November 6 & 7, 2009

FALL 2009FALL

RROGERSOGERS SSTATETATE UUNIVERSITYNIVERSIT Y

Photo provided by Douglas Wittman RSU CENTENNIAL HOMECOMING – NOVEMBER 6 & 7, 2009

As the fall air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, thoughts on Friday evening there will be a Hillcat Spirit Bonfire followed by a cookout the Hill turn to the annual Hillcat Homecoming Celebration. This year’s and concert as we rally the Hillcat women's and men's basketball teams Homecoming will be extra special because it is the culminating event for for Saturday's big games. RSU's Centennial Celebration and will be held Friday, Nov. 6, and “The Centennial Hillcat Homecoming is a community celebration and we Saturday, Nov. 7. hope to see many returning alumni, faculty, students, staff and faculty as Homecoming will kick off with an Alumni Golf Tournament. This event well as community members at these events, capping off an exciting will be held at Heritage Hills Golf Course in Claremore and is an oppor- Centennial year,” said RSU President Dr. Larry Rice. tunity for participants to meet many of the Hillcat athletes while they sup- Saturday's Homecoming excitement will begin with tailgating outside of port RSU athletics. Team and hole sponsorships are still available and it the Claremore Expo Center before the basketball games to help get fans is not too late to register to play! Continued on page 12

BEATING THE ODDS STUDENT GOVERNMENT PRESIDENT JUGGLES FAMILY, STUDIES

Katie Navarro beat a lot more than an opponent to become Student family. It was then Navarro Government Association President; she beat the odds to become a suc- realized a college degree cessful student leader at RSU. was the answer. She earned her General Pregnant at age 16, Navarro dropped out of high school, married and Educational Development became a stay-at-home mom. During the next decade she focused on (GED) diploma and began raising her four boys. In 2005, she divorced her husband and struggled attending classes at RSU to find a way to support her young family. because it was close to With no high school diploma and no work history, finding a good job that home. could work around her sons' school schedule was nearly impossible. She Continued on page 9 realized she needed government assistance to house and feed her CLOCKWISE: A spectacular fireworks display over the Hill culminated the university's Birthday Celebration on March 25, 2009. CBS correspondent Jeff Greenfield provided a riveting lecture on the state of U.S. politics during the university's Birthday Celebration. Miss Oklahoma, Kelsey Cartwright, served as Marshal for the RSU Centennial Parade, which began at the Hill and continued down Will Rogers Blvd. through downtown Claremore. The University of Oklahoma, the governing board for RSU, held a meeting in the new Centennial Center on March 25, 2009 – the 100th anniversary of the university’s founding and the official date of the dedication of the new building. Standing are (from left) Regent Leslie Rainbolt-Forbes, M.D., Regent Richard Dunning, Regent Jon Stuart, Regent John Bell, M.D., and Regent Tom Clark. Seated are RSU President Dr. Larry Rice, Regent Larry Wade, Chairman A. Max Weitzenhoffer, and Dr. Chris Purcell, Executive Secretary of the Board of Regents, Vice President for University Governance, and Secretary of The University of Oklahoma, Cameron University, and Rogers State University. The Hillcat admires the three-tiered RSU birthday cake, which featured a gold dome on the top, at the university's Birthday Party.

PAGE 2 Centennial Celebration Surpasses All Expectations

The dedication and official opening of the beautiful new offered guests an opportunity to sample delicious fare from Centennial Center, a birthday cake topped with a gold dome, restaurants in Claremore, Pryor, and Bartlesville - RSU's home the university's first parade in recent history, a fascinating communities. And, of course, the gold-domed birthday cake glimpse into the inner workings of our nation's capitol, and of was cut by the university's regents, alumni, and other special course, a spectacular fireworks show! Who could forget the RSU friends of RSU. Birthday Celebration? It was a day to remember for the entire The party extended down the Hill as the RSU Centennial RSU family - students, faculty, and alumni. Parade began at the Claremore Expo Center and continued The Birthday Celebration was held on the 100th anniversary of on Will Rogers Blvd. through downtown Claremore. Carried the university's founding on March 25, 1909. That was when live on RSU Public Television, the parade was truly an old- Gov. Haskell signed legislation creating the School on the Hill - fashioned collection of area high school bands, floats made then known as Eastern University Preparatory School. by RSU student organizations, and appearances by RSU student-athletes, alumni from each era of the institution (OMA, “It's a day we won't soon forget,” said RSU President Dr. Larry CJC, RSC and RSU) and President Larry Rice and First Lady Rice. “By all accounts, I believe it surpassed everyone's expec- Peggy Rice. Miss Oklahoma Kelsey served as parade marshal, tations.” delighting children and guests who lined both sides of the The big day actually began before sunrise when students Boulevard. Did we mention the Hillcat marched as well? awoke early to put the finishing touches on their floats, and After a short break, CBS correspondent Jeff Greenfield Tulsa TV stations converged on the Hill to provide live coverage addressed guests at a special gathering of alumni and donors of the big day. in the Centennial Center. Then Mr. Greenfield provided a riv- The University of Oklahoma Board of Regents - the governing eting public lecture on the inner workings of our nation's board for RSU - held their first meeting in the impressive capitol before a large crowd in the Ballroom. Executive Board Room on the second floor of the Centennial The big day culminated with - what else? - a spectacular dis- Center. The distinguished, high-tech meeting room features a play of fireworks on the Hill. Visible for miles, the fireworks lit terrace with one of the best views on campus - Hart Lake and up the night sky above the Hill - above the iconic gold dome the university's beloved statue of Abraham Lincoln. of Preparatory Hall. By all accounts, the fireworks display, and A standing room-only crowd arrived later in the morning for an the Big Day, surpassed everyone's expectations. It was a day official dedication and opening ceremony for the Centennial to remember. Center. The ceremony featured a special tribute to the donors A few days later, RSU Public Television presented the pre- who helped make the building possible, an unveiling of a miere of its documentary “RSU: The First 100 Years” in the bronze plaque that now graces the building's exterior, and an historic Will Rogers Auditorium. essential ritual for the opening of any new building - the cere- monial cutting of a red ribbon. Next Centennial Event: RSU Homecoming, Nov. 6-7 (see p. 12 for details.) A Birthday Party - featuring a “Taste of the Hill” - was held in the Centennial Center following the ceremony. “Taste of the Hill”

PAGE 3 Members of the University of Oklahoma Board of Regents, the governing board for RSU, participated in the Investiture of RSU President Dr. Larry Rice last spring. At top, from left, are Regent Tom Clark; Dr. Chris Purcell, Executive Secretary of the Board of Regents, Vice President for University Governance, and Secretary of The University of Oklahoma, Cameron University, and Rogers State University; and Regent Jon Stuart. Below are Regent Max Weitzenhoffer and President Rice.

INVESTITURE HELD FOR DR. LARRY RICE, 14TH PRESIDENT OF RSU

Regent Julie Carson of Claremore offered greet- past presidents. Kaleb Woolever of Claremore, ings on behalf of the Oklahoma State Regents representing the RSU President's Leadership for Higher Education. Class, offered a salutation on behalf of the RSU student body. Scott Walton, a 1999 RSU gradu- “President Rice, I speak today for the State ate, provided greetings to the president on Regents. But I also speak as a resident of behalf of the institution's alumni. Walton serves Claremore. Welcome back home to Rogers as sheriff of Rogers County. State University,” Carson said. “We missed you while you were away. We look forward to many Dr. Paul Hatley, history professor and chairman years of working together to provide the highest of the RSU Faculty Senate, delivered a salutation quality education possible to the residents of on behalf of the university's faculty. northeast Oklahoma.” President Emeritus Dr. Richard Mosier, who was A bronze medallion - the official symbol of the president of Claremore Junior College and office of the president - was presented to Dr. Rogers State College from 1972 to 1995, also Rice by Regent A. Max Weitzenhoffer, chairman provided a salutation to the new president. of the University of Oklahoma Board of Regents, Dr. Larry Rice was formally invested as the 14th “President Rice, in your first year here, you've the governing board for RSU. president of Rogers State University during the stated that you envision Rogers State University RSU Baccalaureate Commencement and In addition, Regent Tom Clark and Regent Jon becoming the state's leading regional university. Investiture Ceremony last spring. Stuart, both of Tulsa, and members of the OU With all due respect to the other college presi- Board of Regents, participated in the event. dents in this room, I think that's a goal within The Investiture - a traditional academic ceremo- reach,” Dr. Mosier said. “It will require bold lead- ny officially commemorating the beginning of Dr. Glen D. Johnson, Chancellor of the ership and hard work, but Dr. Rice, I believe you the tenure of a new president - was an integral Oklahoma State System for Higher Education, are well-positioned to lead us there.” part of the commencement ceremony. provided the formal charge of office to Dr. Rice as the new president. Dr. Rice, who became president of RSU on July Dr. Richard Beck, RSU vice president for aca- 1, 2008, provided the Investiture and demic affairs, welcomed students, guests and Salutations were provided by representatives of Commencement address to graduates during participants at the Investiture and 97th the university's student body, faculty, alumni and the baccalaureate commencement ceremony. Commencement Ceremony.

PAGE 4 HILLPOST HITS THE NEWSSTANDS

part of campus life and we are pleased to have Bailey Dabney, publisher. “Nurturing a student the new Hillpost on campus.” newspaper such as this is part of the educational mission and community outreach of our local In the past, various student publications were daily newspaper.” published by Claremore Junior College and the Oklahoma Military Academy, the university's Advertising in the newspaper will be coordinat- predecessor institutions, but a student newspa- ed by advertising sales staff at the Progress and The first issue of Hillpost - the new RSU student per has not existed at the institution for many queries may be directed to (918) 341-1101. newspaper - hit newsstands in August. years. The editorial staff of the newspaper includes The monthly student-produced newspaper is The new publication is produced by the RSU Zachary Stoycoff of Claremore, editor; Jeanice not only distributed at various locations on all Student Newspaper Organization (SNO). Davis of Claremore, assistant editor; Bekah three RSU campuses - it's also inserted into the Warren of Claremore, features editor; and Tip Claremore Daily Progress, so area residents can “Members of the Student Newspaper Crowley of Tulsa, entertainment editor. remain apprised of what's happening at the uni- Organization are responsible for all aspects of versity. production, including conceptualization of arti- The Hillpost office is located in Room 202 of cles, interviewing, writing and design,” said Dr. Downs Hall on the RSU campus in Claremore. “This is the first time RSU has had an independ- Mary Mackie, associate professor of English, To submit story ideas, send an email to ent student newspaper on its campus in recent who serves as faculty advisor for the newspaper. [email protected]. history,” said RSU President Dr. Larry Rice. “A student newspaper is an important and integral “The Progress is gratified to be able to assist the university with this important project,” said

ENDOWED CHAIRS: ATTRACTING BEST AND BRIGHTEST FACULTY

A chair for most of us means comfort and rest, Last year, Dr. Thomas Carment was named to matched by the Oklahoma State Regents' but in higher education, a chair can mean the O.D. Mayor Endowed Chair at the RSU cam- Endowment Trust Fund for a total of $5 million. research, scholarship and an esteemed position pus in Pryor, and Dr. Vadym Kyrylov assumed The private contributions and state regents for faculty members whose achievements have the Sarkeys Endowed Chair in Business matching funds will establish the principal of the placed them at the pinnacle of their fields. Information Technology. endowments. The earnings on the endowments are utilized to recruit and retain qualified profes- The nation's best colleges and universities rou- The O.D. Mayor Endowed Chair was made pos- sors. tinely develop endowed faculty chair positions sible by the Oliver Dewey Mayor Foundation, to recruit and retain highly regarded professors. which provided a gift of $250,000, matched by RSU is no exception. A few years ago, the RSU the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Foundation launched its Campaign for Endowed Education to establish the chair. Chairs. Since then, the university has estab- “We firmly believe that bringing exceptionally lished five endowed chairs. qualified faculty to the RSU campus in Pryor “Competition for the best and brightest faculty is will serve as a catalyst for retaining our tal- intense nationwide,” said RSU President Dr. ented students, as well as drawing Larry Rice. “Not unlike the business community, new students to the area,” said which is committed to recruiting and retaining Dana Lamb, chairperson of the qualified, dedicated, and creative employees, Board of Directors of the RSU RSU is committed to developing a faculty body Foundation. with stellar credentials. And this translates into a RSU's endowed chairs also better education for our students.” include the Greg Kunz Endowed The first endowed chair position at RSU was the Chair in Communications and a John W. Norman Endowed Chair in Business developing chair in nursing. Information Technology, established in 2006. The RSU Foundation is currently The chair is filled by Dr. Peter Macpherson, who engaged in the Campaign for Endowed received advanced degrees in computer sci- Chairs, which will raise $5 million to ence from Lehigh University and whose aca- fund 10 endowed chairs for the univer- demic specialties include bioinformatics, parallel sity. The campaign's goal is to raise $2.5 algorithms, networks, modeling, programming million in private funds, which will be languages, and decision theory.

From left, Dr. Vadym Kyrylov, Dr. Thomas Carment (seated), and Dr. Peter Macpherson PAGE 5 RSU POSTS LARGEST NUMBER OF STUDENTS IN SCHOOL HISTORY

RSU announced the highest number of students in its history with 4,227 students enrolled for the fall semester, an increase of Dr. Richard Ronan poses with RSU graduate Livingstone Clarke and his family. Clarke, an RSU Online student, nine percent over last year. traveled to Claremore from New York City to attend the commencement ceremony. “Our record enrollment contributes to the historic significance of the university's Centennial RSU ONLINE GRADUATE TRAVELS year,” said RSU President Dr. Larry Rice. TO CLAREMORE FROM NEW YORK This fall, 349 more students enrolled at the university compared to last fall's enrollment of 3,878 students. In addition, the number of credit hours in which students are enrolled East Coast resident Livingstone Clarke was trying When Clarke, a 33-year-old New York native, increased by 10.8 percent, signaling more full- to tackle a lot at once, balancing a new job and first started his program he was working as a time students, Rice said. a new baby while going back to school and technician on the New York Stock Exchange earning his degree. Long hours at work, coupled trading floor. A few years and a few promotions RSU recorded major enrollment increases on with lots of late nights taking care of a newborn, later he now manages the maintenance of the each of its three campuses in Claremore, resulted in Clarke falling asleep during class. trading floor's information technology. Bartlesville and Pryor, as well as in its RSU Online program. He realized the situation was not working and Last spring, Clarke traveled to Claremore for the something would have to change. Clarke began university's 97th commencement ceremony. “It This fall, a total of 2,666 students enrolled on researching online degree programs and found is a very nice campus and it was very cool to the university's main campus in Claremore, a Rogers State University's online program. see where I have been attending,” he said. 7.3 percent increase over last fall. “RSU was a lifesaver; I could get through my RSU is a pioneer in distance learning and was The largest enrollment increase occurred at work on my time,” he said. “When I started eight the first public university in Oklahoma to offer the RSU campus in Pryor, where 273 students years ago there were not many online universi- bachelor and associate degrees entirely online. enrolled, a 47.6 percent increase over last fall's ties and I found RSU Online. The university total of 185 students. When taking into For more information about RSU offered the ideal degree that I was looking for.” account students who also take classes on the Online, call (918) 343-7726 or visit Claremore campus, 445 students are enrolled www.rsu.edu/rsuonline. in classes at the Pryor campus (duplicated enrollment), an increase of 35.7 percent. The Bartlesville campus posted a 3.2 percent increase, with a total of 391 students attending the Bartlesville campus exclusively, com- FALL 2009 Rogers State University, in compliance with pared to last fall's 379 students. Duplicated Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Published by Rogers State University, 1701 W. Executive Order 11246 as amended, Title IX of enrollment on the Bartlesville campus is 599 Will Rogers Blvd., Claremore, OK 74017. the Education Amendments of 1972, students, which includes students taking class- Produced by the Office of Public Relations. To Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and contact the editor, call (918) 343-7771 or other federal laws and regulations, does not es both in Bartlesville and at other RSU cam- send an email to: [email protected]. discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, or status puses. In addition, 355 students take classes Dr. Larry Rice ...... President as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or online exclusively in the Bartlesville area. Brent Ortolani . . . .Director of Public Relations procedures. This includes, but is not limited to Nicole Nascenzi .Public Relations Coordinator admissions, employment, financial aid, and Ryan Bradley . . . . .Sports Information Director educational services. This publication was The popular RSU Online program grew by 8.1 Kate Northcutt ...... Graphic Designer issued by Rogers State University. A total of Randy Riggs ...... Graphic Designer 12,000 copies have been printed at a cost of percent, with a total of 897 students this fall. $7,364.00. ROGERSROGERS STATESTATE UNIVERSITYUNIVERSIT Y

PAGE 6 CONSTITUTION AWARD PRESENTED TO JUDGE ROBERT HENRY

Chief Judge Robert This year, the Constitution Award assumed spe- In a public service career spanning nearly three Henry of the U. S. cial significance as RSU celebrates its decades, Judge Henry served in each branch of Court of Appeals for Centennial. government. From 1976 to 1986, he was a the 10th Circuit recent- member of the Oklahoma House of “We are proud and honored to present Chief ly was named the Representatives, chairing the Judiciary and Judge Robert Henry with this distinguished recipient of the Rogers Education Committees and the Majority Caucus. award during our 100th anniversary,” said State University RSU President Dr. Larry Rice. “As a life- He was elected Oklahoma Attorney General in Constitution Award. long public servant, he has diligently 1986. When he was re-elected in 1990, he Each fall since 1987, guarded the principles of the U.S. became the first Attorney General candidate RSU has presented the Constitution and has advanced the well- in the state's history to run unopposed. He Chief Judge Robert Constitution Award to being of the state of Oklahoma and our held the positions of Dean and Professor Henry, U.S. Court of an Oklahoman who nation through his service in the judiciary.” of Law at the Oklahoma City University Appeals for the 10th has demonstrated a School of Law from 1991 The award was presented to Judge Henry by Circuit strong commitment to until 1994. He Stratton Taylor, CJC Class of 1976. the principles of the was appointed to U.S. Constitution through his or her life's work. Past recipients of the RSU Constitution the United States The RSU Constitution Award was established in Award included members of the executive, Court of Appeals for the Tenth commemoration of the 200th anniversary of legislative and judicial branches of govern- Circuit in 1994 and became the adoption of the U.S. Constitution. ment, including OU President David Boren, Chief Judge in 2008. Gov. George Nigh, Gov. Henry Bellmon, and U.S. Speaker Carl Albert.

RSU A STATE LEADER IN SOCIAL MEDIA

Social media has become a buzzword as video and photos from those events to share businesses and organizations work to get on Flickr and Youtube. their metaphorical arms around the concept RSU is proud to be on the forefront of tech- of virtual networks, online communities and nology, and its online presence has been user-generated content. used as an example for other Oklahoma col- Although many of these concepts have been leges as they begin to test the virtual waters. around since the birth of the Internet some Other colleges and universities across the 40 years ago (think electronic bulletin boards state have sought RSU's advice on social and user groups), sites like the social network media implementation. In less than a week, Facebook, the photo-sharing site Flickr, the the RSU Hillcats page on Facebook video-sharing site YouTube and the text-mes- garnered more than 1,000 fans - sage based communication tool Twitter make to become the most popular page in the sharing content, opinions and media easy, Sooner Athletic Conference. even for the technically challenged. As part of the university's social media strate- RSU is a leader in social media and uses it gy, the RSU Office of Public Relations daily to effectively communicate with stu- launched a student blogger program featur- dents, prospective students, alumni, staff, fac- ing students studying abroad, participating in ulty and the community. Being active in the Washington Center Internship Program, social media enables RSU to add its voice to starting their university career, and preparing the online conversation and to share our for graduation. These blogs are well read on Hillcat spirit across the Web. With careful and off campus. research and planning, RSU launched To explore RSU's social media presence, visit Facebook and Myspace pages more than two www.rsu.edu and look for the links in the years ago and set up the university's own bottom left hand corner of the page. Youtube channel not long after. The university often uses Facebook and Twitter to promote events, and then takes

PAGE 7 RSU President Dr. Larry Rice and First Lady Peggy Rice (below, left) with members of the RSU President's Leadership Class on the steps of Central High School in Little Rock, Ark.

HISTORY AND LEADERSHIP ON THE ROAD: PLC TRAVELS FOCUS ON PRESIDENTS EISENHOWER AND CLINTON

In 1957, President School and the William J. Clinton Presidential the situation at Central High School helped Dwight D. Eisenhower Library and Museum. They were accompanied shape the civil rights views of President Clinton. placed the Arkansas by RSU President Dr. Larry Rice and First Lady “It was really an eye-opening experience,” said National Guard under Peggy Rice, Dr. Carolyn Taylor, PLC coordinator, Paula Blalock, RSU junior from Pryor. “Visiting federal control and and Stephany Foutch, RSU alumni director. the high school made it real for me - it is such sent Army troops to Before their trip, the students were assigned to an important part of our history.” escort nine black stu- read the book “Eisenhower Soldier and dents into the all-white The students also toured the Tyson Research President” by Stephen Ambrose. They also were Central high School in and Development Center in Springdale, Ark., required to write a paper on President Little Rock, Ark. The where the company develops and tests new Eisenhower's decision to send federal troops to decision - widely con- products. Tyson Foods, Inc., founded in 1935, is Dr. Carolyn Taylor, accompany the “Little Rock Nine” into the previ- sidered to be one of the world's largest processor and marketer of PLC Coordinator ously segregated high school. the most important chicken, beef and pork, and the second-largest events of the Civil “There's no better way to study leadership and food production company in the Fortune 500. Rights movement - was the centerpiece of this how major decisions are made than to visit his- The company also is the largest producer and year's annual trip of the RSU President's torical sites focusing on our nation's presidents,” marketer of pizza dough in the U.S. During the Leadership Class. said President Rice. tour, students learned about the global and domestic career opportunities available at Tyson. Each year, members of the President's In Little Rock, RSU students received a guided Leadership Class (PLC) make a journey to study tour of Central High School, where more than “The purpose of these adventures is not only to the leadership of our nation's presidents. 2,600 students attend classes today. They also study the leadership of our nation's presidents, visited the William J. Clinton Presidential Library but to provide a bonding experience for mem- This year, 42 PLC members journeyed to Little and Museum, where they viewed a film on how bers of the PLC,” Taylor said. Rock on a Hillcat bus to tour Central High

PAGE 8 Myeasha Craven, 2009 Upward Bound Bridge Student UPWARD BOUND STUDENTS REFURBISH HOME

High school students participating in the Upward Bound program at RSU recently part- nered with a Tulsa non-profit organization to Katie Navarro poses with her sons (from left to right) Kyle 15, Jake 8, A. J. 10, and Ryan 12. help restore a home in need of repair. RSU Upward Bound students assisted BEATING THE ODDS, Continued from page 1 volunteers from Rebuilding Tulsa Together in cleaning and painting a home in north Tulsa as part of their summer service learning project. Navarro relies on financial aid to attend college, “Katie is always a class leader - asking insightful receives full Pell grants and is the recipient of questions and making other students feel at "Projects like this help our students gain an the Sarkeys Foundation scholarship. ease through her sense of humor,” Clayton said. awareness of the needs of those around “She has set high professional goals for herself them, and provides them with hands-on expe- “The faculty and staff here are amazing and I and I have every confidence she will achieve rience on how to help meet those needs,” love being at a small campus,” she said. them.” said Corinice Wilson, RSU Executive Director Balancing a full course load, a campus job and of TRIO Programs. Navarro excels out of the classroom activities with the needs of four boys ranging in Upward Bound is a six-week summer program age from 8 to 15 is not easy. Navarro said her “As a student leader Katie has demonstrated a at RSU for area high school students who are key to success was getting involved on campus. passion for helping students, the University, and from low-income households or households Through her involvement on campus, she was the community. As SGA President she will stop where neither parent has a post-secondary able to develop a support network of students, at nothing to make sure the voices of the stu- education. staff, and faculty. dents at RSU are heard,” said B.J. Armstrong, student activities coordinator. RSU has served more than 1,000 high school Dr. Diana Reynolds Clayton, associate professor, students from northeast Oklahoma through its said that Navarro provides a good example for Navarro said she is looking forward to serving as Upward Bound program since 1980. RSU also other students with family responsibilities. the president of the Student Government hosts other federal TRIO programs including Association this year and hopes to get more “The maternal instinct to take care of my boys the Educational Opportunity Center and RSU students involved in campus activities. keeps me on my A game – failure is not an Educational Talent Search. option,” Navarro said. “The most exciting thing is realizing that I can do Rebuilding Together is a nationwide volunteer anything that I put my mind to,” she said. She will graduate in May with a bachelor of sci- organization that preserves and revitalizes low ence in criminal justice and hopes to work for income homes and communities. the government or possibly go to law school after graduation.

PAGE 9 Hill Shorts

including organizational leadership and business An acclaimed documentary host and producer, RSU NAMES BIT BY information technology, with options in software network and major market news anchor, and BIT DIRECTOR development and multimedia and computer net- multimedia production company president, work administration. Kurtis is celebrating his 40th anniversary in broadcasting this year. Jennifer England has “RSU has been steadfastly committed to control- been named director of ling the cost of tuition and fees for students who Kurtis provided the narration for a recent docu- the RSU Bit by Bit study on campus and online,” said RSU mentary program on the history of RSU, titled Therapeutic Horse Riding President Dr. Larry Rice. “So it comes as no sur- “Rogers State University: The First 100 Years,” Program. prise that RSU's online degrees are among the produced by RSU Public Television. most affordable in the nation.” The Bit by Bit program Raised in Independence, Kan., just an hour north provides horse riding GetEducated.com is a consumer group in Essex of the RSU campus in Bartlesville, Kurtis recently therapy for people with Junction, Vt., that rates and ranks online colleges parodied himself in a series of popular commer- special needs at the RSU for cost and credibility. cials for AT&T touting the speed of his Internet Equestrian Center, located south of Oologah. connect card. “RSU's online campus is a gem of affordability in England has an extensive background in equine these tough economic times,” said Vicky Philips, therapy as well as in higher education. founder of GetEducated. RSU TO OFFER She is certified as a therapeutic riding instructor The average national cost of an online business by the North American Riding for the bachelor's degree is $43,241, according to CHINESE LANGUAGE Handicapped (NARHA.) GetEducated.com. IN BARTLESVILLE England previously served as a certified instruc- “The RSU Online degree program costs almost tor at the Michigan Abilities Center in Ann Arbor, $20,000 less than the national average for an Intensive eight-week classes in the Chinese lan- Mich., where she taught horsemanship to riders online business degree,” said Philips. “That's an guage (Mandarin dialect) are being offered at of all ages with special needs, developed goals amazing cost savings.” RSU in Bartlesville. and designed lesson plans for each rider, worked with parents, teachers and therapists, and provid- “Mandarin is the most commonly spoken lan- ed training for other instructors, among other JOURNALIST guage in the world,” said Dr. Gregory Thompson, duties. head of the RSU Department of English and BILL KURTIS VISITS Humanities. “Considering our close economic England also served as equine program director ties to China, many business professionals will at the Michigan Abilities Center – supervising THE HILL benefit from learning the Chinese language.” the care of the center's horses, planning the The university is offering Chinese I, a beginning conditioning and training of the horses, training Nationally rec- class focusing on understanding and speaking volunteers as horse handlers and side walkers, ognized journal- Mandarin, and Chinese II, which offers an deciding the appropriate horse and tack for each ist Bill Kurtis - expanded vocabulary and an introduction of rider and ensuring that safety precautions were former CBS more complex sentence structures. Both classes taken for riders, volunteers, families and horses. news anchor include an exploration of Chinese culture. The who is most instructor is Jan Yang, who lives in Bartlesville. recently known for hosting the The classes are open to students at Bartlesville ONLINE BUSINESS A&E Network High School, business professionals, and other DEGREE RANKED series "Cold members of the community, Thompson said. Case Files" and RSU also offers classes in Spanish, French and 'TOP 10 BUY' "American German on its campus in Claremore, and antici- Justice" - spoke pates adding classes in Italian next spring, to students and Rogers State University's online bachelor degree Thompson said. in organizational leadership was ranked among faculty this fall about his career in the media. His the Top 10 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's appearance was sponsored by RSU Public For more information on enrolling in the Chinese Degrees in the nation by GetEducated.com. Television. language classes at RSU in Bartlesville, call (918) 338-8000. RSU offers four bachelor degrees completely via Kurtis also taped a segment of the “Perspectives” the Internet through the RSU Online program, series with Sam Jones at RSU Public Television and attended an event at the Will Rogers Memorial and Museum in Claremore.

PAGE 10 Hill Shorts

In the college guide, RSU was named one of the RSU ALUMNI HEAD RSU THEATRE top five baccalaureate colleges with the highest TO MEDICAL SCHOOL TACKLES THE BARD, level of racial diversity in 13 western U.S. states. AND MORE Thirty percent of RSU students identified them- Three graduates of the selves as having a Native American background, RSU bachelor degree which contributed to the univer program in biology were This month, RSU Theatre accepted into the Doctor will present the premiere of Osteopathy program of “Quietly Standing in RSU EXPANDS at Oklahoma State the Shade” an original University College of play by Oklahoma play- NURSING PROGRAM Osteopathic Medicine wright Judy Lee Oliva. IN BARTLESVILLE this fall. “Quietly Standing in the Isaac Dennis That's a 100 percent Shade” is a contempo- rary, dramatic story of the In response to the critical shortage of registered acceptance rate for RSU David Blakley, RSU nurses in northeast Oklahoma and southern pre-med graduates - the Theatre Director Turner family, whose lives are interrupted by per- Kansas, RSU offers nursing education programs highest in the state, on its Claremore and Bartlesville campuses. according to Dr. Keith sonal loss, a fire and the arrival of a mysterious Martin, Dean of the RSU woman. “As they stand in the charred remains of RSU offers its Associate Degree Nursing Program School of Mathematics, a small Episcopal church, the family struggles, Bridge Option in Bartlesville and Claremore. Science, and Health both physically and mentally, and provides the The program is designed for paramedics and Sciences. audience with a view of life in America during the licensed practical nurses to “bridge” into present-day recession,” said David Blakely, RSU registered nursing. After completing the bridge “RSU was the only uni- theatre coordinator. program, students will be qualified to take their Thalia Douglas versity in the state to registered nursing (R.N.) licensure exams. have all of its applicants The play will be presented at 7:07 p.m. Friday accepted into the D.O. program at OSU this and Saturday, Oct. 23-24; at 2:07 p.m. Sunday, The Bartlesville campus recently added seven year,” Martin said. “We are very proud of that dis- Oct. 25; at 7:07 Thursday, Oct. 29; and at 2:07 new instructional classrooms and two science tinction.” p.m. Sunday, Nov. 1, in the Black Box Theatre of labs to support the program. the Robson Performing Arts Center in Claremore. RSU alumni Isaac Dennis, Thalia Douglas, and Just a few weeks later, RSU Theatre will present Students who are not LPNs or paramedics com- Becky Thrun were all accepted into the OSU plete their first year of the two-year Associate in medical program. Beth Henley's Pulitzer Prize-winning play “Crimes of the Heart” - a story about three sisters reunit- Applied Science Nursing degree program in RSU is gaining quite a reputation for preparing ed in their grandfather's home after the youngest Claremore and then may choose to complete pre-med students for the rigors of medical sister shoots her husband. the second year in either Claremore or school, Martin said. Bartlesville. “Crimes of the Heart” will be presented at 7:07 “RSU has become the 'institution of choice' for p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 13-14, in the Will In addition to clinical rotation sites in the preparation of medical school candidates,” Rogers Auditorium on the RSU campus in Northeastern Oklahoma, RSU officials hope to Martin said. “In fact, the state's medical schools Claremore add some clinical rotation locations in Southern often recommend that undergraduates attend Kansas in the near future, said Nancy Diede, RSU for their pre-med studies.” Coming this spring: William Shakespeare's head of the RSU Department of Health Sciences. “Midsummer Night's Dream.” For more information on RSU's burgeoning pre- Students who complete the Associate in Applied med program, call (918) 343-7635. Science Nursing degree and obtain their regis- sity's high ranking in this category. tered nurse licensure also will be eligible to apply RSU RANKED FOR to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree RACIAL DIVERSITY program at RSU's Claremore campus. For more information on the RSU nursing RSU was ranked among the top five baccalaure- program, including entrance requirements, appli- ate colleges in the western U.S. and the only cation process, advising and enrollment, call Oklahoma institution in the category of racial (918) 343-7635 for the Claremore campus and diversity by U.S. News and World Report. The (918) 338-8000 in Bartlesville. magazine recently released its 2010 edition of “America's Best Colleges.”

PAGE 11 HOMECOMING, Continued from page 1

fueled up before the Hillcats take to the court. This year, the pre-game fun will include an Alumni Tailgate. There is a special package offer for RSU Alumni in honor of the Centennial Celebration. The Alumni Homecoming Package includes a Centennial Homecoming T-shirt, Tailgate Lunch Ticket, Alumni Section basketball game ticket for both games, and a one-year membership to the RSU Alumni Association for $20 (a $55 value!) The third season of Hillcat Basketball promises to be a big one. Last year the men's basketball team finished the season by winning the Sooner Athletic Conference tournament and ranking No. 1 in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics National Coaches' Poll. The women's basketball program also made great strides and has plans for a winning season this year. The RSU women start at 2 p.m. and the men begin their game at 4 p.m. at the Claremore Expo Center.

More information about Hillcat Homecoming is available by calling (918) 343-7803 or visiting http://www.rsu.edu/homecoming

“The CLAW!” We hope to see you there. Go Hillcats!

PAGE 12 HOMECOMING EVENT SCHEDULE

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6 ALUMNI GOLF TOURNAMENT 11:30 a.m. - registration and lunch 12:30 p.m. - shotgun start Sponsorship Levels • Hillcat- $3000 Admits two teams of four, recognition in news releases, name on main event banner, and premier tee box signage at two key holes individually • Red- $1200 Admits one team of four, recognition in news releases, and tee box signage at four holes with other Red sponsors • White- $600 Admits one team of four, signage at three holes with other White sponsors, and recognition in news releases • Blue- $200 Admits one team of four and signage at one hole with other Blue sponsors Hole sponsorships are also available for $100.

HILLCAT SPIRIT BONFIRE Bonfire will be at 7:30 p.m North of the campus apartments Join RSU students, alumni and friends to show your support for Hillcat Basketball before Saturday's big games. The final- ists for RSU’s first-ever Homecoming King and Queen will be announced. A cookout and concert will follow the bonfire.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7 RSU ALUMNI TAILGATE Outside of the Claremore Expo Center 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Registration is $20 which includes a Centennial Homecoming T-shirt, Tailgate Lunch Ticket, Alumni Section basketball game ticket to both games, and one-year membership to the RSU Alumni Association (a $55 value!)

HILLCAT WOMEN'S BASKETBALL 2:00 p.m.

HILLCAT MEN'S BASKETBALL 4:00 p.m. RSU’s first-ever Hillcat Homecoming King and Queen will be announced during half-time of the men’s game.

For more information about any of the Homecoming events, to become a tournament sponsor, or to register for the tournament or the Alumni Tailgate Package, call (918) 343-7803 or send an email to [email protected]

PAGE 13 RSU CLASSROOM EXTENDS AROUND THE GLOBE

Michael had the opportunity to explore Europe ture. In Montone, a medieval village in central during the semester and another RSU student, Italy, eight students participated in art classes Brian Lunk, plans study at Swansea University taught by RSU professors Bryce Brimer and this spring. Denny Schmickle, and by Rebecca Bacchetti, a Montone-based artist and the program's on-site This past summer found RSU students in Italy, coordinator. South Korea and Chicago. Back on U.S. soil, Professors Dr. David Blakely Dr. Jae-Ho Kim, associate professor of biology, and Dr. Gregory J. Thompson took five students traveled with three students to Hannam to Chicago for the summer intersession as part University in South Korea for a three-week pro- of a program designed to expose students to gram. Once there, the RSU students were urban landscapes and a wide range of cultural joined by nine Korean students for a course on RSU student Nadiya Kyrylova poses in front of an opportunities. ancient king's burial mounds in South Korea. bioethics taught in English by Kim, a Korean native. RSU students also participated in the These academic adventures are in addition to university's Korean Summer Study program, RSU's long-standing participation in The RSU students continue to span the globe and learning about the country's culture, history and Washington Center, a nationally-recognized traverse the nation in their pursuit of higher language. In addition to their coursework, the internship program that places students with education. students traveled to the Demilitarized Zone, a private, public and nonprofit organizations in Hyundai auto factory, the Wolsung Nuclear Washington, D.C. Last spring Nick Michael became the second Powerplant and the city of Seoul. RSU student to study at Swansea University in Each semester, RSU students blog about their Wales under a program established by the For the second consecutive year, art students international and domestic experiences. To learn Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. traveled to Italy to learn about Italian art and cul- about the students' experiences in their own words visit: http://www.rsu.edu/blogs/.

Zack Stoycoff Senior, Liberal Arts major Founder and Editor, Hillpost, RSU student newspaper

Interesting fact: Zack is a vegan (consumes no “I've always known I wanted to be a newspaper animal products) and has been a vegetarian reporter. I never really considered another since the age of six career. When I came to RSU, I was disappointed that the university didn't have a student-run Hobbies: Reading; writing fiction, short sto- newspaper. So I began talking to faculty mem- ries, and poetry; playing basketball at the bers and the administration. They agreed that Expo Center RSU needed a student newspaper. I was thrilled Favorite Hangout: coffee shops when we received approval to establish the newspaper and Dr. (Mary) Mackie was named Future Plans: to work as a reporter and editor our faculty advisor. I'm honored to serve as the at a daily newspaper, earn a master's degree, first editor of the Hillpost.” become a novelist, and perhaps teach at the college level For more information on the Hillpost, see story on page five.

A Hillcat Hero is a member of the RSU community (students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends) who embodies what it means to be a Hillcat. A Hillcat Hero is a person with an enthusiastic, determined and bold spirit who inspires pride in RSU. Do you know a Hillcat Hero? If so, please email [email protected] and explain why your nominee should be considered a Hillcat Hero.

PAGE 14 CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION: 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF FIRST DAY OF CLASSES

RSU President Dr. Larry Rice; Kellye Shuck, princi- Choctaw Ave. in Claremore, site of the old pal of Claremont Elementary School; Mike Claremont School where E.U.P.S. first held class- McClaren, Superintendent of the Claremore Public Schools; and Dr. Bob Blackburn, Executive es in 1909. Director of the Oklahoma Historical Society The site recently received official historic desig- stand under the new historical marker sign at nation by the Oklahoma Historical Society. the Claremont Elementary School in Claremore - the original site of the Eastern University “RSU has a glorious and interesting history as Preparatory School. many of us have learned over the course of this Centennial year,” said RSU President Dr. Larry Roger State University recently celebrated the Rice. “One of our most important milestones - 100th anniversary of the first day of classes at the first day of classes - occurred on this site Eastern University Preparatory School (E.U.P.S.) 100 years ago.” - its founding institution - with a ceremony and Mike McClaren, Superintendent of the installation of a historic marker sign. Claremore Public Schools, and Kellye Shuck, The ceremony was held on the front lawn of Principal of Claremont Elementary School, also Claremont Elementary School at 7th St. and participated in the ceremony.

THE STORY OF E.U.P.S.

tution, which was named grow, reaching a peak of 468 students in 1916, Eastern University Preparatory including 243 girls and 225 boys, and 21 facul- School. ty members (11 men and 10 women.) EUPS also had a successful football team. On March 25, 1909, Oklahoma Gov. Charles Two future Oklahoma Supreme Court justices, Haskell signed legislation cre- Wayne Bayless and N.B. Johnson, were mem- ating the new school in bers of the successful EUPS football teams. Claremore, which would pro- Preparatory Hall still stands as an icon on the Hill vide the last two years of high and is listed on the National Register of Historic school and first two years of Places. EUPS, however, had a brief life, passing college to the sons and from the scene in 1917. Playwright Lynn Riggs - The Eastern University Preparatory Academy daughters of area farmers and ranchers and one of Claremore's favorite sons - was among was founded in 1909 - two years after Native Americans in northeast Oklahoma. 22 members of the final EUPS graduating class Oklahoma Territory and Indian Territory were EUPS officially opened its doors on Sept. 5, in 1917. combined by an act of the U. S. Congress to cre- 1909 (the first day of classes was Sept. 14), ate the 46th state. Because there were few Two years later, the Oklahoma Military Academy offering classes ranging from railway accounting public high schools in the two territories, would open in 1919, enjoying a long and storied to ancient languages. The school's first president Oklahoma had a need for state-supported history. was Dr. Edmund Dandridge Murdaugh. Classes preparatory schools, which prepared students to were initially held in the Claremont Building, The original Claremont School was demolished study at a four-year college or university. which was owned by the Claremore Public and replaced with a new elementary school Leading the effort to establish the new school Schools and previously served as the home of building in 1938. The most recent iteration of was A.L. Kates, editor of the Claremore Daily Claremore High School. During that first year, 14 the Claremont legacy - Claremont Elementary Progress, and Rep. C.S. Wortman, who repre- students attended the new school. School - was built on the site in 1987 and con- sented Rogers County in the Oklahoma House tinues operation today, serving students in The next year, in 1910, EUPS moved to of Representatives. kindergarten through the fourth grade. Preparatory Hall, a new building on College Hill, While Holdenville and Atoka were both candi- west of Claremore. Dr. J.H. Bayes became pres- dates as sites for the new school, Claremore ident in 1911 and Stephen M. Barrett was COMING IN 2010: was selected as the official site of the new insti- named president in 1913. EUPS continued to Preparatory Hall Turns 100!

PAGE 15 FORMER U.S. AMBASSADOR AND CONGRESSMAN TO PRESENT MEYER LECTURE NOV. 13

James R. Jones - former Jones' practice focuses on international trade, Maurice Meyer was a member of Company A, U.S. Ambassador to investment and commerce, business-govern- 357 Regiment. He served with distinction as an Mexico and member of ment relations and financial services. A former officer of the 90th Division during the St. Mihiel the U.S. House of U.S. Ambassador and Member of the U.S. campaign in France during World War I. He was Representatives - will House of Representatives, Mr. Jones has also killed by German shrapnel on Sept. 23, 1918. provide the 10th worked extensively with global distribution and He died the following day and was accorded a annual Maurice Meyer marketing organizations targeting Latin America, hero's funeral in Tulsa on May 3, 1922. Distinguished Endowed Asia, and the Middle East. In 1920 the first barracks were built on the cam- Lecture on Friday, Nov. Jones was only 28 when President Lyndon pus of the Oklahoma Military Academy (RSU's 13, at Rogers State James R. Jones Johnson selected him as Appointments predecessor institution). The building was University. Secretary, the position presently entitled Chief named the Maurice Meyer Barracks in honor of The luncheon and lecture will be in the of Staff. He was the youngest person in history Oklahoma's fallen war hero. Today, the same Centennial Center Ballroom with more than to hold this position. building, now Meyer Hall, houses the RSU 100 RSU students invited to attend, along with administrative offices and the Oklahoma Military The Maurice Meyer Endowed Lectureship was community, education and business leaders. Academy Museum. established at RSU in 1999 as a tribute to Sgt. “We are pleased to have a distinguished former Maurice Meyer by his nephew, the late Irvin For more information, call the RSU Office of U.S. Ambassador and Congressman deliver the Frank, who lived in Tulsa. Development at (918) 343-7773. Meyer lecture on the RSU campus,” said RSU President Dr. Larry Rice.

RECORD NUMBER OF ALUMNI RETURN FOR OMA REUNION

the outset of the ceremony and fired three vol- leys in tribute to those who died this past year. The cadets were under the direction of Commander Murry Estabrook and Chief Petty Officer David Jasper. Four outstanding alumni were honored during the Hall of Fame and Distinguished Alumni ceremony in the Will Rogers Auditorium. The traditional reunion event also recognized the 10 OMA alumni supporters who funded the nam- Left, this year's OMA Distinguished Alumni are Tom Anderson ('55) of Olympia, Wash., who served two con- ing of the OMA Student Lounge located in the secutive years as the reunion adjutant; Dr. William Daugherty ('65) of Savannah, Ga.; and Dr. Ralph Centennial Center. The lounge includes photos Kennedy (Ken) Johnston ('61) of Belen, N.M. Johnston helped train the first moon landing crews on how to and memorabilia, along with background infor- fly Lunar Module spacecraft. Daugherty is a 17-year highly decorated veteran officer of the Central Intelligence Agency. He was abducted in 1979 during the Iran Crisis and held prisoner for 444 days along mation regarding the more than five-decade with 51 other hostages. history of OMA on The Hill. Right, The Hall of Fame honoree at the 2009 OMA Reunion was Hugh Miller ('53). Miller retired following a OMA Alumni are significant supporters of RSU. long and distinguished career in the global chemical and pharmaceutical industries. They have established a series of decade scholarship endowments which benefit today's stu- More than 166 Oklahoma Military Academy The event included a Memorial Ceremony, dents, along with the Oklahoma Military Alumni, former cadets who attended classes where cadets who were lost in wars and died of Museum Endowment which is designed to and military training on The Hill from 1935 to natural causes were honored and remembered. assist with the operation of the OMA Museum 1971, were on campus June 6-7 for their annu- A highlight of this year's ceremony was a drill located on the second floor of historic Meyer al reunion. It was one of the largest gatherings presentation by Claremore High School Navy Hall (the first cadet barracks on campus, circa of former students on the campus since the Junior ROTC cadets. They also raised the flag at 1920.) institution became a four-year regional university in 1999.

PAGE 16 From left, Hannah Hines, Victoria Mitchell, Claudia Sanders, Frank Sanders, Robin Sanders, Wanda Sanders, Tatum Sanders, and Taylor Sanders.

BOOTS, BBQ AND BOOGIE SUPPORTS BIT-BY-BIT COMMUNITY SUPPORTS This year's Boots, BBQ and Boogie raised mote physical and mental health for children BARTLESVILLE $53,670 for the RSU Bit-by-Bit Therapeutic and adults with special needs through horse- Horse Riding Program - $7,000 more than last back riding. CAMPUS year's event. Stephanie Felkins served as event chair, Leslie For a second year, the popular event was held Westfall was auction chair, and Scott Epperson at the historic Cain's Ballroom in Tulsa. The was food and beverage chair. Event committee Private support has made a difference at the evening featured a barbeque, silent and live members included Sheila Bond, Martha King- RSU campus in Bartlesville - ensuring that the auctions, and live music by Paul Bogart's Clark, Ingrid Lobaugh, Tonni Harrald, Pam campus continues to grow and prosper. Western Band. Travis Meyer, meteorologist with Switala, Trista Milliman, Joletta Spurlock and KOTV Channel 6, served as the emcee. Megan Hart. The Bartlesville campus has continued to experience rapid growth - with more students, The Bit-by-Bit program operates at the RSU Major sponsors included, at the Wranglers Level, new programs, and better facilities. Enrollment Equestrian Center, located five miles south of Overhead Door Company of Tulsa, Inc., George has continued to steadily grow at the campus. Oologah and two miles north of Collinsville on Kaiser Family Foundation, and Will Rogers U.S. Highway 169. Masonic Lodge No. 53; at the Rogers Level, the Much of that growth has been made possible Hille Foundation and Pelco Structural, L.L.C.; and by the generosity of individuals, foundations, Bit-by-Bit is a cooperative program between at the Rustlers Level, Bourland Interests. and corporations in the Bartlesville area. RSU and Oologah-Talala Public Schools to pro- Recent gifts have made possible the renova- tion of the sixth floor, including two science labs, two nursing labs, classrooms, and faculty offices. In addition, private support has assist- leadership from Arkansas State University in ed in the addition of new programs in busi- Jonesboro. “Thanks to the solid educational ness and nursing, in addition to curriculum foundation from my professors at RSC, I have enhancement and scholarships. CLASS been able to reach my educational goals.” Donors providing major gifts for the NOTES Dorothy (Dee) Ordiway Whitson, '01, Bartlesville campus include ConocoPhillips, earned a B.S.N. from Kaplan University, and is Chapman Foundation, Jane Phillips Medical working on a master's degree from Kaplan. “I Center, AEP/PSO, Barry and Karen Lowe, Lyon Gary Moutray, '79, A.A., works for the U.S. have a great foundation for my career and Foundation, SAP America, Inc., 66 Federal Postal Service in Tulsa. education thanks to RSU.” Credit Union, Bartlesville Community Sharon Walker Yates-Ward, '87, A.A., Foundation, and many other individuals. Let us know about new developments in Business Administration, received a bachelor your life, such as a job or board position, “These are true partners in education and degree in business administration from the marriage, children, or anything that you through their generosity, we are able to offer University of the Ozarks in Clarksville, Ark., a would like to tell us about. first-class facilities and programs on the master's degree in educational leadership Bartlesville campus,” said RSU President Dr. Reach us online at from Harding University in Searcy, Ark., and is Larry Rice. working on a specialty degree in educational www.rsu.edu/alumni-friends/classnotes

PAGE 17 Attending the President’s Associates Dinner included members Bill and Lou Flanagan, Lindel and Janette Stephens, and Mary Faulkner.

HILLTOPPER TRADITION CONTINUES WITH PRESIDENT'S ASSOCIATES 'DENIM & DIAMONDS' NETS RSU President Larry Rice and First Lady Peggy opment of the program to support RSU as $45,000 FOR Rice welcomed the 2009 President's Associates Oklahoma's newest regional university. Faulkner to campus this summer as part of the is the daughter of the late Col. John Horne (the SCHOLARSHIPS Centennial Celebration. last Oklahoma Military Academy president). “While the President's Associates may have only Other charter members who continue to be become officially recognized at RSU less than active include J.D. Basler, Ron and Danette More than 350 RSU alumni and community nine years ago, the concept of organized sup- Boyle, Ray and Lissa Brown, John and Bobbie members - decked out in western attire and port for higher education on The Hill is actually Cary, Tom and Hilary Clark, Bud and Margaret “bling” - attended “Denim and Diamonds,” the over 100 years old,” Rice told the dinner audi- Inhofe, Jan and Paige Miller, Jim and Norma fifth annual RSU Foundation Scholarship ence. “The original Associates at this institution Morrison, Jack and Mary Lee Spinks, Lindel and Auction and Dinner. For the first time, the were known as the Hilltoppers. The Hilltoppers Janette Stephens, Tom and Andrea Volturo, and event was held in the new Centennial Center were local business and political leaders who Mike and Heather Tedford. on the RSU campus. put their money and voice to work to bring Membership in the President's Associates pro- higher education opportunities to Claremore in Guests bid on a variety of live and silent auc- gram is based on an annual financial commit- 1909.” tion items provided by area merchants and ment, which provides ongoing support for university supporters, ranging in value from $5 The new President's Associates program was RSU's academic and scholarship programs. For to $4,000. Auctioneers for this year's event launched in 2002. Thirteen charter members more information on membership, contact the were Rick Reimer and Curt Spurlock. Dusty were recognized during the event, including RSU Office of Development at (918) 343-7773. Mangrum was the lucky winner of the $5,000 Mary Faulkner, who was instrumental in devel- cash giveaway.

Denim & Diamond Sponsors Half Carat Sponsors: Wal-Mart of Claremore, BERNSEN FOUNDATION BOOSTS WIRELESS ConocoPhillips, HydroHoist Marine Group, GOAL RCB Bank, Randy and Jean Foutch, and Jack and Bobbye Mooney Quarter Carat Sponsors: J & J Pharmacy and A grant from the Grace and Franklin Bernsen RSU President Dr. Larry Rice. “That kind of sup- Gifts, Jack and Mary Lee Spinks, Jim and Foundation will allow RSU to take the next step port gets to the core of the educational endeav- Ronnie Swank, Terra Nitrogen-Verdigris Plant, toward becoming completely wireless on the or.” 1st Bank Oklahoma, Lafarge Tulsa, Trust Claremore campus. Company of Oklahoma and RSU Public The Centennial Center and Stratton Taylor Television The Bernsen Foundation, founded in 1968 in Library have already been added to the wireless Tulsa, supports religious, charitable, scientific, grid, Rice said. Net proceeds from this year's event exceeded literary or educational organizations. The founda- $45,000 and will be utilized exclusively to tion, a longtime supporter of RSU, recently pro- The Pryor and Bartlesville campuses are also provide scholarships benefiting students vided $50,000 to bring wireless Internet con- wireless, thanks to the generosity of several pri- attending all three RSU campuses. Nearly nectivity to Preparatory and Herrington Halls on vate donors in those communities. $210,000 has been raised at this annual the Claremore campus. “We are making great strides toward our goal of event to date, said Tonni Harrald, RSU director of development. “The Bernsen Foundation is truly making online creating a virtual education community on all research more convenient for our students,” said three campuses,” Rice said.

PAGE 18 FORMER FACULTY REUNITE TO REACH ALUMNI RSU President Dr. Larry Rice (right) and Sherry Alexander, director of the RSU Pryor campus, present Charles Jordan, administrator of INTEGRIS Mayes County Medical Center, a copy of “100 Years on The Hill,” the RSU Centennial history book, in recognition of INTEGRIS' $10,000 gift for refurbishment of the science laboratory on the Pryor campus. What better way to reach alumni than to ask their former teachers? That's just what the RSU Alumni Association PRYOR CAMPUS EXPANSION RESULTS IN did recently when they arranged a gathering MAJOR ENROLLMENT SURGE of former RSU faculty and staff members. The faculty members were asked to go through old yearbooks from Claremore Junior College and Rogers State College, A major expansion of the RSU campus in Pryor Harris, Jim and Kay Harrison, John and Becki designating former students who they has led to a surge in enrollment. Hawkins of Integrated Insurance Inc., Blaine and thought might be interested in returning for Margaret Jones, Nash and Dana Lamb, Larry the university's Centennial Homecoming on Last spring, the university completed a $1.3 mil- and Peggy Rice, Jack and Mary Lee Spinks, Jim Nov. 6-7. lion, 7,400-square-foot expansion project that and Ronnie Swank, Pryor Mayor Jimmy Tramel, doubled the size of the campus, including new Burl and Janice Trickett, Nick and Becky Participating were former faculty members classrooms, computer labs, and commons area Vandervoort, Carlene Webber, and Merideth Jane Duff, Eldon Hallum, Luther Martin, and for students. Yoakum. June Purdom, and RSU President Emeritus Dr. Richard Mosier. Dr. Tobie Titsworth, vice This fall, enrollment increased at the campus by Enrollment during the last two semesters has president of student affairs, and Alan 47 percent. increased significantly at the Pryor campus and Lawless, director of the Stratton Taylor Library the expansion is largely responsible for that “We are proud of the beautiful new addition to - long-time RSU staff members - assisted the growth, said Sherry Alexander, director of the the RSU campus in Pryor and very grateful to group. everyone who helped make this major expan- RSU Pryor campus. “It was an opportunity to re-engage former sion project a reality,” said RSU President Dr. “A gift from the INTEGRIS Mayes County faculty members with the life of the univer- Larry Rice. “Our mission all along has been to Medical Center allowed us to upgrade our sci- sity,” said Stephany Foutch, RSU alumni expand the availability of higher education in ence labs, enabling us to offer chemistry class- director. Mayes County and this new wing is a major es for the first time,” Alexander said. “The stride toward that goal.” expansion, made possible by the generosity of The faculty members developed a list of Funding for the project was provided by a our donors, has resulted in more classrooms, approximately 50 past students who they $750,000 state higher education bond issue better technology, more classes, and ultimately, deemed most likely to express an interest in and a $300,000 grant from The Oliver Dewey more students.” attending homecoming festivities. The RSU Alumni Association and RSU Office of Mayor Foundation, in combination with Several new classes have been added including Alumni Relations then began contacting $250,000 from the RSU Foundation. accounting, art, business, Cherokee language, alumni to determine their level of interest. An additional $100,000 from private contribu- composition, music and theatre appreciation, tions and corporate sponsorships has provided Spanish and more. RSU also has extended part “This is an effort to extend the reach of our technology and furnishings for classrooms, the of its nursing program to the Pryor campus with Alumni Association, get more alumni Student Commons area and faculty offices. a new course in dosage calculation. involved, and boost attendance at the special homecoming celebration,” said Foutch, RSU is the only four-year university serving the Contributors include GRDA, INTEGRIS Mayes who is also serving as chairperson of the Pryor and Mayes County area and on average County Medical Center, MidAmerica Industrial 2009 Centennial Homecoming Planning more than 300 students attend the RSU cam- Park, Williams Construction Co., The Pfizer Committee. Her co-chairman is B.J. pus in Pryor each semester. For more informa- Foundation, Pryor Lions Club, Century Bank of Armstrong, RSU director of student activities tion about the RSU campus in Pryor, call (918) Oklahoma, ConocoPhillips, Vargas Construction and a 2007 graduate of RSU. Co., RSU Foundation, Ron and Danette Boyle, 825-6117. John and Bobbie Cary, L. Jack and Belle S.

PAGE 19 The highest bidders for the golf lessons offered at the Scholarship Auction pose with Lynn Blevins, golf coach for the new men's and women's golf programs at RSU. Pictured are: Pat Lane, Lynn Blevins, and Janice Trickett.

Bobbye Mooney and granddaughter, Emily, during the “Denim and Diamonds” Scholarship Dinner and Auction. Emily, 9, has created several personal works of art which have raised significant funds for the RSU scholarship program.

Enjoying the Scholarhip Auction are (standing back) Peggy Rice, Larry Rice and (standing right) Bobby Latham; (seated) Julia Helen Latham and Gwen Liebl.

The Ivan “Chuck” Williams Computer Lab, at the expanded Pryor campus, was made possible through the generosity of the Williams family. Attending the Open House and Dedication Ceremony were members of the late Chuck Williams’ family: son Ivan Williams, wife Gloria Williams, daughter Becki (Williams) and husband, Nick Vandervoort.

Senator Rick Littlefield (right) supported the move to bring four-year degree programs to Rogers State University and the expansion of the Pryor campus during his 22-year career as a state legislator. Littlefield’s contributions are noted on a Smart Board donor plaque at the RSU Pryor campus. RSU President Dr. Larry Rice presented Littlefield and his wife, Judge Alicia Littlefield, a copy of “100 Years on The Hill,” RSU’s Centennial history book, as part of the recognition event.

Several RSU faculty members were honored at the annual Faculty Awards Presentation held during the State of the University Address in August. From the School of Liberal Arts are: Dr. Frank Elwell, Dean; Dr. Kevin Woller, associate professor, recipient of the RSU Foundation Chairwoman Dana Lamb and husband, Excellence in Service Award; Dr. Sally Emmons Featherston, associate professor, recipient Nash, at the Open House and Dedication Ceremony for the of the Excellence in Scholarship Award; and Dr. Hugh Foley, associate professor, recipient Pryor campus. of the Excellence in Teaching Award and the Pixley Award.

PAGE 20 Centennial Center Pillar of Support donors Jack The Sarkeys Foundation was represented by Many long-time university supporters took part and Mary Lee Spinks. The Spinks dedicated a Susan Frantz and Ann Way at the Centennial in the 100th Birthday celebration including Pillar in honor of Mary Lee’s parents, Col. Lee Celebration. The Foundation is responsible for Rosalie Walton, Penny Williams and husband and Doris Gilstrap. They were honored during the construction of The Sarkeys Terrace on the John. the Centennial Celebration in March. northwest side of the Centennial Center where students gather for fellowship and events.

Bill and Sue Harris, along with Linda Corlett at the Centennial Celebration.

John and Elaine Burkhardt with Herrington Lecture speaker, CBS political analyst Jeff Greenfield, at the Centennial Celebration.

Several RSU faculty members were honored at the annual Faculty Awards Presentation held during the State of the University Address in August. From the School of Mathematics, Science, and Health Sciences are: Dr. Min Soe, associate professor, recipient of the Excellence in Scholarship Award; Dr. Keith Martin, Dean; and Dr. William Hart, assistant professor, recipient of the Excellence in Service Award.

Several RSU faculty members were honored at the annual Faculty Awards Presentation held during the State of the University Address in August. From the School of Business Scott Grauer, BOK executive vice president, and wife Tammy and Technology are: Dr. Bruce Garrison, Dean; Dr. Vadym Kyrylov, associate professor were among the many friends and supporters who took part and Sarkeys Endowed Chair in Business Information Technology, Excellence in Service in the Centennial events at RSU. BOK is the naming sponsor Award; Dr. Susan Chinburg, assistant professor, Excellence in Teaching Award, and Dr. for the Lt. Col. Robert B. Lewis Executive Board Room in the Mary Rose Hart, assistant professor, Excellence in Scholarship Award. Centennial Center.

PAGE 21 “We're at the point now where it's time to take figure to be key contributors in their first sea- BASEBALL that next step and get to the National son on the Hill. The Cats will look to rewrite An upset victory over Tournament,” Larkin proclaimed. “There's a lot the ending to the final chapter of their season the No. 1 ranked of experience and depth on this team. We're in Kansas City come March. team in the country excited about it because we know that the was the highlight of time is now for us to make a run at it.” the spring for the WOMEN'S RSU baseball pro- BASKETBALL gram in 2009. The WOMEN'S SOCCER Coach Amy Williams and the RSU women's Hillcats drubbed Feeding the monster will be the task set Lubbock Christian, basketball team have one destination in mind before the fledging RSU women's soccer pro- entering the 2009-10 season – Jackson, the eventual national gram in 2009. In just two seasons of compe- champion, 18-8, on Tennessee – site of the NAIA National tition the Hillcats have posted 33 victories, Women's Basketball Championship. The Coach Ron Bradley its home field on claimed a conference tournament champi- April 25, marking the worst home loss for the Hillcats completed their first winning season in onship and made back-to-back postseason March with an 18-14 finish and a victory in the Chaps in more than a decade. Coach Ron appearances. With a number of key contribu- Bradley's club posted a 29-21 record overall first round of the Sooner Athletic Conference tors returning to the fold and an outstanding tournament. and finished with a winning record for the recruiting class ready to take the pitch this fall, third straight year. The Cats return five starters Coach Derek Larkin has his team's sights set RSU returns five regular contributors from the from 2009 campaign and have bolstered their on the ultimate prize. 2008-09 squad. Meanwhile, Williams has pitching staff with a number of highly touted assembled her finest recruiting class to date recruits joining the fold for the 2010 season. “We have a solid group coming back and which includes senior transfer Jenny Hardin we've added some great athletes to the mix from Oral Roberts and true freshman Logan so we have very high expectations for this Froese, both Claremore High School gradu- SOFTBALL team entering the season,” Larkin said. “This ates. With a host of veteran leadership and a The Hillcat softball program tallied its third year we have the talent and the experience formidable front line, the Hillcats will look to straight 30-win season with a 31-24 record in and so our plan is to work hard to get to the make a name for themselves on the national 2009. Among the highlights for first-year Head National Tournament and then take that a step stage in 2009-10. Coach Mark Dicus were a seven-game win- further.” ning streak to open the season and the Cats first-ever victory over second-ranked RODEO Oklahoma City University. Senior pitcher Jenny MEN'S BASKETBALL The RSU rodeo Johnson became the first RSU player to earn What will they do for program made quite All-Sooner Athletic Conference honors in back- an encore? That's the a first impression to-back seasons. She recorded 29 wins and question surrounding when it hosted the also set a school record with 14 home runs. the RSU men's bas- Clem McSpadden Although the Hillcats return only three players ketball team follow- Memorial College for the 2010 season, the outlook is bright with ing their meteoric Rodeo April 17-19 at a large group of talented newcomers set to rise to No. 1 last sea- the Claremore Expo. take the field in the spring. son. The Hillcats pro- The first RSU rodeo duced the nation's event attracted more best record at 30-2 3,000 participants MEN'S SOCCER and provided fans Dustin Evans and spectators repre- The Rogers State men's soccer program Sylvester Spicer with a dizzying num- senting 25 schools enters the 2009 season with big expectations ber of highlights and and was later named “Rodeo of the Year” by following back-to-back 10-win seasons. The memories along the way. However, Coach the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association Hillcats have quickly made a name for them- Lloyd Williams' squad should have plenty of (NIRA). Several RSU rodeo team members selves, finishing in the top half of the Sooner motivation entering 2009-10 after last year's enjoyed a strong showing at their first home- Athletic Conference in each of their first two storybook season was spoiled by an upset loss town rodeo. Cassandra Vaughan finished third seasons of competition. Coach Derek Larkin's in the first round of the NAIA National in the breakaway roping. Tavis Walters and club boasts a number of returning players who Tournament. Clint Peverley placed second in the team roping while John Wayne Giles teamed up with should benefit from two years of experience in All-American Sylvester Spicer headlines a vet- J.D. Holland of Kansas State for a sixth place the program. Those veterans coupled with a eran collection of returners. In addition, finish in the team roping. handful of impact recruits have the Cats Williams has added a handful of recruits that poised to take their game to the next level this fall. All athletic stories provided by Ryan Bradley, RSU Sports Information Director

PAGE 22 HILLCATS HIT IT BIG WITH NEW GOLF COACH

Dustin Evans, of Pryor, Okla., was named the To borrow an expression from baseball, by all the SEC title earlier that season. Blevins new RSU rodeo coach in late August. Evans accounts Athletic Director Wren Baker hit a moved to the Iowa in 1990 and won a Big 10 spent the past five years as the head wrangler home run when he hired Lynn Blevins to Championship in 1992. lead the newly formed men's and women's and livestock manager for Dry Gulch, USA in “I'm taking this job to win championships,” golf programs at RSU. In this case, a hole-in- Adair, Okla. Blevins said. “I'm looking for players who are one might serve as a more fitting description. good students, who want to be here and who Blevins is a former Southeastern Conference are committed to getting better because the CHEERLEADING and Big 10 Conference Coach of the Year. expectations are going to be really high.” The RSU cheerlead- Rarely, if ever, has a coach with such impres- RSU announced its plans to add men's and ing squad started the sive credentials accepted the challenge of men's golf programs for the 2009-2010 new school year on starting a new program at the small-college academic year in January. The Hillcats will the right foot after level. returning from compete as a member of both the Sooner Lawrence, Kan., with Blevins brings 15 years of head coaching Athletic Conference and NAIA this spring and a slew of awards and experience at the NCAA Division I level to the will be immediately eligible for both honors garnered at Hillcats. He guided the men's golf programs conference and national championship the National at the University of Oklahoma, the University events. Ten SAC schools currently field a Cheerleading of Florida, and the University of Iowa over a men's golf team while eight compete in Association (NCA) 15-year period before transitioning to the pri- women's golf. Katie Belcher Cheer Camp July 27- vate golf business sector in 1994. He led the 29. The nine-member coed squad coached by Gators to an SEC Championship in 1985 and Katie Belcher competed against over 250 spurred the Hawkeyes to a Big 10 crown in cheerleaders from surrounding states on the 1992. Now, after a 15-year hiatus, Blevins University of Kansas campus. The Hillcats returns to his coaching roots to develop a received two blue “Superior” ribbons and a brand new program. spirit stick during the first two days of evalua- “I'm really excited to get back into coaching,” tions and then claimed first place in both the Blevins said. “It's a rare opportunity to start a Game Day and Rally Routine divisional com- new program and put a footprint or a signa- petitions on the final day. RSU was also award- ture on that program. I'm really looking for- ed a prestigious Silver partial paid bid to ward to the challenge.” Nationals based on accumulated points earned for each award won. Blevins currently serves as the Director of Golf Operations at Scissortail Golf Club in Verdigris, Okla. He heads the GOLF Buffalo Golf Group, Inc., which took The newly implemented RSU men's and over management of the course in women's golf programs hit the links for the May 2008. As President and CEO of first time this fall. Former Southeastern the BGG, Blevins has overseen the Conference and Big 10 Coach of the Year construction, start up and manage- Lynn Blevins has been charged with leading ment operation of five golf cours- both teams into their first year of competition. es over the past 15 years. The Hillcats will compete as a member of the “Coach Blevins' resume and Sooner Athletic Conference and will be eligible experience speaks for itself and for the NAIA National Championships in the we're very excited that he will spring. Blevins has entered RSU in three fall be leading our new golf programs,” tournaments and will spend the first semester Baker said. evaluating his new recruits through qualifying rounds and preparing them for their first spring Blevins began his coaching career matches. (See story at right.) at his alma mater where he led the OU men's golf program from 1979-81. He spent the next seven years at Florida, directing the Gators to a third place finish at the 1985 NCAA Championship after claiming Photo provided by Zac Stoycoff

PAGE 23 Rogers State University NONPROFIT ORG 1701 W. Will Rogers Blvd. U.S. POSTAGE Claremore, OK 74017 PAID CLAREMORE, OK Address Service Requested PERMIT NO. 185

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October Nov. 9 Dec. 5 Oct. 23-25, 29, Nov. 1 Enrollment begins, spring RSU Choir, Tulsa RSU Theatre, “Quietly 2010 semester Symphony Chamber Standing in the Shade” Nov. 13 Orchestra, Handel's “The Oct. 29 James R. Jones, RSU Messiah” RSU Foundation Centennial/Maurice Meyer January 2010 Endowment Banquet Distinguished Endowed Jan. 11 November Lecture Spring classes begin Nov. 6-7 Nov. 13-14 March 2010 RSU Centennial RSU Theatre, Beth Henley's March 26-28 and April 1-4 Homecoming Pulitzer Prize-winning play RSU Theatre, William Nov. 7 “Crimes of the Heart” Shakespeare's Destination RSU, annual December “Midsummer Night's college day for high school Dec. 1 Dream” juniors, seniors, and their Holiday on the Hill sign up now at parents Claremore Campus http://www.rsu.edu/alumni/hilltalk.asp For more information, including times and locations, visit www.rsu.edu.