OKCU Focus Magazine Spring 2017

FOC US SPRING 2017

ALUMNI MAGAZINE of OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY

OKCU.EDU

NATIONAL CHAMPS

LAW CENTRAL

RURAL HEALTH

Cheer and basketball teams pick up two more NAIA titles—for cheer, its first ever.

Moving downtown has opened the law school’s doors to city partnerships.

Satellite program at Duncan hospital helps address growing nursing shortage.

GO WEST

RONNIE K. IRANI CHARTS COURSE TO THE ENERGY APEX

CONTENTS Robert Henry, President Kent Buchanan, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

ADMINISTRATIVE CABINET Jim Abbott, Assistant Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics Amy Ayres, Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students Leslie Berger, BA ’02, Senior Director of University Communications Joey Croslin, Chief Human Resources Officer Gerry Hunt, Chief Information Officer Catherine Maninger, Chief Financial Officer Charles Neff, BA ’99, MBA ’11, Vice President for University-Church Relations Marty O’Gwynn, Vice President for University Advancement Casey Ross-Petherick, BSB ’00, JD ’03, MBA/JD ’03, General Counsel David Steffens, Acting Assistant Provost Kevin Windholz, Vice President for Enrollment Management and University Communications

ALUMNI RELATIONS Cary Pirrong, BS ’87, JD ’90, Director of Alumni Relations Chris Black, BME ’00, MBA ’10, President, Alumni Board

EDITORIAL STAFF Leslie Berger, BA ’02, Senior Director of University Communications Rod Jones, MBA ’12, Editor of FOCUS and Associate Director of Public Relations Kim Mizar, Communications Coordinator April Marciszewski, Art Director of FOCUS and Senior Graphic Designer

WRITERS Terry Phelps, Professor of English Rich Tortorelli, Assistant Athletic Director for Communications

PHOTOGRAPHERS Josh Robinson, Photographer/Videographer Ethan Cooper, Photographer/Videographer Assistant

FOCUS ALUMNI MAGAZINE 2501 N. Blackwelder Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73106-1493 (405) 208-7000 Story Ideas: focus@okcu.edu Alumni News: alumni@okcu.edu FOCUS is produced semiannually by the Communications and Alumni departments for alumni, parents, and friends of Oklahoma City University.

Oklahoma City University pledges to recruit, select, and promote diversity by providing equality of opportunity in higher education for all persons, including faculty and employees, with respect to hiring, continuation, promotion, and tenure, applicants for admission, enrolled students, and graduates, without discrimination or segregation on the grounds of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, handicap or disability, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

The Chief Human Resources Officer, located in Room 108 of the Clara E. Jones Administration Building, telephone (405) 208-5075, coordinates the University’s compliance with titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act. Printed on recycled paper.

ON THE COVER

EXPLORATION INSPIRATION Alumnus Ronnie K. Irani discovers success in oil exploration.

PAG E 7 Cover and above, top: Ronnie K. Irani works from the downtown Oklahoma City office of RKI Energy Resources. Photos by Josh Robinson Above, right: Irani, vice captain of his high school class in India, is seated to the left of Father Joe D’Abreo (the school principal), at front center. Photo courtesy of Irani

FEATURES Buchanan Chosen as Provost

DEPARTMENTS 3

Music Students Make Broadway Debut 5 Music Theory Professor Inspires in the Classroom, on the Track

13

Dance Chair Honored for Lifetime Achievement

18

Alumni Gather for Gala in Malaysia

19

President’s Message

1

Correspondence

2

University Update

3

Faculty

12

Office Space

16

Alumni

19

Athletics

20

Class Notes

23

Basketball Guard Sets Scoring Record 21

In Memory

27

Former President Walker Passes Away 28

Calendar

29

Stay Up-To-Date Between Issues: okcu.edu // Read the Archives and Extra: okcu.edu/focus

FROM THE PRESIDENT

Clockwise from top left: Nursing students signed a beam in the hammock area of the village church camp where they stayed—Camalote Camp in Belmopan— during a mission trip to Belize in January. Nursing students pose for a photo at a health fair they conducted at Young Bank Village, along with the village church pastor and a village health care worker and her daughter. Photos by Pam Boeck Music students made their Broadway debut during Kristin Chenoweth’s November show. Photo by Spencer Gualdoni Business students use Bloomberg Terminals to access stock market information and learn finance and economics in the Chickasaw Nation Financial Resource Center. Photo by Shane Bevel

IN TO T H E WO R LD

Students Graduate with Experience, Vivacity IT HAS BEEN AN EXCITING YEAR at Oklahoma City University.

In just a few weeks, we will celebrate the Class of 2017 as they finish their student careers at OCU and embark on new adventures around the world.

Some will enroll in graduate school and seminary; many are headed for professional performing arts careers in New York, Los Angeles, and other major cities; and many are starting their careers in healthcare, public service, business, and law.

I am pleased with the caliber of our 2017 graduates. Like you, they did not just attend classes at OCU. They looked for opportunities to expand their educational experiences, to serve others, to travel, and to build meaningful, lasting relationships with each other.

In November, 16 musical theatre students joined alumna Kristin Chenoweth on Broadway for the closing night of her one-woman show “Love Letter to Broadway.” In January, more than 20 students conducted mission work in Belize through a joint nursing and university-church relations project. Students in our arts and sciences programs continued their work interning at local nonprofit organizations, while business students studied in the new

Chickasaw Nation Financial Resource Center on campus. Several also earned real-world experience working in the Agee Economic Research and Policy Institute, which has become Oklahoma’s regional applied economic research center.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of serving as president is the time I get to spend visiting with students and alumni. I have enjoyed hearing how opportunities like these have enriched our students’ time at OCU, and I have enjoyed seeing how alumni fondly reflect on their experiences here and the connections they have built as part of the OCU family.

I hope you reflect on your own fond memories of OCU as you discover, throughout this issue, what our students, faculty, staff, and alumni are contributing to the campus community and to the world around us. I invite you to connect with us, both in person and online, and take part in the exciting opportunities that permeate the Oklahoma City University culture.

CONNECT WITH OCU: instagram.com/okcualumni // 1

CORRESPONDENCE

President’s Post

Global Nursing

Hundreds of letters come across President Robert Henry’s desk every semester. Following are excerpts of what friends of the University have to say.

GREETINGS,

By the Sweat of Their Brows DEAR PRESIDENT HENRY,

Recently, a team of students and professors went to Belize for a mission trip. We arrived in Belize City around dinner, still light enough to see the land untouched by industrial waste. We stayed at Camalote Camp, a Methodist site made to host missionaries.

Our main task was to work on the Methodist High School, but another smaller school asked for help, too.

We did both projects and I, along with four others, went to the smaller school. We had to mix concrete from scratch and made a sidewalk and a floor. That seems trifling, but it’ll make it that much more exciting for the kids to learn something new.

Some kids from around the area even joined us in helping their neighborhood grow. The work was hard, hot, and God-filled.

The rest of the trip was spent building relationships and encouraging those little kids whose dreams are bigger than mine.

We got to know Belize on a personal level and were blessed to leave a part of ourselves, the United Methodist Church, and OCU in Belmopan, Belize.

The team and I thank you greatly for the gracious donation for the relaxing and well-deserved cave tubing. We indulged in the awesome beauty of the natural tranquility. The broke college kid in me seriously can’t thank you enough!

KC CURRY 2016 Freshman Religion Major DEAR KC,

Thank you for your letter about your trip to Belize! I am so glad that you both enjoyed your time and were able to participate in the service-learning aspect of the trip. At OCU, we strive to not only educate students but to make them servant-leaders who go on to improve the world. I think you are well on your way to that goal.

My best wishes to you!

I had the pleasure and the honor of traveling to Belize with 11 of my peers Jan. 1–7 through Kramer School of Nursing. I had never traveled outside of the U.S., but because of the opportunity OCU provided, I was able to experience something so eye-opening! I would like to recognize how grateful I am that OCU was able to offer this course! Professor [Pam] Boeck was an exceptional instructor and leader on the trip, and I can’t wait to continue the rest of the course with her this semester. I am also thankful that Mary Benner [OCU director of global engagement] was able to attend this trip with us and that KSN has paired up with her to create such an amazing experience for the students!

KATHERINE WICHT Senior Nursing Major

Opportunity to Grow PRESIDENT ROBERT HENRY,

Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to speak and be introduced to the Board of Trustees. OCU is an incredible university that has allowed me to grow as an individual and leader.

I am thankful for an education that lets me feel prepared and excited for my future. Thank you for all you do to make OCU a profound university that truly impacts each student.

ALLY GARTON Senior Dance Management Student

Center Stage DEAN [MARK] PARKER & PRESIDENT HENRY,

WOW! You sent the absolute best students tonight. They were polite, engaging, and absolutely amazing. I can’t thank each of you enough. I’m so proud to be an OCU alumni, and these students are a big reason why. I actually teared up when they told me they get to perform with Kristin [Chenoweth] next week on her closing night on Broadway. What a life-changing opportunity you are providing these students. Their performance truly made the program tonight.

Sincerely,

SHANNON L. RICH President and CEO Gaylord-Pickens Museum, home of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame

ROBERT H. HENRY

Editor’s Note: Students from the Bass School of Music performed at an Oklahoma Heritage Foundation celebration in November.

2 // FOCUS Spring 2017

UNIVERSITY UPDATE

Provost Picked: OCU Selects Buchanan Kent Buchanan, Ph.D., was named provost and vice president for academic affairs at Oklahoma City University in December.

Buchanan served in the role on an interim basis beginning in July 2015.

His appointment follows a national search and a recommendation from the University’s search committee. The committee, chaired by Associate Dean Melanie Shelley, reviewed more than 20 applicants out of 70 that were reviewed by the University’s search firm.

“Kent has broad-based experience that will serve Oklahoma City University well in his position as provost,” President Robert Henry said. “I am pleased to welcome him to the permanent role.”

“The search committee feels that Dr. Buchanan has a strong and demonstrated commitment to Oklahoma City University and its future success,” Shelley added.

Buchanan said he is looking forward to the work ahead.

“Oklahoma City University has a rich tradition of providing a personalized educational experience for students and preparing them to become effective leaders in service to their communities,” he said. “I am excited about this

opportunity, and I look forward to furthering our mission of scholarship and service and working with the entire campus community to continue building a bright future for the University.”

Buchanan began his career at OCU in 2006. He served as chair of the biology department at OCU and as assistant provost. Previously, Buchanan served as an assistant and associate professor in the department Kent Buchanan of microbiology and immunology at Tulane University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. He has also been an educator and biomedical researcher at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation.

He holds Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in microbiology and a Ph.D. in microbiology and immunology, all from OU. Buchanan is active in the Oklahoma City community and has served on the board of trustees at Science Museum Oklahoma since 2009 and on the board of regents for the Oklahoma School of Science and Math since 2010.

Cataldi Named Arts and Sciences Dean

Engineering a New Partnership

Oklahoma City University has named Amy Cataldi, Ph.D., as dean of the Petree College of Arts and Sciences.

Cataldi’s role includes leadership over the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Wimberly School of Religion, and the School of Visual Arts.

Cataldi served as interim dean since 2015 and as associate dean since 2012. She joined the faculty as a Amy Cataldi psychology professor in 2000 and became chair of the department in 2012. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Boston College, a master’s degree in counseling psychology from OCU, and Master of Science and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Oklahoma in experimental psychology.

OCU Provost Kent Buchanan said Cataldi has a tremendous list of accomplishments and strong experience in scholarship and in higher education.

“I am pleased to welcome her permanently to the dean’s position and look forward to her continued work in advancing Oklahoma City University’s Petree College of Arts and Sciences,” he said.

“Dr. Cataldi brings a high level of scholarship and servant-leadership to the dean’s position,” President Robert Henry said. “She is an excellent choice to lead the Petree College of Arts and Sciences and to expand the University’s work in the communities that we serve.”

Cataldi serves on the University’s academic council, academic programs and standards committee, budget committee, strategic planning committee and its steering committee, and behavioral intervention team, among other committees.

She is a member of the American Conference of Academic Deans, the Council of Colleges of Arts and Sciences, and the American Psychological Association. She was named OCU’s Faculty Member of the Year in 2008.

The University conducted a national search for the position.

Oklahoma City University is introducing a dual degree program partnership with Washington University in St. Louis for students interested in pursuing careers in engineering. The program will begin in fall 2017.

Students will complete three years of a liberal arts foundation and rigorous science and math coursework at OCU, followed by two years of Stephen Prilliman engineering coursework in the area of their choosing at Washington University in St. Louis. Once finished, the students will earn two undergraduate degrees: a bachelor of science in pre-engineering studies from OCU and a bachelor of science in engineering from Washington University in St. Louis.

Stephen Prilliman, OCU’s PreEngineering Program liaison, said the engineering degree partnership is the only program of its kind in Oklahoma.

“This partnership between two prestigious schools will prepare students for exciting careers in one of the most popular STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields,” Prilliman said. “Engineers are not only paid well but are also in demand.”

Students may specialize in one of four different areas of engineering study: biomedical, chemical and environmental, electrical, or mechanical.

“This partnership brings together strengths from both universities to train liberally educated engineers, OCU for a liberal arts education and Washington University in St. Louis for engineering,” Prilliman added.

LIBERAL ARTS FOUNDATION: okcu.edu/artsci/departments/pre-engineering // 3

UNIVERSITY UPDATE New Visions in Visual Arts

Creative Choice

Holly Moye was named director of the School of Visual Arts at Oklahoma City University and will oversee the school’s student-faculty experience, community engagement, and gallery visibility.

“Holly is a champion for the arts and art education,” said Amy Cataldi, dean of OCU’s Petree College of Arts and Sciences. “With her leadership, we look forward to Holly Moye growing our educational and gallery exhibition offerings.”

Moye most recently served as executive director of the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition, a statewide nonprofit dedicated to serving visual artists and the arts in Oklahoma.

“Oklahoma City University’s School of Visual Arts has an impressive history of academic and artistic achievement, critically shaping the arts in Oklahoma,” Moye said. “In the new position, I look to continue this history of quality learning and to create long-lasting connections within our local community through a common passion for the visual arts. Together, with the staff and faculty, we will develop a comprehensive vision for the School of Visual Arts, in order to promote open environments, creative excellence, and critical awareness. I am honored and thrilled to join the team of such a treasured institution to our city.”

Moye holds a Master of Arts in art history from Boston University and a Bachelor of Arts in art and art history from the University of Massachusetts Boston. During her time at OVAC, Moye built all-encompassing programs and opportunities for artists with the goal of creating sustainable careers and artistic achievement in Oklahoma. She co-chairs the Oklahoma Public Art Network and serves on the board of Midtown Rotary.

Rob Roensch has been named the Katherine and Mary Clary Endowed Chair of Creative Writing. Roensch is the first recipient of this endowment, which was established through an estate gift from Mary Clary Sargent and named in honor of both sisters.

“Rob is a gifted instructor to both our undergraduate and MFA creative writing graduate students,” said Amy Rob Roensch Cataldi, dean of Oklahoma City University’s Petree College of Arts and Sciences. “We believe Rob’s passion for teaching and his meaningful and moving writing talents make him the perfect fit for this prestigious recognition, and in turn pay homage to the Clary sisters who created and inspire this endowment.”

Katherine Clary Corinth and Mary Clary Sargent were OCU alumnae from the 1930s who went on to work in news and publishing in New York City. The women wrote for Time, Newsweek, Seventeen and co-authored several books in the 1960s and 1970s on etiquette, male manners, entertaining, and fashion.

“This is an incredible honor. The Clary women were dedicated to writing and creative writing in particular,” said Roensch. “I am happy to continue their legacy of OCU as the center for creative writing in this city.”

Roensch is an associate professor teaching freshman composition and creative writing for fiction and non-fiction. He actively participates in the Red Earth Master of Fine Arts program and the Smokewood Institute, teaches writing workshops at Epworth Retirement Community, and leads Short Order Poems at Oklahoma City events. Roensch received his MFA from Cornell University and won the International Scott Prize for short stories in 2012 from Salt Publishing for his collection titled “The Wildflowers of Baltimore.”

An Educated Decision

‘‘

The teacher education program at Oklahoma City We need more qualified University and Oklahoma City Community College reached an agreement for scholarship awards in hopes of teachers in classrooms alleviating the shortage of qualified teachers working in now. The future of our local school districts.

The agreement provides scholarships to qualifying community depends on it. students from OCCC who wish to pursue a bachelor’s degree in one of OCU’s education majors, thereby —LIZ WILLNER shortening their path to a bachelor’s degree and reducing OCU and OCCC officials meet to work out an agreement OCU Director to help address Oklahoma City-area teacher shortages. the costs of their college educations. of Teacher Education Photo by Rod Jones Under the agreement, OCCC students who have earned their associate degree with at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA are eligible to become OCU Teaching Scholars.

OCCC students to afford new opportunities and avenues both academically and “In light of the teacher shortages in the city’s public schools and the push financially,” Jameson said. “The seamless collaboration brought to this project for retention, we are working with our colleagues at Oklahoma City Community illustrates the true dedication institutions and individuals, such as Dr. Liz Willner College to make an education degree more affordable,” said Liz Willner, director and her colleagues, have toward strengthening education and connecting of teacher education at OCU. “We need more qualified teachers in classrooms students, academics, and local school districts.” now. The future of our community depends on it.”

Jameson added, “This is a thrilling time to be in education and be able to find OCCC Dean of English and Humanities Kim Jameson agrees. “Our partnership creative solutions to help in any way possible what matters most—people.” with OCU in their Teaching Scholars Program brings a strong stepping stone for 4 // FOCUS Spring 2017

UNIVERSITY UPDATE OCU Earns National Opera Accolades The National Opera Association honored all three operas from Oklahoma City University’s 2015–16 season with awards in its annual production competition, including first place in Division I for the Bass School of Music’s March 2016 production of “Jackie O.” The awards were presented in January.

Each of the shows was directed by David Herendeen, head of the OCU-based Oklahoma Opera and Music Theater Company.

Robert Hansen, executive director of NOA, said it was unusual for one university to win three of the national awards and unprecedented for one director to be honored for three productions in a single season.

OCU’s other winning productions were “Don Pasquale,” presented in November 2015, awarded second place in Division III; and “Evita,” presented in April 2016, awarded third place in Division IV. Collaborating with Herendeen were music director Chuck Koslowske on “Jackie O” and Jan McDaniel on “Don Pasquale” and “Evita.”

“We are thrilled that the continued standard of excellence from our students, faculty, and staff has been recognized with these national honors,” said Mark Parker, dean of the Bass School of Music. “Our storied opera tradition continues to grow, and we are grateful to be counted among the nation’s best.”

The awards bring the Bass School of Music’s total National Opera Association honors to five. OCU also won divisional first place awards in 2012–13 for “Il Barbiere di Siviglia,” directed by Herendeen and conducted by McDaniel, and the opera twin bill of “Pagliacci”/ “Gianni Schicchi,” directed by Herendeen and conducted by Benjamin Niles and Matthew Mailman.

OCU’s April 2016 production of“Evita” received third place in the National Opera Association’s competition. Photo by Wendy Mutz, Mutz Photography

Music Theater Students Join Chenoweth on Broadway

Team Presents Dead Sea Scroll Fragments Research

Sixteen Oklahoma City University music theater students joined alumna Kristin Chenoweth on closing night of her latest show, “My Love Letter to Broadway,” at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre in New York City in November.

Chenoweth was joined on stage each Alumna Kristin Chenoweth poses with students at night by special guests, her show. Photo courtesy of Spencer Gualdoni and for her closing performance, she asked to be accompanied by students from her alma mater.

“We have so many talented students, we could have sent any number of them,” said Mark Parker, dean of the Bass School of Music.

The students accompanied Chenoweth on two songs: “I Was Here,” an original song, and “Upon This Rock,” a nod to Chenoweth’s Oklahoma roots.

Fourteen seniors and two juniors went on the trip.

“We hope and pray we can be on Broadway someday, and this dream is coming true,” said senior Spencer Gualdoni.

After spending a semester in summer 2013 studying a fragment of the Dead Sea Scrolls, Oklahoma City University faculty and alumni presented their findings on campus in November.

The Museum of the Bible, with its corporate office in Oklahoma City and a museum under construction in Washington, D.C., granted the group access to a fragment of Psalm 11 as part of the Museum Scholars Initiative.

The report “Dead Sea Scrolls Fragments in the Museum Collection” contains the team’s conclusions about the artifact, along with a chapter by Lisa Wolfe, professor and endowed chair of Hebrew Bible, on research as a means of teaching.

“Most doctoral students don’t have the opportunity to work with biblical fragments, so for undergrads to have the opportunity is astounding,” Wolfe said.

A Heart for the Arts Music theater senior Virginia Newsome was named a finalist for the Dr Pepper Tuition Giveaway in honor of her support of arts education. She received recognition during the Atlantic Coast Conference championship football game in December in Orlando, Florida.

Newsome started the nonprofit heARTS Inc. in 2011 to help struggling schools and communities continue their arts programs.

The Dr Pepper contest calls for contestants to submit their ideas to positively change the world. Those with the most voter support are invited to compete in the “throw-off” contest during a football game. okcu.edu // 5

UNIVERSITY UPDATE

Rising Rankings OCU Ranks Highly for Veterans, International, and B Students

Best Value Ranking Based on Measurable Criteria

U.S. News & World Report again has ranked Oklahoma City University among the best colleges in the country. This year’s list has OCU ranked No. 23 in the Best Regional Universities in the West category, the highest rank of Oklahoma universities in this category.

The regional category is made up of universities that offer a full range of undergraduate and master’s programs.

OCU is also one of only two schools in the state on the West regional universities A+ Schools for B Students list; is ranked No. 13 for Best Regional University for Veterans in the West, up by seven places from last year and highest in the state for the region; and is on the Most International Students list.

Schools on the A+ Schools for B Students list are noted for accepting outstanding applicants whose scores are not “A.” The colleges and universities included in the list see great potential in these students and help them achieve their goals.

U.S. News & World Report bases its rankings on various factors including graduation and retention rates, peer assessments, faculty resources, student selections, financial resources, and alumni giving.

OCU was named to Kiplinger’s Personal Finance’s list of the Top 300 Best College Values of 2017. OCU earned the 65th spot on the magazine’s list of 100 best values in private universities across the country.

Kiplinger’s quality measures, which are weighted more heavily than cost, include the admission rate, the percentage of students who return for sophomore year, the student-faculty ratio, and the four-year graduation rate. Cost criteria include sticker price, financial aid, and average debt at graduation. Unlike other rankings, which include subjective criteria in their assessments, Kiplinger restricts its analysis to measurable standards of academic quality and affordability.

College Factual Recognizes OCU Schools College Factual, a national college ranking service, recognized five OCU departments as among the best in the country.

Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment was ranked in the top 5 percent in “Most Popular” and “Most Focused” categories. The School of Theatre is in the top 5 percent in the “Most Focused” category. Bass School of Music was ranked 46 out of 393 nationwide. The Kramer School of Nursing was ranked 75 out of 508 nationwide and the best in Oklahoma.

The Petree College of Arts and Sciences liberal arts general studies program was ranked 51 out of 373 for veteran friendliness of all colleges and universities.

The School of Music was ranked 32 out of 396 for veteran friendliness.

Graduate Musical Theater, BFA Dance Ranked Second in U.S.

Meredith Wegener, director of Energy Programs in Meinders, teaches students about the environmental impact of the oil industry. Photo by Josh Robinson

Meinders Business Makes List for Online Grad Programs U.S. News & World Report announced that the Meinders School of Business has one of the best online graduate business programs in the country for the third year in a row. Ranked 31 in the country, it is the highest in Oklahoma in the Best Online Graduate Business Programs (non-MBA).

The rankings assess master’s-level business degree programs. The school was specifically recognized for its online offerings in the Energy Management and Energy Legal Studies graduate programs. The University scored high in the Faculty Credentials and Training and the Student Engagement categories.

U.S. News ranked the schools on five categories: how well students interact with their instructors and fellow classmates; admissions selectivity; how much respect the school has among high-ranking academic officials and outside employers; faculty credentials and training; and student services technology.

6 // FOCUS Spring 2017

Bass School of Music’s Musical Theater program was ranked second in the nation by OnStage, a media outlet devoted to covering performing arts news and trends. The Top 5 Graduate Musical Theatre Programs is based on tuition costs, curriculum, faculty, career support, and “basically everything you yourself would consider before making a college choice.”

The Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment was ranked No. 2 in the country for BFA dance programs by OnStage. The accompanying story noted that Oklahoma City University’s dance performance degree “is focused on developing employable dancers for the entertainment industry” and has extensive performance opportunities available. OCU ranked ahead of New York University and just behind Juilliard.

OCU Named a Military Friendly School Oklahoma City University was named to the 2017 Military Friendly Schools list by Victory Media. The list is considered one of the most comprehensive resources for veterans today, providing an annual list of colleges, universities, and trade schools to help veterans pursue civilian careers. “Those who serve our country with honor deserve a chance at the best educational opportunities available,” said Chuck Flint, OCU’s coordinator of military admissions. “We’re happy to help them with their educational needs.”

HI S OW N

WILD WEST

By ROD JONES

e’s come a long way to become one of the most successful energy executives in the nation. Half a world away, to be more exact.

Ronnie K. Irani, born in Bombay, India, and raised in a small town a four-hour train ride away, had a knack for science and math at a very early age. During his primary education days, he would volunteer to open the family bakery during the wee hours of the morning so that his father could catch a few extra hours of sleep.

During those quiet mornings in the bakery, Irani would solve math problems—just for fun.

H Above: Photo courtesy of Ronnie K. Irani Top: A cross-section of Earth from the Delaware Basin to the Midland Basin, based on drilling diagrams Irani keeps in his office.

Later in life, Irani would combine his scientific gifts, creativity, and a love of organizational behavior into an ability to build multi-billion-dollar energy companies from scratch. But he’s not necessarily in it for the money.

“Building companies is more of a hobby for me,” Irani said, discussing some of the things he likes to do outside of work. “People are creative and like to make things. For me, I like to create companies where I can put my ideas to work.”

The president and CEO of RKI Energy Resources, headquartered in Oklahoma City, has more than 37 years of experience in the oil and natural gas industry. He credits several influential people for helping him get to this point.

His parents emphasized education and hard work, and his home country was solidifying its penchant for world-class training in medicine, atomic engineering, and the sciences.

Irani leaned toward chemistry, a subject that would later feed his curiosity for the ways of the energy industry.

After earning a Bachelor of Science in chemistry in 1977 from St. Xavier’s College in Mumbai, before he had a career in mind, Irani set his sights on the Wild West.

“Everything I knew about Oklahoma was from reading Western novels,” he said. “I started reading Louis L’Amour at a very early age. I loved the frontier picture I had in my mind.

I envisioned cowboys riding across a vast land. But I also knew about the hardships, like Indians on forced settlements and the harsh conditions. It all resonated with me.”

Irani’s older brother was attending the University of

‘‘

Ronnie Irani is a true gentleman who is highly regarded in the oil and gas industry. In his business dealings, Ronnie has consistently demonstrated a remarkable combination of deep technical knowledge, sharp business acumen, and unquestionable and unwavering values. In addition to his knowledge of the oil and gas sector, Ronnie’s passion for helping others, both young professionals in our industry and the communities in which we all live and work, is truly commendable.

‘‘

Oklahoma and partially paved his way to living in the U.S. That brother moved to Texas soon after Irani arrived, however, which required Irani to figure things out on his own.

“That taught me how to become self-dependent,” he said.

“It’s like with raising kids. Don’t give them the answers for every problem; let them figure out some things on their own. When you’re faced with a problem, the brain needs to find a solution. Solving problems helps the brain develop, and those same skills I used in starting my businesses.”

In college, he became enamored with petroleum engineering and paid close attention to news about OPEC and improvements in technology. He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in petroleum engineering.

Irani loaded up his class schedule to finish college early.

He landed a job with the Oklahoma City office of Woods Petroleum Corporation and stayed there 12 years.

With a strong interest in starting his own company, Irani enrolled in the MBA program at Oklahoma City University.

An organizational behavior class struck a particular chord.

After all, one of his favorite books from childhood is Dale Carnegie’s “How to Win Friends & Influence People.” Irani said he found a beat-up copy of the book when he was in fifth or sixth grade in an office reception area in India.

“I took it home, read it, and I remember distinctly thinking, ‘That’s how it should be.’ There were so many truths in that book. It was a very early sign of what I would become.”

Irani earned his MBA in 1990. He was invited to teach at

Ronnie’s life story is inspirational. His education in two countries and three universities enhanced a brilliant mind, leading to remarkable successes in businesses. His support for education reaches beyond borders as he encourages international students who study here, while also supporting programs that help American students study abroad. His influence has a positive impact locally and all across the world.

—JOHN RICHELS

—ROBERT HENRY

Chairman, Devon Energy Corporation Board of Directors

President, Oklahoma City University

‘‘

I’ve known Ronnie Irani for over 20 years through our connection to the oil and gas industry, the OIPA, and the OERB. Ronnie always distinguished himself in whatever he pursued, whether it was running his own company, serving as a board member, or creating a new scholarship program. He has that keen ability to build companies, select high-quality assets, and drive shareholder value. The broad extent of the geographic areas he covered with RKI Exploration & Production was expansive, from the southern parts of the U.S. to Wyoming. Few individuals can match the kind of success Ronnie has achieved in his—still young—lifetime.

—STEVEN AGEE

Dean, Meinders School of Business 8 // FOCUS Spring 2017

OCU as an adjunct professor of organizational behavior in 1996 and gladly accepted the opportunity.

“The best way to learn is to teach,” he said.

One of his favorite class topics was reticular activation [see sidebar story], something he also put to good use when building his own companies.

In 1991, Irani teamed up with executives of Louis Dreyfus, a 160-year-old company based in New York and Paris, to begin an oil and natural gas division.

The company went public two years later, and the $47 million initial investment became a $2.3 billion enterprise when it sold in 2001 to Dominion Resources. Irani stayed on with Dominion until 2005 as senior vice president and general manger to help with the transition until he was ready to branch out and start RKI, named after his own initials.

The first iteration, RKI Exploration & Production, was a pure build from ground zero and sold in 2016 for $3.35 billion.

But after a month off work, “I started getting bored. I enjoy working in the oil and gas industry. It’s what I know best, and where I can put my creativity to work.”

Irani started another company from scratch, this time called RKI Energy Resources.

He describes oil exploration as an exciting activity akin to a detective story: “You can’t see what’s deep underground. You have to use some creativity, like solving a puzzle in your mind. That kind of job fits me very well.”

At right: Photo courtesy of Ronnie K. Irani

R ETIC UL A R AC T I VAT I O N

Detecting Patterns One of Ronnie K. Irani’s favorite psychology topics is reticular activation, or how the brain detects patterns and begins to notice a recurrence of things simply because they are “top of mind.”

He tells a story about how he became interested in the topic and how it would become one of his most beloved business mantras.

He was involved in a “fender bender” one winter day and had to rent a car. It happened to be a Chevy Beretta.

While driving around, he started seeing other Berettas all over town, everywhere he looked, whereas he never even noticed them before.

That mind trick became a central topic of his teaching, both in the classroom and for his employees.

“It’s important to ask yourself, ‘How many things are around us that could be so useful, but we just don’t see it? What’s hiding in plain sight that I’m not seeing?’,” Irani said. “It’s a game that trains the brain.”

Favorite Organizational Behavior Truths Ronnie K. Irani collects business leadership tips like some people collect baseball cards. Here are a few of his favorites.

• Once you commit to something, then providence moves also. People will line up to help, but they want to see your commitment first.

• It’s important to empower your team and allow them to put their unique gifts and talent to work.

• Have a vision and be willing to take risks.

• Education helps you differentiate yourself from the pack.

• Once you truly understand a business, you can take more calculated risks.

• Don’t wait for perfection, just start the process. If you don’t start, it’s like a docked boat on the river. You won’t get anywhere until you push it out into the current.

IRANI’S CHARITABLE WORK: okcu.edu/focus // 9

DOW N TOW N MOV E P U TS L AW SCHOOL

Blocks Away from Opportunities

BY APRIL MARCISZEWSKI

W

hen Oklahoma City leaders talk about the law school downtown, the words “phenomenal” and “proud” come up time and again.

Classes started in the new downtown building in January 2015, after the law school purchased the building in December 2012 and completed renovations.

“It has raised the visibility of the law school in the community a whole lot,” said Roy Williams, president and CEO of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. “I think the University has a story they can tell now that a lot of other universities can’t.”

Oklahoma City University School of Law is part of a growing trend of law schools nationwide moving to urban centers, Dean Valerie Couch said.

“Every world-class city has higher education in its core, and we are providing that piece of growth that’s so important,” Couch said.

The move confirms the viability of downtown redevelopment, said Richard Tanenbaum, CEO of Gardner Tanenbaum Holdings, a real estate development company. Tanenbaum serves on the board of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, and he said the more institutions that call downtown home, “the prouder a city gets of its downtown area.”

Downtown, Midtown, and Automobile Alley all benefit from the economic impact of more than 500 adult students and employees working, eating, shopping, and often living downtown, leaders said.

The law school adds to downtown’s “live-work-play” environment and will contribute to Oklahoma City’s emerging innovation district, where the city hopes to foster chance encounters and collaborations, ultimately resulting in new businesses, Williams said.

“Smart people talking to smart people create their own opportunities,” he said, and the central location creates networking opportunities for entrepreneurial law students.

The law school’s historic home, built in 1910 as Oklahoma’s first high school, provides students and employees close access to a variety of courthouses, law firms, businesses, and other organizations connected to the legal community. The courts are practically on campus, they’re so close, said December 2016 graduate Billy Thomas.

Pete G. Serrata III, assistant dean of law career services, walks several blocks with students every week to the district court’s divorce docket, where students help individuals fill out paperwork and learn the basics of court proceedings.

On the flip side, law firms also have easy access to potential interns and legal resources, and alumni are closer to events at their alma mater. The law library is open to the public.

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More than two years into downtown residency, OCU Law already offers students, employees, the legal community, alumni, the public, and the main OCU campus many advantages. Photo by Josh Robinson

Couch described a multitude of events the law school has been able to host because of its new facility with ample parking: three national summits, a symposium for hundreds of people, a regional conference, and much more—each planned with an eye toward benefiting the school and its students. Two nonprofits—Oklahoma Lawyers for Children and the Oklahoma Policy Institute—are newly embedded at the law school, and the school hosts popup legal clinics with student involvement. Urban Land Institute Oklahoma has hosted meetings at the school, and because of that, students have been able to get involved in a group that benefits from lawyers but is oriented toward community development.

This exposure to professional activities “could change the direction of a student’s career,” said Law Library Director Lee Peoples.

Couch and Peoples both see community service increasing as a result of the school’s more central location, and they are reaching out further into the community and encouraging student groups to take up more service projects.

Serrata said graduates are competitive based on their experience

LEGAL AID Help create more opportunities for OCU law students by making a gift today. Go to law.okcu.edu and click on “Give.”

Follow Professor Pete G. Serrata III as he and students walk five blocks to the Oklahoma County Courthouse: okcu.edu/downtownwalk Photo by Josh Robinson

and who they know. “The more people they know, the more results in greater involvement in events and organizations and a they’re going to find out about these opportunities. That’s why more close-knit law school community. being downtown is so helpful.” He thinks students will graduate Alumni, too, feel more connected, said Cindy Richard, JD ’92, with more experience because of the downtown location.

Oklahoma City deputy municipal counselor. Richard drives by Practical experience helps students bridge the gap between the the school on her way to work every day and feels proud, she said. theory of the classroom and the law in the real world.

The new location is “putting the law school into the renaissance of “It’s one thing to read about something in books or hear about what’s going on in Oklahoma City.” procedures,” said 2L student Ron Norick, OCU board Adrienne Martinez. “We read chairman, chaired the capital so many cases. But to see it campaign to move the law school I absolutely think the law school itself has greater in real life, it brings it into downtown. The move “brought perspective. Something that the school back to top of mind for prominence. It’s a thing to be proud of. takes up one sentence in a a lot of people.” Norick also said it book takes up hours or days in made financial sense for OCU and —CINDY RICHARD JD ’92 real life.” created much-needed space for other Deputy Municipal Counselor for the City of Oklahoma City The law school’s new programs in former law facilities. home has also created a new Couch wants the law school environment. Trenton Ghoram, a 3L student, thinks students to be a resource for the rest of OCU, as well as the city. The have more of a mentor-mentee relationship with professors now. downtown school has already hosted an OCU theatre performance Martinez sees the deans as more accessible because she passes them and has plans for an art gallery that could showcase student work. in the hallways.

Local artist Adam Lanman installed “Skyline: Timeline” on the Peoples described helping design the building to encourage law school’s plaza last summer in partnership with Downtown learning. Librarians, for example, work at mobile stations near Oklahoma City Initiatives. classrooms and faculty offices as needed throughout the semester.

“We’re becoming a law school in strong partnership with the city Because the school has a “living room,” lockers, showers, a café, and the city’s people,” Couch said. “We are the city’s law school, and and more, students stay in the building all day, which in turn we’re trying to make that partnership meaningful in every way.”

‘‘

HIGH BAR: law.okcu.edu // 11

Inspiration Within Music Theory Professor Radiates Encouragement

BY TERRY PHELPS

Inspiration is a two-way street for Dr. Erik Heine, Oklahoma City University professor of music theory. He has been inspired by family, and in turn, he inspires students.

He was inspired by his mother, who started him at age 5 in piano lessons, which expanded into oboe and percussion studies. She died five years ago, and in memory of her, he recently started the Deb Heine Endowed Scholarship. To raise funds, he ran 71.85 miles in 12 hours last October to finish first in the Oklahoma City race “24 The Hard Way.” He is inspired by his son Stephen, who was born with RubinsteinTaybi Syndrome, a genetic condition characterized by cognitive and physical disability, short stature, and other health complications.

Having received funds from the Special Friends Foundation to buy a special tricycle for Stephen, Heine helped raise funds for RTS through the Special Friends Foundation by running 85 miles in 24 hours in another “24 The Hard Way” event.

He is inspired by his wife, Patty, who has degrees in viola, psychology, and counseling. She has worked in foster care and now works for the software company that created Stephen’s talking app.

She’s involved in the disability community and active in forums.

Heine says, “She’s the rock that holds the house together.”

In turn, Heine inspires his students. Eryn LeCroy (BM ’14), who performed this spring in the new musical “Sousatzka,” set to debut on Broadway in the fall, says Heine “has the highest expectation of his students because he truly desires that they gain the most, not only out of their professional careers, but also out of life.”

Persistence is Heine’s message—in music, running, and other endeavors.

Molly Poole (BA ’14), a special education teacher in Bellevue, Washington, says: “In my time at OCU, I found that my passions were in special education and how I could use music to support a wide variety of children. As my life path has shifted away from the formal structures of music, I have found that Dr. Heine’s lessons went way beyond chord spelling and part writing.”

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Josh Klossner (BM ’12), financial specialist for OCU Schools of Music and Theatre, says: “I expressed an interest in running after being inspired by Erik’s journey. He has been a strong pillar of support in my running journey. He is always there to listen and provide advice.”

Jon Kratzer (BM ’15), a graduate student in Missouri, says: “After graduating, I reached out to Dr. Heine, and I have found that I gained not only a mentor, but a friend who still cares a great deal about me and where my life is taking me. There have been moments where I felt completely overwhelmed, and he has reached out and offered his wisdom.”

All music majors have to take theory, like it or not. Jill Jantzen (BM ’10), pianist and teacher in Cincinnati, says: “Music theory can be a dry subject for an incoming college music student, yet there was rarely a class where I didn’t leave without having a good belly laugh. Dr. Heine treats his lectures like a comedy show where the nerdy music jokes are never ending. The Terminator voice certainly made an appearance more than once. ‘Q: What does the 7th of a chord do? A: Get Doowwwn!’ We studied music that ran the gamut from Bach and Beethoven to the Eagles and movie soundtracks.”

Heine likes to demonstrate by example. He’ll tell students: “Here’s a long-term goal.You guys know that I’m running this race, and it’s going to be public knowledge if I catastrophically fail, and that’s OK, but I’ve put in the preparation to do this.You have to put in the preparation to be ready on the day of the event, whether it’s an audition or an exam, whether you knew that event was coming or not.”

Heine had planned to become a medical doctor but changed majors his sophomore year, prompted by a D in organic chemistry. He tells students he was a failed chemistry major. “If my own example can help them to be successful, then I’m happy to share that story and say, ‘You can do it.’ Part of education is failing, and you have to be able to say: ‘Hey, I screwed that up. What do I need to do better?’”

Shifting to music was an easy decision, given his background. He started playing percussion in high school “because you can’t march with an oboe.” By his senior year, he was writing all of the marching band pit arrangements.

Even with the chemistry major, Heine had been taking oboe

which he could barely walk. After X-rays, his doctor said: “You have stress fractures in both your femurs, the strongest bones in your body.

How on earth did you do this, and number two, what’s wrong with you?” to which Heine replied: “I’m a doctoral student, and I have a perverted sense of completion. When you start something, you have to finish it.” The doctor said Heine could not run for a year.

Heine finally started running again four years ago for stress relief.

“It’s my hobby. I like to do it after I teach in the afternoons, solving any problems I have with teaching or questions, or just sort of zone out.

That way I can be at home and be a good parent and a good spouse.”

He is training for the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon in hopes of achieving a qualifying time for the Boston Marathon—a pace he’s already reached in practice.

He likens his running to the long-term goal of writing a book, which he did in 18 months, including a sabbatical in fall 2014. “James Newton Howard’s ‘Signs’: A Film Score Guide,” published last year, gives a close read of compositions by Howard, whose film scores

TO INSPIRE STUDENTS For more information or to donate to the Deb Heine Scholarship, visit okcu.edu/endurancechallenge.

Far left: Professor Erik Heine finishes the 2016 Oklahoma City Memorial Half Marathon with his son Stephen. Photo by Dr. Chris Barnes Middle: Heine teaches juniors and seniors in his Form and Analysis music class. Right: He often runs after teaching in the afternoon.

Photos by Josh Robinson

lessons and playing in ensembles at Illinois Wesleyan University. Like most schools, IWU didn’t offer a music theory degree, so Heine chose percussion performance. He played in ensembles, orchestra, and band and took as many theory classes as possible.

His mom had also given him a head start. When driving around in Chicago, they’d listen to the classical station and play “guess the composer.” Heine says, “Little did I know it was like part of a doctoral exam.”

After completing his bachelor’s degree, he earned a Master of Music from the University of Arizona and a doctorate from the University of Texas at Austin.

Heine began running track and cross country in high school and continued running as a “therapeutic thing” in college, going out for a 10-mile run “to break up my day.” But during his master’s work, he “fell off the wagon.” During his doctoral work he resumed running and prepared for the Austin Distance Challenge, a series of eight races of increasing distances, culminating in the Austin Marathon. A month before the marathon, he ran a 30-kilometer race with pain, quit running for a couple of weeks, then did the marathon, after

include “Pretty Woman,” “Prince of Tides,” “Snow Falling on Cedars,” and “The Fugitive,” and who has been nominated eight times for Academy Awards.

Film music has been Heine’s focus in research, which he has presented across the U.S. and Europe and published in journals and anthologies. He says: “It’s hard to separate the music from a film, such as ‘Also Sprach Zarathrustra’ with ‘2001: A Space Odyssey.’

You’ll always have that association of the music with the film.

Similarly, we associate music with our life experiences.”

Heine’s life experiences, in particular advocating for Stephen, have led him to see “how critical it is to help students beyond course material.” For example, he invited a counselor to attend class and help students overcome having a negative self-image over not getting a role.

Heine also continues to raise money for the Deb Heine Scholarship. When fully endowed, scholarships will be awarded to undergraduate music majors who have completed at least five semesters at OCU, with at least one semester remaining. It will defray tuition and fee costs, and Heine hopes it encourages students to achieve academically and develop strong performance skills.

INSTILLING CARE: okcu.edu/endurancechallenge // 13

New Duncan Program Addresses Nursing Shortage

BY KIM MIZAR

DUNCAN—The Kramer School of Nursing’s new Duncan location has become a beacon for rural medical training in Oklahoma. During its inaugural year, 13 students are enrolled in the traditional undergraduate program for students earning their first bachelor’s degree and for those who already have a degree in another field but wish to change careers.

“I chose Kramer School of Nursing because of its reputation, but also for the advantage of Duncan Regional being a teaching hospital,” said Ericka England, a nursing student from Houston.

Up to 20 students per year will be accepted at the Duncan Regional Hospital location, and the Duncan Regional Hospital Health Foundation provides up to 15 competitive scholarships awarded at the start of each academic year.

“The nursing shortage is expected to intensify as baby boomers age and the need for health care grows,” said Cindy Rauh, chief of nursing operations at Duncan Regional Hospital. “Adding to this problem is the fact that nursing colleges across the nation are struggling to expand enrollment levels to meet the rising demand.”

Each scholarship is renewable for four consecutive semesters, or two years total—the length of the degree program. By accepting 14 // FOCUS Spring 2017

the scholarship, students agree to work at Duncan Regional Hospital for two years following graduation.

“I am from this area and have always wanted to work at Duncan Regional Hospital. This is the perfect fit for me,” said Deidra Ballard, a nursing student from Durant.

The small class sizes provide students with opportunities to develop professional relationships with one another as well as their instructors.

“We are so pleased with the professionalism, quality, and high standards that OCU faculty, staff, and students display,” said Rauh. “The ability to employ BSN nurses to work at Duncan Regional is a win-win for the hospital and community and enhances the quality and safety of the care we provide.”

The ability to work in the hospital where students have received their training provides familiarity and stability.

“The partnership between Oklahoma City University and Duncan Regional Hospital is a forward-thinking solution to this nursing shortage,” said Rauh. “The ability to recruit future nurses who live locally and be able to complete their prerequisites from Cameron University and then complete their BSN degree all in Duncan is amazing. It eases the burden for those who wish to attend an accredited school of nursing without having to relocate or travel long distances.”

Life-Like Learning OCU’s Kramer School of Nursing has started a campaign to raise funds for a simulation center that will feature high-fidelity manikin patients to give students enhanced educational experiences.

The simulation center is slated for the Kramer School of Nursing West.

Some of the building’s existing rooms, including the kitchen, will be used to recreate a home-like setting to teach nursing students the delivery of care at home, as in home health and hospice.

The manikins, ranging in simulated age from newborns to adults, will have names and assigned medical histories.

They come equipped with life-like pulses, breaths, pupils that change sizes, voices, and wounds.

“For instance, administration of an incorrect ‘medication’ may result in a sudden drop in the manikin’s blood pressure requiring immediate critical decision-making in what action to initiate,” said Kramer School of Nursing Dean Lois Salmeron. “Students must act and do the correct intervention to reverse this life-threatening situation.”

Real medical equipment, such as IV pumps and crash-carts, adds to the reality of the simulation experiences, said Salmeron. Instructors remain in another room and are hidden behind one-way mirrors to control manikin responses, allow students to act independently, and evaluate student performance without being physically present at the bedside.

Opposite page: Professor Meredith Crowder, MSN, RN, observes Jenny Simpson performing a skills validation. Top: Ericka England assesses a patient’s ear. Middle: Rita DeLira listens to a lecture. Bottom, from left to right: Brittany Moore, Ericka England, Deirdra Ballard, Rita DeLira, and Dakota Polk outside Duncan Regional Hospital. Photos by Josh Robinson

ADVANCE NURSING EDUCATION Learn more about the simulation center or donate by calling the Office of University Advancement at (405) 208-7000 or visiting okcu.edu/givetoksn.

HELP THE HELPERS: okcu.edu/givetoksn // 15

OFFICE SPACE

Literacy Champ for Children Education professor and department Chair Elizabeth Willner, affectionately called “Queen Elizabeth” (note the tiara) by the students she reads for at Positive Tomorrows elementary school for homeless children, poses with one of the many children’s books in her vast collection.

At right, part of Willner’s extensive collection of “Harry Potter” books from around the world. She picked up her first one at a bookstore in London in 1999. “I asked the clerk, ‘What are kids reading the most here?’” she said.

At the far right, a piece of the Berlin Wall, a gift from one of her fifth-grade students when she taught in Colorado.

Photos by Josh Robinson 16 // FOCUS Spring 2017

CELEBRATIONS

Above, students Charlotte Dumesnil and Martin Liu and at right, students Alexandra Hebert, Thomas Harton, and Stephanie Feeback perform for OCU’s top donors at the Holiday Gala. Below, Kris and Bill Frankfurt and Nancy Coats-Ashley and Charlie Ashley visit during the Holiday Gala reception Dec. 1 at the Skirvin Hotel.

Photos by Jerry Hymer, Hymer Photography

President’s Partners is OCU’s annual giving recognition society showcasing the generosity of alumni and friends who contribute $1,000 or more annually. Donors can make one or several gifts throughout the year to reach these levels of giving.

Members enjoy fellowship and entertainment with other benefactors at the annual Holiday Gala. Above center, Angela and Bryan Tener from Newkirk, and above right, Rozia McKinney-Foster and Larry Foster of Oklahoma City attend the Gala. At left, Kelli O’Hara speaks about her life, faith, and career path and sings as part of the Martha Jean Lemon Speakers Series on Nov. 21. About 500 students and guests attended the event in Bishop W. Angie Smith Chapel. At far left, O’Hara is accompanied by professor and pianist Jan McDaniel. At right, O’Hara talks with her husband, Greg Naughton, before they sing a duet. Photos by Josh Robinson

JOIN THE COMMUNITY: okcu.edu/presidentspartners // 17

DANCE Dance Adds Faculty Steeped in Pro Experience The Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment has added three new faculty members with star-studded credentials.

Vincent Sandoval, artist-in-residence for musical theatre, tap, and jazz, pursued his career in New York City. Performing credits include Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Radio City Easter Show, Radio City Spring Spectacular (as featured dancer), the “Crazy for You” European tour, “Victor Victoria” first national tour, and the “Fosse” (dance captain) first national tour, where he worked with Ann Reinking and Gwen Verdon in the Fosse Vincent Sandoval style of dance.

Sandoval’s regional credits include Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma, Theatre Under the Stars in Houston, Music Theatre Wichita, Casa Mañana, and Paper Mill Playhouse. His choreographic credits include Radio City Christmas Spectacular (assistant director/choreographer to Linda Haberman), Royal Caribbean International (director/choreographer), Summer Stock Austin (choreographer), and Georgetown Palace Theatre (choreographer).

Sandoval earned a Bachelor of Performing Arts in Dance Performance from OCU and was recognized as the Outstanding Graduating Senior.

Aaron Pomeroy, instructor of dance, is a dancer and choreographer who started performing at age 4. A company member with the San Diego Ballet for more than 10 years, performing as a soloist, Pomeroy has appeared in numerous ballet productions that have toured extensively throughout the U.S. He has performed with the Radio City Christmas Spectacular for many years.

Originally from San Diego, some of his personal favorite performances include “Spamalot,” “Oklahoma!,” Aaron Pomeroy “Funny Girl,” “The Producers,” “My Fair Lady,” “42nd Street,” and “On The Town.” Some of his favorite roles include Mike in “A Chorus Line,” Billy in “The Goodbye Girl,” Bobby in “Crazy for You,” and the Tin Man in “The Wizard of Oz.” Recently, Pomeroy performed in the new musical “Roman Holiday,” based on the classic film with Audrey Hepburn, which premiered at the prestigious Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis.

Tye Love, assistant professor of dance, performed with Oklahoma Festival Ballet and was a company member of Oklahoma City Ballet. Love has appeared as a guest performer with dance companies throughout the United States and has choreographed for Oklahoma Festival Ballet and Joffrey Texas Workshop, where he has served on the faculty.

He worked with the Ballet Ruse Archive in Tye Love transitioning its collection to an online database.

Love holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts and Master of Fine Arts from the University of Oklahoma. He studied ballet technique at Ballet Academy of Texas and with John Magnus, former director of the Joffrey Ballet School. He has served on the faculty of Dance Center of Oklahoma City Ballet and also as a graduate fellow at the OU School of Dance.

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Benjaman Lanham participates in one of many auditions conducted by Dance Chair Jo Rowan (at right). Photo by OCU Staff

Rowan Earns High Honors Dance Chair Jo Rowan was honored by the Association of Dance Conventions and Competitions with the 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award during the Industry Excellence Awards Gala in Las Vegas.

Rowan is a nationally renowned ballet dancer, choreographer, and teacher.

“I’ve always said dancing is easy, but it’s hard to learn Jo Rowan how to do it with ease,” she said. “I have strived to prepare performers who wanted professional careers with a gift of work that they love.

“In a competitive business like the world of entertainment, it is wonderful to hear dancers say, ‘They’re paying me for doing what I love.’ So to all of us who endeavor to bring quality dance education to audiences of all ages and to spread the joy of dance, this honor is very meaningful.”

In October, Rowan also received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Annie Oakley Society, which is part of the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.

Rowan has appeared in ballets, in musicals, and on television. She has toured globally with The American Spirit Dance Company, which she founded at OCU’s Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment.

Rowan has served as a spokesperson for National Dance Week with Tommy Tune, Fayard Nicholas, and Ben Vereen and was honored by Dance Teacher magazine as a National Teacher of the Year in Higher Education, among a variety of other honors and awards.

Members of the ADCC board said Rowan was selected for the award based on her vast experience, commitment to excellence, and lasting influence in the field of dance.

Rowan and OCU Dance and Entertainment Dean John Bedford pioneered American dance in higher education, creating the world’s first collegiate program to emphasize tap, jazz, and music theater dance at OCU in 1980.

ALUMNI

Stars Worldwide Demonstrating the scope of OCU’s global presence, alumni gathered for events in Malaysia, Taiwan, and Hong Kong in the fall. Hosted by the OCU Alumni Association of Malaysia, a University delegation led by President Robert Henry spent Oct. 30–Nov. 2 in Kuala Lumpur. A President’s Gala Dinner in the Grand Ballroom at Top Glove Tower highlighted the journey. More than 330 people attended the event, hosted by Tan Sri Dr. Lim Wee Chai, Top Glove CEO and patron of the Malaysian alumni association.

Pictured counterclockwise, from the top: A traditional dragon dance greeted the OCU delegation on a visit to Cheng & Co Chartered Accountants. Pictured, from left, are President Robert and Dr. Jan Henry; Dato’ Hock Hoo Chua (MBA ’95), managing partner of Cheng & Co; Marc Wong (MBA ’95), Rousselot’s regional director for Southeast Asia, India, and Australia; and his spouse, Esther Wong.

Kelsey Griswold (Acting ’14) gives the graduation address to students in Cheng & Co’s leadership program, encouraging young professionals to fight for what they value.

In a group photo for Cheng & Co leadership graduates, OCU was represented by, from left, Provost Kent Buchanan, Chua, Griswold, and Henry.

Honored alumni stand with OCU leaders at the President’s Gala: (from left) Marc Wong, Malaysian association president; Richard Ng (MBA ’88), Singapore Alumni Chapter president; Buchanan; Meinders School of Business Dean Steve Agee; Henry; Tan Sri Dr. Lim Wee Chai, host; and three Distinguished Alumni honorees: Dato’ Michael C.H. Wong (MBA ’95); Cindy Lim Geok Lan (MBA ’98); and Sow Chu Loong (MBA ’95).

Marc Wong visits with guests at a luncheon.

Wong received an OCU honorary doctorate on Nov. 2.

Photos provided

ALL THE RAGE: facebook.com/OCUalumni // 19

ATHLETICS

Cheer Wins First National Title, Pom Squad Places Fifth

BY RICH TORTORELLI

Oklahoma City University took home the first NAIA Competitive Cheer National Championship in history with a final score of 87.08.

The Stars won the event by 4.15 points over the second place finisher. OCU recorded the top score of any cheer team in both days of competition.

“Obviously I was very pleased with our team’s performance,” OCU head cheer coach Alicia Bailey said. “It makes it even that much sweeter that it’s at home in front of our friends and family. …

We finally have recognition for our hard work and our athletes.”

Oklahoma City scored well in multiple categories, including overall difficulty, receiving scores of 9, 9, and 8.9 out of 10.

The Stars’ pom squad finished in fifth place in the dance competition with a final tally of 84.30, 7.08 points behind the title winner. The squad performed well in the category of staging transitions, receiving 9’s from each of the three judges.

“I was very pleased with our performance today,” pom head

OCU cheerleaders celebrate their win at home. Photo by Josh Robinson

coach Tasha Hinex said. “We knew the level of competition would be very high today and I thought our team stepped up to the challenge.”

Women’s Basketball Named National Champs Oklahoma City University secured its ninth NAIA Division I women’s basketball championship March 21 by triumphing 73-66 over Lewis-Clark State (Idaho).

Fifth-ranked Oklahoma City (34-2) earned its fourth national crown in six years in women’s basketball.

Daniela Wallen took tournament most valuable player.

Wallen, a senior from Caracas, Venezuela, supplied OCU with 25 points, nine rebounds and three steals.

During the tournament, Wallen produced 24.4 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.40 steals a game while shooting 51.6 percent from the field and 54.5 percent from 3-point range.

Daniela Galindo posted 19 points, six rebounds, three assists, and two steals for the Stars. Galindo, a junior from Shattuck, made the all-tournament first team after collecting 22.2 points and 4.8 rebounds OCU women’s basketball players celebrate their victory on March 21. Photo by Josh Wetmore, per contest while hitting 13 3-pointers in the five University of Great Falls tournament games. Both Galindo and Wallen played the entire game.

Oklahoma City won its 64th national championship in all sports.

“To see their faces is what’s so special about this,” said head coach Bo Overton, who became the NAIA Division I coach of the year. “You know how hard they work all year and how hard they work their whole career for a game like this, and then for it to happen is really special.”

OCU ended the season on a 20-game winning streak in becoming the fifth team in program history to win as many as 34 games. OCU reached 34 victories each season from 2000 to 2004.

20 // FOCUS Spring 2017

Stars Choose Muñoz as Volleyball Coach Jason Muñoz has taken over the OCU volleyball program as head coach. Muñoz assumes the Stars’ helm after serving the previous eight years as assistant for Oklahoma Baptist. Muñoz was recognized as the 2012 NAIA assistant coach of the year and among the 30 under 30 coaches by the American Volleyball Coaches Association.

In 2016 under Kyle Steele, Oklahoma City went 32–5 with its first victories in the NAIA Championships among many other program milestones: highest national ranking ever at No. 11, first Sooner Athletic Conference regular-season Jason Muñoz title, second SAC Tournament championship, first 30win season since 2008, the SAC’s 11th undefeated conference record, and first 18-0 SAC record.

Last year, Oklahoma Baptist wrapped up the season as National Christian College Athletic Association Championship semifinalists with a 23-15 record and a tie for third in the Great American Conference with Muñoz’s help. The Lady Bison concluded the season at No. 7 in the NCCAA national poll. In 2015, Oklahoma Baptist finished as NCCAA runner-up.

ATHLETICS

First 50-Point Game in 50 Years Lou Dunbar became the first Oklahoma City University men’s basketball player in 50 years to score 50 points in a game.

Dunbar, a junior from Seabrook, Texas, exploded for 50 points against USAO on Jan. 26 at Abe Lemons Arena. In his scoring outburst, Dunbar nailed 14 of 18 shots from the field, 11 of 14 3-pointers and 11 of 12 free-throw shots.

Dunbar rang up more points than any player for OCU since the school became an NAIA member in 1985-86. Dunbar equaled OCU’s single-game record of 11 treys. Eric Tatum sank 11 3s while piling up the previous scoring high by a player in OCU’s NAIA era with 46 points vs. St. Gregory’s on March 4, 2004, at Abe Lemons Arena. Tony Terrell established the record with 11 treys at Incarnate Word (Texas) on Dec. 28, 1991, in San Antonio.

“He got hot,” Oklahoma City coach Vinay Patel said of Dunbar, whose father, “Sweet Lou” Dunbar, played for the Harlem Globetrotters. “Once he got hot, we unloaded the playbook for him.

I called about every set we have to get him a look. He just continued to hit shot after shot after shot.

“We’ve seen that in practice all the time. You’ve seen that in other games. He continued to stay with the plan of taking good shots. He’s capable of scoring big for us nightly.”

Rich Travis turned in Oklahoma City’s last 50-point performance with 52 against North Texas on Dec. 4, 1967, at Frederickson Fieldhouse. Travis erased the previous Frederickson Fieldhouse mark of 50 Bud Koper had against North Texas. Gary Gray holds OCU’s single-game scoring record with 55 points at West Texas State on Jan. 20, 1967, while Victor Parrish of USAO owns the Sooner Athletic Conference scoring record with 51 at Oklahoma Christian on Feb. 13, 1993.

Dunbar reeled in NAIA Division I men’s basketball player of the week to become the first honoree from Oklahoma City since 2005-06.

Lou Dunbar became the first OCU men’s basketball player since 1967 to score 50 points Jan. 26. Photo by Hugh Scott

Stars Kick Off Harvey Endowment for OCU Soccer OCU has established the Brian Harvey Endowment for OCU Soccer to help create the best possible experience at the University for student-athletes and to keep the Stars competitive on the field.

The endowment will be invested permanently to benefit OCU soccer and fund the program’s needs, including equipment, scholarships, and travel.

Additional gifts to the endowment are encouraged,

GOAL! Help support OCU Soccer at okcu.edu/givetosoccer so interested parties may contact OCU athletics at (405) 208-5309.

OCU Athletic Director Jim Abbott announced the endowment in August to alumni and

supporters who toured the newest addition to Stars Field, the locker room and coaches’ office complex.

The new facility, located next to the entrance to Stars Field, houses locker rooms for both the men’s and women’s teams, coaches’ offices, and a reception area above the locker rooms overlooking the field.

MAKE AN ASSIST: okcu.edu/givetosoccer // 21

ATHLETICS

Olowora Wins NAIA Women’s Cross Country Individual Title Aminat Olowora took home the individual crown in recordsetting fashion in the NAIA women’s cross country championships Nov. 19 at the North Farms Cross Country Course in Elsah, Ill. Olowora, a junior from Lagos, Nigeria, ran the fastest time ever in the NAIA women’s championships 5,000-meter race by 17 seconds. The transfer from Southwestern (Calif.) is the first Star in school history to win the individual title in women’s cross country.

Olowora finished the race in 16 minutes, 24.28 seconds. Alissa McKaig of Indiana Tech previously held the record time of 16:41.4 set in 2008. Hannah Segrave of Milligan (Tenn.) finished as individual runner-up 44.45 seconds behind Olowora.

“Aminat is a special talent,” OCU coach Matt Aguero said. “I didn’t know she had broken the record until the awards afterward, but I wasn’t surprised at all. We’re extremely pleased with the way she ran today and looking forward to her continuing her success next season.”

THE FIRST IN SCHOOL HISTORY TO WIN THE TITLE Olowora was named the South Central regional women’s cross country runner of the year, while Aguero picked up regional coach of the year.

Olowora became the Sooner Athletic Conference individual champion while also being the fastest runner at the Oklahoma State Cowboy Jamboree and setting the OCU record in the Chile Pepper Festival by 70 seconds while finishing second among all runners in the race. She won all five races she competed in.

Olowora garnered three SAC runner of the week nods, three NAIA runner of the week honors, all-SAC and NAIA allAmerican in 2016.

Former Star Sosa Wins Dominican League MVP

John Barfield helped OCU to its first NAIA World Series berth in 1986.

Photo from the 1987 OCU media guide

Former OCU, Texas Rangers Pitcher Barfield Remembered Left-handed pitcher John Barfield, 52, passed away Dec. 24 in Little Rock, Ark. He served as the ace hurler for OCU’s 1986 team, which earned the program’s first NAIA World Series berth. Barfield became an OCU Athletics Hall of Famer in 1992. In 1986, Barfield went 8-5 with a 4.63 earned run average, seven complete games and 86 strikeouts in 112.2 innings as a junior for Oklahoma City. Barfield set the program single-season record for innings pitched.

Barfield was named to The Oklahoman’s state college baseball all-century team for the 20th century and the NAIA District 9 all-decade team for the 1980s.

The Texas Rangers made Barfield the 267th overall selection in the 11th round of the 1986 Major League Baseball amateur draft. Barfield reached the majors Sept. 7, 1989, against the Baltimore Orioles at Arlington Stadium. He was one of six OCU alumni to play in the majors.

22 // FOCUS Spring 2017

Former OCU baseball player Ruben Sosa garnered Dominican Professional Baseball League most valuable player honors for the Leones del Escogido in 2016.

Sosa, a Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic native, recently signed a minor-league contract with the Kansas City Royals.

In 2016, Sosa finished second in the Mexican League with a .371 batting average while leading the league with a .458 on-base percentage while playing for the Vaqueros de la Laguna. Playing center field for the Vaqueros, Sosa finished in the top 10 in the league in stolen bases (22), on-base plus slugging (.975) and triples (10).

Sosa was a part of the 2011 OCU baseball team that went to the NAIA World Series. Sosa led the NAIA with 44 steals for the Stars that year.

A 23rd-round pick by the Houston Astros in the 2011 Major League Baseball draft, Sosa spent his first five seasons in minor league baseball before shifting to the Mexican League in 2015.

Oklahoma City has produced 155 professional baseball players with 72 selected in the Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft.

CLASS NOTES 1960s Ellen Oakes (BA ’61) was named in the Marquis Who’s Who for excellence in clinical psychology.

The Enid News & Eagle named Leonard Northcutt (BSB ’63) a 2016 Pillar of the Plains.

William Wantland (JD ’64) was honored by Marquis Who’s Who for excellence in tribal law.

Cletus Smith (BA ’64) exhibited “Where the Roads Lead,” a collection of paintings at the Depot Gallery in Norman.

Marsha Ryan (BA ’68) was appointed to the Southern Illinois University board of trustees.

Susan Wells (BA ’69) founded a nonprofit that recycles the stars from old U.S. flags to give to veterans and service members. The organization is called Stars for our Troops Inc. Billy Philips (BA ’69) was named vice president for the F. Marie Hall Institute for Rural and Community Health at Texas Tech University.

Jane Jayroe (Gamble) (BM ’69, DHL ’11) reflected on her Miss America win on its 50th anniversary for feature stories in The Oklahoman and 405 Magazine.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs named the late Rick Rescorla (JD ’75) as Veteran of the Day. Comanche County District Judge Mark Smith (JD ’75) retired after 30 years on the bench.

1970s

Ron Raines (BM ’75, MM ’14) performed in the American Pops Orchestra concert “I’ll Be Seeing You—A World War II Love Story.” Raines was also a guest vocalist in the Utah Symphony’s “Jerry Herman: The Broadway Legacy Concert.”

The Portal Fator news site in Brasil did a feature story about Thomas A. Case (MBA ’70) and his orthopedics company.

Barbara Fox DeMaio (BM ’76) played the title role of Baba in the Painted Sky Opera’s production of “The Medium” in Oklahoma City.

Thompson Reuters named John Henry Rule (BS ’72) and Renee DeMoss (BA ’80), both with the GableGotwals law firm, to the 2016 Oklahoma Super Lawyers list.

The Oklahoma Supreme Court elected Douglas Combs (JD ’76) as chief justice.

Pete White (JD ’73), longtime Oklahoma City Ward 4 councilman, announced his retirement.

Oklahoma Gazette did a feature story about Peggy (BA ’74) and Dave Carty (BS ’75), owners of Someplace Else Deli in Oklahoma City.

Gary Main (BSB ’76) became pastor of Gretna United Methodist Church in Nebraska.

John Kennedy Jr. (BA ’76) was elected to serve as the 2017 chairman of the board for deadCenter.

Pete White

Major General Mark Graham (MBA ’84) was a guest speaker in the Penn State Altoona Distinguished Speaker Series.

Patricia Helton (BA ’84) was named regional vice chancellor of student affairs at the University of South Florida St. Petersburg.

Kirk Carson (BM ‘84, MPA ‘86) is the conductor of the East Hill Singers, a men’s prison choir. “Conducting Hope,” a documentary about them featuring Carson, aired on PBS. Shawn Churchman (BM ’86) wrote a musical adaptation of the acclaimed novel “Pryor Rendering” by Gary Reed.

Two OCU alumni received awards from the Blac Liberated Arts Center. Edgar Cruz (BM ‘86), was honored with the Charlie Christian Award. Tinasha LaRayé (BA Theater Performance ’09, MLA ’10) received the Alfre Woodard Theater Award.

1980s

Celo Harrel (JD ’87) was named the 2016–17 mentor of the year for the Believe In Some One Now (BISON) Mentoring Program in Cheyenne, Oklahoma.

Donald Jordan (BA ’80) and Jonathan Beck Reed performed in “A Tuna Christmas,” Oklahoma City Repertory Theatre’s most popular play in its 15-year history.

VIE magazine ran a profile story about performing arts alumna Melissa Dill-Behnke (BA ’87), a former international pageant contestant and current personal wellness coach.

SUBMIT CLASS NOTES: alumni@okcu.edu // 23

CLASS NOTES Patricia Myers (BM ’88) was named principal of Moore Elementary School in Houston.

Scott Cherry (BPA ’88) directed “Shrek the Musical Junior” in Sherwood, Ore. 1990s Chris Wyche (ME ’90) was named vice president for facilities, operations management, and technology at the World War I Museum and Memorial in Kansas City. Wyche was formerly the executive vice president of stadium operations for the Sporting KC soccer club.

Timothy Long (BM ’90), pianist, conductor, opera coach, and educator, was named to the inaugural class of the Oklahoma Arts Institute Alumni Hall of Fame.

Brian Nelson (MBA ’91) was named Chromalloy technology company’s director of Strategic Projects–Operations.

Alicia Priest (BA ’93), president of the Oklahoma Education Association, was a panelist in a forum about school choice as a legislative topic in Oklahoma.

Richie Splitt (MBA ’96) was named president and chief executive officer of Norman Regional Hospital.

Greg McCortney (BA ’96), former Ada mayor, began his first term in the Oklahoma State Senate.

Christoph Ruepprich (MM ‘96) spoke at the Oracle OpenWorld convention in San Francisco about using the tiny computer Raspberry Pi and an Oracle database to control hardware. He is working on natural language voice interface with databases.

The Rev. Kayla Bonewell (’02 BA) was named to the okc.BIZ Forty Under 40 class of 2016.

Bonewell is pastor of Cathedral of Hope UCC.

James Albertson (BS ’97) joined Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Anderson Properties as residential real estate sales agent.

Jonathan Warren (BPA ’02) is the associate choreographer for the new Broadway production of “Dear Evan Hansen,” which opened in December.

Blake Bittel (JD ’97) was appointed as a 23rd district judge in Kansas.

Former OCU baseball player Patrick Wyrick (political science ’02) was named a justice on the Oklahoma Supreme Court.

Sean Gatewood (BS ’98) was inducted into the Broken Arrow High School Athletic Hall of Fame.

Tony Sommer (MBA ’94) was named senior vice president of sales and marketing for Visioneering Technologies.

The New York Pops will pay tribute to Kelli O’Hara (BM ’98, DHL ’15) at its 2017 gala.

24 // FOCUS Spring 2017

Jeffrey A. Hensley, Esq. (BS ’01), president and founding attorney of Hensley Legal Services PLLC, was recognized by Continental Who’s Who among Pinnacle Professionals in the field of Legal Services.

Brent Greenwood (BFA ’97) was a featured artisan for the Chickasaw Cultural Center’s Holiday Art Show.

Col. Max Moss (JD ’93) retired as spokesman for the Oklahoma National Guard.

Robin Waters (MBA ’96) was named vice president of finance for Petra Industries, a consumer electronics accessory manufacturer.

Kelly Nemecek (MBA ’01) was named branch manager of McClain Bank in Norman.

Dato’ Eshah binti Meor Suleiman (MBA ’02) was appointed to the board of directors for UMW Holdings Berhad.

Rev. Trina Bose North (BA ’98) became senior pastor at Crown Heights United Methodist Church in Oklahoma City.

Stephen McNair (MBA ’95) was named executive vice president Greg Heanue and chief development officer for H2O Midstream LLC.

Don M. Powers (JD ’00) spoke on the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution at the Launch ‘n’ Learn Seminar Series in Edmond.

Holly McNutt (BA ’96) was named an assistant principal at Cooper Middle School in the Putnam City district in Oklahoma City.

Chris Harrison (BA ’93) was selected to return as host of the 2017 Miss America Competition.

Greg Heanue (MBA ’95) was named chief marketing officer for the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden.

2000s

Two alumni were named new Rotarians in the Rotary Club of Oklahoma City: Jennifer Seal (BA ’98) and Matthew Major (JD ’06).

Brothers Kevin Wilson (’96 to ’98) and Marcel Wilson (BPA ’98), who formed Mister Willson Entertainment, were inducted into the new Fine Arts Hall of Fame of Rockford Public Schools in Illinois.

MiKeiya Morrow (BS ’03) wrote a guest editorial titled “We need Patrick Wyrick Speak7 because Black Children Matter and Child Sexual Abuse Thrives in Silence!” for the Feminist Wire website.

Don Eben (MBA ’03), CEO of TXW Solutions, spoke at the 2016 INCOMPAS Show.

The Titleist golf equipment company ran a feature story about Tyrone Van Aswegen (BSB ’04) as part of its “Team Titleist” news series.

Former Dallas Cowboys cheerleader Sarah Idziak (BPA ’04) taught audition prep classes for the team.

Danny Kennedy (MBA ’98) became vice president of construction for Rupe Helmer Group in Oklahoma.

The Oklahoman featured Max Doleh (MBA ’04) in a story about how he runs five tech startup companies.

Jamiee Brantley (BS ’99) joined the faculty of Oklahoma Baptist University’s College of Nursing.

Nath Knust (JD ’04) was appointed district court judge for Cabarrus County in North Carolina.

CLASS NOTES “Eminent Domain: Essential Skills & Critical Issues for Attorneys & Appraisers,” and spoke at the Realtors Land Institute’s National Land Conference.

house in September, with the winner landing the commission to write a full opera to premiere in Poland next year.

Erin McCracken’s (BM ’07) country music cabaret “Thank God I’m a Country Girl” made its Oklahoma debut with a show in the Boathouse District.

David Holt (JD ’09) received a 2016 Governors Arts Award from the Oklahoma Arts Council.

Irma Newburn (JD ’07) became a Comanche County District judge.

Colby Q. Lindeman (BPA ’05) and Erika Hebron (BPA Dance ‘09) were cast in the national tour of “An American in Paris.”

Lauralyn McClelland (BPA Dance Performance ’05) was signed to the cast of the new Broadway revival of “Sunset Boulevard” starring Glenn Close.

Theodore J. Fleming (JD ’05) was appointed as Elmore County magistrate judge by Idaho’s Fourth Judicial District.

Jay Wadley (BM Composition ’05) composed the score for Anu Valia’s “Lucia, Before and After,” which won the Short Film Jury Award: U.S. Fiction at the Sundance Film Festival.

Jerrad R. Ahrens (JD ’06) was profiled in the September/October issue of The Nebraska Lawyer.

Richard Riaz Yoder (BPA ’06) was cast in the Broadway revival of “Hello, Dolly!” starring Bette Midler and David Hyde Pierce.

Lincoln Keck (BSB ’06) joined Washington Regional Medical System in Arkansas as director of specialty clinics.

Trae Gray (MBA/JD ’06), founder of LandownerFirm.com and NaturalResourceMediator. com, served as co-chairman of a conference titled

Trombonist Staff Sergeant Russell Sharp (MPA ’07) performed with “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band during the U.S. presidential inauguration ceremony. Prior to joining the band, he was the principal trombone with the U.S. Naval Academy Band in Annapolis, Maryland, from 2007– 16. He was also a substitute with the Kennedy Center Opera Orchestra in Washington, D.C.; the Harrisburg Symphony Orchestra in Pennsylvania; the Oklahoma City Philharmonic; and the Annapolis Symphony in Maryland. According to the U.S. Marine Corp, the Marine Band is America’s oldest continuously active professional musical organization. Founded in 1798, the band has performed for every U.S. president since John Adams.

Scott Cravens (JD ’09) was promoted to senior vice president for Trust Company of Oklahoma.

Rick McKee (BM ’09) was the arranger/ orchestrator for the holiday single “Somewhere in my Memory” from Cirque du Soleil’s Broadway show “Paramour” to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.

2010s Daniel Aizenman (MBA ’09, JD ’12) joined the litigation group of McAfee & Taft.

Miles Matthew Seybert (BSB ’09), assistant vice president for commercial lending at First United Bank in Lubbock, Texas, was named to the 2016 Twenty under Forty list by the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce.

Paige Williams (BPA ’09) performed in the Broadway musical “Holiday Inn.”

Hollye Hunt (JD ’07) was named vice president of legislative affairs for the Oklahoma Independent Petroleum Association.

Candice Earp (BSN ’10) joined one of Utica Park Clinic’s family medicine practices in Broken Arrow.

Keith Hines (BM ’07) performed in the national tour of “Jersey Boys.”

Molly Jane Hill (BM’ 10) played Mrs. Lovett in the Glimmerglass Festival’s production of Stephen Sondheim’s “Sweeney Todd” in New York.

Amelia Andrews (BS ’08) became executive director of the Little Blessings child development center.

Abby C. Smith (MM ’08) played Mrs. Puff in Broadway’s “SpongeBob the Musical.”

Amanda Butler (BS Dance Management ’08) was on the cover of the January issue of Runner’s World Magazine.

Music alumna and composer Katarzyna Brochocka (MM composition ’09) was named the audience favorite in an international opera composition competition for “The Man from Manufaktura.” She and a second finalist will write the first act and compete head-to-head in concert readings in Poland at Teatr Wielki w Lodzi opera

Rayshon Payton (Political Science ‘10) was recently featured on NBC’s Golf Channel. Payton, who was part of the inaugural OCU 30 Under 30 Class, is associate director of the Senate Democratic Steering & Outreach Committee in Washington, D.C. Chaz Wolcott (BPA ’10) performed in the national tour of “Newsies.”

Lizzy Valles (BA ’11) won an Emmy from the Lone Star Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. She was recognized in the category of News Producer, with her entry, “My Little Producer—Newscasts Are Magic.”

“Hollis,” a feature film produced by moving image arts alumnus Adam Carter (‘11), is GET THE DISH ON STARS: okcu.edu/focus // 25

CLASS NOTES now available for streaming via Amazon Video and iTunes. Additional OCU MIA graduates who contributed to the project include Nathan Gardocki (BFA ’10), Jonathan Gardocki (BFA ’14), Jackson Currie (BFA ’12), and Kyle Keegan (BFA ’12).

Taylor Knight (BFA ’12) worked as an electrician for the production of “Disney Live!

Mickey and Minnie’s Doorway to Magic.”

Bailey Perkins

Daniel Aizenman (JD ’12) joined the litigation group of McAfee & Taft, the state’s largest law firm.

Six alumni from the Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment were contracted to perform in the national tour of “42nd Street”: Sara Fagan (’12), Alicia Newcom (’13), Mallory Davis (’13), Alex John Johnson (’15), Elise Kowalick (’15), and Megan McLaughlin (’15).

Justin Brackett (JD ’12) was appointed to a district court judge seat in North Carolina.

Chris Eissenstat (MA ’12) was promoted to senior associate of the BKD, LLP Oklahoma office.

Julie Dill (MFA creative writing ’13) released “Bluff,” her 26 // FOCUS Spring 2017

Kimberly Carnley (JD ’13) was named assistant city attorney of Stillwater.

OCU marketing manager Chris Cox (BBA ’14) was named to the okc.BIZ Forty Under 40 class of 2016.

Kara Didier (JD ’12) was named to the 2016 Oklahoma Rising Stars list for family law attorneys

by Super Lawyers, a Thomson Reuters business.

Kasey Yeargain (BM ’13) played El Gallo in the Clay & Wattles Theater Company production of “The Fantasticks” in Connecticut.

Sheridan McMichael (BM ’13) performed in Oklahoma City Philharmonic’s annual “The Christmas Show,” featuring alumna Kelli O’Hara.

Kate Cunningham (MLA ’13) was promoted to senior account executive of Saxum, a marketing communications agency.

Bailey Perkins (BA ’12) was named outreach and legislative liaison for the Oklahoma Policy Institute.

Drew Wutke (MM ’12) played piano for Molly Pope’s birthday celebration and last New York City solo concert of 2016.

first young adult novel. The book tells the story of a young woman’s fledgling gambling addiction.

Elizabeth ‘Lizzy’ Olsen (JD ’14) was named majority director of operations for the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works.

Mezzo-soprano Mary Beth Nelson (BM ’14) was cast as Ruth Bader Ginsburg in the Glimmerglass Festival’s mainstage performances of “Scalia/Ginsburg: The Opera.” Justice Ginsburg is expected to be in attendance in August and will be featured in a post-show Q&A. Former acting major Lincoln Korver (2014–16) plays a lead role in the zombie short film “Blood Bath and Beyond,” written and directed by Quentin Ransohoff.

Ashley Bechtold (BS ’15) was hired as a receptionist and administrative assistant for ADG, PC, an Oklahoma City-based design, planning, and program management services firm.

The Stillwater seventh grade orchestra, directed by Michelle Contreras (BMIE ‘15), was selected to perform as a middle school honor group at the Oklahoma Music Educators Association state convention.

Betty Weinberger (BS ’15) performed in the touring production of “Elf: The Musical.”

Moving Image Arts alumnus Erik Thacker (‘15) worked as post-production engineer on the documentary “Oklahoma City,” which was produced by American Experience Films and broadcast nationally on PBS stations.

“Disney Live!” Photo courtesy of Feld Entertainment

Business alumni (Hadzo) Hodge Habibovic (BBA ’15) and Susan Lunsford (MSA ’16) were named affirmation partners for RSM US LLP, a supplier of review, assessment, and counseling administrations.

Aaron Chaloner (JD ’16) was named an associate to the Baker Donelson firm’s Nashville office.

Hannah McCue (BFA ’16) played Juliet in the Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park’s production of “Romeo and Juliet.”

Josh Downing (‘16) showed his capstone film as part of the Tulsa American Film Festival. “I’m Just There” screened as part of a collection of short films.

Ashton Arnoldy (‘16) had a video installation piece included in an exhibition at [Artspace] at Untitled. “A Hiding Place” was a collaborative group exhibition of art and poetry.

Gaylan Towle II (JD ’16) was hired by the Crowe & Dunlevy firm.

Jeananne Ruck (BS ’16) was named the head coach of the Cuesta College softball team in San Luis Obispo, California.

IN MEMORY Roy Chandler D EC . 29, 1 93 5 –JA N . 29, 20 17

Roy William Chandler was born on Dec. 29, 1935, in Cushing, Oklahoma, to Fannye Cowan Chandler & Roy A. Chandler. He left the earth suddenly on Jan. 29, 2017, to be with his beloved wife, Pat, only five weeks after her passing.

Roy attended Oklahoma City University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in business in 1956 with a double major in accounting and history. Roy went on to achieve a Juris Doctor degree in 1961. During his time in law school, he helped start the law fraternity Phi Alpha Delta.

Roy was a longtime managing partner at Peters and Chandler accounting firm.

Second only to his family was the love of his work and the clients he served over a long career as a Certified Public Accountant. He lived a full life by involving himself in the community with the people he loved.

He was a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the State Board of Public Accountancy, the Oklahoma Society of Certified Public Accountants, the Oklahoma Bar Association, and the Economic Club of Oklahoma

Regina Bennett O C T. 15, 1 953 –D EC . 3 , 20 16

Dr. Regina Bennett, associate professor of English, died Dec. 3, 2016.

Regina earned a Master of Liberal Arts from Oklahoma City University in 1988. She became an adjunct professor in 1993 before becoming a full-time faculty member in 2000. She taught courses on classics of Western culture, composition, Western literature, world literature, and values and culture. She served as an advisor for humanities majors.

After earning her bachelor’s degree in English with an emphasis in women’s studies from the University of Oklahoma in 1981, Regina worked in nonprofits

City. He served as the director and chair of Goodwill Industries of Oklahoma City, the board of directors for Great Plains CocaCola, board of directors for Epworth Villa, and a member and former president of the Oklahoma City Estate Planning Council.

Roy gave back to his alma mater by serving on the Oklahoma City University Board of Trustees, including as treasurer.

Roy was inducted into the Oklahoma Commerce and Industry Hall of Honor in 2004 for his lifetime of service to the community.

Those who wish to honor his memory may donate to the Roy W. Chandler Endowed Business Scholarship at Oklahoma City University, 2501 N Blackwelder, Oklahoma City, OK 73106-1493. with battered women, sexual assault survivors, and women prisoners. She enrolled in OCU’s Master of Liberal Arts program while working full time.

Regina also taught at Rose State College, Oklahoma City Community College, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma in Chickasha, and OU. Her honors include the Affleck-Carroll Award in Women’s Studies from OU, Affiliate Women’s Studies Faculty from OU, and Outstanding Volunteer Service recognition from Oklahoma City. Regina served on the Oklahoma County PostAdjudication Review Board, an advisory committee for the state Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, the board of directors for the Oklahoma Halfway House, and a state district child abuse prevention task force.

Regina gave presentations at conferences all over the country on topics including women’s studies, literature, and the craft of writing.

Our Condolences 1950s

1960s

1970s

William R. Henry (’51) Charles E. Stover (’51) Robert E. Waters (’56) Roy W. Chandler (’56, ’61) Rudy J. Donat (’57) Michael R. Holland (’57) Paul A. Fox (’58) Sandra S. Pirrong (’58) Richard J. Warren (’58) James L. Wheatley (’58) Bill R. Hibbert (’59) Carroll O. Johnson (’59) James L. Wheatley (’59)

Charles A. Sims (’60) Jerald C. Walker (’60) Kay M. Moore (’62) Sharon M. Huneycutt (’63) Ellen C. Steely (’63) Robert A. Jackson (’65) R. Mack Bettis (’67) Darin E. Wilkins (’67) Ellen C. Steely (’68) Ollie M. Simmons (’68)

R. Thomas Lay (’73) Scott C. Emerson (’77) Scott E. Tyra (’77) Jerry E. Benson (’78) Vicki L. Robertson (’78) Donald Lucas (’79) Bill R. Perceful (’79) 1980s Harold L. Robinson (’80) Carolyn M. Stephens (’82) John M. Jacobsen (’86)

Regina J. Bennett (’88) Florence K. Brander (’89) 1990s Gerald C. Bayliss (’90) Deborah J. Mauldin (’95) Cara L. Smith (’97) 2000s Anna Dovedan (’05) 2010s Bryan B. Young (’12)

okcu.edu // 27

IN MEMORY

Former OCU President Jerald C. Walker Remembered Former president and chancellor of Oklahoma City University Jerald Carter Walker died Dec. 24 in Tulsa.

He was 78.

He was the longest-serving president in OCU’s history, serving from 1979 to 1997.

“Proud of his Cherokee heritage, President Walker was devoted to improving higher education, driving standards and accountability in Oklahoma political and social ethics and access to education for Native Americans, other minority students and students abroad,” said OCU President Robert Henry.

A native of Bixby, Oklahoma, Walker was president of the OCU student association while completing his undergraduate degree. He earned graduate degrees in social and political ethics at the University of Chicago Divinity School, and Claremont School of Theology. An ordained minister of The United Methodist Church, Walker served as chaplain and assistant professor of religion at Nebraska Wesleyan University. On his 29th birthday, he was elected president of John J. Pershing College in Beatrice, Nebraska.

“Dr. Walker tirelessly contributed to building community and making people believe in education as a means of progress,” said OCU Alumni Relations Director Cary Pirrong, who attended OCU during Walker’s tenure.

Walker was on the board of directors of the 4-H Foundation and was named Distinguished 4-H Club Alumnus in Oklahoma and Nebraska. The National Conference of Christians and Jews named him Distinguished Humanitarian in 1991. In 1999 he was inducted into the Oklahoma Higher Education Hall of Fame. He served as a member of the Oklahoma State Ethics Commission and president of the National Association of Schools and Colleges of The United Methodist Church.

His capacities extended outside of the U.S. as well. In 1984, Walker led efforts that established 18 graduate programs in the People’s Republic of China, and paved the way for OCU to conduct MBA programs in Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the Republic of Singapore, and the United Kingdom.

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In 1989 he established management education programs for 500 Soviet Union aviation executives. He was adviser to Tianjin University of Commerce in Tianjin, People’s Republic of China. In 1996 he was presented the Excellent Leader Award by the Management Development Institute of Singapore. Moscow State University also named him an Honored Professor. He was bestowed an honorary degree at Schiller University in Great Britain.

At the time Walker assumed the presidency at OCU, the institution was in dire financial straits. His tenure was dubbed as “the miracle on 23rd Street” by longtime friends of the University. During Walker’s presidency, the endowment grew from $2.8 million in 1979 to more than $36 million. After five years of budget deficits, the University operated with balanced budgets during his entire tenure.

Walker wrote numerous articles in the areas of political ethics, higher education, and Native American issues. He was the author of “The State of Sequoyah: An Impressionistic View of Eastern Oklahoma.” He also wrote a chapter in “The Oklahoma I Had Never Seen Before: Alternative Views of Oklahoma History,” published by the University of Oklahoma Press.

A member of the Cherokee Nation, Walker was the greatgrandson of Benjamin Cornelius England, who served as sheriff of Delaware District in 1897, and also was a council member of the Cherokee Legislature. Walker was a prolific writer of numerous articles in the areas of political ethics and higher education.

In 2000 he received the Cherokee National Medal of Honor. In 1995, Walker along with Woody Crumbo, Wes Studi, Benjamin Harjo Jr., Will Sampson, Moscelyn Larkin, Virginia Stroud, and others, received the Outstanding Achievement in the Arts Award from The American Indian Heritage Center in Tulsa.

Memorial gifts may be made to the Jerald and Virginia Walker Native American Scholarship Fund, c/o The Oklahoma United Methodist Foundation, 4201 N. Classen Boulevard, Oklahoma City, OK 73118.

CALENDAR

EVE NTS

Alumni Night at the Ol’ Ball Game Commencement Live-Stream Online 1 1 A . M . M AY 6 Undergraduate Commencement

3 P.M. MAY 6 Graduate Commencement

View graduation ceremonies from anywhere. Visit okcu.edu/students/commencement/webcast to watch live.

7 P. M. J ULY 15 Bricktown Ballpark, Oklahoma City INFO: Call (405) 208-5463

Save the date to join us for a night of baseball. For more information, call (405) 208-5463.

Chapel Turns 50 W E WA NT YO U R W E D D IN G PICTUR E S

The Alumni Office is collecting photos of weddings that were held in the Bishop W. Angie Smith Chapel in anticipation of its 50th anniversary next year. The photos will be part of a celebration being planned for 2018. Those who were hitched in the chapel may send electronic files to alumni@okcu.edu or mail copies to: Oklahoma City University—Alumni Office 2501 N. Blackwelder Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73106 Please include names and dates in submissions.

okcu.edu // 29

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