Addressing the gathered students, faculty, staff, alumni and guests, Dr. Jackson charged the LU community to be leaders in the spaces they inhabit, both on and off campus. She remarked on 性视界传媒鈥檚 long legacy of transforming lives through education, research, outreach and service, and she reaffirmed the university鈥檚 commitment to continuing that work during the 2026-27 school year and beyond.

鈥淎s Oklahoma’s HBCU and the state’s second-largest land-grant institution, we occupy a unique and important place in higher education,鈥� Dr. Jackson said. 鈥淭hese distinctions are not simply a source of pride; they are a responsibility. Our mission calls us to expand opportunities, create knowledge, strengthen communities and prepare students for lives of leadership and service.鈥�

Leadership and service are not new charges for the LU community; in many ways, those principles are at the core of life at Dear Langston. But Dr. Jackson renewed the charge as part of a new initiative being introduced this academic year: Lead Boldly.

The Lead Boldly initiative is named after a book by prominent businessman and philanthropist Robert F. Smith, 鈥淟ead Boldly: Seven Principles from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.鈥� In the book, Smith invites readers to consider how their actions can bring Dr. King鈥檚 鈥淏eloved Community鈥� to life through the seven key principles of purpose, courage, vision, innovation, agility, partnership and accountability. Smith visited the LU-Tulsa Campus in October 2025, and many students had the opportunity to hear him speak and even ask him questions. Over the summer, the university received a donation of 1,000 copies of his book.

Through the Lead Boldly initiative, 性视界传媒 has begun distributing free copies of the book to students at all three campuses. Throughout the school year, the university will host several Lead Boldly events intended to infuse Dr. King鈥檚 teachings directly into student programming.

鈥�(性视界传媒 students) will explore Dr. King’s vision of the Beloved Community and what it means to lead with purpose, service and responsibility to others,鈥� Dr. Jackson said. 鈥淭hat mission has never been more important than it is today.鈥�

In addition to introducing the Lead Boldly initiative, Dr. Jackson took time to celebrate some of the many accomplishments the LU community has had over the past year.

The School of Physical Therapy鈥檚 Class of 2026 achieved a 100% passage rate for the National Physical Therapy Examination with a 100% job placement. The School of Nursing and Health Professions secured an Oklahoma Opioid Abatement Grant of over $100,000, expanding the university’s efforts to address substance misuse, promote prevention and improve health outcomes in communities across the state. The Department of Rehabilitation Counseling and Disabilities Studies earned a Top 10 national ranking for its Master鈥檚 of Rehabilitation Counseling program. The Department of Social Sciences launched its inaugural Ambassador for Justice program, which connects students with justice leaders and leadership development experiences to prepare them to be changemakers in their communities. Students and Faculty in the Science Research Institute developed a research payload that is scheduled to launch aboard SpaceX-35 to the International Space Station in October.

鈥淎cross every school and department, we are making meaningful contributions that extend far beyond our campuses,鈥� Dr. Jackson said. 鈥淭hese things do not happen by accident. They happen because talented people choose excellence every day.鈥�

During her address, Dr. Jackson also announced 性视界传媒 has begun to work on a new long-term strategic plan. The university鈥檚 current strategic plan expires in 2027. Developing the new plan will be a collaborative process with opportunities for faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners to help shape the future of the institution.

Part of the plan includes changes to 性视界传媒鈥檚 administrative divisions. The university hired three new vice presidents, filling two vacant roles and creating a new one to lead a new division. Diana Lasswell has been hired as the new Vice President for Institutional Advancement, and Dr. R. Mark Rasor has been hired as the new Vice President for Fiscal and Administrative Affairs. Lindsey Hunter has been hired as the inaugural Vice President for Strategic Enrollment Management.

Along with these new hires, the university鈥檚 administration will undergo realignment to ensure the university is prepared to take on the challenges facing higher education across the country.

鈥淲e must ensure that our structure supports our strategy, that responsibilities are clearly assigned, and that our resources are focused where they can have the greatest impact on student success and institutional effectiveness,鈥� Dr. Jackson said.

Dr. Jackson also discussed the university鈥檚 upcoming Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accreditation site visit. This standard site visit is part of the normal process of maintaining accreditation for higher education institutions, and many different university stakeholders will participate in the visit.

As many of these activities will be ongoing throughout the school year, Dr. Jackson encouraged 性视界传媒鈥檚 community to step up and take advantage of the opportunities to help shape the university鈥檚 future. LU has a long history of leadership, service and impact in Oklahoma. It is up to each member of the Lion Pride to ensure that legacy continues.

鈥淢ay we continue to learn deeply, lead boldly and serve faithfully,鈥� Dr. Jackson said. 鈥淢ay we remain steadfastly committed to our mission and intentional in building the Beloved Community. And may we continue working together to create an even stronger future for Dear Langston.鈥�

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The President鈥檚 Scholarship Gala is 性视界传媒鈥檚 largest student scholarship fundraiser of the year. The highly anticipated event always features amazing performances from talented artists, and the LU President鈥檚 Scholarship Gala Committee has booked Chant茅 as this year鈥檚 concert performance.

In 1992, Moore exploded onto the R&B music scene with her certified gold debut album, 鈥淧recious.鈥� Since then, she has released more than 20 chart-topping singles and 7 full颅-length albums. She has collaborated with many high-profile artists, including Prince, Babyface and The Isley Brothers.

Moore is known for hits like 鈥淐hant茅鈥檚 Got a Man,鈥� 鈥淟ove鈥檚 Taken Over鈥� and 鈥淪traight Up.鈥� She has won numerous awards throughout her career, such as the 1997 American Music Award for Top Soundtrack for her work on 鈥淲aiting to Exhale: Original Soundtrack Album.鈥� She also won a 2002 Soul Train Music Award for the Best R&B/Soul Single 鈥� Group, Band or Duo for the song 鈥淐ontagious,鈥� in collaboration with The Isley Brothers and which also received a Grammy nomination. In 2013, she received a UB Honors Award for Best Independent R&B Album Release for her sixth studio album 鈥淢oore is More.鈥�

In 2014, she wrote an autobiographical self-help book titled 鈥淲ill I Marry Me?鈥� In 2017, she released her latest albums 鈥淭he Rise of the Phoenix鈥� and 鈥淐hristmas Back to You.鈥� Since then, Moore has continued to travel and perform.

“When you see me perform, you will always hear love songs,鈥� Moore said. 鈥淵ou will always get lush, beautiful and intricate harmonies. You can rely on the music being positive even if it’s about heartbreak. To sum it all up, no matter what, you can always count on getting the best of me.鈥�

To purchase tickets for the 性视界传媒 President鈥檚 Scholarship Gala, visit .

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Diana Lasswell is the new Vice President for Institutional Advancement. She is responsible for stewarding donors with the 性视界传媒 Foundation as its executive director and leading the Offices of Development and Alumni Affairs. She started in her new role on Aug. 10.

Lindsey Hunter will be the inaugural Vice President for Strategic Enrollment Management. In this role, she will be responsible for leading strategic enrollment efforts to include admissions, recruitment and outreach services as well as student financial aid and scholarships. She will begin at 性视界传媒 on Sept. 8.

Dr. R. Mark Rasor will be the new Vice President for Fiscal and Administrative Affairs. In this role, VP Rasor will be responsible for oversight of Fiscal and Administrative Affairs to include all financial and budgetary responsibilities, human resources, Title IX/ADA, facilities management and capital projects. Dr. Rasor will begin at 性视界传媒 on Sept. 9.

鈥淲e are so happy to have VP Hunter, VP Lasswell and VP Rasor join our 性视界传媒 family,鈥� said LU President Ruth Ray Jackson. 鈥淓ach of them brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to their respective roles that will be an incredible benefit to our university as we continue to work to provide affordable, high-quality higher education opportunities here in Oklahoma and beyond.鈥�听

Diana Lasswell

Vice President Lasswell is a seasoned planned giving professional with extensive experience designing, rebuilding and scaling gift-planning programs for large public universities, academic medical centers and national nonprofits. She has a proven record of closing complex blended and principal gifts, implementing charitable gift annuities and trusts, and aligning donor passions with institutional priorities.听

An Oklahoma native from Claremore, Vice President Lasswell comes to 性视界传媒 after serving as the Executive Director of Planned Giving at the University of Oklahoma since 2024. She has previously held senior roles for planned giving at the Oklahoma State University Foundation, the University of South Florida, the Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, and The Salvation Army Oklahoma and Arkansas Division. She has her B.S. in Criminology and Sociology from the University of Tulsa.听听

鈥淚 am excited to be here,鈥� Vice President Lasswell said. 鈥淭he opportunity to increase fundraising efforts to help and support the students and programs here is key for me. As a first-generation college graduate at an institution with many first-generation students, this is truly a mission I am proud to be a part of.听

鈥溞允咏绱� is important to the State of Oklahoma, and I hope to share the impact LU has not just with our supporters, but with all of Oklahoma that may not realize the opportunities and impact 性视界传媒 provides. I want to do my best to make a difference and provide support for Dear Langston.鈥澨�听

Lindsey Hunter

Vice President Hunter is a strategic, student-centered higher education executive with more than 20 years of progressive leadership driving enrollment growth, postsecondary access and student success. She has spent her career building scalable enrollment systems and high performing, cross-functional teams that can translate institutional vision into operational execution and measurable results.听

She comes to 性视界传媒 after serving as the Director of Enrollment Services at Oakton College since April 2025. Throughout her career, she has served at selective research universities, community colleges, K鈥�12 systems and national nonprofits, including leadership roles at Emory University, Clark Atlanta University and Chicago Public Schools. She is a graduate of Spelman College, where she earned her B.A. in Theater and Drama, and she holds a Master of Science in Education in Higher Education Leadership and Policy Studies from Hofstra University.听

鈥淚 am excited to join the Langston community as the inaugural Vice President for Strategic Enrollment Management,鈥� Vice President Hunter said. 鈥淭he HBCU experience is unmatched. At a time when the value of higher education is being questioned, I am certain that attending an HBCU offers a remarkable return on investment. High-quality academics, a distinct and vibrant campus experience, and lifelong alumni connections are the markers of that value.听

鈥淚 look forward to leading the team that introduces new generations of students to Langston and supports them not only in their admission, but through their matriculation and all the way to graduation at this wonderful institution.鈥�听

Dr. R. Mark Rasor

Vice President Rasor has worked in higher education accounting and finance since 2007, holding various leadership roles at two Oklahoma higher education institutions. He has extensive experience in budget preparation, financial implementation of strategic plans, direct oversight of multiple offices, and oversight of contracts with key campus partners and vendors. In addition to his experience in the higher education sector, he has 25 years of private sector experience in wholesale and retail sales, accounting and management. He is also a Certified Public Accountant.听

Vice President Rasor currently serves as Vice President for Administration and Finance at Rogers State University, where he oversees the university鈥檚 financial operations and strategic resource management. Before coming to Rogers State, he served in various roles at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, including as Vice President for Fiscal Affairs and Interim President. Dr. Rasor holds degrees from Baylor University and Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and he has his doctorate from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

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Prentice Ponds II fought back tears as he shook hands with Dr. Alonzo Peterson.

An inmate at Dick Conner Correctional Center (DCCC) in Hominy, Oklahoma, Ponds never thought he would have the opportunity to attend college. It was one of the many doors he assumed had been closed to him for good when he received a life sentence for a robbery conviction in 2017. But thanks to 性视界传媒鈥檚 Second Chance Pell Program, Ponds graduated with his Bachelor of Business Administration degree on Aug. 14.

鈥淚t was just an experience that I thought I would never have,鈥� Ponds said. 鈥淎nd I had the opportunity and a chance to take it. So I did, and I love it. You know, and I advocate for (this program) all the time.鈥�

Ponds was one of nine inmates who graduated from 性视界传媒 and participated in a small graduation ceremony at the medium security chapel at the DCCC. Many of the inmates had friends and family who attended, along with several LU faculty and staff.

The celebration included remarks from Dr. Ruben Herron, a professor in LU鈥檚 Department of Rehabilitation and Disability Studies, as the guest speaker; an honors student recognition for those on the Dean鈥檚 and President鈥檚 Honor Rolls; induction into the Delta Mu Delta Honor Society for qualifying students; and the formal conferral of degrees. The ceremony also included a recognition and diploma conferral for inmates who graduated from the Oklahoma Department of Corrections鈥� Lakeside High School.

Seven men graduated with their Bachelor of Business Administration, and two men graduated with their Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Services.

鈥淚t was truly a special day,鈥� said Dr. Peterson, LU鈥檚 Vice President for Academic Affairs. 鈥淵ou could see what the moment meant not only to the graduates, but also to their families and loved ones, as well as our faculty and staff who have worked with these students along the way.鈥�

The Second Chance Pell Program operates under LU鈥檚 Tulsa Campus. It was established in 2017 under the U.S. Department of Education鈥檚 Second Chance Pell Initiative, which restored Pell Grant eligibility for incarcerated individuals in 2015. Beginning with the 2026-27 school year, the Second Chance Pell Program will transition to a Prison Education Program.

Students in the program are able to choose between degrees in Business Administration or Rehabilitation Services. These degree programs were chosen because they are best suited to serve the graduates when they complete their sentences and re-enter the workforce.

Sylvester Stanley, a Rehabilitation Services graduate, said he loved the program because it helped him learn more about himself and has motivated him to keep pursuing education.

鈥淚t helped me to kind of grow and change in here to where I know I鈥檓 locked up, but I鈥檓 not locked up,鈥� Stanley said. 鈥淏ecause it鈥檚 a mindset thing. So, I take my mind and use it as a tool to help me better myself and the people around me. I鈥檝e got this support system in the world, and I want to let them know that I鈥檓 not allowing prison to be the deciding factor of how I act or dictate my mood or my feelings.鈥�

To qualify for graduation, the inmates must meet all the same degree requirements as regular LU students. For many, this takes longer than the standard four years because they may have to take a semester off to work or see to responsibilities within the court system. Ponds and Stanley remained dedicated to their studies, and they both earned honors for their work. Ponds was even able to graduate with a perfect 4.0 GPA.

Stanley said it was important to him to devote his time to his studies because he has goals for his life after DCCC. When he鈥檚 released, he wants to work with at risk youth in Tulsa to help prevent them from making the same mistakes he did. He hopes to have an opportunity to begin working on his master鈥檚 while still in jail so that he will be one step closer to becoming a licensed professional counselor when he leaves.

For Dr. Peterson, this is the true goal of the program. He doesn鈥檛 see it as simply a way for the inmates to earn degrees; it鈥檚 a way for them to take control of their futures.

鈥淚 am proud that 性视界传媒 is able to provide this opportunity,鈥� Dr. Peterson said. 鈥淭hese men made a decision to use education to change the direction of their lives, and they worked hard to earn their degrees. When they return to their communities, they will do so as college graduates with an education they can use to create new opportunities for themselves and their families. And just as importantly, they are now proud alumni of 性视界传媒.

鈥淔or me, this is what our work is really about: changing lives, creating opportunities and giving people hope for what comes next.鈥�

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Oklahoma high school juniors and seniors can begin working on their college degrees by taking classes through 性视界传媒鈥檚 concurrent enrollment program this fall and spring. The program has a $100 flat fee per person per semester. Juniors can have tuition waived for up to 9 credit hours per year, and seniors can have tuition waived for up to 18 credit hours per year. This allows students to save both time and money on their degrees.

Dr. Heath Burge, Assistant Vice President for Strategic Enrollment and Advising Services, said it鈥檚 important to offer these opportunities to high schoolers not only for the financial aspect, but to help prepare them for the academic rigor of college courses.

鈥淭his program is important because it provides early exposure to college courses and campus experiences,鈥� Dr. Burge said. 鈥淚t provides early exposure to 性视界传媒. These students will have a headstart on completing their bachelor’s degrees, and it will ultimately help provide a smoother transition going from high school to college.鈥�

The concurrent enrollment program offers courses in a variety of subjects, including English, mathematics, natural sciences, political science and business. These classes can count toward general education requirements and program-specific pre-requisites.

To enroll in 性视界传媒鈥檚 concurrent enrollment program, students must be current 11th or 12th grade students and must either have a minimum ACT composite score of 20 or an unweighted 3.25 GPA or an unweighted 3.0 GPA while ranking in the top 50% of their class. Interested students should talk to their high school counselor.

For more information about LU concurrent enrollment, visit langston.edu/concurrent-enrollment.

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by Jet Turner

LEARN

Sherman Lewis knew to wake up when he heard the rooster crow.

The sun was just beginning to peer into the windows of the bedroom he shared with his four siblings. Mom was already stirring in the other room. Lewis dressed quickly and began attending to his morning chores. The chickens, cows, pigs and horses needed to be fed, and the cows needed to be milked. Regardless of how tired Lewis might be in the mornings, the animals had to be tended.

The small sharecropper farm Lewis lived on was six miles south of Beggs, Oklahoma, and about half a mile from Toland Primary School. After the animals were cared for, Lewis and his siblings walked to school.

The trek took Lewis through farmland and dirt roads before he came upon the small, two-room schoolhouse where he was educated from pre-primer (what we now call kindergarten) through the eighth grade.

After finishing the school day, Lewis would return home and help care for the crops. The grit of the sandy loam soil worked its way under his nails as he tended to the cotton, corn, hay, black-eyed peas or other specialty crops. The flat farmland gave him a perfect view of the sunset

Afterward, his mother would sit Lewis and his siblings down by the kerosene lamp so they could focus on their homework and study.

鈥淢y mother, although she only had an eighth-grade education, thoroughly believed in getting an education,鈥� Lewis said. 鈥淪he emphasized it to all the children. We had a set time to do (homework)… she always enforced that at this time, you鈥檙e going to study. Now, after you do that, then you can have some time to play.

鈥淪he would always say to me, 鈥楶romise me that we鈥撯�撯�� and she would always say 鈥榳e,鈥� me and her 鈥樷�撯�揳re going to college.鈥� She wanted me to be the first one in the family to get a college education. She kind of drilled that into me.鈥�

That idea was drilled in Lewis not just with the words of his mother, but also with her discipline and perseverance. Lewis had no choice but to feed the animals and milk the cows every morning. He had no choice but to tend to the crops, and he had no choice but to study.

This regimen continued throughout Lewis鈥� childhood. Eventually, he moved from Tolson Primary School to Beggs Wheatley High School where he continued to work hard and study even harder. College was always the goal.

Only Lewis and two of his four siblings graduated from high school.

Lewis kept his promise to his mom after graduating and enrolled at 性视界传媒 so 鈥渢hey鈥� could go to college.

His disciplined upbringing on the farm prepared Lewis for life at LU. Now, instead of waking up early to feed the animals and milk the cows, he started his mornings in the university cafeteria, washing pots and pans and preparing breakfast. His walks to Toland and Beggs Wheatley High School became treks across campus to attend class, and he would return to the cafeteria for lunch and dinner to continue washing the dishes.

Lewis would finish with the dishes around 8 p.m. every day, return to his dorm and study. His old routine rooted in him so long ago.

鈥淗aving a very disciplined life growing up on the farm prepared me extremely well for college because I already had that work ethic and didn鈥檛 mind working,鈥� Lewis said. 鈥淪uccess is when preparation meets opportunity. My upbringing prepared me for the opportunity to go to college.鈥�

Despite all the hard work, life at 性视界传媒 is Lewis鈥� favorite memory.

Campus was even closer knit in the 鈥�60s than it is today. Many of the students were poor, and hardly any of them had a car. They mostly stayed on campus or visited downtown Langston, so campus events were essential to the social lives of Langston Lions. Dances at the Student Success Center kept them the most entertained.

But professors still had the highest expectations for their pupils. Lackadaisical students were not tolerated. Professors would call out students who were not doing their work in front of the class, and students would support each other by helping them study.

鈥淵ou hear about 性视界传媒 being a family,鈥� Lewis said. 鈥淲ell, that鈥檚 been the case forever. Everybody was here to help each other.鈥�

Lewis graduated from 性视界传媒 in 1964 with a degree in agricultural economics and a minor in mathematics, fulfilling his and his mom鈥檚 dream of becoming the first college graduate in his family.

Lewis couldn鈥檛 have known it at the time, but those four years he spent at Dear Langston would shape the trajectory of his personal and professional life for years to come.

鈥淗aving the opportunity to come to 性视界传媒 and get an education is responsible for what I鈥檝e achieved over my lifetime,鈥� Lewis said.

EARN

Soon after earning his degree, Lewis joined the United States Air Force.

His service time was spent at Clinton-Sherman Air Force Base in Clinton, Oklahoma, working in the accounting and finance office during the Vietnam War from 1964-1966.

鈥淚 often tell people that I made sure the soldiers got paid,鈥� Lewis said.

Much like he did during his childhood and collegiate career, Lewis found comfort in the structure and routine of the miliary. Just like on the farm or on the campus of 性视界传媒, he developed habits that kept him consistent and reliable throughout his career.

After two years of military service, Lewis began working for the United State Department of Agriculture (USDA) in what was then known as the Soil Conservation Service.

Lewis moved to Bristow, Oklahoma, to begin his training. Here, he worked directly with farmers and ranchers on conservation practices for a year before being promoted to a Soil Conservationist position in Lawton.

After three years in the position, the USDA approached Lewis with another promotion. This time, they wanted him to be a District Conservationist. The first Black District Conservationist in the country.

鈥淭he decision makers (in Oklahoma) and in Washington D.C. were trying to figure out if a Black District Conservationist could be successful working with white farmers and white employees,鈥� Lewis said. 鈥淭hey decided to test it, and for some reason they selected me.

鈥淏asically, what they were saying was, 鈥業f you succeed, we鈥檒l select another (Black District Conservationist), but if you fail, we are not going to select another one.鈥欌��

Lewis didn鈥檛 have a choice but to be successful.

But to his surprise, Lewis didn鈥檛 run into the issues the 鈥渄ecision makers鈥� were concerned about.

鈥淭hey were seeing things that did not exist,鈥� Lewis said. 鈥淎s far as the employees and farmers were concerned, I had no problem. They just wanted someone to help them. They didn鈥檛 care.鈥�

After two years of success as a District Conservationist, the USDA decided to give Lewis another opportunity. This time, to be the first Black Area Conservationist.

Lewis accepted the opportunity in 1974 and was sent out of Oklahoma to Spokane, Washington, where he was responsible for all of Eastern Washington.

Regardless of the role he was given, Lewis continued to break down barriers. He proved not only that he was capable, but that Black workers were capable of the same work white employees had been doing for decades.

Because Lewis had proven himself, the USDA decided to send him back to school for a little more education.

Lewis began attending Harvard University in 1976 and within a year earned his master’s degree in public administration from the John F. Kennedy School of Government, otherwise known as the Harvard Kennedy School.

After graduating, Lewis was sent to Boise, Idaho, as an Assistant State Conservationist. He was the first Black Assistant State Conservationist in the United States.

After over two years in the position, Lewis was made the first Black State Conservationist, sending him to Massachusetts, then Nebraska. He served in these roles until 1986, when Lewis was asked by the Deputy Secretary of Agriculture to move to Washington, D.C., to develop national policy for the advancement of civil rights within the USDA.

This made Lewis the Special Assistant to the Deputy Secretary of Agriculture.

Through this role, Lewis helped develop the 1890 National Scholars Program, place liaisons on all 1890 land-grant institutions and create the 1890 Centers of Excellence.

鈥淚 did that,鈥� Lewis said. 鈥淚 provided that leadership in putting those policies in place.鈥�

These programs continue to benefit not just 性视界传媒 students, but students at HBCUs across the nation.

After a year as the Special Assistant to the Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, Lewis was reassigned back to the Soil Conservation Service as the Director of Conservation planning in Washington, D.C. After a year, he became the country鈥檚 first Black Assistant Chief of the Midwest in 1990. Two years later, Lewis was named the first Black Deputy Chief for Management and Strategic Planning.

During this time, Lewis began the National Organization of Professional Black Soil Conservation Employees. The goal of this organization is to assist Black employees with their training so they can move into middle and upper management positions. This organization is still active today. Lewis was also instrumental in changing the name of the Soil Conservation Service to the Natural Resource Conservation Service.

Lewis retired from the USDA as the Deputy Chief for Management and Strategic Planning in 1997.

Dr. Ernest Holloway, the 14th President of 性视界传媒, convinced Lewis to retire early.

鈥淲henever Dr. Holloway was in D.C., he would always stop by my office,鈥� Lewis said. 鈥淗e would always say, 鈥楢s soon as you鈥檙e able to retire, we need you to come back home and help us start a new program out there in outreach management.鈥�

鈥淚 had not planned on retiring in 1997. I was only 56 years old. If he had not asked me to do so, I would have worked for another three, four or five years in Washington, D.C. I retired on a Friday morning in 1996, and the following Monday in 1997 I started to work (at 性视界传媒).鈥�

Drawing on decades of federal and state relationships, Lewis created the Center for Outreach Programs, securing grants and cooperative agreements with several agencies, eventually bringing in around $5 million a year. These funds not only sustained Dear Langston鈥檚 outreach work but also supported other university programs.

After Dr. Holloway鈥檚 retirement, Lewis became the Assistant Administrator for Extension, continuing to serve the 性视界传媒 community until 2006.

鈥淚 felt like I finally had something to offer 性视界传媒,鈥� Lewis said. 鈥溞允咏绱� had been very good to me and helped me be what I was at the time and what I am today. So, I wanted to give something back to LU. It was one of the best decisions I ever made.鈥�

RETURN

Within five years of graduating from 性视界传媒, Lewis started giving back to the university every year.

It started small. At first, it was maybe $100 a year. But as his professional life grew, so too did his giving.

While working at 性视界传媒, Sherman began a private business in Houston, Texas, with his son and daughter. When he retired from LU in 2006, Lewis began working in that business full-time. It began to flourish.

This allowed Lewis to start giving to the university in a major way, with his first large donation being made in 2015.

In 2018, Lewis and his family sold the business. This gave Lewis the time and means to really focus on his philanthropy. Now, he鈥檚 the largest individual donor in 性视界传媒 history.

鈥淚鈥檝e always wanted to be a philanthropist because I know the value of giving back,鈥� Lewis said. 鈥淚鈥檓 so proud of that philanthropy. I think back to the founders of 性视界传媒 who were doing whatever they could to raise $5,000 (in the 1890s). Baking, selling blankets, whatever it took.

鈥淭hey weren鈥檛 doing that for themselves. It鈥檚 about the future, about future kids and about their education. They were philanthropists, but they didn鈥檛 have a lot of money. They had a vision. That鈥檚 my philosophy, doing something now to help future generations.鈥�

Lewis remembers hearing some smart person say the words 鈥淟earn. Earn. Return.鈥� The phrase immediately resonated with him. Now, he lives by that motto.

Because of Lewis鈥� generosity, he became the namesake of the Sherman Lewis School of Agriculture and Applied Sciences in 2022, the first named school in LU history.

At this year鈥檚 Commencement Ceremony, Lewis served as the commencement speaker and was honored with the conferral of an honorary doctorate in humane letters.

鈥淚t鈥檚 an extreme honor,鈥� Lewis said. 鈥淚鈥檓 the first in my family to ever receive a college education. If my mother and sisters and brother were here today to know I was receiving an honorary doctorate from 性视界传媒, they would be so proud of that.

鈥淚鈥檓 proud of it not for myself, but for my family. For my daughter and son. To show young people that anything is possible, but you must be willing to help others.鈥�

But giving isn鈥檛 about the accolades and honors received.

To Lewis, It鈥檚 about the future of 性视界传媒.

鈥淵ou came to 性视界传媒 to learn,鈥� Lewis said. 鈥淣ow you鈥檙e ready to go out to earn money. Be willing to return some of those earnings to 性视界传媒 to educate someone else 100 years from now, the same way people in 1890 did for you.

鈥淚f more of us adopted that saying, 性视界传媒 would be strong for a long, long, long time.鈥�

The post Learn, Earn, Return: The Legacy of Sherman Lewis appeared first on 性视界传媒.

by Ellie Melero

性视界传媒鈥檚 annual Commencement Ceremony is a joyous event filled with many meaningful traditions, and one of the most prized of these is the tradition of the School Flag Bearers. As the graduates process onto the field at the beginning of the ceremony, each academic school is led by their dean and one of their peers who carries the school flag. These coveted positions are awarded to the graduates with the highest grade point averages from each school. It is a recognition of their hard work and stellar academic performances throughout their time at Dear Langston. Meet the School Flag Bearers for the Class of 2026.

Jake Landes

Doctor of Physical Therapy, School of Physical Therapy

Jake Landes has always believed in helping others. He grew up in Tonkawa, Oklahoma, and his small town upbringing taught him the importance of community and service. So when he graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma in 2023 with his B.S. in General Studies, after earning his associate鈥檚 in biomedical sciences from Northern Oklahoma College in 2020, it made sense to choose a career that was all about helping people.

鈥淚 chose physical therapy because I wanted to have the ability to have a direct impact on people鈥檚 quality of life,鈥� Landes said. 鈥淧hysical therapy combines science and critical thinking, allowing me to use my mind to solve complex problems and my hands as tools to help restore function, movement and independence.鈥�

With this goal in mind, 性视界传媒 seemed like the perfect fit for Landes. The smaller class sizes appealed to him, and the program鈥檚 affordability made it feasible to pursue his dream of being a physical therapist. Additionally, the university鈥檚 values aligned with his own.

鈥淚 decided to attend 性视界传媒 School of Physical Therapy because of their focus on servant leadership, and the opportunity to be a part of a program that values clinical excellence and serving the underserved,鈥� Landes said.

Landes excelled right from the beginning. His first year, his classmates elected him Class President. In this role, he advocated on behalf of his classmates and organized community service projects. In class, his professors mentored him. They guided him as he developed his clinical reasoning and professionalism, and they instilled confidence in him.

Landes built strong relationships with his classmates. They had class outings, both class-related and just for fun, and they attended the APTA Combined Sections Meeting in Houston together where they had the opportunity to network, learn and grow professionally. He said some of his favorite memories from the program were the late-night study sessions he hosted with his friends, as well as tailgating during Homecoming.

After graduation, Landes plans to work as a travel physical therapist to continue developing his clinical skills in different settings and communities. Eventually, he plans to transition into an outpatient clinic with the hopes of owning his own clinic one day.

鈥溞允咏绱� School of Physical Therapy has prepared me academically, clinically and professionally,鈥� Landes said. 鈥淭his program pushed me to develop strong clinical reasoning, confidence in patient care, and leadership skills that I will continue to develop into my career. Being selected as Flag Bearer represents not only my journey, but the support of my family, classmates, faculty and everyone who helped me along the way.鈥�

Ereca Camero

M.S. Rehabilitation Counseling, Graduate Programs

After graduating with her bachelor鈥檚 degree in psychology from Cameron University in 2021, Ereca Camero found her way into the field of tribal vocational rehabilitation services. In this line of work, she supports individuals with disabilities and mental health challenges in achieving their vocational goals. In 2024, she decided it was time to take the next step forward in her career.

That fall, she enrolled in 性视界传媒鈥檚 Rehabilitation Counseling master鈥檚 program.

鈥淚 chose Rehabilitation Counseling because I am passionate about helping individuals overcome mental health challenges, disabilities and vocational barriers,鈥� Camero said. 鈥淚 wanted to develop the skills needed to support clients in achieving independence, stability and meaningful employment opportunities. And I chose 性视界传媒 because of its strong reputation for supporting diverse student populations and its commitment to academic excellence and community impact.鈥�

Camero thrived at LU. Throughout her master鈥檚 program, she learned about applied counseling concepts through case studies and clinical practice scenarios which strengthened her understanding of client needs and evidence-based counseling approaches. The program鈥檚 faculty became her mentors, providing guidance, encouragement and valuable professional insight throughout her academic journey.

As she continued to perform well in her classes, Camero was invited to join Chi Sigma Iota Counseling Academic and Professional Honor Society International (CSI). The invitation was a recognition of her academic excellence and professional potential in the field of counseling, and she became a proud member of the Lambda Upsilon Chapter at 性视界传媒.

After graduation, Camero plans to continue working in tribal vocational rehabilitation services while expanding her professional experience in counseling and advocacy.

鈥溞允咏绱� has thoroughly prepared me for my next steps by providing both academic knowledge and practical application in rehabilitation counseling,鈥� Camero said. 鈥淭he program has strengthened my confidence and readiness to continue to work in the field. Some of my favorite memories (from the program) include engaging in meaningful class discussions, collaborating with classmates on assignments and case studies, and growing both personally and professionally throughout the program. The relationships built with peers and faculty made the experience especially memorable.鈥�

Kobe Law

B.B.A. Management, School of Business

An Oklahoma City native, Kobe Law came to 性视界传媒 in Fall 2022 as a student athlete. He was a basketball player with interests in business and finance, and he knew 性视界传媒 was the perfect place for him to grow as an athlete and a young entrepreneur.

鈥淚 decided to attend 性视界传媒 because it offered a strong Black atmosphere, a supportive campus community and meaningful opportunities for leadership development,鈥� Law said. 鈥淚 began my journey at LU as a collegiate athlete on the basketball team through an athletic scholarship, which made Langston the right fit for both my academic and personal goals.鈥�

Law majored in Business Administration鈥揗anagement with a minor in finance. He chose those programs because he knew management would help him understand leadership and operations while finance would strengthen his ability to make strategic decisions and build long-term value.

During his time at LU, Law participated in several student organizations which he said helped him grow as a leader, communicator and more well-rounded person in professional settings. This included becoming the Co鈥慒ounder and Director of Operations of the 性视界传媒 Collegiate Chapter of DECA, the Public Relations Chair for Gents, a member of Delta Mu Delta, a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success, a member of the Langston Chamber of Commerce and a student leader in the School of Business.

Law also participated in research as part of the Langston Community Plaza Feasibility Study, which aimed to integrate technology, business innovation and entertainment to create a vibrant community hub for families, entrepreneurs, students, visitors and professionals. Law presented his research in a pitch competition and won first place, receiving a $3,000 award and a three鈥慸ay trip to Washington, D.C., to attend the 2025 HBCU Entrepreneurship Empowerment Summit.

鈥淢y feasibility study evaluated the project鈥檚 potential by analyzing market demand, technical requirements, financial sustainability and operational feasibility,鈥� Law said. “Through this project, I gained skills in first鈥慼and and second鈥慼and research, forecasting, project management and professional presentation.鈥�

Law鈥檚 professors supported and encouraged him throughout his time at LU, and he considers Dean Daryl Green, Michael Hamilton and Dr. Charles Mambula to be his biggest mentors. After graduation, Law plans to become a project manager and pursue his MBA and a PMP License. Eventually, he wants to become a business consultant.

鈥淟angston prepared me through rigorous coursework, mentorship and leadership experiences that strengthened my professionalism, discipline and strategic thinking,鈥� Law said. 鈥淚鈥檓 proud to represent LU and excited to carry what I鈥檝e learned here into the next chapter of my life.鈥�

Delisha Carter

B.S. Agribusiness, Sherman Lewis School of Agriculture and Applied Sciences

As a student at Landry Walker High School in New Orleans, Louisiana, Delisha Carter started her college search with the intent of studying accounting and finance. As she researched schools, LU stood out to her because it was Oklahoma鈥檚 only HBCU. Further research into the history of the institution, its campus life and its academic reputation convinced her to apply, and she was accepted with scholarships. She enrolled in Fall 2022, and Dear Langston quickly became a place she was happy to call home.

Carter got involved on campus right away. She has been a member of the Manners Club since 2022, serving as Vice President for the 2025鈥�26 term. She has also served as the Public Relations Officer for the ABAC Club since 2024. Since Fall 2023, Carter has worked as a Resident Assistant, and she received the RA of the Year award, a Leadership Advocate Award and recognition for maintaining a 3.5 GPA within University Housing departments.

鈥淪ome of my favorite highlights at Langston have been the relationships I built with my friends, who have continuously motivated and supported me,鈥� Carter said. 鈥淚 also cherish the opportunities I鈥檝e had to attend conferences and represent the university, as well as moments where I was able to lead and grow as a student leader.鈥�

Carter made sure to take advantage of networking opportunities throughout her time in school, and she eventually met LU alumna Jateya Jackson. Jackson introduced Carter to the wide range of opportunities within the agriculture field, and Carter decided to change her major to Agribusiness with a minor in accounting.

鈥淪ince making that decision, I have not looked back,鈥� Carter said. 鈥淚 have grown to truly appreciate how diverse and impactful the field of agriculture is.鈥�

After graduation, Carter plans to pursue a career in the corporate sector while working toward becoming a successful businesswoman. Her long-term goal is to own a real estate firm. Thanks to her professors, mentors and her advisor, Dr. Nyairo Newton, Carter is confident she鈥檚 prepared for what comes next.

鈥�(性视界传媒) has shaped me into the woman I am today and has instilled in me the drive to continue striving for excellence,鈥� Carter said. 鈥淚 am thankful for the experiences, growth and opportunities that Langston has provided me. The long nights and early mornings have all led to this moment, and I am proud to carry the legacy forward.鈥�

Samiya Robinson

B.A. English and B.B.A Finance, School of Arts and Sciences

Originally from Kansas City, Missouri, Samiya Robinson has always been familiar with 性视界传媒 because it鈥檚 her great aunt鈥檚 alma mater. She understood the unique cultural and historical significance LU holds as Oklahoma鈥檚 HBCU, so she decided to apply and was accepted into the Edwin P. McCabe Honors Program. She came to LU in Fall 2021.

Though she originally chose LU because of her McCabe Honors scholarship, she soon fell in love with Dear Langston, and she is proud to be part of the same legacy as her great aunt.

Planning to pursue a career in business, Robinson chose to double major in English and Finance. She chose Finance because she hoped to develop her analytical and strategic thinking skills, and she chose English because she saw the growth and transformation the department has experienced in recent years and wanted to be part of it.

鈥淭he English Department pushed me to expand beyond technical skills and really develop my voice, especially in terms of creative expression and rhetoric,鈥� Robinson said. 鈥淭ogether, these programs have allowed me to think both analytically and critically, blending business strategy with creativity and communication in a way that I believe is essential for leadership.”

Robinson also worked to become a leader outside the classroom. She joined the Iota Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., in Spring 2022, and she said the sorority has been central to her leadership development and college experience. She has served as her chapter鈥檚 Vice President, President and Parliamentarian. She has also served as both a National Pan Hellenic Council and chapter delegate.

Beyond Greek life, Robinson worked in the LU Writing Center as a tutor and she served as the Community and Public Relations Chair for the School of Business. She is a Overnight Assistant for Residential Life and Housing Services. She is also a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success, the National Council of Negro Women, the School of Business Student Advisory Board, Sigma Tau Delta English Honor Society, and Delta Mu Delta International Business Honor Society.

After graduation, Robinson will head to Minnesota as part of the 2026 NBA x HBCU Fellowship. She will spend the summer working in Community Engagement with the Minnesota Lynx and Timberwolves organizations.

鈥淢y experience here has shaped me in ways that go far beyond academics,鈥� Robinson said. 鈥淢ore than anything, Langston has taught me growth both personally and socially. The 22-year-old I am today exists because my 17-year-old self made the decision to step outside of her comfort zone and choose a school just four hours from home as a place to grow into who I am.鈥�

Kaitlyn Mitchell

B.S. Nursing, School of Nursing and Health Professions

Kaitlyn Mitchell first discovered her passion for nursing as a student at Perry High School in Perry, Oklahoma. Her mother is a registered nurse, so she grew up with a lot of exposure to the field. When she got to high school, she decided she wanted to learn more. She took classes and became a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), and she continued working as a CNA until she graduated.

鈥淚 started working as a CNA in high school and fell in love with it,鈥� Mitchell said. 鈥淚 wanted to be able to do more for people, so I decided to become a nurse.鈥�

Once Mitchell realized this was her calling, she started looking into nursing programs in Oklahoma. Her mother鈥檚 coworkers highly recommended 性视界传媒, and it didn鈥檛 take Mitchell long to understand why.

She enrolled at LU in Fall 2022, and her professors made it clear early on that it would take a lot of hard work and dedication to earn her BSN. Mitchell was more than up for the challenge. She studied hard for her classes and made the most of her time in clinicals, and she excelled.

Outside of nursing, Mitchell was a member of the Edwin P. McCabe Honors Program, and she was also a member of the 性视界传媒 Quiz Bowl Team. She made friends and had fun, but school was her priority.

鈥淕etting into the nursing program was a highlight (of my time at LU),鈥� Mitchell said. 鈥淏ut also, I think nursing pinning and graduation will be my favorite memories since it highlights all my hard work paying off.鈥�

After graduation, Mitchell plans to spend her first year focusing on being a newly graduated registered nurse and gaining experience. Later, she plans to continue her education to eventually become a nurse practitioner.

鈥淚 honestly feel like Dr. Hunter has done a good job preparing me for what comes next,鈥� Mitchell said. 鈥淏ut I am absolutely glad it is over, and I made it to this point.鈥�

Brooklyn Noiel

B.A. Psychology and B.S. Corrections, School of Education and Behavioral Sciences

Originally from Oklahoma City, Brooklyn Noiel has always been a stellar student. She graduated in the top 10% of her class from Moore High School in 2022 before enrolling as a quad major鈥揹ouble bachelors in corrections and psychology and double associates in criminal justice and general studies鈥揳t 性视界传媒 that fall.

Noiel knew she wanted to be a lawyer, and she knew 性视界传媒 was the perfect place for her to earn her bachelor鈥檚 degree and prepare for law school.

鈥淚 decided to attend 性视界传媒 because it offers a strong sense of community, academic excellence and opportunities for personal growth,鈥� Noiel said. 鈥淎ttending 性视界传媒 allows me to grow academically, professionally and personally while being part of a legacy of excellence.鈥�

From the beginning, Noiel was drawn to the supportive environment at LU. As Oklahoma鈥檚 HBCU, 性视界传媒 celebrates culture, develops leaders and empowers students to reach their highest potential. That鈥檚 exactly what Noiel wanted.

That supportive atmosphere helped Noiel excel in and out of the classroom.

She was an LU Ambassador, serving terms as the Historian and the Chief of Staff; a Resident Assistant; a member of Legal Lions, where she served as Treasurer; a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorporated, where she served as the Recording Secretary; and a member of the Scholar鈥檚 Club, where she was Secretary and Miss Scholars鈥� Club. She was also part of LU鈥檚 student chapters of the National Council of Negro Women and the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice. She sang in LU’s Concert Choir, serving as the Wardrobe Lead and President, and she participated in the Student Government Association Senate, where she served as an Associate Justice to the Chief Justice,

After graduation, Noiel will intern at MedPro Group as their Inclusion and Engagement Intern in Fort Wayne, Indiana. In addition to her internship, Noiel plans to study for the LSAT with hopes of attending law school in Fall 2027.

鈥淚 truly feel that 性视界传媒 has prepared me for what comes next,鈥� Noiel said. 鈥淢y time here has given me not only a strong academic foundation, but also the confidence, leadership skills and resilience needed to pursue my future goals. Through the support of faculty, staff and fellow students, I have grown personally and professionally, and I feel ready to take the next step toward law school and my career aspirations.鈥�

The post Leading the Pride: Class of 2026 School Flag Bearers Share Their Stories appeared first on 性视界传媒.

As she stepped into the Pollinator Sanctuary, Andria took a moment to assess her surroundings.

She stood in the middle of a circular path lined with bushes and flowers. Butterflies, bees and other flying insects flitted between the plants, buzzing contentedly and paying her no mind. Her eyes followed the route of a bumblebee as it circled a purple flower to her right and flew over her head, bringing her gaze up to admire the bright blue sky that shone through the crisscrossing wooden beams enclosing her and the insects inside a giant ring.

She returned her eyes to the front and saw six pedestals in front of her. Each held a flower and was labeled with a different pollinator. She stepped forward, reached out, and plucked a bright red and orange marigold from its pedestal. Immediately, a honeybee came and landed on the flower, allowing her to get a good, close look at it. She brought the flower eye-level, and a voice began speaking in her ear, telling her about the daily habits of honeybees.

鈥淯sually, if I saw it in real life, I would get scared,鈥� Andria said. 鈥淚f I saw a bee, I would run. But since I knew it wasn鈥檛 real, I was kind of investigating it, seeing what was on the bug and stuff.鈥�

Observing different bees, butterflies and moths up close on the flowers was one of several activities Andria did through the Pollinator Sanctuary Virtual Reality Experience at 性视界传媒 on Thursday.

A rising junior at Stillwater High School, Andria is a camper at LU鈥檚 2026 Math and Science Academy. The annual summer camp brings students from all over Oklahoma and surrounding states to the Langston Campus for two weeks to learn about STEM careers, life in college and strategies for taking the ACT. Activities like the Pollinator Sanctuary give the students opportunities to learn about STEM and agriculture in new and exciting ways, which is why Shar Carter is trying to make it more accessible.

Carter is an extension educator with LU鈥檚 Cooperative Outreach and Extension Programs (CEOP). She worked with Aaru Entertainment, a virtual reality company based in Tulsa, to bring the Pollinator Sanctuary to Langston for the Math and Science Academy. For two years, she has worked with Aaru to put on similar events around Tulsa with some of the other educational labs they offer, such as a virtual reality space simulation. This summer, she wants to do more.

鈥淲e can take them to places, whether that鈥檚 botanical gardens or museums, that they might never see in their lifetime,鈥� Carter said. 鈥淭here鈥檚 just so many applications that we can do, and what Dr. (Welsey) Whitaker, Dr. (Alonzo) Peterson and President (Ruth Ray) Jackson have allowed me to do is engage with other departments and adapt it to what they want to do.鈥�

For the Math and Science Academy, Carter wanted it to showcase one of the many intersections of STEM and agriculture.

By donning the VR headset, students were transported from LU鈥檚 Multipurpose Gymnasium into a state-of-the-art insect sanctuary and observatory to learn about pollination, the insects that pollinate, and how that process plays into everyday life. They looked at bugs and flowers up close, walked through a grocery store with empty shelves where all the food requiring pollination should have been, and learned about pollinator conservation.

For many of the students, this was their first experience with virtual reality, and they were impressed.

鈥淚 was excited because I always wanted to try VR,鈥� Andria said. 鈥淎t first, it wasn鈥檛 like how I expected it to be, but it was still fun. It was cool looking around and seeing random things flying around. I think it鈥檚 a fun way to learn, especially since it鈥檚 kind of like a video game, and most people like video games.鈥�

The experience stuck with the students as more than just a fun activity. Many said they learned things about bees they hadn鈥檛 known before, and the impact of seeing the empty grocery store shelves is something many said will stay with them.

Aaiyah, a rising junior at Wiley East High School in Dallas, said the experience was eye-opening.

鈥淚t鈥檚 showing you how all the pollinators are gonna be gone, and how we鈥檙e not really gonna have any food,鈥� Aaiyah said. 鈥淟ike, in year 2080, we鈥檙e really only gonna have bread and wine. It was just really sad because we need to work on it.鈥�

Despite the somber feeling she had when she took off the headset, Aaiyah was still impressed by the VR experience.

鈥淵ou see things, like articles and stuff like that,鈥� Aaiyah said. 鈥淏ut this was like, you actually got to engage with it. To see the future and back and the difference, and to actually take it in.鈥�

Carter and Aaru will host the next virtual reality STEM education lab on the Langston Campus on June 25 as part of the Sherman Lewis School of Agriculture and Applied Sciences鈥� HERC Field Day. Carter is working to schedule more around Oklahoma throughout the summer.

The post LU Cooperative Extension and Outreach hosts virtual reality STEM education labs appeared first on 性视界传媒.

On April 1, the world watched excitedly as astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen launched into space as part of the Artemis II Mission鈥揘ASA鈥檚 first crewed lunar flyby since 1972. For 10 days, people eagerly awaited updates as the Artemis II crew orbited the moon and traveled the greatest distance from Earth humans have ever achieved. On April 10, the crew reentered the Earth鈥檚 orbit and splashed down off the coast of San Diego.

The first person to greet them was 性视界传媒 alumnus Laddy Aldridge.

Aldridge is a Senior Chief Petty Officer in the U.S. Navy, and he serves as the Independent Duty Corpsman for Explosive Ordinance Disposal Expeditionary Support Unit 1. He was one of four Navy Sailors selected for the Navy Dive Medical Recovery Team for the Artemis II Mission, serving as a first-contact medical provider inside the Orion capsule. But long before that, he was just a boy from Oklahoma.

鈥淭o be a part of this mission is truly an honor,鈥� Aldridge said. 鈥淚 am humbled to have been just a small part in it.鈥�

Aldridge grew up in Cushing, Oklahoma, and he found his passion for medicine at a young age. His father, a former U.S. Coast Guardsman, had a long medical history and was at the doctor鈥檚 often. Sometimes Aldridge accompanied him, and he was inspired to pursue a medical career after seeing the many interactions between his dad and Dr. Ike Hubbard.

After that, he talked to his high school career counselor. She suggested he apply to 性视界传媒鈥檚 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program because the school鈥檚 licensure exam pass rate was better than that of the University of Oklahoma. Additionally, LU was more affordable and closer to his family. So, in the fall of 2005, Dear Langston became Aldridge鈥檚 new home.

For the next two years, Aldridge worked over 40 hours a week while balancing a full course load each semester and commuting from Cushing. It was hard, but he was determined. His professors were helpful and supportive, and one of his chemistry professors was particularly influential in his decision to enlist in the Navy.

鈥淪he never hesitated to ask if I was grasping the concepts in class at the end of every session,鈥� Aldridge said. 鈥淢aking small talk one day, I mentioned my father鈥檚 military background and said something like, 鈥業 would join if I was not currently enrolled.鈥� She supported the thought and also immediately offered to help search for more scholarships if I was struggling financially. I will always remember how supportive she was of me no matter what direction I wanted to go in life.鈥�

In 2007, Aldridge decided to pause his studies and join the Navy as an enlisted Hospital Corpsman. His naval career has taken him places he never imagined. Over the past 19 years, he鈥檚 had the opportunity to work with wonderful people, learn from next-level leaders, and gain skills and viewpoints that he said will forever shape his life.

In 2017, NASA announced the Artemis Program, a moon exploration program made up of several missions of increasing complexity with the end goal of establishing a permanent lunar base on the moon.

When the Artemis II Mission was announced, Aldridge was excited to be named to its Navy Dive Medical Recovery Team. His initial excitement was quickly followed by nervousness and then eagerness to learn more about space medicine and physiology. Then the training began.

鈥淥ver the past few years, our team took several trips to NASA鈥檚 Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory located in Houston, Texas,鈥� Aldridge said. 鈥淭hese helped familiarize the team with the procedures and gear utilized in the mission. Along with those trips, we conducted several underway trips on various U.S. Navy ships where we would practice the mission with a training capsule in the open ocean.鈥�

The Team鈥檚 years of training paid off. When the Orion capsule landed in the Pacific Ocean, they went straight to work.

Once they opened the capsule, Aldridge was the first person to make contact with the astronauts. He entered the capsule and began conducting initial medical exams for the crew. The Navy Dive Medical Team provided care as needed and then assisted the astronauts out of the capsule and onto a raft set up by Navy divers. They then prepared the astronauts for a helicopter airlift to the USS John P. Murtha for further medical evaluations.

Reflecting on the mission afterward, Aldridge was honored to participate. Growing up in Oklahoma, he never would have imagined he would one day work with NASA to care for astronauts returning from a lunar mission. He knows he wouldn鈥檛 have had the opportunity without the support of people throughout his life, from Cushing and Langston to his many naval duty stations.

鈥淟U prepared me not only academically for life after college but also for life in general!鈥� Alrdidge said. 鈥淭o 性视界传媒, my first home after high school, thank you for helping me build the foundation of who I am as a person and a student. Even though I never completed my initial goal of a degree from LU, I will always be a Lion at heart.鈥�

The post 性视界传媒 Alumnus serves on Artemis II Naval Recovery Mission appeared first on 性视界传媒.

by Jet Turner

The kids scream in delight, sweat still dripping off their brows and smiles still on their faces as Danielle Jones unlocks her front door.

Her home鈥檚 cool AC hits them in a wave, saving them from the July sun. For Jones, summer break means days in the park and time outside with her children. Being a teacher, answering her emails 鈥� all thoughts in the back of her mind.

DING!

Until that email notification went off.

Usually, Jones would鈥檝e ignored that email, especially after an exhausting day at the park. But she knew it was about time to see if she had received the Fulbright Teachers for Global Classrooms Award.

She pulled out her phone and clicked on the notification.

____________________________________________________________________

Jones always knew she wanted to be a teacher.

鈥淚 love 鈥楳atilda,鈥� and I always wanted to be like Miss Honey,鈥� Jones said.

She was always around children. Even from a young age, she would volunteer with her church鈥檚 nursery or vacation bible school. In middle school, Jones took a career test that suggested she should pursue teaching. That all but confirmed what path she wanted to take.

Jones attended Oklahoma State University after graduating from Guthrie High School, and she earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She spent some time in different career fields before returning to education.

A friend of Jones鈥� had just finished her master鈥檚 degree in urban education at 性视界传媒 when Jones began teaching again. Her friend kept telling her how great the urban education program was at LU and encouraged her to apply.

鈥淚 had been teaching for a couple of years at that point, and I was like, 鈥楢 master鈥檚 wouldn鈥檛 hurt,’ you know?鈥� Jones said.

Jones was accepted into the urban education program on the 性视界传媒 鈥� Oklahoma City campus and began attending classes during the Fall 2017 semester.

She loved her time in the program, in large part because of the HBCU culture 性视界传媒 offers across all its campuses.

鈥淚t was really important at that time in life,鈥� Jones said. 鈥淚 think people think that once you become an adult, you have it all figured out, and you just don’t. I’m still learning. For me, I was still trying to figure out my identity as a Black woman and where I’m supposed to be, and how do I pour into children, Black and brown children, who look like me, and address stereotypes and biases? Just because we’re Black don’t mean we know each other’s story. The program allowed me to lean on people and hear their perspectives.

“If you want that type of culture, you can’t destroy that type of culture. You have to continue to embrace it and pour into it. I tell other students, 鈥業f you want a family, if you want to be a name and not a number, if you want people who want to see you succeed and will push you and will hold you to a higher standard, Langston (University) is the place for you.鈥欌��

Jones graduated with her master’s degree in urban education in 2019, and soon afterward began working at Putnam City North High School. Before then, she had never heard of Fulbright.

A fellow teacher had applied to the Fulbright program many times before finally being accepted. They constantly tried to convince Jones to apply for the program, telling her, 鈥淲hen that application comes out, you need to apply.鈥�

鈥淏ut I鈥檓 a mom,鈥� Jones said. 鈥淗ow鈥檚 this going to work?鈥�

鈥淵ou know what? I鈥檓 not going to stress about it. What God has for me is for me. I鈥檓 just putting myself out there, and I鈥檒l pray that it works out.鈥�

The Fulbright Teachers for Global Classrooms Program is a yearlong professional learning opportunity and short-term exchange for elementary, middle and high school educators from the United States to develop skills to prepare students for a competitive global economy. The program equips educators to bring an international perspective to their schools through targeted training, experience abroad and global collaboration, according to its website.

Participants in the program will travel abroad for two to three weeks to immerse themselves in another country鈥檚 culture and education system and create a global education guide that serves as a resource in their local community to share the skills, experiences and resources they have developed throughout the program, among other activities.

Jones applied to the program in February 2025. Then, the long wait began.

鈥淚 remember going to church, and our pastor had us do these cards with your prayer list,鈥� Jones said. 鈥淚 had that on my prayer list. I just wanted to give it to God and not even worry about it because I was starting to get anxious about it, especially because it takes so long to find out.”

_______________________________________________________________________

…the white light of her email app brightened her smile as Jones read the email.

She was accepted into the Fulbright program for the 2025-2026 year.

鈥淭hey picked me, this little girl from Guthrie, Oklahoma,鈥� Jones said. 鈥淚 couldn鈥檛 believe it.鈥�

It wasn鈥檛 until several months later that Jones learned she was the only recipient from Oklahoma selected to participate in the program for this award cycle.

Jones knows she鈥檚 not only representing the state of Oklahoma, but representing Black educators, 性视界传媒 alumni and so many others who helped her along the way.

鈥淚 was raised by a single father, and I鈥檝e reconnected with my mom,鈥� Jones said. 鈥淚’ve had a lot of mentors and teachers who always poured into me. Everything I do is to try to honor their legacy and the sacrifices they made for me.

鈥淚 feel like I did this for all of us. We鈥檙e all in the Fulbright program now.鈥�

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