Gilman Scholars, Fulbright honorees, and more awards
Got it MADE
Make A Difference Engineering in the spotlight
Mind Meld
Laureate Institute for Brain Research partnership
Last fall, the Honors College and Kendall College of Arts & Sciences joined forces with UTulsa's Theatre Union to produce a performance of the ancient Greek tragedy "Medea." Together, they highlighted the university's rich history of embracing the classics. Honors College Dean Jennifer Frey was thrilled to see the Lorton Performance Center packed with over 600 people.
From left: Sarah Biederman, Zach Johnson, Rowan Fripp, Eleanor Hong, Kalainey Nickel, and Alexander Dupree
IN THIS ISSUE
Baller Faculty From ‘Reservation Dogs’ to tribal law, faculty benefit students by bringing deep knowledge and experience to the classroom.
The Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship celebrates alumni who have founded their own businesses in a variety of fields.
Mabee, Baby! Ever wondered about the story behind Lottie Jane and The John — UTulsa’s traditional women’s and men’s residence halls?
Brad R. Carson, President
Tricia Milford-Hoyt, Vice President, Strategic Marketing and Communications
Mona Chamberlin, Senior Media Relations and Editorial Director
Amanda Hodges, Creative Director
Jess Lyness, Director of Content
Leslie Cairns (M.A. ’99), Senior Graphic Designer
Ethan Schaffer, Graphic Designer
Kelly Kurt Brown, Photographer
Tom Gilbert, Photographer
Kim Jacobs, Communications Coordinator
Ted Genoways, Presidential Professor of Media Studies
Jared Emerson, Director of Athletic Communications
Tyler Hughes (B.A. ’22), Graduate Assistant
Morgan Holmes, Writer
Kristi Eaton, Writer
Dorothy Pugh, Editor
To contact the publication team or comment on this magazine, please email magazine@utulsa.edu.
POSTMASTER: Please send Change of Address to:
Magazine of
of Tulsa
Publication dates may vary according to the university’s calendar, events, and scheduling.
The University of Tulsa
is experiencing remarkable momentum that's driving new levels of
student
success, research, and innovation.
For the second year in a row, UTulsa has achieved a record-breaking firstto-second semester retention rate, with 99% of students who started in fall 2024 returning in the spring. It's further proof that when students choose UTulsa, they stay, succeed, and push boundaries. With a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio, an average class size of 13, and the highest number of National Merit scholars per capita in the nation, our intimate, high-achieving academic environment ensures every student has the support and opportunities to excel. Through free textbooks, free tutors and peer mentors, and free access to Division I athletic events, we are making college more accessible and engaging than ever before.
Our commitment to interconnected learning remains steadfast, with faculty research leading in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, energy, neuroscience, and robotics — discoveries that shape the future. This dedication comes to life in our newest endeavors: the Institute for Robotics & Autonomy, which fosters advanced research and hands-on innovation, and the Oklahoma Cyber Innovation Institute’s Cyber Range, the state’s first.
UTulsa continues to build a future defined by progress, opportunity, and excellence.
Thank you for being part of this incredible journey.
Brad Carson President, The University of Tulsa
The University of Tulsa reports a second year of record-breaking retention, including a 99% retention rate for first-year students who began attending UTulsa in fall 2024. • Attracting undergraduates and keeping them engaged from one semester to the next is a sign of a thriving university, and UTulsa has posted a 99% retention rate two years in a row. • From prioritizing students' physical and emotional well-being to sponsoring dozens of organizations, the university provides a sense of belonging while allowing undergrads to stand out from the crowd. • Free textbooks, free mentors, and free entry to Division I athletic events demonstrate UTulsa’s investment in the undergraduate experience.
9:1 Studentfaculty ratio
13 Average class size
96 % Placement rate
# 1 National Merit scholars per capita
Do you know a student who would benefit from a supportive university environment? Visit utulsa.edu/admission for more information.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
APRIL
April 26
Golden Hurricane Athletics Hall of Fame Reynolds Center
MAY
May 9-11
Tulsa Mayfest Tulsa Arts District
May 16-17
UTulsa graduation ceremonies Reynolds Center
JUNE
June 2-6
Camp Incredible 2025 kicks off University School Six sessions available June–July
JULY
July 24-27
World of Bob Dylan 101 Archer
AUGUST
Aug. 1
First Friday Art Crawl 101 Archer
Aug. 25 Fall 2025 classes begin
Championing health equity and student achievement from the top
Oxley College of Health & Natural Sciences is a vibrant community of students and faculty members from an array of disciplines – nursing and physics, chemistry and communication disorders, biology and kinesiology. At the helm of this forward-looking enterprise since January 2024 is Dr. Susan Pepin After a little over a year of listening to and learning from students, colleagues, and community partners, Pepin is more confident than ever that Oxley is poised to become a “transformative environment” for science education, scholarship, and public impact.
Dr. Susan Pepin, inaugural dean of UTulsa's Oxley College of Health & Natural Sciences
Pepin’s background as a physician has prepared her well for her service as dean. For more than 20 years, Pepin cared for adult and pediatric patients. “There is no greater honor than helping vulnerable patients surmount often lifethreatening challenges,” she said. “As a surgeon and neuro-ophthalmologist, my aim always was to contribute to the lives of my patients and their families when their needs were at their most acute. The immense trust people place in you at these vulnerable times also teaches great humility.”
For Pepin, humility, cultivating trust, and opening opportunities for others to thrive are also essential components of being an academic dean: “Just as I always sought to be the best advocate for my patients, now I have the privilege of doing that at The University of Tulsa.” A good deal of her passion for this role stems from the conviction that when students and faculty succeed, there is a positive impact on the well-being of society at large.
In her work leading the college as well as mentoring faculty and students,
Pepin draws on her own notable record of research, clinical practice, teaching, and leadership in health care, higher education, business, and philanthropy.
After completing a bachelor’s degree in molecular biophysics and biochemistry at Yale University, Pepin was a Rhodes Scholar at the University of Oxford, where her master’s studies focused on psychology, philosophy, and physiology. Back in the United States, she earned an M.D. degree at the University of California, San Francisco; was a fellow in neuroophthalmology at Harvard University; and completed her Master's of Public Health degree at the Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy & Clinical Practice.
For Pepin, teaching and mentoring have been career highlights. Among her many positions, she has served as a clinical professor at Arizona State University and currently holds the rank of clinical professor of ophthalmology at the University of Arizona. “Whether engaging with hundreds of undergraduates or medical students, residents, or fellows, throughout my academic career I have always strived to create inclusive,
Whether engaging with hundreds of undergraduates or medical students, residents, or fellows, throughout my academic career I have always strived to create inclusive, supportive environments wherein everyone can reach their full potential.
SUSAN PEPIN
supportive environments wherein everyone can reach their full potential,” she said.
As Oxley’s dean, Pepin is drawing on those experiences to ensure faculty have the support and resources they need to conduct their research and support their students. “In all my years as a surgeon, professor, and administrator, I have never before worked alongside faculty with such a powerful dedication to student success,” Pepin commented. “It’s my honor to help them continue carrying out that noble mission.”
But being an impactful leader requires, Pepin recognizes, taking time to recharge outside the office. So, when she is not connecting, planning, consulting, and teaching, this mother of five adult daughters enjoys spending time getting to know her new northeast Oklahoma environment up close. “I love my work,” Pepin remarked, “but I’m also an avid hiker and married to an outdoorsy Australian. That means, whenever we can, we lace up our boots and head off to explore the Gathering Place, the Riverside pathways, and beautiful Turkey Mountain trails.”
Dean Pepin supervises nursing students at the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing inaugural skills boot camp.
Start-Up Success
UTulsa’s history of producing entrepreneurs
"I really have this deep sense of attachment to TU. There are small class sizes, and the interactions with professors and other students [stand out]."
For decades, The University of Tulsa has shaped bold entrepreneurs who are making waves across industries. From local startups to global ventures, UTulsa graduates are redefining success — whether they choose to build their legacies in Tulsa or take their talents elsewhere. Meet three members of the Golden Hurricane family who are strengthening Oklahoma's economy.
Nathan Garrett moved to Tulsa from Arizona in 2005 after completing U.S. Air Force flight training and joining the Oklahoma Air National Guard. He decided he wanted to pursue a master’s degree and set his sights on UTulsa. He completed his degree in 2011 and co-founded the Tulsa Property Group in 2014.
“I really have this deep sense of attachment to TU,” Garrett said. “There are small class sizes, and the interactions with professors and other students [stand out].”
“It was transformational.”
Tulsa Property Group is a real estate investment, development, and management firm. It has ventures across the Tulsa metro area.
NATHAN GARRETT
“We have both the development and the management piece, and we really love that, because we say we’re a people-centric real estate company,” he said. “We are really focused on meeting people’s needs and adding value to the community.”
Mike Payne graduated from UTulsa’s MBA program in 1999. Today, Payne owns a portfolio of manufacturing companies, including its primary Hill Manufacturing and Fabrication, in the Tulsa metro area.
“TU has such a great and diverse business education through the business college that you’re really prepared to take on business in general, regardless of what niche you studied,” Payne said.
Brie Caywood graduated from UTulsa in in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in business management. She founded 1907, an Oklahoma mercantile and newly
minted eatery. The store offers Tulsa, Broken Arrow, and Oklahoma-themed goodies alongside custom merchandise for individual customers and local businesses.
“TU gave me the blueprint for building a business,” she said. “I learned how to spot a gap in the market, solve problems creatively, and deliver exceptional customer service. It also taught me to embrace the tough seasons — because every problem has a solution, especially with a little brainstorming and fresh perspective. That perseverance definitely came in handy with 1907.”
Gaining national notice
In fall 2024, UTulsa’s Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (CIE) was named the Outstanding Emerging Entrepreneurship Center among schools with fewer than 7,500 students during the Global Consortium of Entrepreneurship Centers’ 2024 conference held at Babson College in Boston. Housed within UTulsa’s Collins College of Business, CIE has also gained national recognition from the United States Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (USASBE) for its role in fostering emerging entrepreneurship. In early 2025, the center was named a finalist for the USASBE Model Emerging Program award. Dedicated to cultivating innovation, commercialization, and venture creation, CIE empowers students, faculty, and alumni to bring their ideas to life. Through its initiatives, the center continues to advance entrepreneurship not only on campus but throughout the broader Tulsa community and beyond.
"TU has such a great and diverse business education through the Business College that you’re really prepared to take on business in general, regardless of what niche you studied."
MIKE PAYNE
"TU gave me the blueprint for building a business."
BRIE CAYWOOD
'Reservation Dogs' creator Sterlin Harjo steps into new role as UTulsa faculty
Sterlin Harjo, an award-winning filmmaker and creator of the Emmynominated series “Reservation Dogs,” will serve as a distinguished visiting artist and affiliate faculty member in The University of Tulsa’s Department of Film Studies through 2026. A 2024 recipient of a MacArthur Foundation Fellowship, also known as the Genius Grant, Harjo co-wrote the film “Rez Ball,” which was released on Netflix in September. He will work directly with undergraduate students in UTulsa’s Kendall College of Arts & Sciences.
“The thing I was missing as a student was hearing from someone that was an actual working filmmaker in the industry. That would’ve been helpful to me. My goal is to inspire, to go deeper than technical questions, starting with ‘Why do you want to tell stories?’” Harjo said.
Harjo, a citizen of the Seminole and Muscogee (Creek) nations of Oklahoma, was born and raised in Holdenville and grew up watching movies on pirated HBO. He made a series of independent features – “Four Sheets to the Wind” (2007), “Barking Water” (2009), and “Mekko”
My goal is to inspire, to go deeper than technical questions, starting with ‘Why do you want to tell stories?’
STERLIN HARJO
(2015) — as well as the documentary “This May Be the Last Time” (2014), the story of the 1962 disappearance of his grandfather and the Native American hymns that keep the stories of the dead alive. All were positively reviewed, but nothing could have predicted the breakout success that Harjo experienced with “Reservation Dogs,” co-created with Academy Awardwinning filmmaker Taika Waititi.
For 28 pitch-perfect episodes on Hulu, running from 2021 to 2023, “Reservation Dogs” was the groundbreaking story of a group of four teens coping with the death of a friend. The storylines blended humor and heartbreak, and combined elements of traditional Native storytelling, parodies of Hollywood classics, urban myths, pop music, and zany side quests to create a rich and recognizable portrait of a complex and vital community. The American Film Institute named all three seasons to its list of Top 10 Programs of the Year. The show was nominated for a Golden Globe and an Emmy. More importantly, it remade the culture, bringing regional and rez slang into the popular lexicon.
The sudden success has opened a
range of opportunities for Harjo, but he has chosen to keep his storytelling – and his show-running – in Oklahoma. During last year’s filming of “The Sensitive Kind,” the cast turned up all over town in Tulsa: at Prism Café for lunch, at Tina’s on South Boston for drinks and late-night burgers, and at Circle Cinema, where Harjo and Ethan Hawke screened a sneak-peek of “Wildcat,” Hawke’s biopic of Flannery O’Connor, starring his daughter Maya. To Harjo, keeping his storytelling as specific and rooted as possible is the key to his success. He has whole worlds yet to explore in Oklahoma, and he has a community of artists, musicians, and filmmakers that he hopes to build.
As a distinguished visiting artist, Harjo will conduct master classes with UTulsa film students. Topics include pitching, writing, and developing a network show, as well as related areas such as casting, directing, and producing. In addition, he will invite students to spend a day on set. As part of his campus role, Harjo will use state-ofthe-art university facilities such as Lorton Performance Center and Tyrrell Hall for screenings and other events.
Sterlin Harjo's work on screen
Four Sheets to the Wind (2007)
After his father’s death, Cufe leaves his home on a Native American reservation to find his life’s meaning in the world beyond.
Barking Water (2009)
Against the backdrop of rural Oklahoma, a terminally ill man and his former lover journey to see his daughter and grandchild.
This May Be The Last Time (2014) In 1962, Pete Harjo mysteriously went missing. Fifty years later, his grandson documents how his Native community searched for him.
Mekko (2015)
After 19 years in prison, Mekko is released and falls in with a group of homeless Native Americans, one of whom has darkness inside him.
Reservation Dogs (2019-23)
Four Native American teenagers steal, rob, and save to break out of the mold of their lives and the Oklahoma reservation they live on.
Rez Ball (2024)
To win their state championship, a Native American high school basketball team must rally together after losing their star player.
YouTulsa
Students arrive at The University of Tulsa eager to push boundaries, explore new ideas, and make an impact. At a university committed to their success, they don’t just adapt — they thrive.
For the second year in a row, UTulsa has achieved a record-breaking retention rate, with 99% of first-year students who started in fall 2024 returning for another year. UTulsa has created an environment where ambition flourishes, and students feel supported, challenged, and inspired. Small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and robust student support programs — including firstyear experience initiatives — help students build confidence and community from day one.
Step onto campus, and you’ll find more than students earning degrees — you’ll discover innovators, athletes, leaders, and creators redefining what it means to be a scholar. Here, ambition knows no
Where Ambition Meets Opportunity
bounds, and identities aren’t confined to a single pursuit. A football player fine-tunes algorithms in a computer science lab. A pre-med dancer pioneers new approaches to physical therapy. A business major not only leads a sorority but also manages a million-dollar investment fund. At UTulsa, students don’t just wear multiple hats — they master them. Whether tackling sustainability challenges, advancing medical research, or engineering the future, our students bridge disciplines and push boundaries.
Captured by Kelly Kurt Brown, university photographer, this series highlights interdisciplinary students thriving at UTulsa — proof that when barriers are removed, possibilities are limitless.
What got me into engineering was building. I just love building things; I love taking things apart and seeing how they work. In the Design Academy program at UTulsa, I was able to start building my ideas at Fab Lab within the projects assigned to me.
The opportunity to play softball as a NCAA Division 1 athlete and study mechanical engineering is what attracted Maci to UTulsa. Sometimes that means running to class still wearing her muddy softball uniform. Now, that’s dedication.
SOPHOMORE Exercise & Sports Science
HOMETOWN Wichita, KS
32 majors represented 65 symphony members
24 students have two or moremajors
At UTulsa, you can continue to play your instrument, even if music isn’t your major. Full-time students from all departments and colleges are eligible to participate in any of the university’s music ensembles, including The University of Tulsa's Symphony Orchestra Concert led by conductor Richard Wagner. This is where business management and computer science students looking for a social and musical outlet share the stage, where cyber security, psychology, and exercise & sports science majors harmonize together in interdisciplinary concert.
Being in the South Asian Student Association has impacted me a lot. TU is a place that feels like home and welcomes people from all different backgrounds.
HOMETOWN Van Buren, AR
Resident Assistant
Earning a double major across two colleges, Maanav is a familiar face at UTulsa. He’s led as director of content for MedX Club, a judicial clerk in the Student Association, and a resident assistant at Hardesty Hall. Now, he balances his role as a patient care technician at Ascension St. John Medical Center with serving as TU Club Tennis president and an active member of the South Asian Student Association while making time to perform at the annual Diwali festival.
JOLT PRESIDENT
Supported ONEOK’s United Way Campaign Kappa Kappa Gamma
A third-generation UTulsa student, Catherine is dedicated to school spirit, Greek Life, and philanthropy — never missing a home basketball game. She’s also pursuing a degree in business management with a focus on entrepreneurship and innovation, shaping her path as a future leader. Business + Innovation & Entrepreneurship SENIOR
HOMETOWN Tulsa, OK
Jamie, a doctoral student in bioinformatics and computational biology, researches gene expression in major depressive disorder. A Cyber Fellow by day, she takes the stage for traditional Chinese dance at Lunar New Year and Moon Festival celebrations.
UTulsa Cyber Fellow
Lunar New Year and Moon Festival dancer
Ethan McFarland
University String Quartet
Alumni Council
A computer science major, student leader, and musician, Ethan balances academics with a passion for leadership and the arts. He serves as president of Pi Kappa Alpha and the TU Martial Arts Club while also performing as a cellist for the Symphony Orchestra and University String Quartet.
Xayda Alexander
Psychology + Spanish
JUNIOR
Gilman Scholarship RECIPIENT
HOMETOWN Owasso, OK
Double majoring in psychology and Spanish, Xayda will spend summer 2025 in Spain as a recipient of the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship. Passionate about youth education, she volunteers with Reading Partners and tutors fourth graders as a Teach for America Ignite Fellow — while dreaming of learning more languages.
Running Association at TU PRESIDENT
KendallWhittier Elementary Reading Partner
Sport Psychology Pathway
THE UNIVERSITY OF TULSA
IS AS UNIQUE AS ITS STUDENTS
(which may be why they love it so much that they pretty much never move off campus).
A UTulsa scholar has access to a variety of mix-and-match extracurriculars, majors and minors — and they take advantage of as many as they can.
Maybe you don't know what you want to do but you know you want to do something uniquely awesome.
At UTulsa when you stand out, you belong.
Putting specialization into practice
Law faculty provide niche educational opportunities
For more than a century, The University of Tulsa’s College of Law has provided students with a strong foundation in a traditional legal education setting. However, expert professors go well beyond classwork to provide experiential opportunities in critical and emerging legal fields. Students serve the community, network with top-of-their-game attorneys, and find themselves traveling from rural courthouses to the nation’s capital. Learn more about new programs and recent faculty additions.
College of Law Dean Oren R. Griffin (right) and Alexandra Fay
The University of Tulsa’s College of Law is the only law school in the country located on a reservation. It has great history of training amazing Indian law attorneys and leaders.
ALEXANDRA FAY
Gaining ground in Tribal law
Alexandra Fay joined The University of Tulsa’s College of Law faculty in August, bringing her expertise in Indigenous law and a homegrown commitment to social justice. A graduate of Yale Law School, Fay specializes in tribal law, a passion that took shape during a transformative summer internship in a small Iñupiat village above the Arctic Circle in Alaska.
“Federal Indian law is a rapidly developing field,” Fay said. “Here in Oklahoma, we’re going to see more jurisdictional disputes coming out of the groundbreaking McGirt v. Oklahoma decision. I hope we’re also going to see a new era of cooperation as states and municipalities recognize that they have to work together with tribes to achieve good governance in the 21st century.”
Fay grew up in Oakland, California, where the city’s rich diversity and history sparked her interest in politics and social justice. She earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Columbia University before pursuing law, inspired by the role attorneys play in creating meaningful change. After graduating from Yale in 2022 and joining the California Bar in 2023, she was drawn to academia through the University of California – Los Angeles’ Native Nations Law & Policy Center and a Milanovich Fellowship.
Teaching has been a longtime passion for Fay. She gained early classroom experience as an undergraduate teaching fellow at Columbia and later as a Fulbright Fellow in Russia, where she taught English and American culture. She chose academia over professional practice because of the dynamic intellectual environment and collaborative community — a combination she looks forward to at UTulsa.
“The University of Tulsa College of Law is the only law school in the country located on a reservation. It has a great history of training amazing Indian law attorneys and leaders,” Fay said. “When the law school invited me to interview, I was working on a paper about McGirt (the 2020 Supreme Court case) and criminal jurisdiction in Oklahoma. It seemed like a perfect match! This is where the law is really developing. There’s nowhere better for my research.”
Beyond teaching, Fay is immersing herself in the local culture, enrolling in an introductory Muscogee (Creek) language course through Kendall College of Arts & Sciences’ Lifelong Learning program. Her dedication to Indigenous law and education makes her a valuable addition to UTulsa’s faculty, where she is preparing the next generation of legal minds to navigate this evolving field.
Assistant Professor of Law Alexandra Fay
Caring for marginalized communities
For Alex Gavern, it all started with a school bus or rather a former school bus. After graduating from the University of Michigan, he moved to Tucson, Arizona, to serve a year with AmeriCorps, working at a high school for nontraditional students. The school had started as a school bus that would drive to rural areas and provide education to the children of migrant farm workers and continued to serve many students lacking permanent legal status.
“I saw how much their lives were affected by their – or their parents’ –immigration status,” Gavern said. “I was deciding whether to become a teacher or go to law school, and I felt that I could make the biggest concrete difference to a person as a lawyer.”
Gavern graduated from Michigan State University College of Law in 2014. From there, he worked in the private sector, as well as with the Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network as a pro bono coordinator and staff attorney. In 2021, he joined the YWCA Tulsa as a supervising attorney for immigrants and refugees and was named director of legal services in 2022.
“I have always been interested in immigration law because of the extremely personal nature of every case. There is little more personal to each of us than to be able to live near or see our families and to have a place to live safely. Those basic needs constantly run into the complexities
of the U.S. immigration system,” he said. “The job of an immigration lawyer is to take their client’s story, understand their goals, and then help navigate a complex legal network to try to find a way to accomplish those goals.”
In his role at the YWCA, Gavern worked closely with The University of Tulsa’s College of Law, supervising students and providing legal services to Afghans who resettled in Tulsa in 2021 and 2022. It was from this collaborative work that Gavern was introduced to the university’s B.C. Franklin Legal Clinic, which immediately attracted him because of its unique mission and its connection to the history of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. The clinic serves North Tulsa residents and businesses and accepts select immigration cases within marginalized populations. In July, Gavern joined the college as an assistant clinical professor.
“A community-centered approach is necessary for the work of the B.C. Franklin Legal Clinic,” he said. “A law school legal clinic can never be a legal aid, serving a large number of clients, but we can be intentional about the cases we take and work toward building an identity of service. Right now, that work is mostly focused on ensuring parental rights in state guardianship proceedings and ensuring that families in North Tulsa are able to pass their property down generation to generation.”
I have always been interested in immigration law because of the extremely personal nature of every case. There is little more personal to each of us than to be able to live near or see our families and to have a place to live safely.
ALEX GAVERN
Clinical Assistant Professor of Law Alex Gavern
Alex Gavern consults with clients at a 2024 College of Law resource clinic.
Professor of Law Janet K. Levit
Drawing upon human rights advocacy
Professor of law Janet K. Levit has long been an advocate for human rights and issues affecting women and families.
Levit, who previously served as provost and interim president of The University of Tulsa and dean of the College of Law, is now back in the classroom leading a practicum about reproductive justice.
“I studied international law and human rights in college and in law school and worked on several cases abroad under various human rights treaties,” she said. “That was one of the foci of my academic interests. I wrote a lot about countries that were transitioning from dictatorships to democracies, particularly in South America, and how those countries dealt with human rights violations.
“When I moved from the provost and interim president position back to teaching, I joined the board of the Center for Reproductive Rights because I felt like that was a place where I could share my interests in assuring that reproductive rights were available to all women.
“That was before the Dobbs decision,” she said, referring to the 2022 Supreme Court ruling that overturned the constitutional right to an abortion. “Obviously, there’s been a lot of activity since.”
Levit now serves as the vice chair of the center’s board.
So often, those who work on these types of issues on the coasts have no realtime, on-the-ground insight into states like Oklahoma. Our students not only provide research but also an invaluable perspective.
JANET LEVIT
At UTulsa Law, Levit founded the reproductive justice practicum. Students work with local and national nonprofit organizations that are interested in examining how the state’s strict abortion bans affect the health and prosperity of Oklahomans.
The practicum is a collaboration with the O’Neill Institute of National and Global Health Law affiliated with Georgetown Law Center in Washington, D.C. Students in the practicum are each assigned to represent an organization and help them answer questions arising from the state’s abortion bans. Students spent time in rural courthouses gathering documents, as
well as interviewing prosecutors, defense attorneys, hospital administrators, and child welfare specialists.
Last spring, the practicum presented its research to reproductive health experts at Georgetown Law Center and to the White House’s Gender Policy Council.
“The students hit it out of the ballpark in their presentations in Washington. This was the highlight of my teaching career,” recounts Levit. “At Georgetown, students presented to a standing-room-only crowd, and they fielded questions from those who have been working on issues of related to reproductive justice for decades.
“So often, those who work on these types of issues on the coasts have no realtime, on-the-ground insight into states like Oklahoma. Our students not only provide research but also an invaluable perspective.”
Kelsey Hancock (B.A. ’13, M.A. ’16) is a part-time law student who jumped at the chance to take the practicum. “Oklahoma is in a rough spot when it comes to women’s health,” they said. “Professor Levit knows this body of law. She’s always thinking ahead, and she’s always trying to figure out the best policy for all people.”
Twenty-five years from now, Hancock added, it will be this work that matters, “because it’s this kind of work that changes people’s lives.”
Practicum students prepare for their trip to Washington, D.C.
Student Organizations Native American Student Association
Playing a pivotal role in growing The University of Tulsa's vibrant campus
Whether making new friends, building leadership skills, engaging in good-natured competition, or carving out a community, student organizations contribute to the diverse cultural and academic landscape.
In this issue of UTulsa magazine, we highlight the Native American Student Association (NASA), which sponsors events and programming that supports our Indigenous students and celebrates their heritage while honoring our university’s roots in the Presbyterian School for Indian Girls.
150+ student organizations atUTulsa
This year’s NASA leadership team included (from left) Secretary Bobby Sam, psychology senior; President Cheyanne Sleeper, nursing sophomore; Vice President Jariah Eyachabbe, mechanical engineering sophomore; and Treasurer Nevaeh Ashlock, biological science junior.
Veteran integration through education
BY LANDON WATERS
After delivering his TEDxUTulsa 2024 talk, “Veteran Integration Through Education,” UTulsa student-veteran Landon Waters gained millions of views and widespread attention. Now, a year later, we’ve asked him to reflect on his journey since that moment.
Standing on the TEDx stage was a defining moment for me, but what I didn’t fully grasp at the time was just how much that moment would shape the year ahead. Preparing for my talk, “Veteran Integration Through Education,” was a deep, personal process. It required me to distill years of experience — military service, transition struggles, and the pursuit of education — into a message that could resonate beyond just the veteran community. It wasn’t about storytelling; it was about creating understanding, fostering connection, and ultimately, driving action.
Landon Waters is working on his master's degree in industrial-organizational psychology and is a leader in UTulsa’s chapter of Student Veterans of America.
The preparation itself was rigorous. I dedicated portions of each day refining my message, rehearsing delivery, and making sure that every word served a purpose. I utilized my background in I/O psychology and my experience mentoring others in various occupations. Standing on a stage alone, I was representing not just myself, but every veteran who has faced the complexities of transitioning from service to student. It was a privilege, and I didn’t want any setback to deter me. When I finally delivered the talk, veteran empowerment was at the heart of my message, and the response was overwhelming.
In the months since, the impact has been greater than I ever imagined. Being featured in Innovator Magazine alongside thought leaders like Simon Sinek was humbling. Then, being recognized among the Top 50 TEDx Talks of 2024 as No. 18 cemented the realization that this message mattered. Beyond exposure, the real reward has been the opportunities to engage with others.
Much of my work has centered on my role with Student Veterans of America (SVA) at The University of Tulsa. As the previous director of community engagement, I’ve seen firsthand how vital it is to have resources like the Calvin C. McKee Veteran Success Center. UTulsa has not only supported me in my academic journey but has also given me a platform to advocate for other veterans. The McKee Center provides mentorship, networking, and essential resources that make all the difference in a veteran’s transition from military to student life and beyond.
This past year has been about more than just a talk, it’s been about action. It’s about using the momentum to drive meaningful change, ensuring that veterans don’t just integrate but thrive. If my TEDx talk was a spark, then the work we’re doing at UTulsa and through SVA is the wildfire that keeps the mission alive.
UTulsa launches Institute for Robotics & Autonomy
We have learned a great deal about interactions with people and the environment through our experimentation with robotic dogs in our research and development work with the U.S. Army Corps’ Engineers' Research and Development Center. JOHN HALE
Rapidly increasing automation across all sectors is fueling a huge need for robotic technology. In 2024, the industrial robotics market is pegged at $42.6 billion. By 2032, the global market for all forms of robotics could reach $350 billion. Meeting this demand requires personnel capable of designing, building, testing, and safeguarding next-generation components and systems.
As a swiftly emerging leader in this exciting arena, The University of Tulsa has launched the Institute for Robotics & Autonomy. Bringing together faculty, research and technical staff, and students from across several disciplines and through collaborations with community and industry partners, the institute explores robot design, prototyping, communication, and interaction, including safety and security.
“Our mission is founded on three core activities: research, talent generation, and commercialization,” said Rose Gamble, UTulsa’s vice president for research and economic development.
The institute’s research focuses on developing lab-to-market processes for autonomous robotic and software systems that solve industrial and societal problems. Many of these investigations leverage UTulsa’s strengths in cyber research.
“Congratulations to The University of Tulsa's new Institute for Robotics & Autonomy. It was my pleasure to work with the university to secure them the necessary funds for the facility. I’m excited to see the innovation that results from the great students and faculty,” said U.S. Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Oklahoma, whose support was instrumental in gaining appropriations for the initiative.
To educate future talent, Gamble and her colleagues actively involve student researchers. For example, students in mechanical engineering, computer science, kinesiology, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity will be part of the quest to develop cooperative robots – “cobots” – to assist older adults with tasks such as gripping objects, maintaining balance, and transitioning from sitting to standing.
Another related project, which also includes students, evaluates the effectiveness of commercial, off-theshelf robotic platforms for supporting independent living. A third research stream addresses the question of autonomy by examining how robots can adapt their behavior based on changes in environments and user needs.
“We have learned a great deal about interactions with people and the environment through our experimentation with robotic dogs in our research and development work with the U.S. Army Corps’ Engineers' Research and Development Center,” said Professor John Hale, chair of the Tandy School of Computer Science and principal investigator on the project that includes studying the use of robots in smart environments.
“In all our endeavors, we collaborate with community partners to test our robotic solutions in real-world environments,” noted Gamble. “This exchange of ideas enables us to refine our technology and ensure it meets users’ practical requirements.”
The institute also joins forces with industry stakeholders to bring innovative
solutions to market. At the center of this engagement is participation in the pathbreaking Tulsa Hub for Equitable & Trustworthy Autonomy, one of the 31 Technology and Innovation Hubs designated by the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
The establishment of the Institute for Robotics & Autonomy is set to significantly enhance The University of Tulsa's College of Engineering & Computer Science by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and advancing cutting-edge research. A notable beneficiary is Associate Professor Joshua A. Schultz, an expert in motion systems within robotics and mechatronics. With the institute's support, Schultz's work is likely to expand, integrating more students and resources into projects that bridge biological principles with robotic innovation, thereby enriching the educational and research landscape of the college.
Students run tests in UTulsa’s soft robotics lab
ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS
with heart
Expanding independence through innovation
For more than 15 years, The University of Tulsa's Make a Difference Engineering (MADE at TU) offers students a realworld application that enriches lives. For senior mechanical engineering student Lillian Madhan, MADE represents an opportunity to blend her technical skills with her creativity to find a solution for David Nail who lives in Austin, Texas.
Professor John Henshaw and Lillian Madhan review her innovative device mounting system, a proud creation from the MADE at TU program.
David’s challenge: Innovation and independence
Meet David Nail, a 57-year-old Austin, Texas, resident living with severe multiple sclerosis. MS has confined David’s mobility to below his shoulders, leaving him dependent on a setup of devices mounted on flexible arm attachments above his bed. These include his phone, a call button with a 3D-printed bite-down switch, and a CamelBak flexible straw for water. Unfortunately, as his adjustable bed moves, the flexible arms shift, often leaving David unable to reach his essentials.
“When we heard about David’s situation, it was clear this was more than a design problem,” said Madhan. “It was about creating stability and independence for someone whose daily life depends on these tools.”
To address these challenges, Madhan and her team are redesigning the mounting system to ensure the devices stay accessible even as the bed moves. The team is also exploring cutting-edge solutions like eye-tracking, face detection, and voice control to empower David with greater autonomy.
For Madhan, this project epitomizes the MADE program. “MADE is all about human connections,” she explained. “As students,
it’s easy to get caught up in academics and forget the real-world impact of our education. MADE bridges that gap by enabling us to apply what we learn at UTulsa to projects that truly matter.”
For more than 15 years, MADE has tackled diverse challenges far and near campus, from designing assistive devices for individuals with disabilities to creating fun and functional tools for the Little Light House school, which serves local children with special needs. “Seeing the joy on someone’s face when they use a MADE creation is unforgettable. It reminds us why we chose this field,” Madhan added.
Guiding students through these projects is John Henshaw, UTulsa’s Harry H. Rogers Endowed Chair in Mechanical Engineering. He’s a beloved professor and advocate for applied learning in the College of Engineering & Computer Science. “Dr. Henshaw encourages us to think big and supports us every step of the way,” said Madhan. “His mentorship has been invaluable in shaping not just our projects, but our futures.”
Programs like MADE attract students from all disciplines across the UTulsa campus, providing experiential learning projects or those interested in making a difference.
MADE is all about human connections. As students, it’s easy to get caught up in academics and forget the real-world impact of our education. MADE bridges that gap by enabling us to apply what we learn at UTulsa to projects that truly matter.
LILLIAN MADHAN
WATCH VIDEO
Hannah Dillard, Jeremy Pena, Lillian Madhan, and Maxim Dessiatov visit David Nail in Austin, Texas.
Faculty Notes
In addition to their role as educators, UTulsa’s incredible faculty members are also authors, scholars, and some of the leading investigators in their fields, pursuing both independent and collaborative research. Whether in the form of a published book or an article in a major journal, this work entertains, enlightens, and contributes to public knowledge that informs particular disciplines, bringing new insight into the field. This is a selection of recent scholarly and literary publications from UTulsa faculty across each campus, highlighting the impressive accomplishments from 2024 and early 2025.
Ismail Abdulrashid, Assistant Professor of Data Analytics, published “Transport behavior and government interventions in pandemics: A hybrid explainable machine learning for road safety,” Transportation Research Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review
Ahmad Amiri, Assistant Professor of Chemical Engineering, Andreas A. Polycarpou, Dean of the College of Engineering & Computer Science, and Hossein Shahali, a Chemical Engineering graduate student, published “Progress and prospects of zinc-sulfur batteries,” Energy Storage Materials
Amiri and Polycarpou published “Polymer transfer film formation from cryogenic to elevated temperatures,” Friction
Akhilesh Bajaj, James A. Chapman Chair in Business Information Systems, published “The effect of prompt types on text summarization performance with large language models,” Journal of Database Management
1 Nicole Bauer, Associate Professor of European History, published “Resilience and Resistance through Contemplative Practice: Zen and the Anxious Academic,” Lexington Books/Rowman and Littlefield
Charles Brown, Professor of Biological Science, published “Social foraging and the associated benefits of group-living in cliff swallows decrease over 40 years,” Ecological Monographs
Bill Buron, Assistant Professor of Nursing, published “Reimagining the Future of Clinical Nursing Education: A Cohort Partnership Model,” Nurse Educator
Langtao Chen, Assistant Professor of Business Information Systems, published “Flowing together or alone: Impact of collaboration in the metaverse,” Journal: Decision Support Systems
Jennifer Croft, Associate Professor of English & Creative Writing, published “The Extinction of Irena Rey” (paperback), Bloomsbury US and Scribe UK/AU/NZ, and translated from Spanish “The Plains” by Federico Falco, Charco Press
Ponnivalavan Babu, Aziz Alhejaili, Chandradeep Bollineni, and Nagu Daraboina, Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering, published “Phase equilibrium of carbon dioxide/tetra-nbutyl ammonium bromide mixed hydrate in the presence of produced water,” Journal of Chemical & Engineering Data
Babu, Alhejaili, and Daraboina, published “Impact of chloride salts on TBAB/methane and TBAB/carbon dioxide semiclathrate hydrates: Application to desalination,” Fluid Phase Equilibria
Yi Ting Chua, Assistant Professor of Cyber Studies, published "'We Want You!' Applying Social Network Analysis to Online Extremist Communities," Terrorism and Political Violence
Christian Constanda, Charles W. Oliphant Endowed Chair in Mathematical Sciences, and Dale R. Doty, professor of mathematics published “Approximation of Solution for Bending of an Elastic Plate: Interior vs Exterior Cases, in Exact and Approximate Solutions for Mathematical Models in Science and Engineering” textbook, Birkhäuser Cham
Jose Cordeiro Jr., (Ph.D. ’23), Daniel Crunkleton, Associate Dean of College of Engineering & Computer Science, Hema Ramsurn, A. Paul Buthod Endowed Chair in Chemical Engineering, and Michael W. Keller, Associate Dean of Research and Professor of Mechanical Engineering, published “Vascular Carbon/Carbon composites for concentrated solar power,” Composites Part A: Applied Science and Manufacturing
Elijah Bell, Donovan Daubert, and Daraboina published “A rheological study of natural gas hydrates,” Energy & Fuels
2 Dennis Denisoff, Ida Barnard McFarlin Chair of English & Creative Writing, published “Charles Dickens, Arthur Machen and the Aesthetic Alchemy of Things,” in eds. Giles Whiteley and Jonathan Foster, Dickens and Decadence, Edinburgh University Press
Huy Do, Assistant Professor of Accounting, published “Manager’s staging of earnings conference calls around actual share repurchases,” Journal of Business Finance & Accounting
Parya Dolatyabi (M.E. ’24), a computer science doctoral student, Jacob Regan (B.S. ’21, M.S. ’22), a Cyber Fellow doctoral research student, and Mahdi Khodayar, Assistant Professor of Computer Science, published “Deep Learning for Traffic Scene Understanding: A Review” on modern intelligent transportation systems, IEEE Access
Boris Dralyuk, Associate Professor of English & Creative Writing, translated “The Silver Bone” by Andrey Kurkov, London: MacLehose Press / New York: HarperVia
Lars Engle, Roxana McFarlin Chapman Chair of English, published “Comedy and the Law,” in Robert Spoo and Simon Stern, eds., “The Elgar Concise Encyclopedia of Law and Literature,” Edward Elgar
3 Ted Genoways, Presidential Professor of Media Studies, published “Tequila Wars: The Bloody Struggle for the Spirit of Mexico,” W.W. Norton
Parameswar Hari, Professor of Physics and Engineering Physics, published “Role of Al doping in morphology and interface of Al-doped ZnO/CuO film for device performance of thin filmbased heterojunction solar cells,” Hybrid Advances
Muhammad Imran, a computer science doctoral student, and Brett McKinney, Professor of Computer Science and Mathematics, and others published “Analyzing HIV/AIDS Dynamics with a Novel Caputo-Fabrizio Fractional Order Model and Optimal Control Measures,” Plos One
4 Grant Jenkins, Professor of English & Creative Writing, published “The OtherConscious Ethics of Innovative Black Poetry,” London: Palgrave/Macmillan
George Justice, Provost and Professor of English, published “Samuel Richardson’s Correspondence, Primarily on ‘Pamela’ and ‘Clarissa,’ 1732-1749” with Louise Curran and Sören Hammerschmidt, Cambridge University Press
Aaditya Khanal, Assistant Professor of Chemical Engineering & Petroleum Engineering, published “Comprehensive parametric study of CO2 sequestration in deep saline aquifers,” Chemical Engineering Science
Angus Lamar, Associate Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry, published “Atom-efficient chlorinative dearomatization of naphthol, quinolinol, and isoquinolinol derivatives using trichloroisocyanuric acid (TCCA)†,” Organic & Biomolecular Chemistry
Quraysh Ali Lansana, Visiting Associate Professor of English & Creative Writing, published “Ralph Ellison: A Children’s Biography,” Oklahoma City: Oklahoma Hall of Fame Press
Graduate students Bryan Lavender and Sami Abuhaimed, and Sandip Sen, Professor of Computer Science, published “Positive and negative explanation effects in human-agent teams,” AI and Ethics
Jorge Lopez, Petroleum Engineering graduate (Ph.D. ’21) and Eduardo Pereyra, F.H. “Mick” Merelli/Coterra Energy Chair Professor in Petroleum Engineering, and Cem Sarica, Floyd M. Stevenson Distinguished Presidential Chair in Petroleum Engineering, published “Computational Fluid Dynamics Modeling of Gas Bubble Separation Efficiency in Downhole Separators and Vertical / Inclined Annulus: An Experimental Validation and Analysis,” Geoenergy Science and Engineering
Yaxin Liu, Petroleum Engineering graduate (Ph.D. ’23), Evren M. Ozbayoglu, Jonathan B. Detwiler Endowed Chair in Petroleum Engineering, and Silvio Baldino, Assistant Professor of Petroleum Engineering, published “Investigation of Taylor Bubble Dynamics in Annular Conduits with Counter-Current Flow,” International Journal of Multiphase Flow
Faculty Notes
(continued)
Jun Lu, Associate Professor of Petroleum Engineering,and Heng-Ming Tai, professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, published “Characterizing sub-synchronous oscillation propagation in MMC-MTDC system based on SSO propagation coefficients,” IEEE Transactions on Power Systems
Tyler Moore, Tandy Professor of Cyber Security in the School of Cyber Studies and the Tandy School of Computer Science, published “Security Economics Knowledge Guide,” Cybersecurity Body of Knowledge
5 Robert Pickering, R.M. and Ida McFarlin Dean of the Library, published “Luck is a Fortune,” Oklahoma Historical Society
Donald Prudlo, Warren Chair in Catholic Studies, published “Governing Perfection: A Study of Sainthood and Governance” and “Merchant Saint: The Church, the Market, and the First Lay Canonization with Paul Voss,” St. Augustine’s Press, and “A Companion to the History of the Roman Curia,” Brill.
Justin Rawlins, Associate Professor of Media Studies and Film Studies, published “Imagining the Method: Reception, Identity, and American Screen Performance,” University of Texas Press
Saeed Samiee, Collins Professor of Marketing, published “Research on country-of-origin perceptions: Review, critical assessment, and the path forward,” Journal of International Business Studies
Like most adults, children benefit from deep, restful sleep. But when their sleep is repeatedly interrupted by nightmares, they are prone to serious mental health consequences, including daytime distress, hyperarousal, and suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Given these ill effects, a recent systematic review underscored the need for clinical trials for treatments that address nightmares in children. Professor of Psychology Lisa DeMarni Cromer is one of only a handful of researchers worldwide immersed in the study of this urgent topic. She was the lead author on an article published this summer in Frontiers in Sleep regarding research that deployed cognitive behavioral therapy with children who experience chronic nightmares.
Graduate students Rosa Zavaleta and Jacob Brue, Sen, and Laura Wilson, Associate Professor of Speech-Language Pathology, published “Using Machine Learning to Detect and Predict Errors in Narratives of People with Aphasia,” The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Perspectives Journal
Shubha Sharma, Assistant Professor of Management, published “Considering personal needs in misdeeds: The role of compassion in shaping observer reactions to leader leniency,” Harvard Business Review
Sanwu Wang, Professor of Physics & Engineering Physics, published “Design of superhard high-entropy diborides highthroughput DFT and thermodynamics calculations,” Ceramics International
, an associate professor of operations management,
artificial intelligence to scan for 10 different types of mental disorders simultaneously. Topuz co-authored a paper that reported results of the MDscan study, which was published in the Journal of Management Information Systems. Nearly 1 billion people around the world suffer from mental disorders, such as depression and anxiety, and as many as 94% of those go undiagnosed. Topuz and other contributors examined MDscan’s efficacy as an initial assessment tool to address these untreated disorders. MDscan is powered by AI and uses data from a standardized questionnaire called the SCL-90-R. It doesn’t replace the work of psychiatrists and counselors but instead helps identify who needs support.
Associate Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry Erin Iski published a paper in the academic journal Surface Science regarding research conducted by students in her lab. The title of the paper is “In air STM observation of Au(111) surface disturbance including Au magic fingers as modified by solvent choice.” Nanowires were the focus of this research. To increase the utility and reproducible production of nanostructures, such as nanowires, it is imperative that they are studied in realistic environments. One of the most wellstudied metallic nanowire materials is gold, which can be used to form “gold magic fingers.” The team discovered a method to grow these gold nanowires in air using a specialized microscope called a scanning tunneling microscope.
Science fairs are powerful tools for sparking curiosity and building confidence in young learners.
JAVEN WESTON
Science and Mathematics, has garnered support from NASA to focus on detecting biosignatures from ocean world analog samples. He was awarded an Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research grant from NASA – one of only 14 such grants awarded to universities in the United States. UTulsa will receive $750,000 over three years in grant funding. McKinney’s colleagues Hema Ramsurn, the A. Paul Buthod Endowed Chair in Chemical Engineering, and Mohamed Fakhr, professor of biological sciences, are also engaged in the project.
I dedicated significant time in the lab to conducting critical calculations, analyses, and experiments. I have learned that diligence and resilience are often rewarded.
NAZILA HAMIDI, PH.D. STUDENT
Associate Professors Gabriel LeBlanc (chemistry and biochemistry) and Javen Weston (top; chemical engineering) have been awarded separate National Science Foundation grants through the Building Capacity in STEM Education Research program. LeBlanc received $350,000 for his project titled “Developing Skills in Qualitative Analysis for a New STEM Education Researcher through the Evaluation of Science Identity in StudentWorkers.” Weston received $140,000 for his project titled “Development and Investigation of Science Fair Engagement Strategies to Enhance Informal STEM Education Opportunities.”
Machine learning models are often perceived as black boxes. This makes it difficult to understand the rationale behind their predictions.
BRETT MCKINNEY
Where mental health meets neuroscience
Laureate Institute for Brain Research partners with UTulsa
The Laureate Institute for Brain Research (LIBR) was founded by the William K. Warren Foundation in 2009 with a mission to advance mental health research and neuroscience. From Day 1, LIBR has maintained a deep, collaborative relationship with The University of Tulsa that leverages the potential of both entities.
“Our scientific team brings expertise in clinical psychology, neuroimaging, computational psychiatry, and treatment development,” explained Dr. Martin Paulus, LIBR’s president and scientific director. “Complementing these strengths, UTulsa faculty contribute their academic excellence in psychology, biology, neuroscience, mathematics, and computer science.”
Maria Ironside, LIBR researcher and university liaison
Maria Ironside, LIBR’s university liaison, explains that the partnership has generated substantial benefits: “Because LIBR investigators hold academic appointments at the university, they have access to a broad academic network. This has fostered interdisciplinary collaborations and accelerated productivity and innovation.” As evidence, Ironside points to the more than 380 publications that LIBR and UTulsa researchers, including students, have jointly published since 2012.
Peering into all corners of the mind
Among LIBR’s many recent and ongoing research projects, the following four showcase the variety of investigations underway:
The Tulsa 1000 (T-1000) Study is a longitudinal study led by Paulus that recruited 1,000 participants to uncover the neural mechanisms of mental health disorders. UTulsa faculty and graduate students in biology, engineering, and psychology contributed to its design and data analysis. Dozens of scientific papers have been published documenting the T-1000’s critical insights into the biological causes, mechanisms, outcomes, and potential therapeutic approaches for conditions such as anxiety and depression. The connection between scientific discovery and social impact through community-based research is exemplified in Evan White’s Neuroscience of American Indian Resilience and Risk Lab. Specifically, his National Institutes of Health-funded work examines cultural protective factors against substance use disorders and poor mental health outcomes in Native American communities.
Jonathan Savitz, meanwhile, is exploring the antidepressant effects of exercise on individuals with bipolar depression. “Specifically, this 2x2, within-subjects, crossover trial looks at whether the anti-inflammatory properties of ibuprofen attenuate exercise’s antidepressant effects,” Savitz explained.
Using data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development StudySM (ABCD Study®), LIBR researchers shed light on the potential negative effects of screen media activity on young people. The ABCD Study is a lowngitudinal exploration of youth development conducted at 21 sites across the United States. One of the most significant findings has been the relationship between high screen time and changes in brain regions associated with emotional regulation, decision-making, and risk-taking behaviors.
Advancing students’ knowledge and careers
UTulsa students are among the chief beneficiaries of the partnership. LIBR scientists lecture at the university and host clinical practicum experiences and training for students as part of the institute’s clinical trials. “Through our collaboration,” Ironside noted, “students from biochemistry, psychology, computer science, and other departments have direct access to leading neuroscience researchers and benefit from hands-on experience in neuroimaging, psychophysiology, neuromodulation, and computational techniques.”
In their role as university faculty, LIBR investigators also mentor students in the Tulsa Undergraduate Research Challenge (TURC). Through their involvement in LIBR studies, students have worked with
LIBR researcher Kelly Cosgrove (B.S. '17, M.A. '19, Ph.D. '23)
people experiencing anxiety, depression, substance use, and other conditions. Along the way, they have built skills in statistical analysis, neuroimaging, and the management of clinical trials. They have also developed experience in conference presentations, scientific publications, and successful grant applications.
“Students bring an intellectual energy to our laboratories that truly enhances our scientific culture and productivity,” said Robin Aupperle, director of the NeuroCognitive Aspects of Anxiety, Trauma and Treatment Laboratory. “It’s not a stretch to say that mentoring them is the most rewarding aspect of my work.”
Kelly Cosgrove (B.S. ’17, M.A. ’19, Ph.D. ’23) and Nicholas Tsahiridis (B.S. ’23) are two of the many students who engaged in LIBR research during their UTulsa years.
Currently a T32 postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, Cosgrove began examining interoceptive processing in relation to brain imaging and mental health as part of her TURC experience. She continued this line of investigation at LIBR during her clinical psychology doctoral studies. “My time at LIBR was invaluable,” Cosgrove said. “The exceptional mentorship, cutting-edge resources, and unique training opportunities were an amazing complement to my studies. I'm so grateful for these experiences and how well they prepared me for a career in neuroscience research.”
Our scientific team brings expertise in clinical psychology, neuroimaging, computational psychiatry, and treatment development,” explained
MARTIN PAULUS
Tsahiridis completed a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences on the pre-med track while minoring in neuroscience, psychology, and bioinformatics. In addition to his demanding coursework, he served as a LIBR student researcher. After graduation, Tsahiridis continued on to work as a neurodiagnostic technologist in the Duke University Health System. He is currently completing a master’s in biomedical sciences before applying to medical school.
“My LIBR experiences, particularly with the ABCD Study, where I focused on the mental health effects on adolescents of the COVID-19 pandemic, deepened my understanding of both neuroscience and clinical research,” Tsahiridis remarked. “The hands-on work I did at LIBR not only enhanced my technical skills but also reinforced my passion for health care.”
An expansive, impactful future ahead
Looking to the future of the LIBR-UTulsa partnership, Dr. Susan Pepin, dean of the Oxley College of Heath & Natural Sciences, sees immense and exciting opportunities for further growth and collaboration. “As our university seeks to expand its neuroscience programs, there is a clear alignment with LIBR’s strategic priorities,” Pepin commented. “This includes advancing interdisciplinary research and broadening populationbased neuroscience efforts.”
Philosophy, religion, and classical civilizations
Foundational wisdom for meaningful lives
Kendall College of Arts & Sciences prepares graduates to contribute to society through the cultivation of both practical skills and deep reflection on matters of moral, ethical, and historical significance. Bucking national trends, we've made historic investments in philosophy, religion, and classical studies — fueling student interest and enrollments in classes where students encounter deep questions.
“Philosophy and religion have been at the core of postsecondary education since the Middle Ages,” noted Donald S. Prudlo, The University of Tulsa’s Warren Chair in Catholic Studies. “While other subjects pay attention to this or that aspect of reality, philosophy and religion look at the whole to see what the underlying principles and structures of the universe and the human person are.”
Prudlo chairs the Department of Philosophy & Religion, which offers courses on Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and other world religions. Students also learn about ethics, logic, and metaphysics and immerse themselves in the writings of ancient, medieval, and early modern thinkers. “Underpinning both disciplines is a dedication to the liberal arts – subjects that help people be free, good citizens, and thoughtful leaders,” he said.
In this regard, Prudlo underscores the close connection between his department and the mission and curriculum
within the Honors College. In fact, the two are collaborating to develop a semester-long program in Rome.
The liberal arts are also the bedrock of UTulsa’s classical studies certificate program. Drawing on history, art history, philosophy, music, languages (Greek and Latin), and other subjects, the focus is on the civilizations of the ancient Mediterranean and their legacies, explained Jonathan J. Arnold, the program’s director and chair of the Department of History. “We are the heirs of classical civilization, and we continue to struggle with many identical problems, such as the nature of goodness, justice, and happiness,” he said. “We’re not the same as the Greeks and Romans, but we would be foolish to ignore their advice, which continues to inspire and to be relevant despite the millennia of changes that separate us.”
One person taking this advice to heart is Griffin Weindel, a sophomore in the business and accelerated law program who is completing a certificate in classical studies. “I am gaining a deep understanding of the roots of the modern world by exploring ancient civilizations, origins of language, and philosophies that still impact society today,” he said.
“My courses are providing a bridge to my future career in business law by giving me insights into the development of legal issues and practices that continue to resonate.”
Targeting cybercrime
Taking aim with Oklahoma’s first cyber range
UTulsa Cyber Fellows, College of Engineering & Computer Science students, and small businesses across Oklahoma have access to the state's first cyber range.
The University of Tulsa continues its momentum in cybersecurity with the launch of the Oklahoma Cyber Innovation Institute’s (OCII) Cyber Range, the state’s first fully functional cyber range available to external organizations.
Designed to tackle real-world cyber threats, this cutting-edge platform creates cybersecurity literacy for the future as businesses, governments, and individuals learn how to protect themselves and their resources.
“The OCII Cyber Range will play a pivotal role in supporting Oklahoma businesses, fostering collaboration among academia, industry, and government, and preparing the next generation of cybersecurity experts,” said Rose Gamble, UTulsa’s vice president of research and economic development.
Why do businesses need a cyber range?
In a world where cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated and frequent, businesses cannot afford to take a passive approach to cybersecurity. A cyber range offers a proactive way to prepare for, respond to, and mitigate the risks of cyberattacks. Whether for training, testing, compliance, or innovation, a cyber range helps businesses enhance their overall cybersecurity resilience and readiness. The virtual environment allows users to simulate real-world networks, systems, and attacks; engage in realistic scenarios; experiment with cybersecurity tools; and play the roles of both the attacker and the defender, completely isolated from external networks to ensure safety.
The OCII Cyber Range will play a pivotal role in supporting Oklahoma businesses, fostering collaboration among academia, industry, and government, and preparing the next generation of cybersecurity experts.
ROSE GAMBLE
In a cyber range, industry professionals without a cyber defense team can:
• Simulate attacks to evaluate how well security tools and defenses respond to vulnerabilities
• Help small to midsize businesses rehearse how to detect, contain, and recover from cyberattacks, improving preparedness
• Identify weaknesses before a real attack, potentially saving businesses from costly breaches
• Customize attack simulations to test and improve business-specific cybersecurity strategies
"We’re proud to offer the OCII Cyber Range to businesses for free for the first two years,” said David Keely, interim executive director of the institute. “This will provide a hands-on, interactive training ground and the tools needed to prepare for the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats.” By simulating the complexities of cyberattacks, the range empowers business and industry to build the skills necessary to protect critical infrastructure and defend against malicious actors.
Empowering future innovators
The OCII Cyber Range isn’t just about training professionals – it’s also about inspiring the next generation of cyber experts. UTulsa’s School of Cyber Studies is integrating the range into its coursework with plans for using the classroom to support students, while OCII also offers
applications off campus, including a mobile lab.
State Rep. Meloyde Blancett emphasized this effort: “Already a national leader in cyber training and security, UTulsa’s new initiative will significantly advance capabilities to produce a highly skilled and sought-after state cyber workforce. We will see the financial benefits of our investment in the university’s work for a very long time.”
While many institutions recognize the growing importance of cybersecurity, few offer a fully functional cyber range accessible to both students and external organizations. “As the OCII Cyber Range gains momentum, it promises to be a cornerstone of Oklahoma’s cybersecurity landscape, further solidifying UTulsa's reputation as a trailblazer in cybersecurity education and research,” said Tyler Moore, chair of cyber studies in UTulsa’s College of Engineering & Computer Science.
In collaboration with SimSpace, the OCII Cyber Range is spearheading cybersecurity training and simulation with top-tier technology. This initiative is supported by $12 million from the American Rescue Plan Act through the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology with matching funds from the George Kaiser Family Foundation.
For any business or entrepreneur eager to take advantage of this groundbreaking initiative, the OCII Cyber Range is already recruiting partners and planning programming. As UTulsa charts the future of cybersecurity, one thing is clear: The state’s digital defenses have never been stronger.
Exciting and enlightening
UTulsa’s
Nimrod honors its storied past while embarking on a bold, fresh journey
The year was 1956 and post-war American youth were rocking to “Heartbreak Hotel” – Elvis Presley’s first charttopper – while their parents were enjoying cocktails to the lounge sounds of Doris Day and Patti Page. That same year, James Baldwin’s novel "Giovanni’s Room" and Allen Ginsberg’s "Howl and Other Poems" blazed brave new trails in the nation’s consciousness. And here at The University of Tulsa, students founded and published the first issue of the literary journal Nimrod.
“In the relentless manner of its biblical namesake, a great hunter, for nearly 70 years Nimrod has been going after the very best local and international writing,” said Boris Dralyuk, the editor-in-chief. According to Dralyuk, the journal’s “hunting grounds" expanded in the 1960s under visionary editor Francie Ringold. In the 2010s, her successor, Eilis O’Neal, took Nimrod from strength to strength. "As we approach our eighth decade, we’re celebrating their accomplishments and reaffirming our commitment to the journal’s central mission, which is to seek exciting, enlightening work by writers of all backgrounds.”
Greatness and potential between the covers
Since its inception, Nimrod’s pages have included both emerging voices as well as an array of poetry and prose by celebrated authors. The writers include W.H. Auden, Mahmud Darwish, Ursula K. LeGuin, Jorge Luis Borges, Pablo Neruda, Octavio Paz, Rita Dove, and many others. The journal has also published interviews with and profiles of major figures such as Ezra Pound and Toni Morrison.
For connoisseurs of young adult novels, one of the most memorable short stories to have turned up in Nimrod is S.E. Hinton’s (B.S. ’70) “Rumble Fish.” This appeared in 1968 in a special issue under the byline “Susan Hinton,” when the author was a student at UTulsa. Hinton's breakout novel, "The Outsiders" had been published the year before, bringing the then 19-year-old immediate fame. Nimrod gave Hinton the opportunity to experiment with a new, shorter form of fiction, explained Dralyuk, which eventually grew into her third novel.
Steady hands at the helm
Dralyuk became Nimrod’s editor-in-chief in summer 2024, two years after joining UTulsa. A noted poet, translator, and scholar, Dralyuk served for six years at the helm of the Los Angeles Review of Books. “While that publication publishes a much higher volume and wider range of material than Nimrod, its editors look for the same things we seek: surprising, well crafted, deeply rewarding writing,” he remarked.
Dralyuk has also edited and co-edited several literary anthologies, including "The Penguin Book of Russian Poetry." Noting the intersection between those experiences and his
Boris Dralyuk, editor-in-chief of Nimrod and UTulsa professor of English & creative writing
current role, Dralyuk regards each issue of Nimrod as a “miniature anthology.” Like an anthology, he said, “it should stand on its own and invite repeat visits.”
One of Dralyuk’s priorities with Nimrod is to continue its legacy as a training ground and launchpad for UTulsa students and recent graduates. To that end, Stasha Cole (M.A. ’24), a doctoral student in English as well as a poet and photographer, is working as a graduate assistant with the journal. In September, Dralyuk brought on board Hachi Chuku (B.A. ’24) as managing editor: “Hachi shone in English and creative writing courses as an undergraduate, and now she dazzles as a member of the journal’s staff.”
Chuku’s managing editor role is multifaceted. It includes overseeing Nimrod’s budget, handling communications and social media, supervising the graduate assistant, and planning events.
“I’m also the primary editor for fiction,” she noted. “This is enabling me to build on the creative writing foundation I gained as a UTulsa student while also expanding my tastes and growing as a writer.” Among Chuku’s major goals for 2025 are to weave Nimrod even further into the local creative community through outreach and special events, including author readings. One of the new events Chuku is most excited about is a hands-on and social media experiment with blackout poetry she is developing for Earth Day in April.
Fresh design, inspiring voices
The first issue of Nimrod under Dralyuk’s leadership appeared in January. “Our winter 2025 issue marks a new beginning that’s also firmly rooted in our history,” Dralyuk commented. Visually representing these trajectories is the fresh cover design by M. Wright, an associate professor of graphic design in the School of Art, Design & Art History, who took inspiration from the midcentury-modern designs of the journal’s earliest issues.
“The names our winter issue contains, however, are anything but retro,” Dralyuk glossed. Between its blue-and-white covers, readers will find prose and poetry by the winners of Nimrod’s annual prizes, judged this time by Paisley Rekdal and Kelly Link. The issue also includes poems by Ange Mlinko, a leading poetcritic; a story by Yiru Zhang, a young, bilingual Chinese-American author; and an essay on poetry and social media by Katie Kadue.
LEARN MORE
From left: Nimrod Editor-in-Chief Boris Dralyuk, graduate assistant Stasha Cole, and Managing Editor Hachi Chuku
Digital energy research provides for a more secure future
With over $10 million in external funding from federal agencies such as the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, National Science Foundation, Environmental Protection Agency, and Department of Transportation, Peter Hawrylak’s compelling research bridges the gap between cybersecurity and energy.
“Balancing cybersecurity with operational efficiency is a key challenge in securing industrial processes. Energy systems must remain available and functional, while also being protected against cyber threats,” said Hawrylak, Ph.D. and associate professor of electrical and computer engineering. “Our research develops technologies that integrate cyber defenses without disrupting system performance.”
Pioneering cyber energy research at North Campus
The University of Tulsa’s North Campus houses state-of-the-art facilities that
replicate real-world processes in the oil and natural gas sectors. Pipelines play a crucial role in transporting hydrocarbons and a wide range of critical materials from wells to end users, requiring advanced monitoring and security solutions. Collaborating with experts across the College of Engineering & Computer Science, Hawrylak is part of a team that has developed a testbed that simulates natural gas transmission and distribution. This pilot-scale model allows researchers to create and assess new process control strategies, cybersecurity tools, and monitoring capabilities. The facility enables the replication of actual systems that are central to the nation’s
infrastructure. By integrating UTulsa’s renowned cyber and energy research, faculty tackle critical challenges in industrial operations, ensuring critical infrastructure remain secure and effective.
Hawrylak is partnering with Mauricio Papa, Brock Professor of Computer Science; Cem Sarica, Floyd M. Stevenson Distinguished Presidential Chair in Petroleum Engineering; Eduardo Pereyra, F.H. “Mick” Merelli/Coterra Energy Chair Professor in Petroleum Engineering; and Tyler Moore, Tandy Endowed Chair in Cyber Security and Information Assurance. Collaborations with chemical and mechanical engineering faculty further enhance the practical application of the
technologies being investigated, making them more likely to be adopted.
These interdisciplinary efforts bridge academia and industry, further positioning UTulsa as a leader in digital energy research. Partnerships extend beyond the university, engaging with government agencies and corporations to bring practical solutions to everyday issues.
And thanks to the unique North Campus facilities, UTulsa is the nation’s prime location for safe and controlled testing of cyberattacks on pipelines and other critical equipment.
“This capability doesn’t really exist anywhere else,” said Moore, who chairs the School of Cyber Studies. “There are other places that conduct research in petroleum engineering. There are other places that conduct cyber security research. But there is no other place that has this kind of purpose-built facility coupled with the knowledge and expertise to bring it to fruition.”
A vision for the future
The solutions extend beyond oil and gas, offering insights into protecting hydroelectric dams, nuclear power plants and other infrastructure that is crucial to maintaining our way of life. As a hub for innovation in cyber-physical systems, UTulsa leads the charge in protecting the power supplies millions of Americans rely on every day.
Hawrylak envisions expanding UTulsa’s role in Industry 4.0, automation, and smart factory research. By partnering with manufacturing and logistics companies, he aims to integrate cybersecurity solutions into industrial processes, ensuring safer and more resilient infrastructure. His work helps shape the future of secure, interconnected industrial systems that can withstand cyber threats while optimizing performance.
Balancing cybersecurity with operational efficiency is a key challenge in securing industrial processes. Energy systems must remain available and functional, while also being protected against cyber threats. Our research develops technologies that integrate cyber defenses without disrupting system performance.
PETER HAWRYLAK
We are committed to keeping this beloved Tulsa festival a free and fabulous annual event.
JULIE CARSON
2025 festival celebrates artistic traditions, introduces new Mayfit 5K and Fun Run
As the vibrant colors of spring envelop Tulsa, anticipation builds for Mayfest 2025, scheduled for May 9-11 in the Tulsa Arts District. The festival showcases an impressive array of artistic expressions, including visual artists, youth art displays, and live performances – as well as cuisine to suit all tastes and budgets – all reflecting Tulsa’s rich cultural heritage.
This year’s festival embraces the theme “Stay Gold,” a tribute to S.E. Hinton’s iconic The Outsiders. Hinton, a University of Tulsa alumna, has made an indelible mark on the city’s literary landscape. Her coming-of-age novel was made into an iconic film, which was shot in and around Tulsa and is cherished by millions, and –more recently – a Broadway musical that won a 2024 Tony Award.
New for 2025, the festival features the Mayfit 5K and Fun Run on Saturday, May 10, offering participants a scenic tour of downtown Tulsa, passing well-known street murals and historic arts venues, with a special lap around the ONEOK Field concourse. Participants will receive
a Mayfest-inspired shirt, finisher medal, and post-race refreshments. Proceeds will benefit The Outsiders House Museum.
Central to Mayfest’s success is the unwavering support of The University of Tulsa. Since acquiring the festival in 2023, the university has deepened its commitment to fostering community engagement through the arts.
Julie Carson (J.D. ’97) serves as the honorary chair for Mayfest. Her passion for Tulsa and dedication to enhancing university-community connections have been instrumental in orchestrating this year’s event. Carson, also the wife of UTulsa President Brad Carson, emphasizes the importance of staying power to build on future celebrations: “We are committed to keeping this beloved Tulsa annual event thanks to the many sponsors who join us with their financial support.”
Through initiatives like Mayfest, UTulsa continues to play a pivotal role in enriching the cultural fabric of the city.
For full festival details, volunteer opportunities, and Mayfit registration, visit tulsamayfest.org.
Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols (B.A. '06)
Monroe Nichols,
a distinguished alumnus of The University of Tulsa, was inaugurated as the 41st mayor of Tulsa on Dec. 2, 2024, marking a historic milestone as the city’s first African American mayor.
Nichols’ journey to this pivotal role is deeply rooted in his academic and athletic experiences at The University of Tulsa. He earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and economics from the institution, laying a strong foundation for his future endeavors in public service. During his time at the university, Nichols was also a dedicated member of the Golden Hurricane football team, showcasing his commitment to teamwork and leadership both on and off the field. Reflecting on his alma mater’s influence, Nichols remarked, “Attending The University of Tulsa was transformative. It not only provided me with a robust education but also instilled in me the values of perseverance and community engagement. These experiences have been instrumental in shaping my vision for Tulsa’s future.”
Nichols believes that UTulsa plays a pivotal role in the city’s development. He asserts, “The university serves as a beacon of innovation and learning. Its contributions to research, cultural enrichment, and economic growth are invaluable. By attracting talent and fostering critical thinking, The University of Tulsa enhances our community’s vibrancy and resilience.”
Before his mayoral tenure, Nichols made significant strides in public service. In 2016, he became the first African American elected to represent District 72 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. During his legislative career, he was a leading voice on education, health care, criminal justice reform, and economic growth.
As mayor, Nichols has outlined a comprehensive agenda aimed at addressing pressing issues such as homelessness and education. His administration is committed to achieving functional zero homelessness by 2030, reducing blighted properties, and increasing affordable housing units. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of high-quality early childhood education and supporting well-functioning school boards to improve student outcomes.
Nichols’ leadership signifies a new era for Tulsa — one that embraces diversity, innovation, and collaboration. His connection to The University of Tulsa continues to influence his approach to governance, reinforcing the symbiotic relationship between the city and its esteemed institution of higher learning.
Attending The University of Tulsa was transformative. It not only provided me with a robust education but also instilled in me the values of perseverance and community engagement. These experiences have been instrumental in shaping my vision for Tulsa’s future.
MONROE NICHOLS
GILCREASE MUSEUM set to dazzle again
It has been four years since Tulsa’s beloved Gilcrease Museum closed its doors to the public in order to embark on a stemto-stern reimagining and rebuilding. In the words of Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer Brian Lee Whisenhunt, completion of this massive project “will usher in an expansive new chapter of inspired service, meaningful collaboration, and community engagement."
“I am immensely eager to invite people back to Gilcrease to explore the collection’s unparalleled resources in a way that has never before been possible. The guiding aim with this redevelopment is to create access and opportunities for everyone to connect their lives, stories, families, and histories to our amazing holdings.”
Work on the light-filled, state-of-theart structure is close to completion. The Gilcrease team will then focus on achieving industry-leading benchmarks around ideal
I am immensely eager to invite people back to Gilcrease to explore the collection’s unparalleled resources in a way that has never before been possible.
BRIAN LEE WHISENHUNT
temperature and humidity. In addition, fabrication of exhibition infrastructure, including cases, digital displays, and interactive components, is well underway. These should be ready for installation in late 2025.
Tulsans are eager to re-engage with Gilcrease’s vast and remarkable collection in its new home. While that must wait until the end of 2026, Whisenhunt and his colleagues have, in the meantime, devised a way to welcome the community back into the space between the completion of construction and the official reopening.
UNcrease will open the museum’s doors several times a month so that visitors can meet and enjoy an array of local artists,
performers, and other creatives.
“This is a marvelous chance to rekindle relationships among Tulsa’s communities by enabling them to be the first people to program the museum’s bold new space,” noted Whisenhunt. “Our invitation for creative folks to send us their programming ideas solicited a wonderful response: We received nearly 200 proposals, including for performances, workshops, showcases, and experiences. Taken together, they highlight the incredible spirit and diversity of Tulsa’s creative community.”
Stay tuned online at gilcrease.org and social media for the full UNcrease roster.
While waiting to reopen, Gilcrease keeps Tulsa inspired with creative community programs.
Crawford Alexander Mann III began his new role as the inaugural director of curatorial affairs for Gilcrease Museum on March 31. Mann has served as a museum curator and administrator for 15 years, most recently at the Telfair Museums in Savannah, Georgia. He previously served at the Chrysler Museum of Art, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, and the Museum of Art at the Rhode Island School of Design. Mann received his M.A. and M.Phil. degrees in the history of art from Yale University. He is finishing his doctorate at Yale, also in the history of art, having completed all but his dissertation. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, double majoring in art history and religious studies.
Photo by Adam Kuehl Photography
TOWNS in Town
Gilcrease Museum hosted Artist-inResidence Stephen Towns, whose work is held in collections across the country, earlier this spring. Towns recently completed his time as the first creative in Gilcrease’s new The Gillies Artist-inResidence Program, connecting with the Eddie Faye Gates Collection and Tulsa’s multicultural communities. As part of his return to Tulsa, Towns will present a lecture on his experience and practice on Nov. 5 at the university’s Lorton Performance Center.
Summer Camp Fun UTulsa
The University of Tulsa offers a wide variety of camps for elementary, middle school, and high school students. From jazz music and photography to soccer and spelunking, there’s something for every child. Send your kids to UTulsa this summer!
NATIONALLY COMPETITIVE SCHOLARS
Two students recently received Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarships from the U.S. Department of State to participate in study abroad programs. Junior Xayda Alexander is double majoring in psychology and Spanish and minoring in historical trauma and transformation. Alexander was an intern at Take Control Initiative one year and a practicum student at Youth Services of Tulsa the next. She currently holds a work-study position in the Psychology Department and serves as president of UTulsa’s Running Association.
Alexa Miranda is an energy management senior pursuing her bachelor’s degree in business administration. At UTulsa, she serves as the AAPL liaison officer for the Tulsa Energy Management Student Association, is a member of the TU Business Society, and is the president of the Latin American Student Association.
Two outstanding alumnae have advanced to the 2025 Fulbright Award semifinals in the Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Program and the Fulbright Student Research Program. Ireland La Munyon of Fontana, California, graduated in 2024 with majors in Spanish and education, and Cara Johnson of St. Louis graduated in 2022 with a degree in media studies and minors in biomedical engineering, Spanish, health sciences, and dance. Johnson also earned a graduate degree in sustainability from Texas State University in 2024.
As I continue my career focused on equity and resilience, this experience will equip me with the knowledge and perspective to support a more sustainable future.
CARA JOHNSON
Six UTulsa undergraduates were named semifinalists for the U.S. Department of State’s Critical Language Scholarship Program. They are: first-year computer science student Adam Asad (Arabic Beginning), political science senior Lilah Jacobs (Chinese [Mandarin]) Intermediate), psychology and computer science junior Brianna Marshall (Japanese Beginning), political science junior Sophia Rehman (Arabic Beginning), computer science and French sophomore Connor Sherrow (Korean Beginning) and computer simulation and gaming senior James Wong (Korean Beginning).
Discover The University of Tulsa,
a dynamic institution woven into the fabric of the city. While the main campus is nestled in Midtown, UTulsa’s presence extends throughout Tulsa, from cutting-edge research centers to athletic facilities and cultural hubs. Whether exploring the historic heart of campus or visiting its citywide sites, UTulsa offers a rich blend of academic excellence and urban energy, making Tulsa an integral part of the university experience.
1 101 Archer
An arts and culture hub that houses the Oklahoma Center for the Humanities and features regular exhibitions and programs.
2 Boulder Building
The home away from home of the Oxley College of Health & Natural Sciences, featuring state-of-theart facilities, classrooms, and labs.
Learn how UTulsa plays a pivotal role in propelling Tulsa forward. utulsa.edu/heartoftulsa
3 Fab Lab
A community workspace and creative think tank offering access to 21st century digital fabrication tools, equipment, and technology.
4 Gilcrease Museum
Home to hundreds of thousands of Indigenous artifacts and the world’s largest collection of art of the American West.
5 Helmerich Center for American Research
The onsite archive and library of the Gilcrease Museum, containing more than 100,000 rare books, documents, and maps.
6 Henneke Building
A high-tech space housing the Oklahoma Cyber Innovation Institute as well as offices for the College of Engineering & Computer Science and Department of Information Technology.
7 Institute for Robotics and Autonomy
Exploring design and interaction, the institute focuses on developing robotic and software systems that solve industrial and societal problems.
8 True Blue Behavioral Health Clinic
The clinic offers comprehensive mental health assessment and therapy to the Tulsa community provided by UTulsa graduate students.
9 UTulsa Campus
220 acres of academic and administrative buildings, athletic facilities, and student housing and amenities, the heart of the UTulsa experience.
10 UTulsa North Campus Off-campus facility for petroleum engineering and other research, it includes a drilling research laboratory and a full-size enclosed drilling rig.
Illustrated by Megan Kylie Lewis
Strong minds, strong bodies
Seventeen Golden Hurricane student-athletes received College Sports Communicators
Academic All-District honors for 2024-25. This award recognizes the nation’s top student-athletes for their combined performances on the field and in the classroom.
FOOTBALL
Kamdyn Benjamin
Angus Davies
Stephen Kittleman
Zach Neilsen
Owen Ostroski
Grayson Tempest
Jack Wright
Walter Young Bear
VOLLEYBALL
Beth Bayless
Tytiana Johnson
Marta Pecalli
MEN’S SOCCER
Wes Bottenburg
Bowen McCloud
Nils Oryol
Laarsen Rogers
Yuki Sekiguchi
WOMEN’S SOCCER
Tatum Sanders
Maria Berlanga Bandera
Women’s tennis enjoys outstanding semester
It was a successful start to the 2024-25 tennis season for The University of Tulsa women’s tennis team, who attained multiple major achievements last fall.
Leading the charge was the senior doubles pairing of Lily Hutchings and Maria Berlanga Bandera. The duo found early success as they grabbed two wins over ranked pairs with the first over No. 53 Gracie Mulville and Heike Janse Van Vuuren of the University of Kansas. Berlanga and Hutchings continued to battle through their dominant season as they took their second ranked win against the No. 58 Kansas State University duo of Maralgoo Chogsomjav and Maria Santos in the semifinals of the ITA Central Regional Championships. Hutchings and Berlanga pushed through the final in a 6-3, 6-2 straight-set decision to earn their third ranked win of the season against No. 28 Cara Mester and Alina Shcherbinina of the University of Oklahoma to secure the tournament title and punch their ticket to the NCAA Individual Championships in November.
Top: Ana Naranjo Martinez Lily Hutchings
The Golden Hurricane duo came short of a win in the Round of 32 at the NCAA Individual Championships after facing the No. 5-ranked doubles team Maddy Zampardo and Gabriella Broadfoot of North Carolina State. For their excellent performance all season, Berlanga and Hutchings received a career-high No. 26 ranking in the final ITA fall doubles poll. Their success helped fuel the fight in other members of the Golden Hurricane as another women’s duo also did some damage. Seniors Ana Naranjo Martinez and Mariana Manyoma Velasquez completed the fall with a 7-3 record together. The Tulsa pairing posted a ranked win against the current No. 91 Wichita State duo Theodora Chantava and Giorgia Roselli in an 8-6 decision in just their second match together. The success did not stop there as they made their way through the American Athletic Conference Tournament, winning three consecutive matches and beating Millie-Mae Matthews and Malwina Rowinska from Florida Atlantic in the final to win the AAC Doubles Tournament.
Contributing to the Golden Hurricane’s fall season success was Erin McKenzie, who secured a 73% win percentage with her 8-3 singles record while tagging on a doubles win with junior Tayla Wilmot. Wilmot contributed seven singles wins throughout the fall.
The underclassmen also showed promise as Eda Numanoglu put together seven match victories through her first year of collegiate tennis while freshman Isabella Basson grabbed seven more wins in her collegiate premier.
“I feel we had a solid individual fall season with teams winning our ITA Fall Regional Championships and American Athletic Conference Championships and a team qualifying for the NCAA Championships,” said 20th-year head coach Dean . “So, we expect that we have a good foundation in place to build upon for 2025.”
Building champions on and off the field
Checking in with Justin Moore
Nine months into his tenure as vice president and director of athletics at The University of Tulsa, Justin Moore has a clear vision: Build a championship-caliber program rooted in integrity, development, and community engagement.
Since arriving in July 2024, Moore has focused on hiring exceptional coaches and staff, aligning the department’s goals, rolling out a strategic plan, and reinforcing a mission-driven approach. At the core of his philosophy is the belief that Golden Hurricane Athletics exists to “develop people and inspire community through championship athletics.” This extends beyond student-athletes to include staff, coaches, and the broader Tulsa community.
“We’re in the business of cultivating community and student-athletes,” Moore said. “For us to be successful, we need the city of Tulsa to be a part of what we do.”
Moore’s goal is to establish UTulsa as a top competitor within the American Athletic Conference, where winning championships across all sports becomes the standard.
Addressing challenges, maximizing opportunities
Like many programs, The University of Tulsa faces challenges in a rapidly changing college sports landscape. One of the biggest is generating resources, particularly in the era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) and the impending shift toward player compensation models.
“We can generate enough funds to be competitive in our league,” Moore said. “We will not have the same resources as Oklahoma or Texas, but that’s OK. Our focus is on excelling within our conference.”
Beyond player compensation considerations, UTulsa Athletics is prioritizing student-athlete operational support. Moore emphasizes that competing at a high level requires more than just talent — it demands investments in areas like nutrition, student support, and program operations.
“My job is to hire great coaches, set high expectations, and then provide the resources they need to match those expectations,” Moore said. “There are areas where we aren’t fully supporting what it takes to win, and that’s where we are working to bridge that gap.”
A program Tulsa can be proud of
Moore believes that leadership alignment is the secret sauce for success in college athletics, and The University of Tulsa is accepting that challenge easily.
“Strong leadership alignment is critical to winning, especially at a small, private institution,” reflected Moore. “The board, President Carson, and this department value success at the highest levels of the conference; we are aligned. Without that unity of vision, a program cannot be successful. That’s just the way that it works.”
With a strategic plan in place and a commitment to fostering excellence, Moore and his team are setting the stage for the next era of Golden Hurricane athletics — one built on integrity, ambition, and a championship mindset.
UTulsa Vice President and Director of Athletics Justin Moore (right) introduces Tre Lamb as head football coach.
The Enduring Legacy of Lottie Jane
Flash back to late-night study sessions, dorm pranks, hallway karaoke, and cramming for finals. Lottie Jane Mabee Hall has been home to countless UTulsa students.
The story of The University of Tulsa’s John Mabee and Lottie Jane Mabee residence halls began nearly 150 years ago when John Mabee was born in rural Missouri in 1879. John hailed from a family so poor he did not own a pair of shoes until he was 10, though his strong work ethic inspired Lottie to tell him, “John, someday you will be worth a million dollars.” The two married in 1900.
John started his drilling business in 1916, becoming one of the richest men in Oklahoma and turning Mabee Consolidated Corp. into the world’s biggest oil well drilling contractor. In 1945, John decided to construct two dormitories on UTulsa’s campus, one for men and one for women. The two residence halls were named after him and his beloved bride, Lottie Jane. The buildings sit directly across from one another with only a pastoral commons separating them.
The Mabees supported the residence halls throughout their lives, and their work
was carried on after their deaths by the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation, with funds provided for extensive renovations in 1962, 1968, and 1974, as well as regular maintenance over the years. The men’s dormitory, affectionately known as “The John,” was recently remodeled, and plans are underway for “Lottie Jane” to undergo a similar renovation that will meet the needs of modern students.
As the only gender-exclusive housing on campus, John Mabee and Lottie John Mabee halls are popular among undergraduates seeking a traditional dorm experience. To ensure maintenance meets the highest standards, the university has launched a fundraising campaign to lovingly secure the dormitories’ futures. With matching funds from the Mabee Foundation, the portraits of John and Lottie Jane will hang in the lobbies of their respective buildings, forever facing each other.
John and Lottie Jane’s lifelong devotion to each other lives on through the relationships that began in the residence halls at UTulsa. An untold number of friendships have been forged in the dorms, and a fair number of romantic relationships originated there, too.
together, including Terri (B.S. ’79) and Mark Abbott (B.S. ’79, M.B.A. ’85). In 1978, Mark joined Lottie Jane’s softball team as an assistant coach, where he met Terri. “It was love at first sight,” she recalls. They married in 1980 and since then, they’ve built a life together, raising two children and supporting each other through life’s milestones. The Abbotts’ connection to UTulsa remains a significant part of their lives. “Lottie Jane fostered a close-knit community,” Terri says. The dorm’s traditions, friendships, and history continue to shape generations of students, just as they did for the Abbotts — proving that Lottie Jane’s impact extends far beyond graduation.
It was love at first sight for me. I told my roommate, ‘That’s the guy you take home to meet your mother.’
TERRI ABBOTT
Top: John and Lottie Jane Mabee
Camps & Programs
Fab Lab Tulsa
Gilcrease Museum
Health & Legal Clinics
Hurricane Athletics Mayfest
Oklahoma Center for the Humanities
Oklahoma Cyber Innovation Institute
University School
Our work is not confined to the classrooms, labs, and minds of our faculty and students but is pumped into our city and state through essential art, culture, research, and outreach.
Learn how UTulsa plays a pivotal role in propelling Tulsa forward. utulsa.edu/heartoftulsa
, a double major in film studies and arts, culture & entertainment management, interning at a California film studio was a perfect way to spend a summer. However, the best part was working at alumnus Julius Tennon’s JuVee productions.
“We work with interns from all over the country, but it was a special experience to bring in a student from my alma mater,” said Tennon (B.F.A. ’78).
As a University of Tulsa student, Tennon tackled substantial roles in "Othello," "Slow Dance on the Killing Ground," and "The Emperor Jones." Since then, his screen credits have grown exponentially, from “Friday Night Lights,” “Fame,” and “Criminal Minds” to guest starring with his wife, Viola Davis, on her series "How to Get Away with Murder.”
It was Davis’ story that ultimately led to the creation of JuVee Productions. “Viola and I originally started the company because her career was starting to feel limited in the types of roles she was offered,” explained Tennon.
“We decided the only way we could change that was to start our own production company, where we could develop and produce content we were passionate about.”
The perfect environment for Goudeau, JuVee produces narratives from a range of voices across all spaces of entertainment.
“Julius was very welcoming. And meeting Viola … I was at a loss for words,” she said. “I’ve looked up to her. I’m just like, ‘This is really happening. No way.’”
Julius was very welcoming. And meeting Viola … I was at a loss for words. I’ve looked up to her. I’m just like, 'This is really happening. No way.'
NEVAEH GOUDEAU
True Blue through and through
With its small class sizes and low student-to-faculty ratio, The University of Tulsa community often feels like one big family. Meet Pete and Jennifer Johnson and their children: Grace (B.S. ’14), Peter (B.S.B.A. ’17), Julia (B.S.B.A. ’19), Anna, (B.S. ’22) Daniel (B.S.B.A. ’24), UTulsa senior Lily, and high school senior Ruthie
The Johnsons hail from St. Louis. Before 2010, they had no connection to UTulsa. “When Grace was looking at colleges, we had our sights really set on the Ivy League. She was super academically gifted, a National Merit scholar, and valedictorian,” Jennifer Johnson said.
The family did the Ivy League tour before a conversation at a soccer game with another parent. “She said, ‘Oh, Jennifer, you should look at Tulsa.’ Her daughter had gone there, and she told me all the things they loved about it,” Jennifer said.
That’s when they met Teresa Erker Bont, thensenior regional director of admission for UTulsa in St. Louis. Bont, who now serves as director of parent and family giving, encouraged the family to
visit campus. Pete and Grace did just that and found themselves more impressed with Tulsa than with any other school they had seen.
There were several things that stood out about UTulsa, but what made the biggest impact was Tulsa Time, a visitation program for high school seniors that provides a broad overview of what it is like to be a UTulsa student.
“To be perfectly honest, I wasn’t excited about it at first, but then I attended Tulsa Time, and it was like, ‘Oh wow! Now I see it. This place is amazing,’” Pete said. “I walked out of one of the sessions on the tour and thought, ‘Man, I hope she wants to go here.’ And then Grace walks out and says, ‘Dad, I want to go here.’”
Six Johnson kids have found their way to Tulsa – even Peter, who attended Belmont University before transferring to UTulsa to study finance and accounting. Julia majored in accounting and computer information systems, Anna in math and computer science, Daniel in finance, and Lily in nursing.
Grace majored in biochemistry and chemistry and discovered another unexpected surprise in Tulsa: meeting her husband, Brady Pierce (B.S. ’14), a mechanical engineering major.
The youngest Johnson is Ruthie, who will graduate high school this spring. She received her acceptance letter in December.
“It is not just going to a school, it’s joining a community,” Pete said.
From Tulsa to global success
How UTulsa shaped the vision of Farhad Azizi
For Farhad Azizi, CEO of Azizi Developments, The University of Tulsa wasn’t just an academic institution — it was a launchpad for success, a second home, and a place that forged lifelong friendships. His journey from a young international student to the leader of a multibillion-dollar real estate empire is a testament to both his determination and the nurturing environment of UTulsa.
A home away from home
Arriving in Tulsa from Dubai, Azizi was venturing into the unknown. “Nobody in my family had ever been to America before,” he recalls. “But UTulsa representatives made me feel safe and comfortable.” The size of the campus was perfect—not too big to get lost in the crowd, but not too small to limit opportunities.
More than just an educational experience, UTulsa offered Azizi an immersive introduction to American life. The warmth of the Tulsa community, the hospitality of its people, and the strong bonds he built with professors and classmates all contributed to what he describes as “the perfect place to experience the ‘real’ America.” Even in the wake of 9/11, a time when international students, particularly those from Muslimmajority countries, faced uncertainty, he found unwavering support from his peers and faculty. “I felt safe, loved, and integrated,” he says.
An education that transcended the classroom
Azizi’s time at UTulsa from 2001 to 2005, where he pursued a Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business, was about much more than textbooks and lectures. “Education doesn’t just stem from books and research — it comes from the community,” he emphasizes.
The accessibility of faculty members, the university’s open-door policies, and the collaborative learning environment gave him confidence. He also made the most of extracurricular opportunities, from student organizations to road trips across the U.S., all of which broadened his horizons and solidified his leadership skills.
A career built on global foundations
After graduating, Azizi earned his MBA from Suffolk University in Boston before moving on to leadership roles within his family’s business empire. He spearheaded ventures in banking, oil & gas, and real estate across Europe and the Middle East, eventually taking the reins of Azizi Developments, a powerhouse in Dubai’s luxury real estate sector. Under his leadership, the company has delivered over 30,000 homes and is currently developing the world’s second-tallest skyscraper and a state-of-the-art opera house as part of its landmark Azizi Venice project.
Beyond business, Azizi is deeply committed to philanthropy. His charitable initiatives span the UAE, Afghanistan, and beyond, funding hospitals, orphanages, and educational scholarships while supporting global hunger relief efforts. “Giving back to the communities we operate in is a part of our impact on this world and is of very high importance to me personally,” he says.
The UTulsa advantage
Looking back, Azizi credits UTulsa with shaping his worldview and preparing him for the challenges of global business. His advice to prospective students? “Go for it. You’d struggle to find a university that is more inclusive, people-focused, and academically prestigious.” He strongly encourages students to live on campus, immerse themselves in the community, and take advantage of the university’s unique blend of academic excellence and cultural warmth.
“If my children decide to attend UTulsa one day, I would be proud and rest assured that they are getting the absolute best start to both their social and professional lives.”
With leaders like Azizi carrying the UTulsa legacy onto the global stage, it’s clear that the university’s impact extends far beyond its campus—shaping futures, building connections, and making a difference in communities around the world.
Farhad Azizi (B.S. '05)
Class Notes
Share what’s going on in your personal or professional life with your UTulsa classmates.
1970s
1 John Karabees (BS ’70) reminisces on fun times as a TU student playing golf on the campus grounds. John and his friends perfected hitting a golf ball off a tee held in someone’s mouth in front of John Mabee Hall.
Marilyn Brill (BS ’72, MA ’73) received her gold medallion and was inducted into the Gold Medallion Society celebrating her 50-year reunion. Marilyn was a speech pathologist at Jenks Public Schools for over 20 years and is now a very active community volunteer.
David C. Henri (JD ’72) celebrates a decade of retirement in 2025 from the law firm of Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, where he was of counsel and chief operations officer. He was formerly executive vice president and general counsel of California Federal Bank.
2 Bob Campbell (BA ’74) is president of The Briar Club, a local philanthropic organization in Frisco, Texas. This year, the club donated $20,000 to a charity providing food for schoolchildren and funded 10 need-based scholarships for high-achieving students at a community college.
3 Suzanne Bruce (BS ’77) won the Editor’s Prize for the 2024-25 Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP) anthology, Partnerships, the Untold Stories. Out of 250 submissions of poems, prose, and art, only 40 were selected, with one Editor’s Prize awarded. ASAP supports military members, veterans, and their families through creativity and connection. Her poem, “Camouflaged Image,” is written from the perspective of a military wife.
Julius Tennon (BFA ’78) attended the 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards with his wife, Viola Davis. Viola was honored as the 2025 Cecil B. DeMille Award recipient for outstanding contributions to the world of entertainment.
Douglas L. Micklich (BSBA ’79) was named the Outstanding Reviewer for the Managerial and Organizational Cognition Division of the Academy of Management at its 2024 annual meeting in Chicago.
1980s
Stu Crum (BSBA ’82) wrote and published his book “Aim for the Uprights: The Intentional Playbook for Success in Faith, Family, and Business,” now available in print and audiobook.
4 Eric Upchurch (BS ’84) has received the Society of Petroleum Engineers International Drilling Award. In September, he was recognized during the Annual Awards Banquet at the 2024 Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition (ATCE) in New Orleans. Dr. Upchurch is a Chevron Fellow specializing in renewable energy and low- or no-carbon solutions. He lives in Houston with his wife, Kimberly Richards Upchurch (BS ’85)
5 Henry Hoss (JD ’85) has been elected to the McAfee & Taft Board of Directors. Henry is a trial lawyer who practices primarily in construction and commercial litigation. His achievements in the field of law have earned him inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America and Oklahoma Super Lawyers.
6 Laura Boedges (BA ’86), president of the St. Louis Chapter of the Alumni Association, and all members of the chapter were honored as recipients of the Charles S. Monroe 2023-24 Chapter of the Year. This award is given annually to an officially chartered alumni chapter outside of Tulsa that develops programs and participates in events that bolster and advance The University of Tulsa. Congratulations to Laura and all our friends in St. Louis!
7 Mary Quinn Cooper (JD ’86) has been elected to the McAfee & Taft Board of Directors. Mary is an accomplished trial lawyer who serves as national trial counsel for major corporations and regularly defends product liability claims and class actions nationwide. Her experience and expertise have earned her many honors, including recognition in the Chambers USA Guide to America’s Leading Lawyers for Business, The Best Lawyers in America, Benchmark Litigation, and Oklahoma Super Lawyers.
8 Kevin Hart (BSEE ’89) a former fouryear soccer starter, captain, and MVP, is proud to support his daughter, KK Hart, as she follows in his footsteps. KK is a student-athlete at TU playing soccer. He is cheering on KK as she carries on the family legacy as an accomplished player and U.S. Soccer High School Academic All-American.
9 John Price (JD ’89) was named vice president of legal affairs and general counsel to the President's Cabinet for Tulsa Community College. He brings extensive experience and strategic insight to the college and supports TCC’s mission of accessible, quality education for the Tulsa community.
1990s
10 Gary Calcagno (BHP ’92, MA ’94) has been named the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Assistant College Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year. With 32 years of experience, he has been a key figure in the success of Oklahoma State University’s wrestling program, contributing to four NCAA team championships, 24 individual NCAA titles, and numerous Olympic achievements, including silver and bronze medals won by former wrestlers.
Deanne Dutton Hughes (BMG ’92) is the first woman to be named chair of the Tulsa Port Authority Board. Deanne has served on the board since 2021. Her professional career spans over three decades in environmental engineering and project management. In addition, Deanne serves her community through involvement with The Nature Conservancy of Oklahoma, the Girl Scouts of Western Oklahoma, the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence, The University of Tulsa Board of Trustees, and the City of Tulsa’s Infrastructure Development Advisory Board, among other organizations.
11 Toneille Bent (BA ’96) was named executive vice president of culture and engagement at Family and Children's Services of Oklahoma. In her role, Toneille is focused on fostering a culture of inclusivity and engagement by integrating equity-focused principles throughout the organization.
12 Mauricio Papa (MSE ’96, PhD ’01), who currently serves as Brock Professor of Computer Science and Cyber Studies at TU, secured $11 million in research grants to develop cyber security solutions for the U.S. energy sector.
13 David Zenthoefer (BSBA ’96, MBA ’98), a TU trustee, recently spoke at a Collins College of Business Friends of Finance luncheon. Zenthoefer is the CEO of Miratech, a global company based in Tulsa that offers environmentally sustainable solutions that decrease harmful emissions and noise pollution. At the end of the presentation, Miratech’s leadership team made a surprise announcement: An endowed scholarship fund has been created in honor of Zenthoefer and his wife, Carrie Abney Zenthoefer (BSBA ’99), to aid students in the Collins College of Business who want to become future CEOs.
14 Holly Dake-Proctor (BA ’98) was named the 2024 Oklahoma Art Educator of the Year by the Oklahoma Art Education Association.
Katherine Garlit O’Neal (BSBA ’98, MBA ’03) is the 2025 president-elect for the National Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists.
15 Kendra Horn (BA ’98), a former U.S. representative for Oklahoma’s 5th Congressional District, was hired as president and CEO of the Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation.
16 Matthew King (BA ’98) addressed students and guests of the Collins College of Business in his public lecture exploring capitalism in the modern age. Dr. King is the founder and CEO of Our COMMON Foundation.
Scott Larson (BSBA ’98) has been named vice president for athletics at the University of Texas Permian Basin. Larson becomes the fourth full-time director of athletics in UTPB’s history.
Ann Heidger Pequeno (BA ’99) has a new position as strategic sales adviser for FluidityIQ. In this role, she partners with clients on effective, efficient, and innovative patent research. Ann also serves as chair of the TU Alumni Association Past Presidents Council.
2000s
Shena E. Burgess-McGuire (JD ’00) has become a fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, one of the premier legal associations in North America.
17 Matthew Pepper (BS ’00), John White (BA ’00), Ryan Slaton (BSBA ’99, MBA’03), and Jerry Suva (BSEE ’99) joined longtime TU St. Philip Neri Newman Center Campus Minister Steve Nelson to bike the 109-mile rails-to-trails Mickelson Trail through the Black Hills of South Dakota. They are all proud of John White, who just recently graduated from using training wheels and only fell once!
Chad McLain (JD ’01), a founding partner at Graves McLain Injury Lawyers, has been named chairman of this year’s communitywide Heart of Tulsa campaign, which supports the American Heart Association.
Sarah Gilpin (BFA ’02) was named Tulsa’s 2025 Pinnacle Award Honoree for Community Service. Since 1987, the Pinnacle Awards have honored women in leadership whose professional achievements and community service have significantly impacted the city of Tulsa.
18 Marques Ivey (JD ’02) was appointed as a county court judge in Adams County, Colorado, by Gov. Jared Polis in April 2022 and was retained by the voters of Adams County to serve a new four-year term in November 2024.
19 Bryan Jensen (BA ’02, JD ’05, MS ’10) began work as a senior leader with Microsoft. A former CIA chief technology officer, Bryan is an expert in cybersecurity, tackling challenges in tech and protecting against cyber threats.
20 Meda Merritt (BEX ’02), Certified Association Executive (CAE) and vice president of membership and chapter development at the American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA), received the Wayne James Award at this year’s Dallas Fort Worth Association Executive (DFWAE) Awards. The award is given annually to the DFWAE member who recruits the most members. Meda was also recently recognized as an outstanding DFWAE member for earning her CAE credentials.
Kenvi Phillips (BA ’02) was named inaugural director of the Barack Obama Presidential Library, where she will lead the planning and administration of all programs and activities. With over 20 years of experience in libraries, historic sites, and academic institutions, Kenvi brings strong collections, research, archival, and programming experience to the role.
Tony Meehan (BCS ’03, MS ’05) launched a new tech company, Prequel. Prequel aims to apply a community-driven approach to finding software bugs by creating a database of failure patterns and misconfigurations in Linux workloads.
21 Matthew Nader (BA ’03) and John Truskett (BA ’01, JD ’04) reunited with their band, Epperley, for a special Christmas concert on Dec. 22, 2024, at the Vanguard in Tulsa, their first performance in over 20 years. The concert featured songs from their classic Christmas album alongside hits from their earlier albums.
22 Garry Gaskins, II (JD ’04) is serving as Oklahoma solicitor general under Attorney General Gentner Drummond. In addition, Garry also serves as president of Drummond Law, PLLC.
23 Ashley Efaw (BEX ’05) earned the AOTA Advanced Certification in Pediatrics on Jan. 3. Occupational therapists who hold this certification are recognized for their skills, knowledge of current
evidence-based practice, and commitment to continuing professional development in the field of pediatrics. Ashley is the second occupational therapist in Oklahoma to achieve this certification and joins fewer than 0.5% of OTs nationally who hold this certification.
24 Monroe Nichols IV (BA ’06) took office as Tulsa’s 41st mayor on Sept. 2, 2024. He will serve a four-year term and is Tulsa's first African American mayor. Monroe previously served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, representing District 72.
Curtis Brown (JD ’08) was elected as district judge for Kansas’ 23rd Judicial District.
25 Jason Inman (BA ’08) is a writer on CBS’s new medical drama Watson, starring Morris Chestnut. The series reimagines the legendary detective as he shifts his focus from solving crimes to tackling complex medical mysteries in a modern setting. In addition to his work on Watson, he recently completed his role as an assistant on the film Star Trek: Section 31, featuring Academy Award-winning actress Michelle Yeoh, now streaming on Paramount Plus.
2010s
John Gray (BSBA ’10) started a new business, J Gray’s Estate Firearm Services, to help those who may be downsizing or have inherited collections, to navigate the unique physical and financial hurdles with shipping, storage, appraisal and sales of valuable personal firearms and collectibles like vintage weapons and knives.
26 Tim Latimer (BSME ’12) earned a spot on the TIME100 Next list, which celebrates influential leaders shaping the future. Latimer is recognized for his groundbreaking work in next-generation geothermal energy, driving innovative solutions for sustainable power.
Hillary Sweeney (BA ’12, JD ’15) has been traveling the world with her husband, Mike Sweeney, a major in the U.S. Marine Corps. On their next stop, the two are returning to Japan, where Hillary hopes to resume working as an attorney for the U.S. Department of Defense. Hillary and Mike met at a TU v. Naval Academy football game in Annapolis.
27 Ryne Carman (BSBA ’14, MAcc ’15) married Callie Peck on Oct. 5, 2024, at Parish of Christ the King in Tulsa. Ryne is a licensed CPA and currently works for Forvis Mazars, LLP. He began his role as senior associate II in outsourced accounting services in July 2024 after serving as an auditor with the same firm for nine years.
28 Hope Forsyth (BA ’15, JD ’18) was named one of four 2024-2025 U.S. Supreme Court Fellows, a prestigious and highly selective opportunity to participate in the federal judiciary's work at the highest level.
29 Molly Schwarz (BS ’16, BSBA ’16) married Christopher Malloy in Oklahoma City on Nov. 2, 2024.
Whitney Cipolla (BA ’17) was named a rising star as part of Tulsa’s 2025 Pinnacle Awards. Since 1987, the Pinnacle Awards have honored women in leadership whose professional achievements and community service have significantly impacted the city of Tulsa.
30 Chase Gordon (BSBA ’17, JD ’20) joined Gable Gotwals as an associate in Tulsa. Chase focuses on commercial litigation, general insurance defense, and health care law.
31 Ram Makkena (MCE ’17) has been recognized for his volunteer work with the Tulsa SPCA. Professionally, Ram is a strategy execution manager at Moore, Tulsa.
32 Conor Raleigh (BBA ’17) and Kelly Cosgrove Raleigh (BS ’17, MA ’19, PhD ’23) are excited to announce the birth of their first daughter, Hayden Colleen Raleigh, born on July 20, 2024, in Denver. Conor and Kelly, who met as freshmen at TU, were married in August 2020. They are overjoyed to welcome their newest addition!
33 Caroline Schell (BPE ’17) and Katherine Griffin (BPE ’13), sisters and TU alumnae, crossed the finish line of the Tulsa Route 66 half marathon.
34 Allie Kenmore Sivertsen (BSN ’17) earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice at the University of South Alabama in December.
35 Tim Spencer (JD ’17) has been elected a McAfee & Taft shareholder. Tim is a trial lawyer whose state and federal practice encompasses various commercial and tort matters. His achievements have included him in The Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch and on Oklahoma Super Lawyers’ list of “Oklahoma Rising Stars.”
36 Phillip Acosta (BS ’18) was matched to a hematology/oncology fellowship at the University of Kansas School of Medicine — Kansas City. Once this threeyear fellowship is finished, he will be a full-time oncologist. Phillip is a third-year internal medicine resident physician at the University of Colorado.
37 Hoang (Harry) Dinh (BSPE ’18, MS ’19) and his wife Tram (Trisha) Cung (BSBA ’19) opened Kremee, a dessert shop in the Tulsa area. They offer a variety of unique soft-serve ice creams, boba teas, and taiyaki.
38 Stephanie Jackson (JD ’18) was named Tulsa’s 2025 Pinnacle Award Honoree for Entrepreneurship. Since 1987, the Pinnacle Awards have honored women in leadership whose professional achievements and community service have significantly impacted the city of Tulsa.
39 August Bont (BS ’19, BS ’20), Amanda Heard (BS ’19), Avery Culpepper Del Rosso (BSN ’19), Robert Tully (BS ’19, MSE ’21) Maureen Haynes (BS ’20), Braydon Rennie (BS ’19), and Sabrina Monsees (BS ’19), former TU track teammates and friends, reunited in Denver in October for a journey aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. Traveling the stunning “Rockies to the Red Rocks” route, they soaked in breathtaking views on their way to Moab, Utah, with a stop in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Despite living across the USA and Canada, their TU ties and shared love of adventure keeps them connected!
40 Fareshteh Hamidi (JD ’19) was selected for Leadership OKC’s LOYAL Class XIX. Fareshteh is an attorney with Steptoe & Johnson PLLC.
Jesse Haynes (BA ’19, MBA ’20) cofounded a new eyewear company, Solaro Shades, alongside baseball comedian Mark Paul. Since launching, Solaro Shades have been adopted by MLB players, Savannah Bananas, U.S. Olympians, and top NCAA athletes.
2020s
41 Courtney Spivey (BA ’20, BSCSG ’20, BS ’20) works for Space Ape Games in London. An alumna with degrees in art, computer gaming simulation, and math, she recently reconnected with Kendall College of Arts & Sciences Associate Dean Dr. Lara Foley. Courtney is eager to share her industry experience with current UTulsa students.
Alyssa LaCourse (JD ’21) was hired as an associate with Hall Estill Attorneys at Law in its corporate and business services practice in Tulsa.
42 Corey Taylor (BSBA ’21) transitioned into a new role with Tulsa Mayfest as the chair of creative strategy and partnerships. In this capacity, he will focus on cultivating partnerships with national brands that align with the Mayfest vision of amplifying creative expression across diverse mediums and formats.
Franklin Buchanan III (JD ’22) was named an Up & Coming attorney by Missouri Lawyers Media. He is a member of the American Association for Justice (AAJ) and is a proud National Trial Lawyers (NTL) Top 40 under 40 member.
Karina Cunningham (BS ’22) received the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program award for 2024. The program recognizes outstanding graduate students who are pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees. Karina is a doctoral candidate in plant biology studying photoprotective mechanisms in green algae at the University of California-Berkeley. She plans to work in sustainable fuel research.
Tyler Stephens (JD ’22) was hired as an associate with Hall Estill Attorneys at Law in its corporate and business services practice in Tulsa.
43 Ryan Danley (BS ’23) has been selected as a 2024 NextGen Under 30 Award winner. This recognition celebrates Danley’s exceptional career contributions and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the community.
44 Myranda New (BSME ’23) and Julia Behlmann (BSME ’23) presented their panel “You Won't Find Your Life Purpose at 23” at the Society of Women Engineers conference in October 2024. This is the largest conference for women in engineering, with over 20,000 attendees in Chicago.
45 Matthew Scrivner (BA ’23) and TU film studies senior Bryce Cusick debuted their animated web series Re:Actuality. The project premiered at the 2024 University of Tulsa Spring Film Festival.
46 Layla Johnson (BS ’24, BA ’24) is a 2024-25 Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Program finalist. The scholarship would enable Layla to work with primary and secondary school students in Taiwan to help them with their English and understanding of the United States. Layla’s degrees are in psychology and Chinese studies.
47 Hannah Reeb (BS ’24) received the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program award for 2024. The program recognizes outstanding graduate students who are pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees. Hannah is working on an accelerated master’s in biological science at TU and applying to doctoral programs.
An enchanting aerial view of The University of Tulsa campus at night, with the iconic Reynolds Center illuminated at its core — a beacon of excellence and community spirit.
Homecoming 2024
Reunions
Homecoming welcomed alumni back to campus, featuring a full schedule of events and memorable reunions. A few of those gatherings included a 10-year reunion for the Class of 2014, a 25-year reunion for the Class of 1999, a 50-year reunion for the Class of 1974, the Black Alumni Reunion, and a reunion for past residents of Lottie Jane Hall.
48 Dessie Nash (BSBA ’94), Meda Merritt (BEX ’02), Ashley Lewis Jackson (BSBA ’08), and Thomas Porter (BSBA ’14) celebrate at the Black Alumni Reunion party in Collins Hall.
49 Denisha Garner (BSBA ’17, BIL ’17, BA ’17), Megan Senol (BSBA ’18, MBA ’19), Kristen Davis (BSBA ’19, MBA ’20), and Amy Cairns Finley (BA ’17, BSBA ’17) take a tour of Lottie Jane Mabee Hall.
50 Alumni, students, family, and friends enjoy a tailgate celebration at the Alumni Association Tent Party.
Distinguished Alumni Celebration
51 Each year since 1946, The University of Tulsa Alumni Association has presented accomplished alumni and friends with awards, including the Association’s highest honor — the Distinguished Alumni Award. The 2024 Distinguished Alumni Honorees recognized at this year’s celebration were Paul Pressey (BS ’82), Sue Ann Arnall (BS ’77, JD ’80), Kimberly Johnson (BA ’96), Wm. Stuart Price (JD ’82).
52 The celebration also recognized 2024 J. Paschal Twyman Recipient Frederic Dorwart. The J. Paschal Twyman Award was established by the TU Alumni Association after the late president’s death to honor any TU alumnus/a, student, faculty or staff member, or friend of the university for outstanding contributions to the university “far and beyond the call of duty.”
53 Ron Walker (BS ’95, MA ’96) was celebrated as Mr. Homecoming 2024. The Mr. or Ms. Homecoming Award honors TU employees who demonstrate a strong sense of TU pride and service to the university community.
Gold Medallion Society Brunch
Graduates of the Class of 1974 celebrated their 50-year reunion and were honored as inductees to the Gold Medallion Society at the annual Homecoming brunch before the game.
54 Roger Shiflet (BA ’78), Suzanne Shiflet (BS ’70), and John Jackson (BS ’74)
55 Class of 1974. Debra Rue (BME ’74) served as chair for the 50-year reunion.
Captivating night skies over The University of Tulsa during Homecoming 2024, as a spectacular drone show lights up iconic UTulsa landmarks in a mesmerizing blend of tradition and innovation.
Alumni Receptions
The University of Tulsa Alumni Association welcomed UTulsa leadership, alumni, current and prospective students, and their families at a series of Spring Receptions. These events provided an opportunity to network and engage with the UTulsa community across St. Louis, Oklahoma City, Dallas, Denver, and Houston.
56 St. Louis: Dave Durand (BSBA ’98), St. Louis Chapter President Laura Boedges (BA ’86), and Blaine Greteman, dean of the Kendall College of Arts & Sciences
57 Denver: August Bont (BS '19 BEX '20) Teresa Bont, Thomas Porter (BSBA '14), Ryan Token (BSBA '17)
58 Dallas: Ricky Childers (BS ’75) and Adam Porterie (BSBA ’24)
59 Oklahoma City: Laura Wilson (BA ’11), Wes Wilson (BA ’11), and Matthew Ingram, dean of students
60 Houston: Wen Cao (MSE '19, PhD '24) and Alex Zheng (BPE '11)
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