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OCU second only to UCO in number of HOF tuition grants
A total of 132 Oklahoma high school students heard their names called for more than $165,000 in scholarships today at the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, organizers said.
Among these were nine future OCU Stars, who received tuition grants to attend next year.
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Only the University of Central Oklahoma listed more grant winners, with 18, organizers said.
Winners were announced at the annual Oklahoma Scholarship Competition & Lee Allan Smith Oklahoma Legacy Award Assembly at the Hall of Fame.
This spring, 386 high school students took an online Oklahoma history examination to qualify for more than $700,000 in scholarships.
Of these, 14 students earned cash scholarships, while 118 others earned tuition grants for study at 28 different Oklahoma universities and colleges.
“This scholarship competition rewards Oklahoma students who understand the rich and one-of-a kind history of our great state,” said Shannon L. Rich, president and CEO of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame.
“It also encourages students to take advantage of the many opportunities to learn and earn in Oklahoma. It’s a vital component of building a modern workforce to help grow our economy.”
The scholarship assembly and
Lee Allan Smith awards are given together to inspire students toward service and have the opportunity to hear from community leaders.
The 2023 Lee Allan Smith Oklahoma Legacy Award of 2023 went to Ronnie Irani and Deborah McAuliffe Senner, two individuals who exemplify intentional generosity that greatly benefits the people of Oklahoma today and for generations to come, organizers said.
This namesake award honors those whose efforts are similar to the efforts of Lee Allan Smith, a.k.a.
“Oklahoma’s Best Friend.”
Founded in 1927, the Oklahoma Hall of Fame preserves Oklahoma’s unique heritage by telling the state’s story through its people.
The organization was created to honor exceptional Oklahomans and provide educational opportunities for students of all ages.
Induction to the Oklahoma Hall of Fame is recognized as Oklahoma’s highest honor. The Hall of Fame promotes pride in our state.
