towards Success

Michelle Shelite transformed her journey from a young grocery store clerk and mother into an educator and leader, ultimately becoming the relationship manager for the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association.

26. Campus Updates 28. A Ranger’s Calling

Haylie Pegelow’s journey to becoming an assistant principal is a story of discovering unexpected passions and embracing a calling in education, while finding a love and passion for working and inspiring students.

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roundUP University President: Dr. Bo Hannaford

Your Foundation & Alumni Association Staff

Official Publication Published annually by the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association Editors: John Allen, Kennedy Dietz & Tara Owen Art Direction/Designer: Kennedy Dietz & Tara Owen Writers: Kennedy Dietz & Tara Owen Photographers: Kennedy Dietz, Tara Owen & University Relations 2024-2025 Alumni Association Board Officers President: Ali Kirtley Vice President: Sherry Ward Secretary/Treasurer: John Allen Recording Secretary: Kandee Almgren

Scan to visit our website: www.ournorthwestern.org

nwalumni@nwosu.edu

For information about investing in 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

NWOSUAlumni

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

our_northwestern

2024-2025

(580) 327-8593

Front, left to right: Stephanie Lambert, Tara Owen, Michelle Shelite, Kennedy Dietz Back: Jeremy Judd, Skeeter Bird, Antonio Loustaunau, John Allen

@ournorthwestern

roundUP magazine is published by the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association office. It is mailed to more than 2,000 alumni, parents and friends of Northwestern throughout the country and the world. To change your mailing address, send an email to NWalumni@nwosu.edu or call 580-327-8593.

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Dear Ranger Family, Many of you possibly have a favorite weekend tee shirt. My goto weekend tee is any one of the several I own from the “LIFE IS GOOD ®” brand, which was created by brothers Bert and John Jacobs. The tees and other apparel – with the three simple words – promote optimism.

As I began to write this letter and considered the positivity in these three simple words, I reflected on the accomplishments of both Northwestern Oklahoma State University and the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association. I realized that life isn’t just good here at Northwestern – it is great.

Enrollment has continued to increase over the past few years, and it shows as students crowd the campus sidewalks and stand in line for a Starbucks drink in the on-campus C-store. Fundraising dollars are up and illustrate our donors’ conviction in supporting our students, their education and their future careers. The investment of our donors resulted in 59 percent of our May 2025 graduates walking across the commencement stage without any student debt.

The renovated auditorium – renamed Fellers Family Auditorium – provides a comfortable and eye-appealing performing arts venue for our greater community patrons.

Attendance continues to increase at our events, allowing our alumni and others to meet, reconnect and reminisce.

We have started to add new alumni events to our calendar, events that bring our alumni and students together for the advantages of networking and mentoring. The first “Northwestern Leadership Forum,” held in the fall of 2024, brought in three of our successful alumni to share with Northwestern students their insight on leadership.

This first event was well-received, and we plan on offering it again.

The Ranger energy and enthusiasm permeate every corner of campus. As you read this issue of roundUP, please join me in in celebrating all the ways that life at Northwestern truly is great.

John Allen

Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association, Director of Alumni Relations

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As my term as president of the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association Board comes to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared and express my heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to serve this incredible community.

Serving on the Alumni Board has been a true honor. I’ve witnessed firsthand the power of connection at Northwestern which impacts all of us by inspiring, uniting, and uplifting. Whether you graduated decades ago or just crossed the stage last spring, your experience matters. Every achievement, big or small from our alumni, deserves to be shared and celebrated with our network. It’s part of the rich history that makes our university so special.

There are countless ways for alumni to stay connected and contribute to the success of current and future students. The Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association offers opportunities to share your story, mentor students, and participate in events that celebrate our shared legacy. Rangers can find news at ournorthwestern.org, as well as register for events and explore ways to give back. Whether it’s joining the Alumni Association, attending the annual reunion and homecoming events, or simply staying engaged on social media, your involvement helps strengthen the Ranger community.

One of the most impactful ways to support students is through financial contributions. As the world evolves, student debt is a major priority for the next generation of Rangers. If you aren’t familiar with the incredible progress Northwestern has made to assist with this concern, please take some time to review the university’s Strategic Plan on its website.

Also, programs like the RISE (Rangers Investing in Students and Education) scholarship endowment allow alumni to invest directly in students’ academic journeys, no matter the size of the gift. Lifetime memberships to the Alumni Association also serve as charitable donations that fund scholarships and community initiatives.

From supporting departmental scholarships to contributing to service projects, every act of giving helps ensure that future Rangers have the resources and encouragement they need to thrive.

Moving forward, I encourage each of you to stay engaged by sharing your stories and memories of the university, attend an event, or simply reach out to a fellow Ranger. These connections not only strengthen our alumni network, but also create a lasting impact on current and future students.

Let’s continue to celebrate our shared legacy and build bridges for the next generation, because Northwestern is the spark that ignites a lifetime of pride, purpose, and community. Thank you for being part of it.

Ride Rangers Ride,

Ali Kirtley President, Northwestern Alumni Board 5

“I’m extremely passionate about Northwestern...”

-Dr. Cori Hoffman Alva Ridgeview Veterinary Clinic, Owner

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A Life Build on Passion and Community

by Tara Owen When Cori Hoffman first stepped onto the Northwestern campus, his main focus was basketball. As his journey unfolded, he became an associate veterinarian in Alva, Okla., at Ridgeview Veterinary Clinic. His time at Northwestern was not just a chapter of his life, but the foundation.

Dr. Hoffman played basketball at Northwestern for two years. Growing up in Montgomery, Texas, sports were at the center of his life. During his time at Northwestern, Dr. Hoffman realized his passions extended beyond the court.

“I originally planned on attending medical school, but while I was at Northwestern I spent my summers working on a farm in Alva,” Dr. Hoffman said. “That changed everything.”

Although his academic interests leaned toward medical sciences, it was the agricultural side of northwest Oklahoma that guided him toward his future.

“I realized I really liked agriculture, and veterinary medicine seemed like a perfect way to round out my interest.”

Dr. Hoffman’s time at Northwestern was not solely an academic journey. It included the connections he built with professors, classmates, and the community. The smaller, more personal setting at Northwestern allowed for a one-on-one learning environment, which Dr. Hoffman values to this day.

“When I was doing some interviews for veterinary school, I was asked if I felt like I was at a disadvantage coming from a smaller school. I would rebut with ‘I feel like I am at a bigger advantage because I had that oneon-one learning experience.’”

During his undergraduate studies, Dr. Hoffman worked part-time at Ridgeview Veterinary Clinic.

“When I started working at the clinic, I realized this was the path for me and I decided I wanted to take the veterinary route.”

After graduating from Northwestern with a degree in chemistry in 2017, Dr. Hoffman applied to veterinary school at Oklahoma State University.

“The first challenge was getting into vet school. It was very competitive and I was lucky to get in on my first try. I knew I wanted to stay close to home, and Oklahoma State just made sense for me.”

7 Dr. Hoffman at Ridgeview Veterinary Clinic working the cattle chute.

Dr. Hoffman also had been accepted to a school in Scotland, but the desire to stay close to work in rural Oklahoma made the decision clear for him.

Life in Veterinary School Dr. Hoffman said the first few years were heavily focused on coursework, which he enjoyed. The later years of school were more concentrated on clinical hours.

“I’ve always loved school and enjoyed learning. The most challenging were my third and fourth years where I spent all day at a clinic that was short-staffed. This led to a lot of night shifts.

“It was mentally trying at times, but I was lucky to have Lydia (Dr. Hoffman’s wife) supporting us while I was in school.

“Having her strong support system really helped me.”

The difficult times helped him gain a better Dr. Hoffman with his wife Lydia and daughter Dani. understanding of his calling in the field. He shared he was thankful to develop a close bond with his classmates in veterinary school.

“We still keep in touch. We will go over cases and bounce ideas off of each other.”

Reuniting with the Community After completing his veterinary degree in 2021, Dr. Hoffman knew where he wanted to be.

“All four years, I knew I wanted to come back to Alva.”

Dr. Hoffman returned to working for Dr. Terry Lohmann at Ridgeview Veterinary Clinic in 2021 as a full-time veterinarian. Dr. Lohmann was delighted to have Dr. Hoffman back after he graduated with his veterinary degree.

“It’s often difficult to recruit people to come to the small town life,” Dr. Lohmann said. “I was glad he and his family returned home to this area.”

As Dr. Hoffman’s connections to Alva run deep, he was excited to be back in the community that had supported him during his years at Northwestern.

“He did what Rangers do: come back and start working hard,” Dr. Lohmann said.

Hoffman Shares his Passion with Family While at Northwestern, he met Lydia in the President’s Leadership Class. The couple were married immediately before their senior year of college. They both work at Ridgeview Veterinary Hospital.

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Their daughter, Dani, was born in 2024 and spends a lot of her time at the hospital.

“It has also been fun to watch her grow up at the hospital and see how personable she is with everybody,” said Dr. Hoffman. “We are lucky we can bring her here and let her grow up in this atmosphere.”

As a practicing veterinarian in Alva, Dr. Hoffman is focused on continuing his work in a Dr. Hoffman at Ridgeview Veterinary Clinic studying through a microscope. community he is proud to call home.

“I love Alva. I’ve loved it since the first time I arrived. It’s very welcoming and comfortable. The plan is to stay here forever.”

Dr Lohmann retired in May of 2025 and Dr. Hoffman purchased the clinic. Dr. Lohmann is grateful Dr. Hoffman has acquired the practice as one who understands the environment.

“It is good to know he is taking good care of my past clients as he has transitioned into the ownership role,” Dr. Lohmann said.

Looking ahead, Dr. Hoffman is hoping Ridgeview Veterinary Hospital can expand and bring more veterinarians to the area. Currently, there are a few college students working at the clinic and he enjoys mentoring and teaching them.

Dr. Hoffman has a passion for helping others learn and shared he would like to teach one day. He hopes more students who have the drive and passion for the field will return to small-town life and make an impact.

As a father, veterinarian, and active member of the Alva community, Dr. Hoffman is living proof that education is more than academics; it is finding your path and developing connections. His story is more than how he became a veterinarian. It includes how the lessons he learned and the connections at Northwestern set him up for a future filled with purpose, family and community.

“I am extremely passionate about Northwestern, and I feel a much deeper connection with the university because of the relationships I made while I was there.”

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Ranger Wake Up Donuts, apples, bottles of water and coffee were offered to students, faculty and staff on the first day of Northwestern classes, August 18, 2024.

Raising Rangers Family Day The Ranger Family gathered to celebrate Ranger Nation. A Luncheon in the Student Center was provided for alumni parents and students to enjoy on September 28, 2024, followed by a football game.

The Ranger Marching Band performs for the Family Day crowd at the football game.

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Jack McCoy, Northwestern junior, attended the Parent/Student luncheon with his family.

Megan Spray, Northwestern junior, and her The Student Government Association sponsored a cornhole tournament for families. family were winners of a giveaway basket.

Ranger Homecoming

Northwestern alumni gathered at the downtown luncheon after the parade.

Sue and Kenneth Fellers, parade marshals and Northwestern alumni, wave to the crowd.

Alumni gathered at the downtown square for Northwestern Oklahoma State University’s Homecoming on October 5, 2024. The morning started with the Ranger Run followed by the annual parade.

Activities continued at Ranger Field with the massed band performance, Ranger Royalty coronation, and Northwestern football.

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Donor Dinner We expressed gratitude and appreciation for our donors on November 7, 2024. Jack McCoy served as the student speaker and Caroline Paul, best selling author, was the guest speaker.

Thank-a-Thon Students took time out of their busy day to thank donors by writing cards and making phone calls on November 13, 2024.

Students also enjoyed pizza and won door prizes along with showing their Ranger spirit.

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Northwestern Leadership Forum

The Northwestern Leadership Forum is an event for students to hear from a panel of alumni who are leaders in their fields.

On November 13, 2024, the panel consisted of alumni Cherrie Greco, Jerrad Hada and Melissa Harzman.

Sports Hall of Fame

The 2025 Hall of Fame inductees, left to right, are Fred Slaughter, Selina Lamar-White, Tom McDaniel and Shannon Frascht.

Fred Slaughter gives his remarks during the luncheon.

Four Rangers were inducted into the 33rd Northwestern Hall of Fame on February 8, 2025. Fred Slaughter, Selina Lamar-White, Tom McDaniel and Shannon Frascht were honored at a luncheon. The formal induction took place during halftime of the Ranger men’s basketball game.

Piper Gallagher, the 2025 Sports Hall of Fame Scholarship winner, joined with Brad Franz, Athletic Director, and Dr. Randy Smith.

Inductee Tom McDaniel joined his wife, children and grandchild.

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Baseball, Hot Dogs & Apple Pie The Northwestern community came together at David Allen Memorial Ballpark in Enid, Okla., to celebrate the timeless spirit of an American tradition at the Baseball, Hot Dogs & Apple Pie event. On April 9, 2024, young baseball players ran the bases before the game, free hot dogs and apple pie were served, and giveaways were handed out to fans of all ages.

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Spring Alumni Reunion The Ranger family celebrated the legacy of Northwestern and honored the classes of 1955, 1965, 1975, 1985, 2000, 2015 and 2020. The day was full of events, including campus tours, the President’s Reception, pinning ceremony and senior awards.

The evening ended with the alumni banquet in Percefull Fieldhouse where the Outstanding Graduates were recognized.

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“If it was easy, everyone would do it” -Jana Walker

Owner of Jana A. Walker, CPA, PLLC, Walker Mercantile and Walker’s Western Stores

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Grit & Grace

by Kennedy Dietz

As a fourth-generation rancher, Jana Walker grew up with a strong sense of heritage and a clear vision for her future. Surrounded by hardworking ranchers and business owners, she developed an entrepreneurial spirit early in her life.

“I was raised around people who owned their own operations and ranches, so I had the itch to be a business owner myself,” Walker said. “As a kid, I always knew I wanted to own my own business.”

Rooted in Heritage, Driven by Vision After graduating from Mooreland (Okla.) High School, Walker headed to Western Oklahoma State College where she played basketball. She later transferred to Northwestern Oklahoma State University to continue both her education and her basketball career.

“I wasn’t sure exactly what route I wanted to go so I took a variety of classes,” said Walker. “Once I took accounting, I knew I was going to go the business route. Believe it or not, not everyone enjoys accounting like I do.”

In 2010, while attending college, Walker married Wade Walker, a Northwestern graduate and full-time rancher.

Today, the couple is raising four children - Luke, June, Ladd and Drew - while balancing the demands of family life with their thriving businesses.

Walker credits Northwestern for helping shape her path.

“Northwestern was great because all of the professors knew my name and what I was interested in. I was able to have relationships with them and they would always be on the lookout for opportunities that would help me reach my goals.”

During her final year at Northwestern, Walker attended the university’s Woodward campus. In Woodward, she connected with a local CPA and began an internship in 2011. Over the next six years, she earned two degrees and eventually became a partner at the firm of FSW&B CPAs-PLLC. After graduating with her bachelor’s degree in accounting from Northwestern in 2012, she moved to Stillwater to pursue a master’s degree in agricultural economics at Oklahoma State University. She earned her master’s in 2014 after achieving her CPA license in 2013.

Building a Business, Teaching the Future In 2017, Walker took the next step in her journey by opening her own accounting office. She also returned to Northwestern as an adjunct accounting instructor, giving back to the university that helped shape her path.

When asked what advice she would give to students following in similar footsteps, Walker said, “Don’t ignore the opportunities in your own backyard. There are so many opportunities around you if you just look for them.

Enjoy the daily journey of building and creating because there is no endgame in entrepreneurship, only a continuous process of growth and discovery.

“If it was easy, everyone would do it.”

The Jana A. Walker, CPA, PLLC office in Woodward, Okla., specializes in nonprofit auditing and advising.

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She has customers across Oklahoma. In addition to auditing services, the firm offers tax planning, preparation, and advisory services to businesses and individuals.

As her CPA business grew, Walker realized success meant more than just doing the work herself.

In the beginning, she was hands-on with every detail; as the team expanded, she embraced the challenge of mentoring her employees and giving them room to grow.

“It might be faster for me to do something myself,” Walker admitted, “but watching my employees take the lead has been incredibly rewarding. Years down the road, it has paid off. I now have a team of strong, capable professionals who have learned so much along the way. Seeing them succeed has been one of the most fulfilling parts of building this business.”

Expanding Horizons Walker’s entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop with her CPA office. In 2021, she and Wade purchased a historic building in downtown Woodward and transformed it into Walker Mercantile, a vibrant marketplace showcasing vendors offering items from home décor and furniture to candy and clothing. A year later, the couple expanded their vision by opening Walker’s Western Store in the building next door.

“Walker’s Western Store is about the experience,” said Walker. “When you walk in, you are treated like a guest.

People do business with people they feel like they have a connection with. Our connection and experience are how we hope to win over customers.”

The added level of service is what Walker says sets them apart from their competitors.

“Our goal is to make the customer feel and look their best when they walk out of our store. Anyone can go online and purchase clothes, but they won’t have the one-of-a-kind experience they would get at Walker’s Western Store.”

In 2023, they opened a second Walker’s Western Store in Enid. Though both stores sit in historic downtown districts in northwest Oklahoma, Walker quickly discovered each community has its own unique style and preferences.

“The audiences are different, so what we sell varies from store to store,” she said. “We’ve also had to adjust our marketing and advertising. It’s been a learning experience, and we’re constantly making changes to meet our customers' needs.”

The business classes that she took at Northwestern helped pave the way to her successful businesses.

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“I remember having discussions in class about how small businesses have to set themselves apart from large chain industries. I use that knowledge when making business decisions.”

A Passion for the Process and a Heart for the Business Walker believes the most exciting part of entrepreneurship is the beginning. For example, she enjoys the creative challenge of transforming old buildings into something new.

“Most people don’t enjoy the early legwork of starting a business, but it’s actually my favorite part. I love remodeling old buildings and giving them a second life.”

The buildings they renovated were destined to sit vacant for years, quietly fading into the background of the two downtowns.

For Walker, bringing them back to life wasn’t just about opening a business, it was about preserving the heart of her community. Keeping her local downtown vibrant and thriving is a passion that runs deeper than profit.

The Walkers have also transformed a loft in downtown Woodward into a welcoming Airbnb, offering visitors a cozy place to stay.

Despite her love for launching new ventures, Walker is grateful for the people who keep them open.

“The most important piece of our businesses are the people who keep them running. The western stores, my CPA office…none of these would be possible without our employees who love our businesses like their own.”

Perseverance and Pride Walker’s journey hasn’t been without challenges.

She has faced countless hurdles, including broken air-conditioning units, roof repairs, finding the right managers, and overseeing remodeling projects.

“Not giving up when times have gotten tough is what I’m most proud of,” she said. “There are always fires to put out, but we’ve faced them head-on.”

Through it all, Walker remains grounded in gratitude.

“My husband and I wake up every day looking forward to the life we get to live,” she said. “We’ve been very blessed in both our personal and business lives.”

When asked what future venture Walker might have up her sleeve, she said, “No door is ever closed for me.”

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2025 Outstanding Graduates Arts

Business/ Professional

Education

Kristy Benson

Cherrie Dixon Greco

Dr. Don Raleigh

Humanitarian

Ranger Recognition

Ranger Spirit

Rose Blunk

Dash Johnson

Elda Hart Jones

Nominate the 2026 Outstanding Graduates Do you know an alumnus excelling in the following areas: Arts, Business/ Professional, Education, Humanitarian, Ranger Recognition or Ranger Spirit?

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Scan the QR code to nominate a graduate!

Isabe S M

es

2025 Outstanding Seniors

Outstanding Seniors include (front row, left): Azucena Riley, Madelyn Atchley, Lindie Williams, Madeline Rankin, Krystan Pierce (middle row, left) Hannah Appleton, Brianna Brantley, Diamond Hilton, Samuel Grinder, Gracie Myatt, Tara Owen, Jordyn Tucker (back row, left) Noah Voth, Addie Hoeme, Sagelyn Budy, Averie Larson, Brittan Crabtree, Cooper Frymire, Abigail Meyer and Emily Smith.

Aubry Rose receives the Outstanding Teacher Education Award from Dr. James Bell.

Isabella Blouse receives the Psychology Student of the Year Award from Mistie Kline, psychology professor.

Chloe Bradt, Student Government Vice President, awards Emily Smith with the John F. Kennedy Award.

Krystan Pierce receives the DeSERVING Ranger Award from Dr. James Bell.

Brittan Crabtree receives the T.C Carter Award from Dr. James Bell.

Dr. Jennifer Oswald presents the Sara L. Bosworth and Mary DeLisle Scholarship to Noah Voth.

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“Shelly showing up on my doorstep was the exact turnaround my life needed” -Michelle Shelite Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association Relationship Manager

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Left: Shelly Battisti and Michelle Shelite

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A Push Towards Success

From the aisles of the grocery store to the hallways in public schools

by Kennedy Dietz

Michelle Shelite approached life one day at a time. In 1979, she married while in high school and soon after brought her firstborn into the world. Shelite held a steady job at the local grocery store in Alva, Okla. Her focus was never far beyond the immediate future. The primary goal was simple: earn enough to support and provide for her family.

A Nudge Toward Northwestern One afternoon, Shelite was resting at home after a long day of work when her good friend, Shelly (Ridings) Battisti, showed up at her door.

“Come on, let’s go to the college and get you enrolled,” said Battisti.

Battisti and Shelite were inseparable growing up. They had attended school together from a young age and watched each other get married and start families of their own.

As a newlywed and young mother, Shelite thought college was off the table. She dreamed of becoming a teacher; however, she simply did not know the steps needed to become one. She went on with life and started a career at the local grocery store.

“Ironically, during my childhood both of my parents worked at Northwestern as support staff,” said Shelite.

“Although my parents worked there, it was never spoken of as an opportunity to grow or gain a career.”

At 27 years old, Shelite walked into the registrar’s office with Battisti by her side to see what was needed to become a college student. The next day, Shelite was officially enrolled and ready to follow her dream of becoming a teacher.

Recruitment can come in different ways, even when a friend gives an encouraging push.

Although Battisti did not attend Northwestern, she had deep ties as the wife of then Northwestern head men’s basketball coach, Bob Battisti.

Battisti stood by Shelite’s side to witness her accomplish the dreams that years before she had no idea would be possible.

“We were tied at the hip,” said Battisti. “If you saw one of us, the other one was not far behind. We have been close friends since the day we met in seventh grade.”

“Shelly showing up on my doorstep was the exact turnaround my life needed,” said Shelite.

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Empowered by Mentorship Battisti’s encouragement was instrumental in motivating Shelite to attend college. Once there, it was the ongoing support of Dr. Yvonne Carmichael, then Chair of the Physical Education Department, that inspired her to persevere and continue her academic journey.

“Dr. Carmichael supported me and helped me see myself as someone with the ability to make a difference,” said Shelite. “She wasn’t my academic advisor, but she became a personal advisor. Since then, I aspired to impact students the way she impacted me.”

Shelite graduated from Northwestern in 1993, knowing it was just the beginning of a new chapter. Confident in her potential, she took on the challenge of furthering her education while raising three children. After moving her family to Daphne, Ala., she received her master’s degree in sports science from The United States Sports Academy in 1994.

Ko Brooks (student), left, speaking with Michelle Shelite.

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“Moving to Alabama was a huge step for my children and me,” said Shelite. “We packed up everything and headed to a place where we knew no one.”

The one-year span of moving away and receiving her master’s degree helped Shelite come at life with a fresh perspective once she moved back to Oklahoma. From 1994 to 1998, Shelite served as a program manager for vocational rehabilitation at Arrowhead West in Medicine Lodge, Kan. She then dedicated her career to public education, serving in the roles of teacher, counselor, coach and principal.

While working full time as the assistant principal at Putnam City (Okla.) High School, Shelite pursued a second master’s degree in administrative leadership from Oklahoma State University. She graduated in 2012.

Personal Lesson Becomes Professional Passion For 25 years, Shelite worked in public education and impacted thousands of students.

“Most importantly, I feel truly blessed to have supported and guided multiple generations of students throughout my journey. They have always been the reason behind my dedication to becoming an educator.

“My goal was to use the knowledge and skills I gained to help students discover their own paths in life. I never wanted any student to feel lost or uncertain about how to reach their goals.”

Education and the colleagues it placed in Shelite’s life helped her grow both academically and personally.

Shelite never gave up and always looked forward to the challenges placed in front of her. The work ethic instilled in her from a young age as a grocery store employee and mother of three resulted in her lifelong career in public education.

Looking back, she realizes that one impulsive moment and encouragement from her friend completely changed the course of her life for the better. The push to succeed has been a lesson Shelite has employed as an educator.

Shelite is now the relationship manager for the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association. She is responsible for scholarship agreements, long term relationships and shaping the expectations of donors after they invest in Northwestern.

One event she directs is the annual Thank-a-Thon event, where students write personalized thank you notes and make phone calls to donors.

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CAMPUS UPDATES New Ranger Statue The newest landmark at Ranger Field stands to welcome fans as they arrive for Ranger football and baseball games, thanks to the generosity of Liz Smith, Jeff Allen and Woody Glass.

The lead gift was given by Liz Smith, wife of the late Dr. Troy Smith, a well known optometrist in Alva. When Smith learned that a statue was still in storage, she knew placing it on campus would be the perfect way to honor her husband’s legacy. The contribution funded both the installation and the construction of the statue’s base.

Both Liz and Troy graduated from Northwestern in 1976; Liz earned her business degree and Troy earned a biology degree. Jeff Allen, a former Ranger baseball player, earned his business degree in 1987. Woody Glass, a lifelong supporter of the university and former Ranger football player, attended Northwestern from 1986 to 1989.

Northwestern faculty, staff, students and the Ranger Family gathered at the statue dedication.

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Jim Richey prepares the statue base for placement of the plaque.

Liz Smith and family at the statue dedication on August 23, 2025.

Fellers Family Auditorium Over the past century, thousands of Northwestern students have performed in their first collegiate concert or play on this stage.

An auditorium of this size and stature is a challenge to maintain and requires constant upgrades to remain a source of pride for our community.

You Can Play a Vital Role in Northwestern's Performing Arts Excellence!

You can help ensure the physical sustainability and prominence of the Fellers Family Auditorium through a charitable contribution to Northwestern Performing Arts Operational Endowment.

Your gift will be honored with a small nameplate recognizing your investment in the performing arts of Northwestern Oklahoma State University.

You may choose to honor a student, an alum, a loved one or your organization.

atue he

Scan here to purchase a nameplate.

•

With an endowment investment of $1,500, the nameplate will be placed within the first 11 rows of seats.

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With an endowment investment of $1,000, the nameplate will be placed within the second ten rows of seats.

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With an endowment investment of $500, the nameplate will be placed within the balcony rows of seats.

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When Haylie Pegelow walked across the stage in 2018 to receive her degree in Agricultural Business, she thought her future was set.

What she didn’t realize was that her time as a Ranger was only the beginning of a much greater calling.

A natural around children, Pegelow admits she once overlooked the joy she felt being around them.

“I owe it all to Northwestern...”

-Haylie Pegelow Assistant Principal at Midland Independent School District

As a student, she worked in the Northwestern Recruitment Office and later accepted a full-time position as a recruiter while pursuing her master’s degree.

By 2019, she had completed her graduate studies and joined the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association as the office manager.

At the annual office holiday party, by coincidence she ended up sitting at the children’s table. Pegelow enjoyed her evening and little did she know this connection may become her calling.

“The spirited interaction between Haylie and the childern was powerful to witness,” said John Allen, Director, Alumni Realtions.“I told her later she should think, again, about teaching childern. I am so proud of Haylie and where she is in her career.”

Durning this time, Pegelow was teaching a Ranger Connection course for Northwestern freshmen. She noticed a growing sense of fulfillment when working with students, something she hadn’t felt before. She began to realize she might have a passion and joy for teaching.

The Track to Teaching In 2020, Pegelow took a leap of faith. She earned her teaching certification and accepted a kindergarten teaching position in Odessa, Texas. It didn’t take long for her to realize she was exactly where she belonged.

“I never thought I would have the patience to teach children, but being able to be a part of a child’s life and seeing how far they have come is such a neat experience,” Pegelow said.

While her passion for teaching continued to grow, she eventually moved to Midland, Texas, to serve as a secondgrade teacher in a school of 1,000 students. She thrived in the classroom, but Pegelow’s journey wasn’t finished.

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A Ranger’s Calling

by Tara Owen

In June 2023, she began a Principal Fellowship Program through Texas Tech which offered her an accelerated pathway to school leadership. While in this program, her daughter Maya was born in 2024. Balancing first-time mom responsibilities and coursework, Pegelow completed her certification in August 2024 and stepped into a new role as assistant principal for Midland Independent School District.

“Being able to hear kids say they love school and they love learning is amazing and so rewarding,” Pegelow said.

Life Out of the Classroom Outside of school, Pegelow and her family remain deeply involved in the community. As an assistant principal, she often attends school games and events to support her students. She says those relationships are what make education special.

Serving as an assistant principal, she has learned a variety of skills to use in any given situation.

“I have learned so much about the importance of communication, high expectations and staying authentic to yourself when in the classroom or handling situations as an administrator,” Pegelow said.

Pegelow is thankful to be a Ranger and shared it helped develop her in the current role of assistant principal she is today.

“I owe it all to Northwestern, and I learned the quality of a good educator during my time as a student.”

As a recruiter for Northwestern, Pegelow would go to high schools across the state and talk to seniors about attending Northwestern. Looking back, she realizes she had such passion and joy for speaking to those students.

Those skills help her daily.

As Pegelow’s journey continues, she enjoys a challenge and pushing herself to grow as an educator. She plans to become a school superintendent in the future.

“I would like to be the first in my family to receive my doctorate; that is something in which I have an interest.”

Pegelow recognizes she grew the most when she stepped out of her comfort zone and decided to take the steps to becoming a teacher.

“I would encourage Northwestern students to get involved and give opportunities a try. Everyone at Northwestern is willing to help and support each and every student.”

Maya, left joined her dad, Erik Ramirez, and mom to enjoy a baseball game.

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In remembrance ’53 Doug Foltz 5/9/25

’69 Donald Joachims 11/16/24

’54 LaVerta Brown 4/10/25

’69 Nancy Lea Oldham 1/13/25

’56 Betty Joe Weber 12/3/24

’69 Marvin Frederick Wiebener 8/27/25

’57 Barbara Faye Covalt 5/8/25

’71 Ronald Wayne Engel-Wilson 9/19/24

’57 Helen Sharp Jack 9/22/24

’71 Larry Veley 5/10/25

’57 Carl Weigand 4/12/25

’72 Anita Jo Farris 2/21/25

’59 Kenneth Max Benningfield 2/14/25

’72 Edward Lehman 4/26/25

’59 Alycen Yoder 1/29/25

’73 Rita Mae Rogers 6/15/25

’61 Dortha Duerson 9/16/24

’73 Robert Thomas 10/8/25

’61 Ronald Kassik 6/8/25

’74 Frank Mark Lambert 10/3/25

’62 Neilan Dietz 5/19/25

’74 Gary Stout 3/20/25

’62 Virginia Postoak 6/4/25

’75 Tero Walker 6/21/23

’62, ’67 Earl Leroy Wilt 10/30/24

’76 Gary Dale Heaton 3/8/25

’63 James Spencer Erskine 4/13/25

’76 Ronald Strahan 5/7/25

’63 Claude Simmons 12/14/24

’78 Roman Kerr 1/15/25

’64 Paul Hardy 4/22/25

’81 David Glover 9/14/24

’64 Lonnie Hess 1/10/25

’85 Gary Sanderson 3/14/25

’65 Claudine Hippard 12/5/24

’87 Irven Ogden 7/3/25

’65 Betty Shryock 4/29/25 ’67 Fred Beltz 10/25/24 ’67 Alberta Hoose 11/22/24 ’68 Robert DeBenedetteo 11/ 13/24 ’68 Angie Reid 9/22/24 30

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