Oklahoma City University’s FY25 Annual Report

ANNUAL REPORT JULY 1, 2024 - JUNE 30, 2025

OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY

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Oklahoma City University Fiscal Year 2025 Annual Report Produced by the OCU Office of University Advancement with contributions from: WRITING & EDITORIAL DIRECTION

PHOTOGRAPHY

DESIGN & PRODUCTION

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT

Rayelee McFee, Manager of Donor Relations

OCU Marketing & Communications • Cover Design: Lechelle Calderwood • Content Design: Issei Aoyoma

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Ian Weston and community partners

OCU Office of Advancement, Operations and Development OCU Office of Alumni Engagement OCU Business Intelligence OCU Financial Accounting Services OCU Student Financial Services Oklahoma Methodist Foundation

TOGETHER, WE LEAD

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Message from President Kenneth R. Evans OKLAHOMA CITY UNIVERSITY

At Oklahoma City University, we believe leadership is cultivated in community.

The theme of this year’s report, Together, We Lead, reflects not only our values but also a year defined by momentum, shared purpose and transformative generosity. Because of you—our alumni, donors and friends—our students are learning to lead boldly and in unity.

During the 2024-25 academic year, our classrooms, stages, clinics and playing fields were filled with moments that affirmed our mission: students stepping into new opportunities, our community gathering in support of excellence and faculty pushing the boundaries of innovation and research. These are not isolated achievements; they are evidence of a culture where leadership is nurtured and shared. OCU graduates are prepared not just for careers, but for lives of purpose and influence.

We saw your belief in education come to life in another record-breaking fundraising year, with over $13.4 million raised to support students and programs, including $541,000 during True Blue OCU Giving Day alone. Scholarships, endowed funds and program

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investments keep an OCU education accessible while fostering an environment where students thrive academically, artistically and personally.

We have expanded academic offerings to meet the evolving needs of our students, with about 25% of new enrollment coming from new programs such as our STEM-designated MBA options and accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing. State-of-the-art facilities, enhanced through your support, empower students to perform, compete, and research at the highest levels and showcase their passion and professionalism around the world.

We also celebrated the legacy of Dean Mark Parker, who retired in June 2025 after 35 years of service—30 as dean of the Wanda L. Bass School of Music and 21 overseeing both music and theatre.

Through the Mark Parker Endowed Faculty Award, nearly $2.5 million has been raised, ensuring future students benefit from the same world-class mentorship that defined his tenure.

These milestones affirm that our enduring legacy is built together, one gift and one generation at a time—strengthening our partnership and securing a vibrant future for Oklahoma City University.

Your generosity becomes our possibility. Thank you for being a vital part of this extraordinary community.

Student Leaders in Action: The 2025–26 Presidential Ambassadors The Oklahoma City University Presidential Ambassadors are a select group of diverse undergraduate students chosen through a competitive application and interview process each academic year. These exceptional students serve as the face of OCU and assist the Office of Advancement in representing the university at key events—from receptions and donor dinners to campus ceremonies and com-

munity functions. By welcoming and engaging our supporters and alumni, they help create memorable experiences while showcasing their excellence, professionalism, and OCU spirit. Their dedication not only enhances the university experience for those they serve but also strengthens the connections between students and the donors whose generosity makes it all possible.

KYAH ALEXANDER Mass Communications

SYDNEY BURCH Cell & Molecular Biology

BROOKE CURRY Exercise Science

Kylan Dour Economics/Philosophy/ Political Science

DEVIN JANSING Biomedical Science

KLAUDIE KARNIKOVA Marketing

LILLIAN KURCZAK Dance

ALANNA LADEAUX Economics/Philosophy/ Political Science

WILLA LEE Religious Studies

FATIMA LOPEZ Economics/Philosophy/ Political Science

KINGDAVID OGBONNAYA Religious Studies

LAYLA OLVERA Psychology

KAYLA NGUYEN Cell & Molecular Biology

MACY URSO Music Theatre

JOSEPH TABOR Political Science

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Innovating Excellence “As we reflect on 2024–25, we are inspired by OCU’s resilience, creativity, and unwavering sense of purpose in a time of rapid change. Education is evolving—students now begin their degrees year-round, in person or online—and OCU continues to lead the way. Guided by President Evans and our dedicated deans, we have embraced innovative approaches that open new doors for students and strengthen our partnerships in the community.

JENEE NAIFEH LISTER

Chair, Development & Strategic Planning Committee

Like many private universities, we have navigated rising costs and shifting enrollment patterns. Yet through careful planning, a strong endowment, and steadfast leadership, OCU is meeting these challenges head-on, while delivering an exceptional, values-centered student experience.

This moment is also an extraordinary opportunity: to reimagine what’s possible through the generosity of alumni and friends who believe in OCU’s mission. Your gifts—of every size—create programs that inspire, attract, and prepare students to lead in a dynamic world. Together, we can ensure OCU remains a place where creativity, leadership, and opportunity flourish for generations to come.”

DEBBIE FLEMING

Chair, Investment Committee

ACADEMIC YEAR 2025-26

Board of Trustees The Board of Trustees of Oklahoma City University serves a variety of functions, including, but not limited to, amending university bylaws, approving the annual budget, reviewing financial statements, electing and removing members of the Board’s Executive Committee, and electing the president of the university.

OFFICERS Jane Jayroe Gamble, Chair Nicholas Harroz III, Vice Chair Emmanuel Edem, Secretary Jacque Fiegel, Treasurer

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MEMBERS OF THE BOARD Louise Bass Andy Benton Phil Busey Debbie Fleming Gerald Gamble Gary Homsey** Michael “Mickey” Homsey Joe R. Homsey, Jr. Margaret Johnson Dr. Don Kim Jenee Naifeh Lister Robert Long Paula Marshall Lance McDaniel Paul McLaughlin** Billy Meade William Mee Laura Merrill Salvador Ontiveros Jerry O’Pry

Tammy Powell George Randall Patrick Rooney Teresa Rose Shane Sanders William Shdeed** Jerry Vannatta John Veal Kathy L. Williams Brent Wilson Mohamed Daadaoui (Faculty Senate representative) Tasha Casey-Loveless (Staff Council representative) Sonny Tabor (Student Government Association representative) **Voting emeritus

Endowment* Fiscal Year 2025 University Finances

The market value of endowment funds, including those held by other entities for the benefit of OCU, was $195,335,289 as of June 30, 2025, an all-time high for the university. This report highlights funds directly managed by OCU trustees through the Oklahoma Methodist Foundation: $107.2 million in fiscal year 2025.

Over the past 12 months, equity markets were driven primarily by the strength of the Magnificent Seven and the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence technologies, which served as key pillars of growth despite restrictive monetary policy from the Federal Reserve. The S&P 500 delivered a total return of 15.2%, supported by a resilient U.S. economy and historically low unemployment. International equities provided meaningful diversification benefits, with the MSCI EAFE Index advancing 17.7%, aided by a weaker U.S. dollar.

In fixed income, Treasury yields remained elevated as investors awaited clearer evidence of declining domestic inflation. Nonetheless, expectations for future rate cuts contributed to a 6.1% gain in the Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index for the same fiscal year.

Our generous and faithful donors continue to provide a significant margin of excellence for students and for the faculty, staff, and programs that support them. Your philanthropy has a profound, positive impact and helps make Oklahoma City University the best educational institution possible.

Many donors choose to direct their gifts toward endowed funds.

OCU’s endowment, including those held by other entities for the university’s benefit, is made up of 708 individual funds designed to provide perpetual financial support for scholarships, faculty professorships and chairs, the various schools, library resources, and other endowed programs. Of these funds, 601 are held at OCU, 71 by the Oklahoma Methodist Foundation, and 36 by the Oklahoma City Community Foundation.

Impact by the Numbers

2,918 Undergraduate and graduate students enrolled for Fall 2025

92% Of undergraduate students received institutional aid in 24-25

Enrollment By College, Fall 2025 Performing Arts • 26.4% Music • 11.55%

Health Professions • 19.8%

Theatre • 7.81%

Nursing • 14.46%

Dance • 7.06%

Physician Assistant and Physical Therapy • 5.31%

Arts & Sciences • 22.1%

$34 million Awarded annually in academic merit, and talent-based scholarships

Law • 14.7% Business • 17%

*The fiscal year 2025 audit is in progress; audited financial information will be posted when complete on okcu.edu/financial-reports

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Unrestricted Gross Operating Revenue $106.3 MILLION • FY24

Fundraising Overview CASH AND NEW PLEDGES

Financial Statement Net Revenues: $72.8 million

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Millions of Dollars

9 6 3 0 ’21 Clockwise from top of graph: Tuition and Fees (Gross) • 77.6% Net Assets Released from Restriction • 11.8% Auxiliary Enterprises (Housing and dining revenues) • 6.5%

Return on Investments Designated for Operations • 1.6% Other Sources (Educational department sales, service revenues, and miscellaneous income) • 1.8%

Unrestricted Gifts & Other Contributions, Including the OCU Fund • 0.7%

Net Assets Released From Restriction

’22

’23

’24

’25*

Programs

Endowment

Operating

Capital (Building)

Excellence Fund

Endowment Growth MILLIONS OF DOLLARS 200 150 100

SOURCES OF RESTRICTED FUNDS USED DURING FY24 Includes Funds Received During Current and Prior Years but Used During Current Year: $12.5 million

50 0 ’16

’17

’18

’19

’20

’21

’22

’23

’24

Net Assets

MILLIONS OF DOLLARS 300 250 200 150 Clockwise from top of graph: Endowments (Distributions) • 63.8% Grants (Federal, state and private) • 30.5% Gifts (Restricted, non-endowed contributions) • 5.7%

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100 50 0

’20

’21

’22

’23

’24

’25*

Endowment Management Oklahoma City University is committed to prudent, time-tested investment strategies and fiscal policies. The Board of Trustees Investment Committee is charged with overseeing its funds and measuring the returns they produce against nationally recognized standards and metrics for investment performance.

The Board of Trustees Investment Committee actively monitors the financial markets to control risk and evaluate exposure for all asset classes. The Oklahoma Methodist Foundation serves as the advisor and record keeper, and Wespath Institutional Investments serves as investment manager to the committee.

In managing the endowment, the university seeks to balance the dual objectives of enhancing the future purchasing power of endowment funds and meeting current spending needs. The endowment is invested with a long-term horizon to ensure that it will grow at a rate above inflation, while providing a stable stream of income to support the purposes for which its funds were created. Endowment growth is due not only to the generosity of thousands of alumni, friends, corporations, and foundations through the years, but also to the careful stewardship provided by the Board of Trustees.

Total Endowment

OCU Endowment Assets by Purpose

$195.3 MILLION • FY25*

$107.2 MILLION • FY25* OCU Endowment Managed by the Oklahoma Methodist Foundation • 55% Oklahoma Methodist Foundation Endowment for the Benefit of OCU • 41% Oklahoma City Community Foundation and Other Private Foundations for the Benefit of OCU • 4%

Scholarships • 52.81% Academic Professorships & Chairs • 14.07% Other • 33.12%

OCU Endowment Assets by Department/School $107.2 MILLION • FY25*

Clockwise from top of graph: Alumni • 0.07%

Nursing • 1.68%

Arts & Sciences • 9.7%

Religion • 8.43%

Athletics • 2.35% Business • 16.70%

St. Paul School of Theology • 0.10%

Dance & Entertainment • 2.79%

Student Aid • 13.32%

Law • 14.58%

Theatre • 1.03%

Library • 0.41%

University-Church Relations • 0.49%

Music • 15.63%

Other • 12.72%

*The fiscal year 2025 audit is in progress; audited financial information will be posted when complete on okcu.edu/financial-reports

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Asset Class Overview

Broad Asset Allocation

OCU ENDOWMENT • $107.2 MILLION • FY25*

OCU’s directly managed endowment portfolio of $107,219,343 was composed of these asset classes as of June 30, 2025. The guiding principle of OCU’s consolidated endowment program is that funds should be managed so that a gift today will fund a donor’s objective in perpetuity.

Equities • 63.0%

Assets & Distribution Policy+

Fixed Income • 35.5%

100

8

75

6

50

4

25

2 0

0 ’21

’22

’23

’24

Millions of Dollars

Millions of Dollars

Alternatives • 1.5%

Detail Asset Allocation

OCU ENDOWMENT • $107.2 MILLION • FY25*

Clockwise from top of graph:

’25*

Cash • 4.1% U.S. Equity Index Fund • 49.0%

Assets Under Management Distributions from Assets Under Management

International Equity Fund • 14.0%

+ The spending policy for OCU’s Endowment is 5% of the average market value of the endowment for the previous 20 quarters (five-year rolling average). This rolling, multi-year average helps to provide more predictable spending budgets. In Fiscal Year 2025, OCU’s Board of Trustees authorized an additional 2.5% distribution. The total distribution for the year was $5,626,553.

Investment Performance*

Mineral Interests • 0.9%

The historical returns presented herein represent the actual historical returns of the OCU Endowment, which reflect the deduction of fees charged by third parties. The information in this document was obtained from sources believed to be reliable; however, accuracy is not guaranteed. Historical returns are not indicative of future performance.

12 9 6 Percentage

Alternatives • 0.6%

NET OF FEES • AS OF JUNE 30, 2025

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NOTES

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1. Historical returns are time-weighted. Returns greater than one year are annualized.

0 1 Year

3 Year

5 Year

10 Year

OCU Endowment 50% Russell 3000 / 15% MSCI EAFE / 35% BB US Aggregate

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Fixed Income Fund • 31.4%

2. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. *The fiscal year 2025 audit is in progress; audited financial information will be posted when complete on okcu.edu/financial-reports

New Endowments BRYAN SPINKS ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP Robert and Pamela Spinks established the Bryan Spinks Endowed Scholarship in memory of their son. Bryan is remembered for his love of music and kindness toward others, and his family has generously chosen to uphold that legacy through the creation of an endowed scholarship. Awards will provide support for guitar performance students in the Wanda L. Bass School of Music, ensuring future musicians continue to have access to a transformative education at OCU.

PA PROGRAM ENDOWED FUND The PA Program Endowed Fund was created to provide long-term support for Oklahoma City University’s Physician Assistant Program. The fund allows the program director to address immediate priorities, including equipment, student activities, and standardized patient support. This endowment strengthens OCU’s role in preparing highly skilled healthcare providers and enhances opportunities for students and faculty alike.

RICHARD T. TRAVIS FAMILY ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP Tracey Travis established the Richard T. Travis Family Endowed Scholarship in memory of her husband, Richard “Rich” T. Travis, a two-time NCAA All-American and former OCU men’s basketball player. Rich is remembered for his athletic excellence, academic dedication, and lasting impact on the OCU community. The scholarship provides support for student-athletes, helping them succeed both in the classroom and on the court, while preserving Rich’s legacy for future generations.

ROD CAMPBELL ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP Peggy Campbell established the Rod Campbell Endowed Scholarship in memory of her husband, Rod Campbell, BA ’59. Rod was a key member of the OCU men’s basketball team and is remembered for his dedication to athletics and his gratitude for the support he received as a student-athlete. The scholarship provides financial support for men’s basketball players, helping them excel both academically and athletically while carrying forward Rod’s commitment to leadership and teamwork.

MARK PARKER OUTSTANDING FACULTY AWARD ENDOWMENT FUND The Mark Parker Outstanding Faculty Award Endowment Fund was established to support and recognize faculty excellence at Oklahoma City University. Inspired by the exceptional career of Dean Emeritus Mark Parker, the fund will provide an annual award celebrating outstanding teaching, scholarship, and artistic achievement in the Wanda L. Bass School of Music and the School of Theatre. By providing this recognition and additional financial support, the fund will strengthen OCU’s commitment to faculty leadership and the performing arts while reflecting Parker’s enduring impact on the university.

WOLFE SAMUEL OZAROW ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP The Wolfe Samuel Ozarow Endowed Scholarship was established in memory of Wolfe Samuel Ozarow, BA ‘16. Wolfe is remembered for his advocacy for the less fortunate and commitment to racial and gender equity. The scholarship provides financial support to students in the Petree College of Arts & Sciences, ensuring that students in need can pursue their academic goals and continue Wolfe’s legacy of leadership and service.

MOHAMMAD AND HUSSAIN FAMILIES ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP The Mohammad and Hussain Families Endowed Scholarship was established to support undergraduate students pursuing STEM degrees.

The families are recognized for their commitment to academic excellence and the advancement of future leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The scholarship provides financial assistance to full-time students, helping them achieve their educational goals and contribute to innovation in critical fields.

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Advancing OCU Together University Advancement encompasses alumni engagement, development, donor relations, planned giving, and special events—all supported by advancement operations. Our office connects supporters and friends of OCU with the greater campus community through opportunities, initiatives, and ways to give back. We are committed to stewarding your generosity with care and celebrating the impact you have on the lives of our students. You play a vital role in advancing OCU’s mission to foster an immersive, personalized experience that prepares students to pursue boundless opportunities.

CREATING AN ENDOWMENT When you create an endowment at Oklahoma City University, you have the opportunity to shape its purpose—whether supporting scholarships, faculty, programs, or areas of greatest need. With a minimum gift of $25,000, you can create a fund that bears your name or honors someone meaningful, leaving a permanent imprint on the university you care about. Our team will work with you to establish an agreement that ensures your wishes are met and that your gift strategically advances OCU’s mission of scholarship and service.

A HISTORIC TRUE BLUE OCU BIRTHDAY Celebrating 121 Years on Our 6th Annual True Blue OCU Giving Day! On April 24, 2025, the OCU community rallied together to celebrate OCU’s 121st birthday with a record-breaking True Blue OCU Giving Day. Because of you, OCU is stepping boldly into the next 121 years with momentum, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to our students.

1,123

$541,561

Donors supported Giving Day.

73%

Raised on Giving Day 2025.

87

Giving Day advocates volunteered.

Faculty & staff made a gift.

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Student callers connected with supporters & alumni.

OFFICE OF UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT 405-208-7000 • give@okcu.edu READ ABOUT YOUR IMPACT AND MORE okcu.edu/give

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ENDOWMENT FAQ okcu.edu/endowment-faq

Thank You for Your Support!

Leading with Legacy: The Musselman Family Scholarship Lloyd and Nancy Musselman’s connection to Oklahoma City University spans nearly five decades.

Their story is deeply woven into the fabric of the university through teaching, learning, and lifelong friendships.

Lloyd and Nancy first met as students at the University of Denver. After graduation, they made their home in Oklahoma City, where Nancy earned her teaching accreditation at OCU and later completed a master’s degree in gifted and talented education in 1994. Lloyd joined the faculty as a history professor in 1969 and mentored students for 38 years, earning numerous honors for teaching excellence—including the Darbeth-Whitten Professor of American History title in 1978, the Sears Roebuck Foundation Award for Teaching Excellence in 1990, and OCU’s Distinguished Teacher of the Year award in 2002.

Lloyd and Nancy Musselman’s generosity empowers future generations of OCU students and inspires others to carry forward their legacy of giving while honoring the exceptional community spirit that defines Oklahoma City University.

SWEET BEGINNINGS

Both immersed themselves in campus life, attending plays, dance performances, and athletic events. Beyond campus, Lloyd shared his expertise internationally, flying to Singapore nearly 20 times to teach a short course in American history and politics to students earning degrees in Mass Communications. Leading up to their graduation, his student cohorts would spend three weeks in residence on OCU’s campus. Lloyd often delivered the graduation address. “All of the students were wonderful,” Lloyd recalled. “I loved them all.” Their son, David, also graduated from OCU and married a fellow alum from the School of Music, further deepening the family’s ties to the university.

Lloyd and Nancy’s story began with a doughnut. While at the University of Denver, Nancy was volunteering with the Methodist Student Group when she noticed a hungry graduate student and offered him a doughnut. That simple act of kindness blossomed into a lifelong partnership. “I’ve been grateful ever since,” Lloyd recalled with a smile.

Through it all, Lloyd treasures his lasting bonds with students. “My students still stay in touch,” he said. “That might not sound like much, but for me, it’s been everything.” At OCU, they found what many in the university community experience—relationships that last a lifetime.

Learn More About OCU Gold Star Society

In fall 2024, Lloyd and Nancy created the Musselman Family Scholarship through a planned gift, motivated by their belief in the transformative power of education. Once realized, the endowed scholarship will support students in the Petree College of Arts & Sciences, with priority given to students with financial need. “We wanted to help aspiring students achieve their dreams,” Nancy said. “Especially those who might not otherwise have the means.”

For Lloyd, planned giving is a simple, meaningful way to make a difference. “This kind of deferred giving is easy,” he said. “It doesn’t interfere with ongoing family plans, and it ensures that future students will benefit after we’re gone.”

Including Oklahoma City University in your estate plan helps strengthen the university, benefit students for generations, and create a meaningful legacy. Gifts that qualify for the Gold Star Society include wills, trusts, beneficiary designations, charitable remainder trusts, and life insurance.

For more information on the benefits of planned giving, contact: Bryan Baxter, Senior Director of Development and Planned Giving bbaxter@okcu.edu • 405-208-5541

oculegacy.org

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Honoring a Visionary:

The Mark Parker Endowed Faculty Excellence Award When Mark Parker announced his retirement last August, Oklahoma City University began preparing to say farewell to a leader whose 35-year career transformed our campus. On June 30, 2025, Parker concluded an extraordinary tenure — 30 years as dean of the Wanda L. Bass School of Music and 21 years leading both the School of Music and the School of Theatre. His career was marked by transformation, growth, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

In recognition of his remarkable legacy, donors and supporters have come together to establish the Mark Parker Endowed Faculty Excellence Award, raising nearly $2.5 million to honor his vision and ensure OCU continues to attract and retain world-class faculty. The award was launched with an initial $500,000 gift from Greg and Lisa Love. “Greg and I are honored to have established the Mark Parker Endowed Faculty Excellence Award,” said Lisa. “The faculty at OCU are truly dedicated to their craft — they do more than teach; they inspire students to reach their full potential.”

Under Parker’s leadership, the Wanda L. Bass Music Center was envisioned and built as a state-of-the-art facility for music education. He also led the Bass School in achieving many world-class distinctions, such as becoming Oklahoma’s first All-Steinway institution. At the same time, the School of Theatre grew from 33 students to more than 200 — a more than 500% increase. Together, both schools experienced record-breaking enrollment growth under his guidance.

His devotion to excellence elevated both programs to national prominence and launched the careers of alumni like Kristin Chenoweth, Kelli O’Hara, and Ron Raines, who would go on to grace Broadway, television, film, and concert stages worldwide.

“As a student of Mark’s, I witnessed firsthand his unwavering dedication to students, faculty, and the performing arts,” said OCU alumna Kristin Chenoweth. “His impact on OCU is immeasurable, and now we have an opportunity to give back.”

President Kenneth Evans echoed that sentiment, noting that Parker has long been regarded as a visionary leader — not only within Oklahoma’s music and theatre communities but also on the global

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performing arts stage. Parker cultivated a culture where students and faculty alike were encouraged to dream big, pursue excellence, and embrace creativity. His ability to mentor, inspire, and innovate built a foundation that will carry OCU’s performing arts programs well into the future.

Dean Parker’s influence will continue to shape OCU’s performing arts, and the Mark Parker Endowed Faculty Excellence Award ensures that his vision lives on by empowering faculty to continue inspiring generations of students. This award stands as a permanent tribute to a leader whose vision transformed Oklahoma City University into a global leader in performing arts education. “This award honors not only Mark but also our extraordinary faculty,” said Evans. “Its lasting impact will be felt by generations of music and theatre students, and that is the most important thing.”

“I will forever be grateful to OCU for the support and training I have received. This university has provided me with countless opportunities and profuse knowledge, which will only prove more invaluable as I continue my performing arts career.

I am inspired by the passion of my peers and the OCU faculty for their contribution to cultivating the next generations of artists.”

Accomplishments

RIORDAN BANKS

• Endowment gifts increased by 700% with more than $60 million in private support raised.

Musical Theatre ‘25

“OCU is a haven for those who didn’t know they needed it. The people of this school have made it effortless to be myself not only as a professional or a student but as a person. OCU has pushed me further to find myself and grow to new heights. I am eternally grateful for the wonderful souls here, and I am lucky to say I go to school at OCU.”

ELLA BROWN

• Bass Music Center was envisioned and built to provide state of the art music education.

• OCU was named an All-Steinway School with 144 Steinway Pianos to date.

• Enrollment increased 520% in the School of Theatre and 108% in the School of Music.

• OCU adopted the Conn-Selmer School model, making it the first of its type in the world.

• OCU was selected by the Chickasaw Nation to produce and perform the play “Te Ata” at the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, D.C. • The orchestra embarked on a tour of China, marking the most extensive tour ever undertaken by any Western orchestra— student or professional—in the country’s history.

• Dean Parker was recognized as an Apple Distinguished Educator and received the Oklahoma Governor’s Arts Award.

• Mark Parker inducted into the Oklahoma Higher Education Hall of Fame

Music Education ‘25

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Shaping the Future, One Cue at a Time From local theatres to the world-renowned Santa Fe Opera, Josie Mueller has been setting the stage for her future — all while still a full-time OCU student.

Attending Oklahoma City University opened doors she couldn’t have found anywhere else. As a senior design and production major focusing on sound and technical direction, she collaborates with directors to craft the visual and technical elements of performances in both the schools of music and theatre. She has also made a remarkable impact on the local community, contributing her talents to Lyric Theatre, the Civic Center, and even spending a summer with the Santa Fe Opera. She credits her professors, OCU’s hands-on approach, and scholarship support for these opportunities. Fueled by a lifelong passion for musical theatre, her debut as an OCU graduate looks as bright as ever.

Josie’s path to the stage began early. She grew up in Orlando, Florida, helping her father, a middle school drama teacher, with every aspect of his productions. “I was always there helping build the sets, running the light board, and sitting in every rehearsal. I learned everyone’s lines before they did,” she recalled. Though her passion for theatre persisted, she briefly explored a different path, even hoping to intern with the CIA. A family trip to New York City, where she saw

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her first Broadway show and met the audio director of “Moulin Rouge,” rekindled her early love of performing arts and cemented her decision to pursue design and production full time.

She applied to programs nationwide and received 15 callbacks but ultimately followed her instincts and chose OCU. “Part of what drew me to OCU was how the professors involve you right away,” Josie explained. “At some other schools, you don’t get to work in your emphasis until junior year. Here, I was able to dive in immediately, which made opportunities outside of the classroom possible.”

Scholarship support has allowed her to pursue her education while working three jobs and serving in leadership roles on campus, from Alpha Psi Omega to the United States Institute for Theatre Technology. “Scholarships help me feel stable and secure; every drop in the bucket helps,” she said. She finds personal meaning in being awarded the Treva Hancock Endowed Drama Scholarship, specifically. “I loved reading about how Treva took the drama department by storm,” Josie said. “I’ve always had my hands in everything, and it feels special to be connected to a legacy like hers.”

Her determination has already led to impressive credits on campus and beyond.

She served as assistant technical director for OCU’s “The Merry Wives of Windsor and

Mother Road,” and is the technical director for the 2025-26 production of “White Christmas.” She has also worked steadily in Oklahoma City’s theatre community alongside professors who design, act, and direct professionally. “The amount of crossover between faculty and the local industry is amazing,” she said. “I’ll see my professors at gigs around town, encouraging me to push myself and learn more.”

Some of Josie’s most meaningful moments are quiet ones. She recalls stepping into the theater during “The Merry Wives of Windsor” to admire the finished production. “I got to sit in the house for 15 minutes and take it all in — the show I helped bring to life. I was in awe,” she said.

Looking ahead, Josie is focused on balancing final assignments and dreams of touring nationally as an audio engineer or bringing productions to life as an assistant technical director, designing and drafting sets. “I love that you can go into a show and escape life for an hour,” she said. “Even when it gets intense, I remind myself that I’m bringing people joy. That’s why I love what I do.”

For Josie, the support of OCU donors has made all this possible. Her story is a reminder that behind every curtain call are students whose opportunities are expanded by everyday generosity — opportunities that launch careers, shape futures, and keep the magic of performing arts alive.

A Lasting Play:

The Richard T. Travis Family Endowed Scholarship Richard “Rich” Travis electrified the court at Oklahoma City University in the late 1960s, setting records, dazzling fans, and leaving a lasting mark on OCU men’s basketball.

Known for his fearless play and unmatched scoring ability, Travis set school records that still stand today — including a career scoring average of 26.1 points per game and a single-game record of 52 points in Frederickson Field House. Twice named an NCAA All-American, he helped lead OCU to national prominence and earned a spot in the university’s Hall of Fame in 1980.

Rich was no stranger to challenges. After graduating in 1969, he was drafted by both the New York Knicks and the Indiana Pacers, ultimately spending six months playing professionally with the Pacers before being drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. A lingering knee injury prevented him from serving, yet Rich transformed this setback into a new beginning. He went on to earn a law degree from California State University, open his own practice, and build a respected career in labor relations in his home state of Michigan.

Reflecting on his athletic career in the 2011 Focus Spring issue, he said, “When it comes time to take on the challenge, there’s a turning point when you feel you’re getting to your toughest mental state. That’s when you’re at your best.” This ethos carried him both on and off the court, shaping his success as a student-athlete, professional, and community leader.

greatness is measured not only in points scored but in the transformational opportunities created for others. His family’s impact lives on in every scholarship awarded, every athlete who dares to dream bigger, and every moment of perseverance — on and off the court.

Rich passed away in 2024, but his impact endures. His wife, Tracey Travis, established the Richard T. Travis Family Endowed Scholarship to support OCU student athletes. The scholarship honors Rich’s journey, providing opportunities for students who demonstrate talent, determination, and financial need.

Tracey also partnered with OCU to celebrate Rich’s life with a permanent plaque displayed in the Freede Wellness Center, highlighting his achievements as an athlete, student, and proud OCU alum. His story will continue to inspire everyone who walks through the halls of OCU athletics.

Rich Travis was known as an advocate for everyone he met, and he will be remembered at OCU for his dedication to others and his alma mater. His life reminds us that

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Alumni Engagement: Once a Star, Always a Leader At Oklahoma City University, the OCU spirit doesn’t end at graduation. Our alumni carry the values, skills, and passion they developed here into every corner of their communities, leading with integrity, creativity, and dedication. Discover thier stories and explore how the OCU Alumni Association keeps our network of Stars strong and connected.

JIMENA MARTINEZ ’25 Accountant PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)

ELLIE SHUMATE ’25 Certified Physician Assistant INTEGRIS Health Nazih Zuhdi Transplant Institute

“Being a student-athlete taught me that if you have time, you can study anywhere. Professors and staff guided me toward opportunities that aligned with my future, helping me succeed both inside and outside the classroom.”

“OCU’s PA program provided the support that pushed me to reach my fullest potential and helped me discover my purpose in medicine. I learned that any opportunity can open a new door—you just have to take it.”

“OCU prepared me for life beyond college.

It taught me how to be a good citizen and servant leader, giving me a distinct advantage in the real world.”

SIREEN KHADER ’20 Medical Student Oklahoma State University

HEATH JONES ’14 Drama Teacher Casady School

JOAN COLÉE ’77 Director and Founder Oklahoma Seniors Cabaret

“OCU showed me the importance of saying ‘yes’ to opportunities outside your comfort zone.

I also learned to balance commitments and value lifelong mentorship from professors.”

“OCU is the place to experiment, take risks, and say yes to things even when you’re tired. Your time at OCU is the time to develop your professional family.”

“The culture of giving back at OCU inspired me to use my talents to serve others. Through the Oklahoma Seniors Cabaret, I help seniors stay active, healthy, and connected.”

TRAE TROUSDALE ’21 Grants and Finance Coordinator Citizen Potawatomi Community Development Corporation

Learn More and Stay Connected Committed to building meaningful connections between alumni and friends of the university, the Oklahoma City University Alumni Association helps you stay engaged through a variety of programs. Whether your passion is mentoring students, planning a class reunion, or leading an alumni chapter in your hometown, there are countless ways to stay active and involved.

2024 Homecoming Legacy Speaker David Crooch ’01

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Share Your Story!

GET IN TOUCH: alumni@okcu.edu • 405-208-7000

HONORING Herman Meinders The OCU community remembers Herman Meinders, the most prolific donor in the university’s history and namesake of the Meinders School of Business. Over his lifetime, Herman gave more than $50 million, including the $18 million gift that brought the Meinders School of Business to life. He and his wife, LaDonna, provided immeasurable support for campus initiatives such as the Kramer School of Nursing, the Norick Art Center, and hundreds of thousands in student scholarships. Herman served as a devoted trustee and was a champion of higher education.

His generosity, vision, and spirit transformed the OCU experience for countless students. We are forever grateful to Herman for his legacy and enduring impact on Oklahoma City University.

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