ISION T R A D I T I O N
• S E RV I C E
www.oc.edu/alumni
HOMECOMING MEMORIES
NOVEMBER EVENT CELEBRATED OC’S PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE
THE WHEELERS
SECOND GENERATION FOLLOWING IN PARENTS’ FOOTSTEPS AT OC
SPACE CHAPEL LIVE FEED FROM SPACE waS ‘OUT OF THIS WORLD’
• A L U M N I SPRING 2011
From the
P r e si d e n t
Read more from Dr. O’Neal at www.oc.edu/president
Dear Alumni and Friends: I would like to share with you an update about the plans Nancy and I are making for our future. We have been privileged to serve our beloved Oklahoma Christian University for almost nine years. It has been a great blessing to our lives; we pray that the OC family has been blessed as well and that God has been glorified. When we came in 2002, the Trustees asked us to commit to 10 years in the role as president. When you are having so much fun, time passes in a hurry, and we are nearing the end of our 10-year commitment. Though OC’s future holds many wonderful possibilities, with God’s blessings and your help, many of our original goals are nearing completion. By virtually every measure, OC has never been in better condition, and we feel it is time to begin an orderly transition to the next president, who will
lead the university to even greater levels of service and excellence. Therefore, I recently notified the Board of Trustees that they should begin a transition process that would culminate in the appointment of a new president by June 2012. Please know that we will be serving with the same zeal and love for OC between now and then, as well as in the years after June 2012. There is much we want to see accomplished in the next 15 months so the next leadership has an even stronger foundation on which to build. We will continue operations as usual – which at OC means a constant striving for excellence and greatness for the glory of God. Nancy and I deeply love Oklahoma Christian, its people, and its mission. We are hopeful that there will be an opportunity to continue serving the university in a useful role following this transition.
Please join Nancy and me in praying for the wisdom of the Trustees as they plan for the future of this great university. We are deeply grateful for their support and for the privilege of serving these past several years. Thank you for your continued support and encouragement of Oklahoma Christian University. The past is a strong foundation, the present is a constant joy, and the future is exceedingly bright. Please join us in renewing our commitments and efforts in pursuit of God-inspired excellence as we tackle the challenges and opportunities of this transition time and beyond. With warmest regards,
Mike E. O’Neal
SPRING 2011
On The Cover: Dr. Harold Fletcher and Dr. James Cail were two of the many people who helped make November’s Homecoming Chapel memorable.
10 THE WHEELER FAMILY
Carl and Heather (Weber) Wheeler fell in love with OC as students here. Now their children are doing the same.
12 RICHARD TROUT
Alumnus author enriching student learning in his role as an OC professor.
24 News/Sports
18 LUKE & KATE HARTMAN
28 Milestones
20 BEN PETERSON
30 SAVE THE DATE
Former OC tennis great becomes a U.S. citizen.
Experiences at OC motivate alumni couple to give back.
OC student studies at the doorstep of history in Egypt.
OC graduate finds fellowship and the finish line in inspiring marathon run with legally blind friend.
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22 SPACE CHAPEL
14 BILL ALLEN
Information on the latest happenings and accomplishments at OC.
Col. Doug Wheelock spoke to OC students, faculty and staff via live feed from space.
Follow us online www.oc.edu/connect
Comings and goings of your former classmates.
Upcoming events at your alma mater.
VISION STAFF President:
executive director of alumni relations:
Designers:
Dr. Mike E. O’Neal (68)
Bob Lashley (74)
Judson Copeland (02), Jonathan Curtis (03), Rachel O’Donnell (02)
SENIOR Vice President for Advancement:
Editor:
Photographers:
Dr. John deSteiguer
Wes McKinzie (98)
Vice President for Communications:
WRITERS/CONTRIBUTORS:
Ron Frost
Will Blanchard (07), Ron Frost, Amy Gower (88), Ben Hobbes (09), Dawn Shelton (90), Josh Watson, Josh Wayland (09), Ann White (04)
Lauren Carroll, Steven Christy (01), Judson Copeland (02), Kathy Fuller, Jeremy Gan, Genesee Photo Systems, David McDaniel, Rachel Renee’, Brian Trumbly, UCO Photographic Services
vice president FOR alumni relations: Kent Allen (79)
VISION Alumni Magazine of Oklahoma Christian University (USPS 405-420) Volume 12, No. 3, Spring 2011 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VISION Box 11000, Oklahoma City, OK 73136-1100
© Oklahoma Christian University 2011 Oklahoma Christian University admits students of any race, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, handicap, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarships and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.
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homecoming
Hundreds of OC alumni returned to campus for a fun weekend of Homecoming activities in November. 1 2 3 4
Kevin Elmore (88) and Dr. John Maple (72) Amber Foster (04) and Dr. Bailey McBride (54) Members of Sigma Chi Sigma in OC students’ annual Homecoming Parade. Dr. Harold Fletcher directs alumni and current members of the OC Chorale at a special Homecoming Chapel.
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DEDICATED TO PROGRESS 1
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Russell Schoof (92), Richard Lawson (66), Raymond Tullius, Jennifer Fitzgerald, Harry Patterson (67), Dr. Mark Brewer, Dr. Charles Branch (77), OC president Dr. Mike O’Neal, David Gaither (81), Don Millican, Mike Milligan, Ken Davidson and Dr. Tim VanWagoner (94) at the dedication of the Noble Science Wing, the Dr. Kim Gaither Center for Biology and the Mabee Labs at Vose Hall. Dr. Tim VanWagoner (94) teaching class in the new Noble Science Wing. The 13,000-square-foot Noble Science Wing provides OC science students with state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. 4
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Dave (68) and Linda (Kern 69) Smith. Dave Smith speaks during the ceremony celebrating the renovations of “The Barn,” the historic facility which now carries his name. Larry Rehl (68), Richard Hanke (70), Stan Broadhagen, Benny Price (70), Ancil Johnson (72), Earl Lewis, Billy Brooks (69), Dave Smith, J.D. Moomaw (68), Frank Davis (63).
WATCH a VIDEO FROM THE DEDICATION CEREMONY OF THE NOBLE SCIENCE WING, DR. KIM GAITHER CENTER FOR BIOLOGY, AND THE MABEE LABS AT VOSE HALL. ALSO, WATCH A SPECIAL TRIBUTE VIDEO TO THE BARN FEATURING INTERVIEWS WITH JEFF BENNETT, DON DUNN, FRANK DAVIS, ELMO HALL AND DAVE SMITH. WWW.OC.EDU/VISION
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Lighting of the commons OC’s Winter Wonderland Week was a big hit again this year, highlighted by the third-annual Lighting of the Commons. Alumni, students, faculty and staff members gathered for live holiday music, horse-drawn carriage rides and pictures with Santa. The week also featured the 34th-annual “Cocoa and Carols” production by OC’s music department, the Holiday Hustle 5K run, the OC theatre department’s production, “Inspecting Carol,” and the one-man show, “A Christmas with C.S. Lewis,” presented by professional actor David Payne.
WATCH a video of this year’s Lighting of the Commons AND SEE ALL THE SANTA PICS! WWW.OC.EDU/VISION
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CREATIVITY FORUM Wishing Well, OC’s student-run organization that helps build clean water wells in impoverished countries, took part in the recent Creativity World Forum in Oklahoma City. (Photos courtesy of Rachel Renee’) 1
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Wishing Well executive director Ryan Groves during a television interview at the event. Ryan addresses the attendees. He also will be a featured speaker at the TEDxOKC event April 8 in Oklahoma City. Hundreds of people, including many OC students, participated in a barefoot “Water Walk” to raise awareness. OC alumnus David Bowden (10) speaks to Water Walk participants.
WATCH RYAN’S SPEECH AND A VIDEO RECAP OF THE WATER WALK. WWW.OC.EDU/VISION
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Lane, Lavon, Heather, Carl and Lauren Wheeler.
WHEELERS SAY ‘YES’ TO OKLAHOMA CHRISTIAN CARL AND HEATHER’S CHILDREN FOLLOW IN THEIR FOOTSTEPS Lauren Wheeler still gets a personalized tour when she walks around campus with her parents, Heather (Weber 85) and Carl Wheeler (85). “Well, Mom always takes a few minutes to point out the first place she saw Dad, where they first talked, first kissed, and where he proposed. The proposal story is definitely my favorite,” said Lauren, a junior biology major from Topeka, Kansas. Indeed, that proposal story is legendary to alumni, circa 1984. It was during Homecoming, and Heather was starring as Laurie in the musical “Oklahoma.” Carl took a line from Curly, pulled Heather outside the Hardeman stage before the curtain opened, and popped the question. Heather’s real-life answer, of course, was less reluctant than Laurie’s “Why would I wanna marry you?” Heather said “yes” and the rest is OC history still in the making. Lauren and her sister LaVon are current OC students; their brother Lane, a high school junior, will attend Oklahoma Christian after he graduates. “If I had 1,000 re-dos of where to go to college, I’d choose OC every time. I love it here,” Lauren said. “OC has a very high acceptance rate into med school, an excellent music program, and I love being on a Christian campus. It’s close to home and feels like a second home since my family has gone through here.” Heather, a music teacher, and Carl, an attorney, have been very intentional about exposing their kids (and all of the other kids they know) to Oklahoma Christian through summer camps, visits and hosting OC groups at their home congregation. “I didn’t grow up in a Christian household so I didn’t have that Christian family to rely on other than at church. Then, when I came to OC, and all of a sudden I had two or three thousand Christian folks that became my family,” said Carl, who specializes in child support enforcement for Young Williams Support Services. “Some of my closest friends that I met and made here at OC, I’m still very close with and still feel like family, and their kids feel like family.” Heather has encouraged her children to get involved and make friends because that’s what she did. “I’ve finally realized how wise my parents really are,” said
Lavon, a biology major with a music minor, and a member of OC’s Honors Program. “They have always encouraged me to do my homework first, but to also go have fun with people in all my free time. Your college friends will be some of your best friends for the rest of your life.” That’s true for Heather and Laura Earp (86), who met their first week on campus about 30 years ago. They ended up becoming roommates, being unofficially adopted as another daughter in each other’s families, and were in each other’s weddings when Heather married Carl and Laura married Philip Autrey (85). They have stayed in touch, and they visit each other’s homes in Topeka and in Arlington, Texas, where Laura and Philip live with their three kids, including Victoria, a current OC student. Heather was there for Laura when she was diagnosed with cancer two years ago. As Laura battled the aggressive cancer that had advanced to her bones, Heather sprang into action to tend to Laura’s spirit. She set up a Facebook page for updates and prayer requests. “She can get action out of people, big time,” said Laura, who said she is very grateful for Heather’s energy and for the power of prayer. Heather also gave Laura a gift. After asking Laura’s friends for their favorite scriptures, Heather painstakingly highlighted them in a Bible she gave her. “She did this for me. And every time I open that Bible, I see something new and who sent it to me. It is the most precious gift,” Laura said. Laura recently received good news about her health. Her tumor markers are lower than they’ve been, and although she remains on chemo, she is very optimistic and grateful. “So many people prayed for me. That’s what did it,” she said. “That’s why I’m here today.” That’s what friends are for. By Dawn Shelton (90)
WATCH A VIDEO INTERVIEW WITH CARL AND HEATHER WHEELER. WWW.OC.EDU/VISION
11 r e a d m o r e a b o u t G e n u i n e ly Lov IN G a l u m n i at w w w.o c . e d u/ fa i t h f u l ly
WWW. OC. E D U
The Great Adventure Trout Joins Biology Faculty
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Award-winning AUTHOR Returns to alma mater
He is a professor by day and an author by night. Richard Trout (72) joined the OC faculty last fall as an associate professor of biology, opening a new chapter in his storied career, in a setting where his college career began. Professor Trout has been around the world, under the sea and at the top of his profession as a teacher and an author since he was an OC student in the early 1970s. In those days, he spent a lot of time in the cafeteria to be with his sweetheart Mavis (Pfund 72), and planning student activities with his fellow class officer, Dr. Harold Shank (72), now a professor of Old Testament at Oklahoma Christian. “I lived at home as a student while my dad preached at Mayfair Church of Christ, but since my girlfriend (now my wife of 40 years) was a student, I ate on campus twice a day so I could be around her more often,” Trout said. You’ll often find him in the cafeteria again these days, connecting with students outside of his zoology or anatomy classes. A story spinner, he’ll tell of his travels, scuba diving and his biological specialties in ecology, human safety, and wise use of the environment. He also might be collecting names and stories from students that could end up in one of his adventure novels. Any OC alum would recognize the characters of Mickey Banister, a root beerswigging FBI agent; marine biologist Randy Heath, who gets shot in the back; and Sir Philip Patterson, an English eccentric who deals in illegal antiquities. There’s also the rugged Senator Lynn McMillon from Alaska, who is more at home in the pristine wilderness of his home state than in stuffy senate conference meetings in Washington, D.C. The real Dr. Lynn McMillon (63), distinguished professor of Bible, likes the character, especially since he gets to be a good guy. “Living it through these books is plenty fine with me,” McMillon said. Those familiar OC names and many others, such as current student Drew Nevius, make appearances in Trout’s popular MacGregor Family Series. The MacGregors are a family
of five adventurists who ensure that good always wins over evil with wild adventures all over the world. The books are published by Pelican Publishing Company and are marketed through the OC bookstore and major book outlets. National Geographic selected two of the novels for the JASON Project science curriculum for middle schools. The seventh book, Eclipse of the Jaguar, will be published this year. Trout’s next book is being marketed as historic fiction with a Biblical theme. But amidst that research, his lecturing schedule, and his busy life with Mavis, their grown daughters and grandchildren, Trout also is helping other aspiring writers on campus. He will lead a writer’s consortium to encourage faculty and staff who have interest in writing books, short stories, magazine articles and journal publications. Trout said he fully enjoys being back on the OC campus after spending more than two decades at Oklahoma City Community College, where he received the President’s Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2007. “Not only do I get to teach biological science to wonderful kids, but I have wonderful colleagues who work together with pride, pray together with love, and reach for the same goal: to see each other and our students in heaven some day,” he said. “I challenge anyone to find a better place to work!” However, should Trout want to live vicariously through fiction, his fellow alumnus, colleague and friend Lynn McMillon has it all figured out. “I would characterize him as the head of a major banking syndicate – quiet, unassuming, but powerful. Nothing of significance moves without his approval and financial backing. Donald Trump has to learn manners just to be able to meet with Rick the second time,” McMillon said. Sounds like a page-turner. By Dawn Shelton (90)
WATCH A VIDEO INTERVIEW WITH DR. RICHARD TROUT. WWW.OC.EDU/VISION
13 r e a d m o r e a b o u t DYNA M ICALLY E Q UI P P ED a l u m n i at w w w.o c . e d u/ fa i t h f u l ly
WWW. OC. E D U
Amazing Race.
Mike Larson and OC alumnus Bill Allen. (c) 2010 Winston-Salem Journal Photo / Lauren Carroll
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ALUM RUNS MARATHON WITH BLIND FRIEND Finish and finish strong. That’s how Bill Allen (78) and his friend, Mike Larson, finished the Kiawah Island marathon in South Carolina last December. They also finished it together. Bill, a minister at the South Fork Church of Christ in WinstonSalem, North Carolina, is an experienced marathon runner. He has crossed the marathon finish line many times, but never tethered to another runner. His friend, Mike, has been losing his eyesight due to a disease called retinitis pigmentosa. But that didn’t keep Mike from pursuing his goal to run a marathon … and asking for help. He asked Bill to be his eyes. Soon, the pair tied a bungee cord to each of their wrists, and off they went. Bill runs on the curb to watch for holes, rocks or other potential footfalls, and Mike runs on the street. Through neighborhoods and roadsides, they started logging training miles in preparation for the big race, 26.2 miles. “I don’t know if you call it a bucket list, we’ll just call it a vision list,” Larson told the Winston-Salem Journal. “I have just enough vision where I’m not completely useless right now. Plus, I just like the fact that I can say that I’ve done it.” And he did. The day of the race was rainy and cold, but Mike and Bill took off at a good pace, until Mike’s knee injury and searing pain slowed them down. But they didn’t stop. Mike walked, limped and jogged until Bill told him he could see the finish line. Then they started running again, through the finish line with a cheering crowd and a very respectable time of under five hours. Theirs is an inspiring story of perseverance.
“He needs me to see, and I need him to help me train and push me,” Bill said. The experience personifies our faith walk. “It’s a reminder we’re in this together, especially as Christians,” said Bill, who referenced Hebrews 3:13, which tells us to encourage one another daily. “We might not be tied together with a bungee cord, but we are still connected.” Bill says the same is true for Oklahoma Christian. He says, “Don’t cut the cords. Keep tethered to OC and all of the relationships and experiences we had.” In Bill’s case, he fondly remembers being in the late Dr. Raymond Kelcy’s class, calling him the “dean of Church of Christ preachers.” He’ll also never forget being in Dr. Jim Wilson’s classes. “He was one of the best teachers I ever had. He was genuine and fun and very good in his field,” Bill said. Bill and his wife Joyce also receive birthday cards from their friend Bob Rowley, and Christmas cards from Dr. Lynn and Joy McMillon. Since the marathon, Mike’s knee is healing and the pair plans to continue running together. Though both guys are humble about the attention their partnership has stirred, they are pleased that it’s started a bit of a fitness craze and interest in running at South Fork and in their community. Whether pounding the pavement, or in our Christian lives, Bill and Mike inspire all of us “to run with endurance the race that God has set before us.” (Heb 12:1). By Dawn Shelton (90)
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SCHOLAR. COACH. CHRISTIAN. CITIZEN. OC TENNIS GREAT EMBRACES NEW HOME
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Natalya Nikitina-Helvey (03) is one of the most decorated female studentathletes in OC history. When she arrived on campus in 1999 from her native Uzbekistan, she became OC’s No. 1 tennis player in both singles and doubles, and went on to be a three-time NAIA All-American and two-time NAIA Scholar-Athlete. She is now the head women’s tennis coach at the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond, and has raised the program to national prominence in her five years there. She now has a new bragging right; she became a naturalized American citizen in October. “After arriving in Oklahoma 12 years ago, I am finally the proud owner of a U.S. passport,” Natalya said. “I have traveled to 20 countries, but I really feel like the United States is devoted to the values of equality, freedom, justice and compassion. I have always been amazed at how open and accepting American people are.” When you consider that Natalya was born when her homeland was part of the communist USSR, and went through the lengthy process to become a citizen (numerous interviews with INS officials, medical screenings, paperwork and the citizen test), her love for her new country should remind us not to take our freedoms as U.S. citizens for granted. That doesn’t mean she doesn’t miss home. Her parents moved to Moscow after Natalya came to OC, and she tries to visit home each year. “I am glad that I grew up in that part of the world and had many friends whose religion was Islam,” Natalya said. “I think it is important not to generalize and criticize people based on their religion. Most people around the world want the same things: peace and happiness and want their children to be safe, go to school and not to worry if they will have something to eat tomorrow.” Natalya says her journey to Christianity began in 1997 when she traveled to Bethlehem and Israel as part of the Republic of Uzbekistan National Tennis Team. “The professors at Oklahoma Christian really had a big impact on me. All of them were so nice from the first class I took. They took their time to explain some things that were hard for me to comprehend,” Natalya said. “I was so amazed how knowledgeable, accessible and helpful all faculty and staff were, from my coach Kris Miller (86), my adopted mother Peggy Stork, math professor Dena Perkins, and the professors in the School of Business Administration.” After graduating from OC, Natalya pursued her goal of becoming a tennis coach, first at Wichita State University, then at Central Oklahoma. She has poured her expertise, passion and energy into the program, leading the Bronchos to three straight NCAA Division II national tournament appearances. Natalya is married to James Helvey, the men’s and women’s tennis coach at Cameron University. Along with her son, Maksim, she has two stepsons, Hunter and Dylan. “I tell my players all the time that the years they spend as student-athletes will be the best time of their lives, the friendships that we make will last forever,” she said. “It was such an amazing opportunity for me to come to the United States, Oklahoma and Oklahoma Christian, and I am so thankful to everybody at OC who made those four years of my life very interesting and special.” By Dawn Shelton (90)
THE WRITTEN WORD
SOARING ON WINGS LIKE EAGLES
TWO PARTS SUNSHINE
Dr. Stafford North’s book, “Soaring on Wings Like Eagles: A History of Oklahoma Christian University,” traces Oklahoma Christian from its beginning in 1950 as a 97-student junior college in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, to a 2,300-student, internationally-recognized university in Oklahoma City. This history includes chapters on the university’s presidents, faculty and staff, board of trustees, donors, students, and some of its successful alumni serving in various fields around the globe. The book recounts key decisions and shows the university’s strong religious commitment; two particular chapters focus on OC’s spiritual life and missionary spirit. Other chapters detail the university’s athletic programs, musical and theatre presentations, and student life. Order Dr. North’s book online (www.oc.edu/services/ bookstore) or pick one up while you’re on campus!
“Two Parts Sunshine” is both a cookbook and a biographical sketch of Marty (Mitchell 71) Johnson, former first lady of Oklahoma Christian University. Marty radiated warmth and friendliness to every person she met. Students, faculty and million-dollar donors enjoyed being in the president’s home, where she entertained hundreds of campus guests. The book reveals many facets of her personality and shares more than 60 of her favorite recipes. Former OC president J. Terry Johnson (64), Marty’s husband, wrote the book. Sherri (Buben 87) Coale, head women’s basketball coach at the University of Oklahoma, wrote the book’s foreword. A foundation grant has made it possible for the Oklahoma Christian Women’s Association to net the entire $20 on each book that it sells to the public. To purchase your copy, contact Christine (McClelland 91) Merideth at christine.merideth@oc.edu or 405.425.5122.
DR. STAFFORD NORTH
J. TERRY Johnson
Fang TRANSLATION Wins Top Prize in China
AGAN PUBLISHED IN NEW BOOK
A book translated into Chinese by Berlin Fang, associate director of OC’s North Institute, won the grand prize in a prestigious contest held by the Chinese Society of American Literature. Colum McCann’s book, “Let The Great World Spin,” won in the Best Foreign Novels category. Fang has translated 12 best-selling English-language books into Chinese, with many of those translations becoming bestsellers in China. He is currently translating William Faulkner’s work, “The Sound and The Fury.” Fang is a widely quoted and interviewed source in Chinese media based on his Chinese language blog, where he discusses education and technology, faith, and his experience as a Chinese American.
Dr. Cami Agan, chair of OC’s department of language and literature, had a chapter published in the book, “Teaching British Women Playwrights of the Restoration and Eighteenth Century.” The book seeks to help professors in undergraduate and graduate programs present a fuller picture of the contributions of works that have been unavailable for many years. The book was on display at the Modern Language Association convention in Los Angeles in January. It is available for purchase online at www.mla.org/bookstore. Agan has also contributed a chapter in a book on British author J.R.R. Tolkien that will be published in the future.
In addition to these books, OC faculty members have been published in numerous journals and presented at prestigious conferences throughout the world over the past year. For a listing of these and many other accomplishments by OC’s faculty, staff and students, go to www.oc.edu/accomplishments.
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BIG AND SMALL WAYS Hartmans remember how OC blessed them One comes from a family with a long history at Oklahoma Christian University, and the other was the first in her family to attend, but together Luke and Kate Hartman (01) make an alumni dream team. The Hartman extended family has been deeply involved in OC life for decades. Dale (74), Sheila (Dodgen 74), Kent (77), Nancy (Price 77), Luke, Heather (Hartman 03) Roberts, and Annaleise (Hartman 04) Mitchell have all contributed in their own ways to the heart and culture OC has now. The Millican family also has embraced Oklahoma Christian with its support and involvement. Her brother Eric married Summer (Millican 03) Mansur, another OC grad. Kate and Eric’s father Don Millican chairs OC’s Board of Trustees, and the Ethics Symposium is named in honor of her grandfather, J.J. Millican. Now, Luke and Kate are forging their own legacy. From the time they were students here, OC has left an impression on their lives that filled them with gratitude and inspired them to give back. “My time here is impossible to put a price on, from the friends I made at the first night of Neat Week to the adventures I had traveling the world with fellow students, and of course the experience that forever changed my life – meeting Luke,” Kate said. Luke’s memories include “daily singing at Chapel and evening devos that would sometimes give me chills. I loved the class sizes, talking with professors in their office, and being in their homes. The school was big enough to have diverse offerings, but small enough to be personal.”
The Hartmans stayed involved after they graduated. Luke works in OC’s Office of Informational Technology. Kate’s involvement reflects her passions. Her business sponsors the Picture This! contest put on by the Office of International Studies. They also fund a scholarship program for students wanting to study abroad. “From my travels in college and from Luke’s early years living in Australia, we believe that students who are able to experience different cultures are able to have a broader worldview. And a broader worldview helps people be better engaged in the workplace and the church,” Kate said. The Hartmans draw on their personal experiences in their commitment to Oklahoma Christian. “We remember OC because, in my case, other people remembered OC,” Luke said. “If it wasn’t for scholarship funds that were here, I’m not sure that I would have been able to come. To be able to help future students is invaluable and I hope to give them the same experience that I had.” Although the idea of making a financial gift to their alma mater can be daunting, especially to young alumni, Kate reminds that the first step is giving what you can. “What we have now is a result of thousands of people who have remembered OC in large ways – with their names on buildings – and in very small ways that nobody ever hears about,” Kate said. “We wanted to give back to the university that we saw continually giving to its students and the community. We wanted the blessings that God has given us to be able to bless a university that’s doing so much for so many people.” By Ann White (04) WATCH LUKE AND KATE DISCUSS THEIR COMMITMENT TO THE ‘REMEMBER OC’ CAMPAIGN. WWW.OC.EDU/VISION
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A Campaign for the Future of Oklahoma Christian University Our university stands on the shoulders of many supporters who give to our general scholarship fund each year. Those selfless gifts benefit every OC student. But the future demands that we move beyond our reliance on general scholarship funding and increase our endowment. Endowment is the financial engine that propels a university toward achieving its greatest potential. “Remember OC” is a two-year campaign to secure our future through endowment funding. Please consider how you can Remember OC in your charitable estate, financial and tax planning. You can help create an endowment income stream that will continue your support of OC until the Lord returns. To find out how you can help through planned and estate giving techniques, call Stephen Eck at 405.425.5118 or email stephen.eck@oc.edu.
www.oc.edu/RememberOC
Text MISSIONS to 85944 to make a $5 gift to OC’s Student Missions Program!
A one-time donation of $5 will be added to your mobile phone bill or deducted from your prepaid balance. Standard messaging rates and additional fees may apply. All charges are billed by and payable to your mobile service provider. Service is available on most carriers. Donations are collected for the benefit of Oklahoma Christian University by the Mobile Giving Foundation and subject to the terms found at www.hmgf.org/t. You can unsubscribe at any time by texting STOP to 85944.
EXPERIENCING EGYPT FIRSTHAND Ben Peterson is a history pre-law major at Oklahoma Christian. A senior from Austin, Texas, Ben was one of many OC students who studied abroad this school year; his travels took him to Egypt and other countries in the Middle East as part of a Council for Christian Colleges & Universities program. This is an excerpt from his blog about his experiences. The full blog can be found at http://blogs.oc.edu/ben. The recent events shaking the Arab world, and especially Egypt, will have huge impacts on a lot of people. I am not an expert on the situation; all I really know is what I can learn from the same news outlets anybody has access to and from a few people that I know in Egypt. Those of us in the group that just returned are definitely watching closely because we feel connected – we were just there in Cairo, talking to people there and visiting places like Tahrir Square, which became the center of the popular outcry. I don’t have the same stake in the future of Egypt as the friends I made there, but I will be affected in a small way by the
outcome of this uprising. People have asked me why so many people were protesting. That’s really very simple, and it’s something I finally came to understand after a few conversations I had with Egyptian friends. Some of the people I met in Egypt were not and are not content with the corruption and the lack of freedom in their society. This was actually the most interesting thing about the trip for me, to listen to their conviction that democracy was the way to go. In a way that none of us expected in the near future, many of the people of Egypt demonstrated this discontent with a president who had held on to authoritarian rule for 30 years, and a party that has dominated the country for more than 50 years. I remember talking with fellow students about the possibility of such an uprising as an abstract possibility. Watching and reading about the real thing, I was at times inspired by the Egyptian people, appalled by outbreaks
of violence, and worried for the people I know in the country. All of this is connected to many of the issues that we were able to learn about while we were studying there in Cairo. I was blessed with a small window into the Middle East and into this country that is beginning a time of change, hopefully for the better. I don’t pretend to know what Egypt will look like in six months, but I am excited about the possibilities that the future will bring, even though they will probably be difficult. I’m thinking of my Egyptian friends, including Talal, who wrote to me early on: “I’m so happy about what’s going on in Egypt. We need new government, new president, and new life.” I deeply hope that the people of Egypt can achieve the change for which they so desperately yearn. Egypt will need those prayers for some time to come.
WATCH AN INTERVIEW WITH BEN PETERSON. WWW.OC.EDU/VISION
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r e a d m o r e a b o u t G LO B A L LY E N GAG E D a l u m n i at w w w.o c . ed u/ fa i t h f u lly
THREADS OF COMPASSION
Jessica Estes, OC’s housing coordinator, is the driving force behind a local branch of Threads of Compassion, which provides scarves and comfort to victims of sexual abuse. Through Threads of Compassion, volunteers knit and crochet scarves that are given to survivors of sexual violence when they enter the hospital for emergency treatment. Jessica started the local chapter in January 2010. She estimates that around 30 people, including several OC students, alumni, faculty and staff members, combined to knit, crochet
and donate 225 scarves last year. Jessica, who is originally from Indianapolis, Indiana, has been back at OC since 2004. She previously was on campus as the office manager for Let’s Start Talking from 1998 to 2001. Her husband, Morgan (08), graduated from Oklahoma Christian with a liberal studies degree. He is a web services coordinator for the Oklahoma Bar Association. For more information on how to donate or get involved, email jessica@threadsokc.org or go to www. threadsokc.org.
WATCH AN INTERVIEW WITH JESSICA ON KFOR, OKLAHOMA CITY’S NBC AFFILIATE. WWW.OC.EDU/VISION
“We also believe and therefore speak.” -2 Corinthians 4:13
OCTOBER 2-4 2011 www.oc.edu/quest
OUt of this world
Photo by David McDaniel Copyright 2011, The Oklahoma Publishing Company
Astronaut Doug Wheelock gave OC students a truly out-of-this-world encounter during one of the university’s daily Chapel services in October. Col. Wheelock spoke live via video feed from the International Space Station, where he is serving as the commander of its six-person crew. “As you’re preparing for your goals and dreams and your profession, really capitalize on the value of what you have there at Oklahoma Christian,” Wheelock said during his talk. “The environment that you’re studying in is controlled, but it’s real life, too. You’re going to begin to face problems that you’ll need to solve individually, working together in small teams in group projects, and then working together with faculty and staff reaching outside the borders of the campus there, working in your community, and beginning to understand that the impact of
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what you’re learning there at that university is going to pay dividends years down the road.” Wheelock, who spoke in person at the 2010 Associates Dinner and visited classes on campus last March, encouraged students during to set firm goals and discover what God has in store for them. “When you seek and pursue those goals and dreams for your life, and something that you thoroughly enjoy, you’re going to be very good at it, you’re going to excel and you’re going to be at the top of your game with those gifts that God has given you and the purpose that He has in your life,” Wheelock said. WATCH COL. WHEELOCK’S FULL TALK FROM SPACE CHAPEL! WWW.OC.EDU/VISION
Michael Reagan at the Libertas Dinner.
CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION More than 400 people attended Oklahoma Christian University’s Libertas celebration, honoring President Ronald Reagan and celebrating his 100th birthday. The event, spearheaded by OC’s Academy of Leadership & Liberty, was held on January 20. President Reagan’s son, Michael, was in attendance to accept the award on his father’s behalf. As the keynote speaker, he highlighted his father’s leadership in the fight against communism during the cold war. He also provided glimpses into the personal life of President Reagan and
what made him a great leader. All of the messages were underscored by remembering President Reagan’s commitment to liberty, free enterprise, and a commitment to a purpose higher than self. “Ronald Reagan would not have accomplished what he accomplished had he not been raised in a Christian home ... (with) a Christian upbringing so he knew where God should be in his life all of his life,” Michael Reagan said. The presenting sponsors for this special evening were Lew and Myra Ward, Mercy
Hospital, Jose Freede, and Ralph Harvey. The Libertas award, created in 1987 by Oklahoma Christian University, honors those who serve as outstanding examples of free enterprise or who have passionately supported liberty and the free enterprise system. Past awards have been given to Sam Walton, the founder of Wal-Mart, and Truett Cathy, the founder of Chick-fil-A.
WATCH a video about the libertas Award. WWW.OC.EDU/VISION
Keep up with YOUR ALMA MATER at www.oc.edu/NEWS
COALE WINS UNITED NATIONS PEACE AWARD Sherri Coale, a 1987 Oklahoma Christian graduate, recently won the United Nations NGO Positive Peace Award. Coale, the head women’s basketball coach at the University of Oklahoma (and the keynote speaker at the OC Associates Dinner April 7), was nominated in the coaching category after taking her team to Haiti to assist with aid following the devastating earthquake last year. “Sherri Coale is uniquely gifted as a leader, teacher, and mentor,” OU athletic director Joe Castiglione said in an article in the Oklahoman written by OC alumnus Mike Baldwin (78). “Her coaching accomplishments highlighted by significant numbers of victories and championships are overwhelming, but no more so than the profound impact she has had on the lives of those she has coached.”
Through numerous donations and through his own efforts, Dobson has acquired many things for the children to enjoy, including a trampoline, tricycles, basketballs, hula hoops and much more. More than 1,500 OC students have participated in the program through the years, helping touch and change the lives of many people. “This program could not have been possible without the help and encouragement of so many people and organizations just like CVS,” said Dobson. “This will be a great benefit to the Edmond students we serve.”
OC RECEIVES $1,500 GRANT FOR SPECIAL NEEDS PROGRAM Oklahoma Christian recently received a $1,500 CVS Caremark Community Grant. “This grant will be used to enhance Max Dobson’s program for special needs children from Edmond Public Schools,” said Jo Griffin, OC’s director of foundation and corporate relations. “Specifically, it will go toward the purchase of carpeting in Max’s athletic practice facility, affectionately known as “The Barn.” Dobson, a former athletic director, baseball coach and women’s basketball coach at OC, has taught a class each year since 1976 called Teaching the Exceptional Child. Special needs children from Edmond schools take part in physical activities alongside OC students in The Barn, which recently became the Dave Smith Athletic Center.
Monte Ginnings, Cheryl Ginnings, Lottie Novak and OC president Dr. Mike O’Neal.
OC RECEIVES HOLY LANDS COLLECTION Monte Ginnings, a 1967 Oklahoma Christian graduate, and his wife Cheryl recently gave the university a special collection of biblical artifacts from the Holy Lands. The Novak-Ginnings Biblical Artifacts Collection is on display on the first floor of the Beam Library. The collection represents 50 years of travel and study that began with Cheryl’s parents, Warder and Lottie Novak, and continued with the Ginnings family. It features items from across Israel and the Middle East, as well as pieces from the Louvre, the British Museum, the Egyptian Museum, the University Museum at the University of Pennsylvania, and others. The Ginnings painstakingly catalogued the collection, and gave it to Oklahoma Christian in hopes that it will give students a more tangible sense of the people and places of the Bible.
NEW TEAM LEADS OC’S CHURCH RELATIONS EFFORTS Dr. Max Dobson plays with students at one of his classes for special needs children.
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A three-person team composed of Vice President for Alumni Relations Kent Allen (79), Distinguished Professor of Bible Dr.
Stafford North and Senior Advancement Officer Bob Rowley (70) will oversee OC’s church relations efforts. These men will work in collaboration with Dr. Alan Martin, Dean of the College of Biblical Studies, to oversee OC’s present church relations activities and pursue new initiatives. “I am very pleased that we have on the OC staff these three men who have such long-term ties with and deep love for the churches of Christ,” OC president Dr. Mike O’Neal said. “All of them are already involved with our church relations work and will continue with what they have been doing along with giving leadership to our program to connect with and serve churches.” Allen, Rowley and North will oversee the OC lectureship, now called Quest, and will plan the monthly luncheons for preachers held on the OC campus. They will maintain contact with preachers and churches, and will seek to increase the number of preachers on the OC staff who will fill pulpits throughout the area. Their work also will include continuing the evangelism seminars OC has conducted in Oklahoma and in surrounding states, and starting a new series of seminars to help small-town congregations become more effective. They will continue OC’s “Good News” newsletter, the “Man of God” newsletter for prospective preachers, and the OC church relations website (www.oc.edu/churchrelations).
by OC Professor of Music Dr. John Fletcher (82) and featuring many current students, faculty, alumni features, was selected as an honor performing group at the Oklahoma Music Educators Association conference in Tulsa. “Our faculty, staff and students really rose to the occasion for these special events,” Fletcher said. “They eagerly went above and beyond what is simply required in pursuing opportunities to excel, and to promote our music program and the university.”
LEWIS VOTED REGIONAL PRESIDENT-ELECT Dr. Phil Lewis, dean of OC’s College of Professional Studies, was recently voted president-elect for the Southwestern Council of Business Schools and Programs. This regional division of the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs represents more than 65 institutions in Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. The Accreditation Council seeks to establish, promote and recognize educational standards that contribute to the continuous improvement of business education.
HISTORY STUDENTS TAKE THIRD IN NATIONAL CONTEST For the second time in three years, OC’s history honor society placed third in Phi Alpha Theta’s national Nash History Journal competition. “I want to give a hearty ‘well done’ to editor Kevin Anders and all the students who produced quality papers and book reviews,” said Dr. John Maple (72), the group’s sponsor and chair of the department of history and political science. The OC chapter, known as Tau Sigma, was recognized earlier this year as a Best Chapter in the nation among smaller universities for the 15th consecutive year and 16th time overall.
STUDENTS WIN AT SCIENCE COMPETITION Two OC students won first place at the Oklahoma Academy of Science Technical Meeting in November. The winners were Thea Murray, a senior biology major, and Xuan Wang, a senior chemistry major. Four other OC students also gave presentations at the meeting. “We are very proud of their achievements this year,” said Dr. Bill Luttrell, chair of the department of chemistry and physics. “They are deserving of recognition.”
OC Music Contributions Recognized At State Conference Three members of OC’s Symphonic Band performed in the Oklahoma Intercollegiate Honor Band in February. In addition, the Oklahoma Community Orchestra, conducted
Jason Trout, the 1,000th graduate of OC’s MBA program, and Dr. Ken Johnson.
MBA PROGRAM CELEBRATES 1,000TH Grad The December graduating class included the 1,000th graduate of OC’s Master of Business Administration program. The program, which completed its 10th year in August, set a record with 236 students enrolled during the summer semester. “In spite of the fierce competition for students in the graduate school market, I am optimistic about the next 10 years of the OC MBA program,” said Dr. Ken Johnson, director of graduate business studies at Oklahoma Christian. “I believe there are exciting opportunities ahead as we continue to improve the curriculum, expand our online presence, and remain flexible in meeting the education and career needs of our students.” OC recently began offering all MBA courses online. The online class enrollment has steadily increased each year; the latest enrollment reports show that online courses make up 30 percent of OC’s total MBA course offerings. For more information, go to www.oc.edu/mba.
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PEOPLE TO PEOPLE INT’L COMES TO OC
STATEWIDE EXPOSURE Oklahoma cable television provider, Cox Communications, recently began carrying OC’s TV news program, “Eagle Angle,” live in the Oklahoma City and Tulsa markets. The program airs at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday and replays at 4 p.m. Thursday. The half-hour news show can be seen on the Cox Channel (channels 3 and 703 in both cities). “This is a great chance for our students to have their work seen in Oklahoma City and Tulsa,” said Dr. Larry Jurney, chair of OC’s communication department. “We are thankful to Cox for entrusting us with this opportunity.” “Eagle Angle” is run and anchored by OC students. The show includes both local and national news, weather, entertainment and sports. In addition, Oklahoma Christian is one of just a few Oklahoma colleges that uses its students to shoot home basketball games and broadcast them to the community. The student-produced game broadcasts also are available on Cox in Oklahoma City and Tulsa.
Oklahoma Christian recently launched the first chapter of People To People International in the state of Oklahoma. Started in 1956 by President Dwight Eisenhower, PTPI seeks to enhance international understanding and friendship through various activities. PTPI has a presence in 135 countries with more than 80,000 participants. Dr. Don Drew (79), professor of management and dean of OC’s graduate programs, is the chapter’s advisor. Planned projects include a cultural week on campus, a study abroad retreat, and new international opportunities for OC students.
LT. GOVERNOR-ELECT ADDRESSES GRADUATES Todd Lamb, Oklahoma’s new lieutenant governor, addressed OC graduates at December’s commencement ceremony. Lamb was inaugurated as the Todd Lamb state’s 16th lieutenant governor in January, just a few weeks after he spoke at commencement. “It’s an honor to be on the campus of Oklahoma Christian,” Lamb said. “It’s been a real pleasure to work with Oklahoma Christian, its students, faculty, leadership and alumni as I’ve been in the state senate.” Lamb served in the Oklahoma Senate from 2004 to 2010. The former OC adjunct professor sends his son to OC Cage Camp each summer. Lamb is a former special agent with the U.S. Secret Service and former member of the national Joint Terrorism Task Force. He also served in Oklahoma governor Frank Keating’s administration for four years.
NATIONAL ARTS EXECUTIVE APPEARS AT OC Dana Gioia, national arts executive, poet and librettist, delivered the keynote lecture for the sixth-annual McBride Lecture for Faith and Literature in October. He also participated in the Southwest
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Regional Conference on Christianity and Literature, which Oklahoma Christian hosted this year. The conference attracted scholars from surrounding states and across the nation. “Dana Gioia is an artist whose contributions to American culture are broad as well as deep,” said Dr. Scott LaMascus (84), director of the McBride Center for Faith and Literature. “He is a poet, a musician, a devoted public servant, an accomplished executive, and much more.” The program was funded in part by the Oklahoma Humanities Council and the National Endowment for the Humanities. Additional funding for the McBride Center for Faith & Literature is provided by Oklahoma Christian and its alumni. Other sponsors included the Gladys Krieble Delmas Foundation, the Inasmuch Foundation, the Oklahoma City Community Foundation and Best of Books.
OC HOSTS ETHICS WEEK On the heels of a national recession, OC’s School of Business Administration hosted Ethics Week to highlight the importance of high ethical standards. The fourth-annual J.J. Millican Ethics Symposium highlighted the weeklong event. The symposium, with the theme of “Why What’s Right is Not Enough and Why The Good is Also Required,” featured Dr. Lee Camp as the keynote speaker. Camp is an author and a professor of theology and ethics at Lipscomb University. Ethics Week also featured visits by OC alumnus Ray Vaughn (70), former state representative and current county commissioner; business owner Janet LaPanne; and OC alumnus Steve Shoemaker (00), marketing director for Ideal Homes. “This year’s focus on ethics was expanded to the entire week so we could offer students more opportunities to examine the role of ethics in their lives,” said Elaine Kelly, associate professor of accounting and holder of the J.J. Millican chair. “We are grateful and excited that these speakers offered to share their perspectives with us.” The ethics symposium is made possible by the J.J. Millican Endowment and the OC Accounting Club at Oklahoma Christian.
SPORTS NEWS Keep up with OC SPORTS at www.ocEAGLES.COM
OC ADDS WOMEN’S GOLF OC athletic director Curtis Janz (86) announced in January that women’s golf will be added to the university’s athletic programs this fall. Oklahoma Christian has begun recruiting players to begin play next semester. Inquiries can be directed to David Lynn (96), OC’s new director of golf operations, at (405) 425-5645 or at david. lynn@oc.edu. OC’s men’s team won the NAIA national championship in 2009 and has placed in the NAIA’s top four for 11 straight years. OC golfers have earned All-America honors 35 times. “We’re excited about adding women’s golf to complement our highly successful men’s golf team,” Janz said. Greg Lynn has been named the women’s head coach. He has served as the men’s assistant golf coach since 1999 and head JV golf coach since 2003. His current duties include fundraising, daily practices, home tournaments, and tournament travel. “Coach Lynn has been an integral part of our men’s golf program and a part of our 11 straight top four finishes at NAIA Nationals,” Janz said. David Lynn will continue as the men’s head coach.
OC PLACES SIXTH AT CROSS COUNTRY NATIONALS The OC men’s cross country team ran to sixth place at the 2010 NAIA national cross country meet behind All-American finishes by Silas Kisorio and Geoffrey Njonjo. The sixth-place team finish ranked second in OC history behind a fifth-place showing in 1976. Last season, the OC men’s team placed 14th in the 32-team national field. “Experience on this course from last Silas Kisorio year made the difference for us this year,” OC head coach Mark Thompson said. “The size of the field at nationals can be overwhelming, but last year to this year was night and day in confidence and intensity. I am so proud of all of them.” Kisorio raced to a 10th-place individual finish this year after winning the national meet in 2009. He is the first OC athlete to become a three-time All-American in cross country. He has earned All-America honors 13 times combined in cross country and track and field. Njonjo claimed his first cross country All-America award after running to 17th place out of the 326-runner field.
Stephanie Findley recently became the winningest women’s basketball coach in Oklahoma collegiate history.
FINDLEY CLAIMS 500TH WIN OC women’s basketball team coach Stephanie Findley (82) earned the 500th win in her illustrious career with the Lady Eagles’ 73-62 victory over Missouri Valley College in November. Findley, now in her 26th year with the Lady Eagles, is the alltime winningest women’s collegiate coach among all four-year schools in the state of Oklahoma (including the NCAA). “I’ve been very blessed with a great family, with great players, with great assistant coaches and with great mentors like Dan Hays and Max Dobson,” Findley said. “I’ve been blessed with an administration that understands the big picture. We all want to win, and we want to win championships, but there’s a bigger picture and our administration understands that.” Findley has led teams to the NAIA National Tournament 13 times, including nine of the last 11 years. The Lady Eagles have advanced to the “Sweet 16” five times, making “Elite Eight” appearances in 1986, 2003 and 2010. Her teams also are known for their academic achievements and community involvement. The Lady Eagles annually earn NAIA Scholar Team designation, ranking in the top 10 in GPA among all NAIA women’s basketball teams. They also earned the NAIA Champions of Character team award for women’s basketball in 2006-07 for their numerous community initiatives. Findley, a guard for the Lady Eagles from 1979 to 1982, is a four-time Coach of the Year honoree in the Sooner Athletic Conference, earning the distinction in 1986, 1988, 1990 and 2000. In 1986, she was named Coach of the Year in NAIA District Nine and was Coach of the Year in NAIA District Two in 2000. She was inducted into the OC Athletic Hall of Fame in 2004.
WATCH AN INTERVIEW WITH COACH FINDLEY AT THE CELEBRATION OF HER 500TH WIN. WWW.OC.EDU/VISION
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Milestones Keep up with milestones online at www.oc.edu/alumni
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Dennis Crider, school photographer at OC from 1961 to 1966, appears in the movie “Winter’s Bone,” which won the best picture at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival. He also played guitar on the movie soundtrack, which was released by Light in the Attic Records.
Bill Arbuckle was named teacher of the year at North High School in Edmond.
Aric and Amber (Merchant 01) Bramlett are proud to announce the birth of their fourth child, Isaac Coy. He was born December 2, 2010, and weighed 10 lb., 3 oz. merchantbramlett@yahoo.com
Bryan and Candice (Herndon 02) Herken have relocated to Fort Campbell and now live in Clarksville, TN. Bryan was promoted to the rank of major in the U.S. Army in October.
Jesse and Amy (Zimmerman) McCracken, along with big sisters Sierra and Addison, welcomed Kaitlin Claire to their family on July 1, 2010. She was 7 lbs., 14 oz., and 20 1/2 inches. Jesse is the network and telecommunications manager for Information Technology Services at Oklahoma Christian. Amy works part-time in OC’s Financial Services Office.
John and Emily (Yeats 04) Wood announce the birth of their second daughter, Hope Helen, on November 8. Hope joins big sister, Esther, who is three. They live in Edmond, OK.
1982 Kim (Ott) Marlatt has been selected for Leadership Columbia County in Georgia. She is the director of marketing and planning for MCGHealth. She is a member and past president of the Georgia Society for Healthcare Marketing and Public Relations and is a member of the Society for Healthcare Strategy and Market Development.
1985 Michael and Lori Kay (Hall 86) Lum announce the birth of their son Jason Michael, born June 26, 2009. Michael is the pulpit minister at Meadowlark Church of Christ in Fort Collins, CO. michaelwlum@yahoo.com
Cynthia Maggard-Singleton and her family have moved back to Northwest Arkansas after two years in the Kansas City area. Cynthia is homeschooling their two elementary-age children and is a community coach for MOPS groups in Arkansas, Kansas and Oklahoma. She and husband Shea both work for a new media company based in Seattle. blondegirlfrnd@ yahoo.com
1996 Kelly and Amy Westbrook announce the birth of their son, Aaron Wayne Westbrook. He was born January 28, 2010.
1997 Clint and Marilyn (Hinds 03) LaRue announce the birth of their daughter, Natalie Anne, born July 16, 2009. She joins big brother Wesley. They live in Edmond, OK.
ESTHER AND HOPE WOOD
Kait lin Cla ire McC RAC KEN
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Kyle Lankford was recently named to the 2010 Central Oklahoma Forty under 40 Outstanding Professionals list. The Forty Under 40 program, sponsored by Cox Business, recognizes Central Oklahoma individuals under the age of 40 who excel professionally and give back to their community.
John Lindsay is now the family minister at Muskogee Church of Christ in Oklahoma. He and his wife Gayla (Neill) have three daughters: Morgan, Miranda and Mallory.
NATALIE L A RUE
THE LIND SAY FAMILY
Tony and Tabitha (Meadors) Temple are proud to welcome the newest addition to the family, Jaden Elisha. Jaden was born on December 16, 2010, and joins big sister Tamia E’mani. The family lives in Springfield, Virginia. tabithatemple@ hotmail.com
Dr. Michael Williams has been appointed Associate Dean for Full-time MBA and Full-time Master of Science in Applied Finance and Global Business degree programs at Pepperdine University. He also oversees the Office of Alumni and Career Services and recruitment operations for full-time programs.
2000 Jennifer (Scott) Hankins was named teacher of the year at Washington Irving Elementary School in Edmond, OK.
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Franklin and Tracy Wood are proud to announce the birth of their third son, Hudson, on September 14. He was 10 lbs., 5 oz., and 21 inches. They thank God for a smooth C-section and quick recovery for momma and baby! Franklin is youth minister for the Southwest Church of Christ in Omaha, NE. fwood@swest. omhcoxmail.com
2002 Dr. Joe Bowers has been appointed to the position of neurohospitalist at Good Shepherd Medical Center. After graduating from OC, Bowers earned his doctor of medicine degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, where he also completed his medical internship and medical residency. His recent residency at University Health System/South Texas VA System involved direct care of neurology patients, as well as teaching medical students in lectures, small groups and ward settings. Bowers is the second dedicated neurohospitalist to join Good Shepherd Medical Center in Longview, TX. OC MBA alumnus Manuel ‘Manny’ Gonzalez has been named the new chief executive officer for the National Society of Hispanic MBAs. Gonzalez has served as principal with the consulting firm Mango Entertainment, as CEO of the Zoological Society of Florida and the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and as vice president and general manager of Six Flags Inc.
Ben and Kelly (Eroh) Tyson announce the birth of their third child, Seth Jeremy. Seth was born on August 22, 2010. Seth joins big sister Sophie (3) and big brother Will (1). They live in Wichita, KS. bktyson@gmail.com
Seth Jeremy TYSON
Scott and Dara Filleman announce the birth of their third child, Aria Lear, born August 15. She joins Evelyn (6) and Conlan (3). Scott is the director of bands at Santa Fe South Charter Schools in Oklahoma City. sfilleman@santafesouth.org
Drew and Lori (Woodfin 10) Santine were married September 5 in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Drew is the son of Clem and Jayna Santine of McAlester, OK. Lori is the daughter of Randy and Denise Woodfin of Broomfield, CO. Drew and Lori are living in Tulsa, OK.
CONLAN, EVELYN AND ARIA FILLEMAN
Kurt and Erin (Winter) Whittington are proud to announce the birth of their daughter, Emma Kay, on July 19, 2010. They live in Raleigh, NC. Kurt is about to earn a master’s degree in aerospace engineering from North Carolina State University. kurt.whittington@gmail.com
Michael and Annaleise (Hartman) Mitchell are proud to announce the birth of Isabella Grace Mitchell on September 23, 2010. Annaleise is a licensed marriage and family therapist and Michael is OC’s director for annual giving.
2008
KURT, ERIN AND EMMA KAY WHITTIN GTON
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2007 Tony Rose, a science and geography teacher, was named Teacher of the Year at Cheyenne Middle School in Edmond. He and his wife Amber (Newell) attend Wilshire Church of Christ, where Tony serves as youth minister. ISABELLA GRACE MITCHELL
Oklahoma Christian University’s FAITH[fully] website features story after story about OC alumni, students, faculty and staff members who are using their talents to glorify God. Go to www.oc.edu/faithfully to read more about some of the ways the OC family is impacting the world.
Drew and Lori (Woo dfin 10) Sant ine
2010 Jesica (Swisher) Morse is pursuing her master’s degree in early childhood education at the University of Central Oklahoma. jessicamorse1987@gmail.com
DYNAMICALLY EQUIPPED SPIRITUALLY ROOTED GLOBALLY ENGAGED GENUINELY LOVED
SAVE THE
DATE
find out about the latest events going on at Oklahoma christian university and how you can get involved with your alma mater by visiting www.oc.edu/calendar
QUEST LECTURESHIP • OCTOBER 2-4 www.oc.edu/quest
ASSOCIATES DINNER • APRIL 7 www.oc.edu/associates
CHECK OUT THESE
OTHER GREAT
OC EVENTS 30 VISIONSPRIN G2 011
MIKE Mcdonald eagle run • APRIL 16 www.oc.edu/eaglerun
OC CAGE CAMP • MULTIPLE SUMMER SESSIONS http://www.oceagles.com/summercamps
ARTS
A D MISSIONS
ATHLETI C S
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B AN D C ON C ERT • A p r i l 3 OR C HESTRA C ON C ERT • A p r i l 1 4 THEATRE PER F ORMAN C E • A p r i l 1 4 - 1 6 T h e L ov e o f T h re e O ra n g e s OPERA PER F ORMAN C E • A p r i l 1 7 Te n B r i d e s & N o G ro o m C HORALE C ON C ERT • A p r i l 2 1
C AMPUS C ONNEC T • M a rc h 2 5 , A p r i l 1 5
TRAC K & F IEL D • J a n u a r y - M ay G OL F • Fe b r u a r y - M ay SO F T B ALL • Fe b r u a r y - M ay TENNIS • Fe b r u a r y - M ay
The Ninth Annual Celebration
SPECIAL PRESENTATION:
Lee Allan Smith Spirit of Oklahoma Awards to Oklahoma City Mayors Mick Cornett, Kirk Humphreys and Ron Norick
For information on becoming an OC Associate, contact: Oklahoma Christian University Office of Advancement ph: 405.425.5102 email: associates@oc.edu Thank you for investing in Christian education!
THURSDAY APRIL 7 2011
KEYNOTE SPEAKER:
6:30 PM
• Academic All-American and team captain for three conference championship teams at Oklahoma Christian
PAYNE ATHLETIC CENTER OKLAHOMA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY
SHERRI COALE • Winner of 10 Big 12 championships as head women’s basketball coach for the University of Oklahoma • Coached the Sooners to three NCAA Final Fours and the 2002 national championship game • Won United Nations NGO Positive Peace Award after assisting aid efforts in Haiti after earthquake
aerie Archive
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A blast from the past
Spring Sing Highlights from the 1999 Spring Sing show.
Below: The men of Delta Gamma Sigma tried to chop through the competition with their lumberjack show.
Above: Aimee McBroom, Jayna Perry, Jason Carroll and Erick Alexander provide backup vocals.
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Above: Kappa’s rodeo cowboys rounded up the first-place trophy this year.
Above: The Sigma flowers bring in their bee buddy to help entertain the crowd.
Above: The Gamma Aliens conquered the fourth-place spot at this year’s show.
Above: The Lamda flamingos flew by the competition to take second place.
Above: The men of Chi Lambda Phi pulled out all their best gymnastics moves for their Scotsman show.
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BOX 11000 OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73136-1100 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
Visit www.oc.edu/alumni to update your name, address, email and other information.
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@okchristian on twitter A sampling of OC tweets from the spring semester.
oceagles: Congrats to Silas Kisorio for breaking his own school record in the mile with a 3:56.64 performance at the Tyson Invitational!!! Udining: http://t.co/Ny2HnO0. Arter cooking omelets in the Caf.
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spgoad: Boomer sooner! Congrats to @okchristian grad and OU coach Sherri Coale on her UN award before tonight’s game. #fb http://yfrog.com/h8f3psj
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merrydethg: We found this amazing igloo on @okchristian campus. Some people are just geniuses! #OCsnow http://bit.ly/ fxpIDL
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timhasabeard: Using the white board for noble purposes. http://twitpic.com/3psxvc // Lookin’ good Coach!
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JBinghamOC: Sing the @okchristian Alma Mater loud and proud tonight @OCEagles! Show the spirit; show the love! thedarinlee: @okchristian Spring Sing video blurb shoots start today! One down, 11 to go. :) http://twitpic.com/3ukvef
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okchristian: Oklahoma City, America’s winter wonderland. http://twitpic.com/3yckg2
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F OLLOW OC ONLINE at w w w.o c. e d u/CO N N EC T
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