Next under 40

next under 40 Scott Beck, Michael Bendure, Dr. Tennille Cheek-Covey, Kelly Collyar, Rennie Cook, Sean Crandall, Marek Ferguson, Kris Glenn, Anil Gollahalli, Kelly Grace, J.T. Harrison, Jeremy Humphers, Cameron McCoy, Korey McMahon, Jerry Miller, Stephanie O’Hara, Andy Sherrer, Dr. John A. Sparks, Megan Tyler, Emily Virgin

next under 40

Sunday, April 22, 2012

Norman NEXT is excited to partner with The Norman Transcript to recognize Norman’s most dynamic young professionals for their outstanding achievements. NEXT under 40 was created in 2011 as a collaboration between Norman NEXT and The Norman Transcript. It exists to honor young professionals, 21 to 40 years of age, dedicated to making a positive difference in Norman.

NEXT Under 40 honorees are determined based on demonstrated leadership and an interest in making Norman a great community. Young professionals are nominated by their peers and are asked to fill out an application describing their most significant personal and professional accomplishments.

There was an overwhelming response from applicants this year, making the selection process highly competitive. In the end, the top 20 most outstanding young professionals were selected.

Norman NEXT’s mission is to develop the next generation of leaders for Norman by creating a connected, active and engaged community of young professionals. Through leadership, mentoring, networking and volunteerism, Norman NEXT cultivates and inspires young professionals to BE A POSITIVE agent of change for Norman.

If you know a young professional who has made a positive impact in our community, please nominate them for NEXT Under 40 in 2013.

Samantha Kahoe chair, Norman NEXT

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Sunday, April 22, 2012

Scott Beck Norman High School

“I’ve come to a frightening conclusion that I am the decisive element in the classroom. It’s my personal approach that creates the climate. It’s my daily mood that makes the weather. As a teacher, I possess a tremendous power to make a child’s life miserable or joyous. I can be a tool of torture or an instrument of inspiration. I can humiliate or heal. In all situations, it is my response that decides whether a crisis will be escalated or de-escalated and a child humanized or dehumanized.” – Haim Ginott Scott Beck believes that convincing his colleagues, school district and the community that he is worthy of serving them is his most significant professional accomplishment.

Beck, 34, is principal at Norman High School. He said achieving a position is not a measure of success or an accomplishment, but rather a potential reflection of the way you take care of business. He said success is not a destination, and the surest way to an unhappy life is to believe that it is.

“The way that we spend our moments serving and helping others to become more than they could on their own seems to be a fair measurement of lasting success, the continuous, on-going pursuit and realization of goals that are worthy to oneself and to others.”

Beck’s wife and his children are the most important influences in his life.

“Simply, they are the reason that I look forward to getting up every morning. I believe strongly in growing yourself so you can give yourself to others, being a better husband and father is what influences most decisions that I make in my life.”

In the summer of 2008, Beck competed in his first Ironman triathlon, (2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run in one day) and in 2009, he completed his second.

Since then, Beck said he has run marathons, rode long bike rides and participated in countless shorter races, but, he said, the crowning achievement is undoubtedly finishing the Ironman.

“Rarely in our lives do we find ourselves in a moment of true uncertainty, the willingness to put it all on the line, push ourselves to the limit with absolutely no guarantee of success or of finishing.

When you are 10 hours into a race, legs weary, stomach in knots, teary and blurry eyed and facing another 13 miles of running and you feel like you are beyond your limit, one more step becomes a true measure of success.”

Beck said he is proud of his accomplishments not because of an ego, a medal, a finish line photo or the ability to boast, but instead that he faced fear head on and persevered through a world of pain and self-doubt and came out smiling on the other side.

Sunday, April 22, 2012

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Michael Bendure Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art

“The world in which you were born is just one model of reality. Other cultures are not failed attempts at being you. They are unique manifestations of the human spirit.” – Wade David, ethno botanist Michael Bendure enjoys his work as director of communication at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art and feels it benefits others.

The museum is a cultural headquarters that creates opportunities for people to find common ground and open their minds through the expression of art, he said. “As a result, I think Norman benefits from such a stage where the open exchange of creativity and ideas is encouraged and fostered. I am fortunate enough to get to promote this venue for creativity and the fertile ground of the mind, and I get to support my family while doing so. I’d call that a pretty amazing accomplishment!”

Another personal accomplishment Bendure, 34, is proud of is serving as a father to his daughter.

“Creating and maintaining a strong sense of self-worth and independence will take most of her formative years, and probably longer. But her mother’s and my dedication to developing her into a mature, forward-thinking individual will create the potential for her to have a future filled with opportunities to pursue what is most important to her.”

Bendure said his wife is a full-time graduate student working toward a doctoral degree. “This requires me to serve as the primary caregiver during most nights of the week as well as weekends. Although I have to turn down several opportunities afforded me, I do so with the confidence that the future I am shaping has great potential and hope.”

The most important influence in Bendure’s life is his wife, Jen. “For nearly 15 years, she has been a source of encouragement, inspiration, and joy, as well as a partner in intelligent conversation, late night buffoonery and quiet reflection. She is a sounding board and one of the most open-minded and pragmatic persons I have ever known, and I look forward to spending my life getting to know her better.”

CONGRATULATIONS! “your endeavours are commendable...”

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Sunday, April 22, 2012

Dr. Tennille Cheek-Covey Precision Dental

“Life is what happens while you are making other plans.”

As a young girl Tennille Cheek-Covey aspired to become a dentist to help others. She said all of her activities and courses were selected in order to prepare her for dental school.

“I was so focused that I completed my pre-requisites for admission during my third year of college and was selected for early admission into dental school at the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry.”

She received her doctorate in 2002 with honors. During dental school she was honored with several awards and scholarships including being selected for membership in Omicron Kappa Upsilon dental honor society. Membership in this group is limited to graduates who have distinguished themselves by excellence in scholastics while demonstrating exemplary character traits.

“I had a desire to work in providing care to underserved populations and accepted a position with a tribal facility. Overall health is greatly affected by oral health and it provided me with a sense of pride to provide such a valuable service to those individuals who may have otherwise not received dental care.”

Professionally, Cheek-Covey, 35, is proud of improvements she has been able to help make at the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Dental Clinic as its coordinator.

“As a tribal member myself, I recognized the need to offer high quality dental care to the Native American population. It was an honor to take an inefficient dental clinic that required patients to wait countless hours for an appointment each day and transform it into a state-of-the-art clinic that operated like any private practice clinic you may visit.”

Dr. Cheek-Covey seeking to grown in her profession used her past experiences as the basis for her private practice “Precision Dental” that she opened in January 2012. Her practice is focused on serving patients with honesty, compassion and professionalism. She focuses on comprehensive dental care by developing treatment plans to improve their overall oral health.

“I am proud of my accomplishments and the level of care that I have provided to this population.”

Cheek-Covey said the time her husband, Justin, spent deployed to combat in Iraq had a tremendous impact on her life. “It influenced my favorite quote and always reminds me to keep things in perspective. It was a time where I had very little control over lovedones’ circumstances and, to some extent, my own. I was able to find strength in my faith, family and friends. This period of time in my life also introduced me to a tremendous group of individuals who serve our nation. I was inspired by their commitment. I draw on that influence to keep my life in balance.”

Congratulations Dr. Cheek-Covey - from your staff at Precision Dental

Sunday, April 22, 2012

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Kelly Collyar Sooner Sports Properties

“ I know we’ll operate with no excuses. There are no excuses. You succeed or you don’t.”

– Bob Stoops, 1999 Kelly Collyar’s hero is his 11-year-old daughter, Hannah. “On days when I feel like the world is getting to me, and I want to sulk or become angry because life is so unfair, I look to her and realize how grateful I am. She approaches life with happiness and enthusiasm in spite of her difficulties.” Hannah was born with craniosynostosis, a condition that caused her to have a seizure disorder as an infant. She now has severe developmental delays.

Collyar, 39, said one of his proudest moments was having the opportunity as a member of Leadership Norman 2011 to champion the cause for Special Olympics of Norman. The group was able to provide uniforms, T-shirts, a peprally and, most importantly raise $10,000 to establish a fund for NPS Special Olympics, ensuring that all current and future Special Olympians from this community would have the equipment and care that they deserve.

“Although this accomplishment was a team effort by every member of Leadership Norman, the pride on their faces as we delivered the new uniforms will forever be etched in my mind as my proudest moment.”

Collyar said he was honored to be selected to represent the University of Oklahoma in the 2011 class of Leadership Norman. “When you work for the largest employer in the state of Oklahoma, it is an exemplary honor to be singled out and asked to represent the institution as a whole. Not only do I consider that a professional honor, it has also been one of the more rewarding personal experiences in my life – I have developed life long relationships both personal and professional.”

Another personal achievement Collyar has accomplished is returning to OU to finish his bachelor’s degree at age 28, and then continuing on to earn his master’s degree, and gaining admittance to a doctoral program all while raising a family.

Besides being chosen for Leadership Norman, professionally Collyar is proud of being selected as the singular field representative (out of 1,500 possible general managers) to serve on an eight person team known as the Gap Inc. Blueprint Team in 2006. This team had a one-year mission to reorganize the internal structure of the world’s largest retail apparel company-Gap Inc.

CONGRATULATIONS! “It was an honor to be recognized by both my peers in the U.S. as well as the leadership at the corporate headquarters.”

“your leadership is impressionable...”

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Sunday, April 22, 2012

Rennie Cook Journey Church “Daddy, I love you more than ice cream.” – Ainsley Cook For Rennie Cook graduating from the University of Oklahoma was his most significant personal accomplishment. The transition to Norman and OU was full of challenges for a first-generation Hispanic student from the small, rural community of Vinita, he said.

“I was quickly overwhelmed academically, socially and challenged by the financial responsibilities that come with a world-class education. In the end, I not only gained an amazing classroom education, but I learned the lessons of passion, perseverance and hard work.”

Cook, 37, said at one point he worked three jobs and maintained full-time enrollment to reach the goal of graduation. At the time, he didn’t like the fact he had to work so hard, but today, he said, he has a deep value and appreciation for the lessons he learned about work ethic due to his experience.

“In the end what I assumed would be easy turned out to be one of the most difficult accomplishments of my life. However, what I learned and gained from those struggles helped create a foundation on which every other area of my life has developed.”

An accomplishment in his professional life that he is most proud of is being named the executive director of the OU Alumni Association at the age of 33.

“As one of the youngest to hold this position in the history of the University, I was extremely honored to be asked by President Boren to represent the University to the over 200,000 OU alumni and friends located around the world.”

In his role, Cook said he worked with the clubs and societies contributing more than $500,000 in scholarships within one academic year for the first time in history. Also he was part of a team that brought thousands of alumni and friends back to OU and Norman every year and was able to assist with events that brought international leaders to the community.

“In my role, I was able to be a part of not only strengthening a University, but also a community.” Cook said Jesus Christ is the most important influence in his life.

He brought him out of a dead-end lifestyle, and blessed him with an amazing family, church and community in which to live, he said.

“Following Him, I have done things I never thought I would do. Because of Him, my life is better than I could ever imagine, guess or request in my wildest dreams.”

Sunday, April 22, 2012

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Sean Crandall Arvest Bank “It is what it is.”

Family is the most important thing to Sean Crandall in his life. “I have been blessed with three beautiful young boys and they continue to make me proud each day.”

Crandall said no matter how big or small the accolade his children receive; he can’t help but as a parent feel overwhelming warmth in his heart and a sense of accomplishment.

Almost 18 years ago, Crandall started his career at Arvest in the mailroom. He said the professional accomplishment he is most proud of is not the position he holds today, but the way he achieved that position.

“The most important thing I have done in my career at Arvest is build long lasting meaningful relationships. I have always been focused on people and the development of my relationships with them. Yes, I have worked really hard, but I have also been very fortunate to build confidences and trusts with many people along the way that made it that much easier to advance in the bank.”

Crandall said some people doubted if he could succeed at certain jobs because of the development path he chose, but he has been able to prove them wrong through hard work and the desire to improve.

The 36-year-old said his father has been the most important influence in his life. “We went through many challenges growing up and my dad was by no means a perfect man, but I have seen him fight, battle and overcome his weaknesses. He showed me how to overcome challenges and remain positive. He is a charismatic outgoing leader who always is positive and upbeat and someone I look up to.”

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Sunday, April 22, 2012

Marek Ferguson Koch Communications

“I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him.” – Abraham Lincoln Marek Ferguson said she learned this quote from her grandfather who had it framed on the wall of his office and used it as a tool to teach all 16 of his grandchildren this motto.

Another family member who influenced Ferguson is her mother. She is a strong leader, a great teacher, a frequent volunteer and someone that she has admired for as long as she can remember, Ferguson said.

“She taught me to laugh things off and to know that, no matter the circumstances, life is such a gift and that I should use it wisely.”

Ferguson, 28, said turning a hobby of making goods for the home into her own side business has been a difficult road. What started as admiration for another artist turned in to a longing to learn how to make things with her own hands.

“After purchasing several books and watching several instructional videos, the power to be creative laid solely within me.”

It was hard work to learn the ins and outs of owning a small business and now it has become something she sees as a personal victory, Ferguson said.

“I can make something out of nothing. And, better than that I can make people happy for being a recipient of one of my many items! This side project has taught me to adapt and has increased my desire to learn even more.”

Professionally, Ferguson said when she was asked to be the statewide Director of the Oklahoma State Charitable Campaign for The United Way of Central Oklahoma it was a significant accomplishment for her.

“Through this position, I was able to give over 20,000 state employees the chance to help their local communities, and in turn, over 300 charities received funding from this campaign.”

This role gave her the opportunity to see how so many wonderful donors and nonprofits are meeting community needs, Ferguson said.

CONGRATULATIONS! “your endeavours are commendable...”

Sunday, April 22, 2012

Kris Glenn

Tyler Outdoor Advertising “Somebody may beat me, but they are going to have to bleed to do it.”

– Steve Prefontaine Kris Glenn wants to demonstrate to the older generation as well as fellow young professionals that people under 40 are trying to make a difference in the community.

The 31-year-old said his most significant professional accomplishment is the opportunity to work for such great leaders who have shaped and influenced who he is today.

Those include Theta Dempsey at the University of Oklahoma, Randy Laffoon and Tony Tyler. Glenn said Dempsey was a consummate teacher that wasn’t afraid to let him fall down and learn how to get back up and do it right the next time. Randy Laffoon at Sports Talk 1400, knew he didn’t have any radio experience but was willing to teach him.

“I was a sponge around that man, soaking up the way he went about his business, the way he worked with customers, the way he pushed his employees to be better than they thought they ever could be and most importantly, the way he lived his life.”

Tony Tyler was a friend, so Glenn said he was shocked when Tyler approached him about leading the sales of his outdoor advertising company. “I was shocked and honored, and I am here today learning from one of Oklahoma City’s most respected families in the advertising business.”

Glenn said he is very proud of his athletic accolades in high school and college as well as running a marathon two years ago. But his most significant personal accomplishment is waking up every morning to his 10-month-old baby girl. “It humbles me every day to know I had a part in creating something so special and beautiful, but it’s a good thing she looks like her mother.”

Glenn said it will be the challenges of teaching his daughter character, integrity and the ability to be a productive citizen in our community that will one day be his biggest personal accomplishment.

Glenn said his father influenced him more than anyone. “My dad died like he lived, with character, integrity and fighting like hell.” He died three years ago, but Glenn said what he taught him will be instilled in him forever.

“He showed me how to be a loving, devoted husband, a proud, caring father and a dedicated, hard-working employee. He gave me roots to always remember where I came from and wings to soar to great heights.”

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Sunday, April 22, 2012

Anil Gollahalli The University of Oklahoma

“Most people don’t recognize opportunity when it comes, because it’s usually dressed in overalls and looks a lot like work.” – Thomas Alva Edison Blending his heritage with Oklahoma’s culture might not be the most tangible accomplishment, but it is one of immense importance to Anil Gollahalli.

Gollahalli, 37, said while providing a loving home, his immigrant parents, through no fault of their own, lacked an understanding of the cultural nuances of raising an Oklahoma kid.

“Growing up my clothes weren’t particularly fashionable or well fitting, my activities were largely limited to academics and my family wasn’t particularly interested in sports. I was not particularly well positioned for childhood social success. I was introverted and socially awkward.”

Gollahalli said he had never baited a hook before, nor had his father or his father before him. It was exposure to new interests and activities through Boy Scouts, and nurturing and understanding teachers that allowed him to transform into someone confident and comfortable with himself.

“I’ve lived in Chicago, New York, New Orleans and Dallas; in each place I picked up new skills and was exposed to new things. I am blessed to be back home in Norman – a much different person from when I left, but one comfortable in how my heritage blends with the culture here.”

Working alongside University of Oklahoma President David Boren, and with a team that was challenged to encourage foreign study and implement solutions has been Gollahalli’s most rewarding professional experience.

“Advances in technology have shrunken the world so that today’s student must compete on a global scale – a concept largely foreign to most Oklahoma families. Many students have not traveled beyond our state’s borders, much less internationally.”

Gollahalli said by purchasing and renovating a monastery in Arezzo, Italy, to be an OU campus, the university now provides a safe location staffed with OU personnel where students can begin their foreign study.

“The challenges of operating an educational institutional in a foreign country were immense, but knowing that my contributions have helped prepare our students for a global society is extremely gratifying.”

Gollahalli said he is fortunate to have been mentored by the best: Judge Robert Henry, Judge Lee West, BancFirst’s Gene Rainbolt and David Boren. But the most important influence was his Scoutmaster for seven years, Maj. Mike Miller.

“He exposed me to a world I wouldn’t have otherwise experienced. He treated me as one of his own sons through years of camping and weekly meetings and helped a young boy come into his own. I can’t thank him enough.”

Sunday, April 22, 2012

Kelley Grace Eide Bailly LLP

“To laugh much; to win respect of intelligent persons and the affections of children; to earn the approbation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to give one’s self; to leave the world a little better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; to have played and laughed with enthusiasm, and sung with exultation; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived – this is to have succeeded.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson’s definition of success The ability to be successful and continue to advance at her workplace, Eide Bailly LLP, while also being able to balance her personal life and service and civic commitments is an accomplishment for Kelley Grace.

“My career is a very important aspect of my life, but I feel very strongly about being able to give back to the community, that I have been a part of my entire life, that has given so much to me.”

The 33-year-old said her most significant personal accomplishment is the building of the Exchange Club of Norman. While working in Oklahoma City and holding membership in the Downtown Oklahoma City Exchange Club, Grace said she was approached to help start a club in Norman. “While this was a challenging project with all of the wonderful existing civic/ service clubs in Norman, it has been very rewarding to help bring Americanism and the prevention of child abuse, two of the national causes of the Exchange Club, to the forefront of the Norman community.”

Grace said her husband is the most important influence in her life. “We met when I was 17 years old. I don’t really remember life without him. He is my rock. He motivates me to do my best. He pushes me to succeed – to succeed in life, in my career, in my giving of myself. He recognizes my faults and encourages me to improve on them. I would not be who I am without him.”

Grace is also active with the United Way of Norman, Norman Chamber Board of Directors, and Cleveland County Family YMCA board of directors and the Michael F. Price College of Business JCPenney Leadership Center advisory board.

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Sunday, April 22, 2012

J. T. Harrison

Harrison Design and Production “Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.” Paul (1Thessalonians 4:11-12) J.T. Harrison, 35, said the risk he took three and half years ago in pursuing his dream to start a video, graphic and web design business is his most significant professional accomplishment.

“It was a huge risk to jump out and do something that didn’t have much of a guarantee (it) would work out. It was always a dream of mine to do this and with the support of my wife and some close friends, and through several months of prayer and planning, it became a reality.”

Harrison said he had been on staff as director of media at Journey Church for several years, while taking on freelance projects, when he realized that if he wanted to try and establish a business this was the time.

“I am so thankful for all of those that were encouraging and supportive that first crucial year.” He said the first couple of years were definitely a challenge, but he wouldn’t trade what he learned in that time.

“Business has continued to grow and I still have a lot to learn, but I think I just know a little bit more now about what to expect and how to handle things as they come. And I still love it as much as I did on day one.”

One of the aspects of his business that he enjoys most is the variety of clients he is able to work with and what he is able to learn about them and their businesses.

Harrison said his marriage and four children are his greatest personal blessing.

“My wife makes me better all around, as a husband, as a father, in every area of life. She is extremely perceptive and is brilliant at dealing with and working with other people, so I learn a lot from her. She is definitely my biggest fan, but she also challenges me in areas where I can be better. And I could not have asked for a better mother for our kids.”

Other items he considers accomplishments include being a four-year baseball letterman in college, running a half marathon and playing the guitar and writing music.

CONGRATULATIONS! “My father has always been the one that has given me so much encouragement and sound advice through the years.

I love and respect him more than he probably knows.”

“your leadership is impressionable...”

Sunday, April 22, 2012

Jeremy Humphers Devon Energy Corporation

“Luck is waiting at the intersection of preparation and opportunity!”

Jeremy Humphers said serving as a board member for the Norman Youth Soccer Association has been a time of great challenge, growth, achievement and satisfaction.

After joining the board to help improve the organization’s financial condition, many improvements were made including establishing fundraising and cost management initiatives, restructured member fees and staffing and implementing a variety of new player development programs.

“These activities have improved the NYSA’s financial condition and more importantly, have resulted in a better player experience for our youth.”

Player participation has grown 25 percent and continues to increase, he said. Humphers said recently the organization started a character development program called PRIDE to inspire and reinforce to our youth (and their parents) the NYSA’s core values: Passion, Respect, Integrity, Development and Excellence.

With this program, we hope to develop the person, not just the player, he said. When he was about 35 years old, Humphers became vice president of a Fortune 500 corporation Devon Energy.

“I continue in this role today as the youngest vice president and officer at Devon.”

Humphers said his greatest professional accomplishment is the speed of his progression up the proverbial corporate ladder.

He said the two factors that have been important to his advancement are his employer and the opportunities it has provided and his hard work and preparation for the next level.

“My mom was a loving, generous person. She gave of her financial means when she could, but she abundantly gave of her time, especially to children.”

Humphers said an uncle also shared with him the keys to live a long and happy life.

“These people created a virtuous circle of influence that I strive to pass along to others today.”

The 37- year–old said working weekends with his dad at his second job as an electrical contractor, he learned the valuable lesson of hard work.

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Sunday, April 22, 2012

Cameron McCoy The University of Oklahoma

“A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort.” – Herm Albright Cameron McCoy strongly believes that you don’t accomplish anything alone and has been blessed with the love, support and friendship of many wonderful people in his life. However, learning and grasping the idea of self-awareness has been beneficial in his life.

“Understanding who I am has certainly taught me my limits, but I have also learned to have comfort in the success of those around me and to celebrate their success as they grow past me.”

McCoy, 36, said self-awareness has given him the ability to forgive, to teach and lead, and have peace in moments of strife. Without self-awareness, he said, he didn’t believe he could truly give to others or could have learned about the ideal of servant leadership.

“I have never had a greater honor than having someone call and say thank you for leading with them.

This is something I work toward everyday.”

Professionally, McCoy is proud of his time serving in the U.S. Army. As an officer, he had the opportunity to take 280 soldiers on a yearlong mission as their company commander. “I believe that what we accomplished as a team was a lasting impact on each soldier personally and professionally. In a position of leadership that required me to be both the “mother” and the “father” of a group of people aged 18-62, caring for all aspects of their lives, my team left an indelible mark in many ways.”

McCoy said some found their way to college through our educational focus and some found professional growth opportunities after the deployment that they would never have been qualified for before. Others found peace in their personal lives financially, emotionally, and physically, all areas of focus during the deployment, he said.

“Every one of them walked away proud of having served their country honorably, just as I walked away with the pride in the same, and beaming from having the chance to lead them through a trying time.”

McCoy’s most important influences in his life have been spending time at Washington State University and his family.

Sunday, April 22, 2012

Korey McMahon McMahon Marketing LLC.

“Happiness is only real when shared.” – Christopher McCandless Through passion and dedication Korey McMahon learned you can achieve your goals and dreams.

McMahon said as a child growing up in Iowa, he dreamed of competing as a professional freestyle snowboarder. “People believed it couldn’t be done, which pushed me harder to achieve that dream.”

In 1998, he began traveling and competing in smaller snowboard competitions in the Midwest area.

“My desire to improve my snowboarding skills pushed me mentally and physically. Through endless years of practice, I found myself traveling around the nation competing in freestyle snowboarding and gained national recognition.”

McMahon had numerous company sponsors including Red Bull Energy Drink and in 2004, the United States of America Snowboard Association ranked him as the number two amateur snowboarder in the nation, which enabled him to move into competing professionally. “I moved to Mammoth Lakes, California, in the summer of 2004, and competed in the professional class for two years. I was able to snowboard over 200 days per year.”

Professionally at age 28, McMahon is most proud of opening his own business, McMahon Marketing LLC, in April 2011. “Over the last year, I have been required to go far out of my comfort zone in many areas of my life. I have had to navigate ownership, hold myself accountable and take full responsibility for the success or failures of the business.”

McMahon said through this process he has started going back to school, taking night classes to improve his level of knowledge in areas of business and marketing. He said he also participated in the 2012 Leadership Norman class.

He said being a business owner has also allowed him to give back to the community in more ways than one. “McMahon Marketing currently donates 10 percent of our profits to charities and organizations. It has allowed us to give back to help make an impact in the community because community involvement is one of our core values.”

McMahon Marketing is also able to help other companies increase their revenue, enabling them to hire more people, he said.

McMahon said his father-in-law, Mark Krittenbrink, has been a huge influence on his life.

“He has impacted my life because he is a tremendous leader in his personal and professional life.”

Krittenbrink has taught him that family is the first priority, and continues to mentor him in leadership and the responsibility of being a business owner, McMahon said.

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Sunday, April 22, 2012

Jerry Miller First Enterprise Bank

“Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”

Jerry Miller, 33, said he is proof of his favorite quote. “There are many people more talented than I am, but I am willing to put in the work to make up the difference.”

Miller said his relationship with God has been the most important influence in his life and his most significant personal accomplishment.

He said at 21, he made a decision to turn his life around, get baptized and surrender his life to Christ.

“Otherwise who knows where I would be. I don’t believe I would be where I am today and certainly wouldn’t have graduated college, which is another personal accomplishment of mine.”

Miller said his parents have also been influential. Without their unconditional love and support he said he also wouldn’t be where he is in his life. Professionally, he is proud of graduating from college and his continual progress in the banking industry.

“I have worked my way up the banking ladder from teller to where I am today as a credit analyst. My passion is community banking and helping provide financial support to my local Norman community.”

Miller also values his time serving on various Norman community nonprofit boards such as Bridges, Rebuilding Together and now serving as an intern with Norman’s Food and Shelter. Another of his accomplishments is being selected to participate in Leadership Norman’s class of 2011-2012.

Sunday, April 22, 2012

Stephanie O’Hara “O” Asian Fusion

“To whom much is given, much is expected.”

Stephanie O’Hara is proud of her restaurant, “O” Asian Fusion. She said as a local business owner it is important to recycle back into our local economy, which enriches the Norman community. “We live in an increasingly homogenized world, and entrepreneurship helps to fuel Norman’s economic innovation and prosperity.”

It was challenging to open a new restaurant in 2009, which was the most formidable time for restaurant operators in decades, she said. “To set ourselves apart, we wanted to give our customers an ‘experience.’ Our unique ambiance and menu makes guests feel they are transported halfway around the world.”

O’Hara, 38, said three years later she feels blessed and humbled that they have a solid customer base and still continue to experience growth. “Several of our employees have become U.S. Citizens since their employment at “O”; watching them experience ‘The American Dream’ is so rewarding.”

O’Hara also is honored to have served as Junior League’s Baby Steps Capital Campaign CoChairman. The program serves Norman High School teen mothers and their children.

The most important influence in O’Hara’s life is her husband, Dirk. “We are partners in life, love, parenting, business, mission and most importantly our Christian faith. His outlook in life is infectious; he is always kind, funny, patient, optimistic and enthusiastic. Dirk inspires me to be the absolute best person I can be.” She enjoys spending time with her husband and 4-year-old son, walking, cooking, entertaining, reading, fundraising, grant writing and volunteering.

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Sunday, April 22, 2012

Andy Sherrer Republic Bank

“There are no office hours for leaders.” – Cardinal Jay Gibbons

The most important influence in Andy Sherrer’s life was his grandfather. He said as a banker like himself, his grandfather taught him the value of serving your community to create a better place to work and live.

Sherrer said he considers receiving the Oklahoma City Biz 40 Under 40 Award in 2009 as the most significant personal accomplishment in his life to date.

“I was extremely humbled to be selected from over 150 nominations for the award across the Oklahoma City metro.”

Sherrer said as one of the 40 chosen he had the chance to interact with other young leaders across Oklahoma City and to develop connections with future community leaders.

The 34-year-old is employed at Republic Bank & Trust and is excited about Norman’s future.

He said his most significant professional accomplishment has been serving as the leader of the private banking group with Republic Bank in Norman for the past four years, first as vice president and recently as senior vice president.

“Over the past four years, the private banking department has experienced tremendous growth in assets size and profitability. Specifically, we have grown from managing $30 million to $55 million in assets. I personally take great pride in the fact that we have grown during an economic time that has been challenging for the banking industry. I look forward to our continued growth.”

Sherrer is a member of Norman Chamber of Commerce, Norman Next Young Professional Organization, Price College of Business Management Division Advisory Board, Norman Kiwanis, Moore Norman Technology Center Business Advisory Council, loaned executive and member of the campaign cabinet for United Way of Norman, and previously vice-president of the Thunderbird Clubhouse Board. He has participated in Leadership Norman and Leadership Moore.

Sunday, April 22, 2012

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Dr. John A. Sparks Sparks Clinic

“Do all the good you can. By all the means you can. In all the ways you can. In all the places you can.

In all the times you can. To all the people you can. As long as ever you can.”

– John Wesley, founder of the Methodist Church John Sparks earned his doctorate of Chiropractic degree from Parker University and was the youngest in his graduating class at the age of 22. This achievement allowed him to join his brother at Sparks Clinic, where they practice chiropractic and acupuncture.

“As a result, I am able to help people with their healthcare needs from a non-invasive, conservative approach.”

Because of the success of their Norman office, Sparks recently opened a Moore location to better serve their patients.

He said this is not something that is achieved alone.

“As with any major accomplishment, there is a lot of blood, sweat and tears from the people who have helped get you there. Family, teachers and mentors played and continue to play a vital role in the continuation and expansion of this endeavor.”

Sparks said he believes his most significant personal accomplishment is his relationship with his family. “I feel like I’ve been a good son to my mother and father who have given me a good name and a good example to follow. I feel like I’ve been a good brother by supporting and helping my brother achieve his goals and dreams. I strive to be a good husband and to represent our household in a way that’s honorable and that my family can be proud of. Most recently I have had the opportunity to be the best uncle and to be an example to my niece and nephew. These accomplishments are lasting and will be passed on to the next generation.”

The 37-year-old said the most important influence in his life is his Christian faith. “My faith provides a model of how to have a rewarding life, which includes how to treat people, serve people and love people on a daily basis.

By following this model, I feel I can be most successful in my life and career.”

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Sunday, April 22, 2012

Megan Tyler The University of Oklahoma “Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” - Theodor Seuss Geisel (Dr. Seuss) Successful completion of her education, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels, is what Megan Tyler considers to be her greatest personal accomplishment.

Tyler, 31, completed a Bachelor of Musical Arts from the University of Oklahoma in 2003, and then went on to complete OU’s Master of Human Relations in 2007.

“I completed both degrees while working and worked full-time during my graduate studies. Having access to meaningful educational opportunities provided me with a platform to develop a strong work ethic, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and a desire for life-long learning.”

Tyler said her greatest professional accomplishment was earning the position of director for OU’s North American Programs, Advanced Programs. Advanced Programs is the division of OU that provides graduate education for military service members throughout the nation and the world.

“In 2008, I took over as director for all of the OU military graduate offices in the United States. As director I oversee the operations and budgets for nine offices in seven states and have the honor of helping service members obtain their education through OU.” Tyler said the most important influence in her life has undoubtedly been her younger sister, Courtney Lucero. “She has given me steadfast support throughout my life and continues to be my most valued critic, faithful friend and remarkable source of inspiration.”

Sunday, April 22, 2012

Emily Virgin

Oklahoma House of Representatives “Each time a person stands up for an ideal or acts to improve the lot of others … He sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, and crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring, those ripples build a current that can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance.”

– Robert F. Kennedy The most significant professional accomplishment for 25-year-old Emily Virgin is being elected to the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

“This is something I am extremely proud of, because I reached this goal through countless hours of hard work and commitment to something I believe in.”

She said she believes her dedication to knocking the doors of voters in House District 44 was a large part of her success. When it was time for the election in November, most voters knew her name, what she stood for and why they should vote for her, Virgin said.

“My first year in office has been even more rewarding than I could have ever imagined. I get the opportunity not only to have a say in the future of our state, but more importantly, I get the opportunity to meet young Oklahomans and speak to them about how they too can be involved at a young age. This is the most rewarding part of my job, by far.”

Virgin is proud of her efforts to be involved in the Norman community and to help those who are less fortunate. “I have done this by volunteering at various service-oriented organizations, such as Food and Shelter for Friends, the Thunderbird Clubhouse and the OU Law Students for Access to Justice. “ She is also able to influence third-grade students to focus on helping and serving others in the way their faith teaches them through the Religious Education class she teaches at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Norman.

While volunteering at the Cleveland County courthouse assisting women in domestic violence situations file victim protective orders, Virgin said she heard victim after victim say that services in Norman such as the Women’s Resource Center and other shelters were not as widely available as they had been in the past. This problem was largely due to a reduction in state funds, she said.

“After listening to these victims, I knew my contributions to Norman could no longer be limited to a volunteer capacity. It was this “light bulb moment” that truly inspired me to run for the House of Representatives.

Virgin said her parents instilled in her a strong sense of serving others by showing her how to serve others and leading by example.

“Every chance they get, they help someone in need, whether it be a friend or a complete stranger. Their selflessness is a true inspiration.”

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