Watco’s Michael Gray Recognized as Pitt State Outstanding Alumni Pittsburg State University (PSU) in Pittsburg,
projects with the university, such as the Robert W.
Kansas, has the honor of being the only university
Plaster Center (for sporting events and community
with a gorilla as its school mascot. Graduates of
functions) and Block22, a unique downtown area
the school take pride in this, and as Watco’s
which includes restaurants, student housing, and
Assistant General Counsel Michael Gray says,
meeting areas.
“Once a Gorilla, always a Gorilla.”
Gray has been active in the Pittsburg Area Young
The university recently turned the tables on
Professionals and Pittsburg Rotary, and he has
Gray though, showing their pride in him and his
supported and coached youth sports. He’s a
accomplishments by naming him a recipient of
member of several bar associations, railroad
the Dr. Kenneth K. Bateman Outstanding Alumni
associations, and the Christian Legal Society.
Award. A ceremony and reception recognizing Gray were held at the university October 15 as part of the school’s homecoming activities. After graduating from PSU with a bachelor’s degree in political science, international studies, and Spanish, and the University of Tulsa College of Law school, Gray returned to Pittsburg and joined the Watco team. His desire to serve the community he lived in led him to serve two terms on the Pittsburg City Commission and as mayor of the city. Improvements made during his tenure included upgrades in city infrastructure and major 12 The Dispatch | November 2021
Gray received his high school diploma from Colegio Americano de Puebla in Mexico, where he lived for 11 years as his parents were serving as missionaries. Gray said the advantage to attending PSU is that he didn’t feel like a number and the professors encouraged his success. He said, “That’s what makes Pitt State different from the larger universities. I’ve always considered myself a die-hard Gorilla. Just to be on a list of other Gorillas recognized at this level will be something that I will always cherish.”
