December 2022 Oklahoma Hall of Fame Magazine

DECEMBER 2022 MAGAZINE OF THE OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME TELLING OKLAHOMA'S STORY THROUGH ITS PEOPLE SINCE 1927 REFLECTION SYMMETRY: THE 2022 OKLAHOMA LAWRENCE NAFF & HALL OF FAME INDUCTION JASON WILSON CEREMONY ASCANS IN OKLAHOMA OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: GAYLORD-PICKENS MUSEUM AN EXTRAORDINARY MERLE NEWBY BUTTRAM PUBLIC SERVANT: OLETA LAWANDA CRAIN

Let’s Partner For Better Health At INTEGRIS Health, our mission is partnering with people to live healthier lives—and these days, Olahomans are living aster, more demanding lives than ever That’s why we’re introduing new health are innovations that deliver more fle i­ility, onveniene and high€‚uality e perienes ƒrom new urgent care centers aross the metro, to a utting€edge home hospitalization program or aute are patients, the only hospital€­ased Medicare Advantage program in the area and a brand-new heart hospital, we are ommitted to meeting your every health are need—at your speed Your Health Partner for Life. integrisok.com

DECEMBER 2022 VOLUME 27 • NUMBER 2 PRESIDENT & CEO Shannon L. Rich VICE PRESIDENT CONTENTS Gini Moore Campbell CHAIRMAN, PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE Bob Burke DESIGN MAGAZINE OF THE OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME Skip McKinstry skipmckinstry.com 2 From the Chairman From the President OKLAHOMA HALL of FAME Rebecca Dixon Shannon L. Rich Subscription .....................................$35 3 Reflection Symmetry: Individualism ...................................$50 Lawrence Naff & Jason Wilson Perseverance .................................$100 Carol Mowdy Bond Pioneer Spirit .................................$250 Optimism ...................................... $500 Friends of the Medallion ................... $1,000 Let’s Partner Mistletoe Circle ............................. $2,500 Gold Circle ................................$5,000 14 ASCANs in Oklahoma D O N O R L E V E L SConstancy Circle ...........................$10,000 Bill Moore For Better Health Mission Partner .......................$25,000 At INTEGRIS Health, our mission is partnering with people to live healthier For additional information contact the 21 An Extraordinary Public Servant: Oklahoma Hall of Fame lives—and these days, Olahomans are living aster, more demanding lives 1400 Classen Drive Oleta Lawanda Crain Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73106 Betty Katherine Permetter Falato than ever Telephone 405.235.4458 or Toll Free 888.501.2059 27 The 2022 Oklahoma That’s why we’re introduing new health are innovations that deliver more E-mail [email protected] Hall of Fame Induction fle i­ility, onveniene and high€‚uality e perienesVisit the organization's website at Ceremony: Celebrating OklahomaHOF.com Oklahoma’s Highest Honor ƒrom new urgent care centers aross the metro, to a utting€edge home Unsolicited manuscripts must be Gini Moore Campbell accompanied by return postage. hospitalization program or aute are patients, the only hospital€­ased Unless otherwise noted, all images are Medicare Advantage program in the area and acourtesy of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. 34 Oklahoma Hall of Fame brand-new heart hospital, Member Spotlight: we are ommitted to meeting your every health are need—at your speedLIBRARY DISTRIBUTION MADE POSSIBLE Merle Newby Buttram THROUGH THE GENEROSITY OF Mattie Barlow DONORS STATEWIDE. MISSION PARTNERS 39 Oklahoma’s Story MR. AND MRS. BOB BURKE THE CHICKASAW NATION Through Its People E.L. AND THELMA GAYLORD FOUNDATION OKLAHOMA CHILLER THE PUTERBAUGH FOUNDATION Your Health Partner for Life. integrisok.com

FROM THE FROM THE CHAIRMAN... PRESIDENT... Last month we celebrated eight Fame is finding ways to meet the It is hard to believe we are nearing the different abilities. In the coming incredibly talented and generous needs of the next generation. Not end of 2022. I am pleased to share year, you will learn about how the Oklahomans with our state’s highest only are we serving people in the with you that from Free Field Trips and Oklahoma Hall of Fame will be honor—induction to the Oklahoma Gaylord-Pickens Museum, but scholarship participation to publishing growing our reach and making new Hall of Fame. It was wonderful online programming, statewide and outreach, we have reached and and exciting opportunities available— hosting everyone in Tulsa and we outreach programs, and our exceeded pre-pandemic numbers. In further enhancing how we are “Telling have heard nothing but positive Library Distribution Program are addition, we have launched OHOF Oklahoma’s Story Through its People!” feedback on the 95th annual making a huge impact in the in the Wild—weekly curated content On behalf of the Oklahoma Hall Oklahoma Hall of Fame Induction community in which they live. for children with educational and of Fame team, we wish you a holiday Ceremony. First and foremost, the As you think about year-end or recreational activities that facilitate time season surrounded by those you diversity of the class on all levels has New Year giving, please consider spent outdoors and engaging with the cherish the most and a New Year received much acclaim. You can increasing your current level of natural world around them—and the filled with great possibilities! We look learn more about the event and this support or make an additional Scouts program—allowing youth the forward to seeing you in 2023! year’s class in this issue. And, just gift. I promise you, every penny opportunity to reach their goals through a reminder, you have until March is put to the very best use. curriculum created by the Museum 1, 2023 to nominate those to be Wishing you and your family a Experience Team. And, our Homeschool considered for the Class of 2023. safe and happy holiday season! Days have been so well received that As I reflect on my first year as additional days to meet demand were chair of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, necessary. Shannon L. Rich I am grateful for the opportunity None of what we do would be PRESIDENT & CEO to work with such a professional possible without YOU—our donors. and result-driven team. Our staff Rebecca Dixon 365 days a year you are fulfilling the continues to expand programming, CHAIRMAN dream of higher education for a high enhance existing programming, school student, inspiring an elementary and raise the bar each and every student by providing a connection to a day. At a time when schools are local hero, and making programming struggling, the Oklahoma Hall of available to those with a range of CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD CHAIRMEN’S COUNCIL AJ GRIFFIN EDMOND REBECCA DIXON TULSA GOVERNOR BILL ANOATUBBY ADA JENNIFER M. GRIGSBY OKLAHOMA CITY CALVIN J. ANTHONY STILLWATER JOE D. HALL ELK CITY CHAIR-ELECT OF THE BOARD NEVYLE R. CABLE JENKS MICHELLE HARDESTY TULSA FRANK W. MERRICK OKLAHOMA CITY PAT HENRY LAWTON ANN HARGIS STILLWATER CHAIRMAN EMERITUS GLEN D. JOHNSON OKLAHOMA CITY HANNIBAL B. JOHNSON TULSA ORS BRUCE T. BENBROOK WOODWARD ROXANA LORTON TULSA MAUTRA STALEY JONES OKLAHOMA CITY TOM J. MCDANIEL OKLAHOMA CITY PEGGY KATES OKLAHOMA CITY VICE CHAIRMEN OF THE BOARD - EC JOE P. MORAN III TULSA CATHY KEATING OKLAHOMA CITY CHIEF GARY BATTON DURANT LEE ALLAN SMITH OKLAHOMA CITY KATHY LASTER SHAWNEE SAMUEL COMBS III TULSA MARK A. STANSBERRY EDMOND JUDY LOVE OKLAHOMA CITY ART COTTON OKLAHOMA CITY ERIKA LUCAS EDMOND PAGE DAVIDSON BROKEN ARROW WES MILBOURN OKLAHOMA CITY KEN FERGESON ALTUS DIRECTORS MIKE NEAL TULSA EDNA MAE HOLDEN KREMLIN JARI ASKINS DUNCAN SUSAN BINGHAM NEAL TULSA WHITNEY RAINBOLT OKLAHOMA CITY CORPORATE SECRETARY DEWEY F. BARTLETT JR. TULSA BOB BURKE OKLAHOMA CITY BARBARA BRAUGHT DUNCAN EDIE ROODMAN OKLAHOMA CITY ANDRE’ CALDWELL OKLAHOMA CITY BOB ROSS OKLAHOMA CITY TREASURER BRAD CARSON TULSA JOANN SCHAUB TULSA STEVE BURRAGE ANTLERS JILL CASTILLA EDMOND WILLIAM SCHONACHER OKLAHOMA CITY EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AT LARGE STAN CLARK STILLWATER BRANDON D. SCOTT BROKEN ARROW CLAYTON I. BENNETT OKLAHOMA CITY JODI CLINE PONCA CITY T.W. SHANNON OKLAHOMA CITY LINDA ENGLISH WEEKS NORMAN AMANDA R. CLINTON TULSA KAYSE SHRUM STILLWATER TERRI CORNETT OKLAHOMA CITY C. RENZI STONE OKLAHOMA CITY ARD OF DIRECT PRESIDENT & CEO CHAD DILLINGHAM ENID STEVEN W. TAYLOR MCALESTER SHANNON L. RICH OKLAHOMA CITY CHERYL EVANS BURLINGTON JIM UTTERBACK EARLSBORO AMY ANNE FORD DURANT J.C. WATTS, JR. NORMAN VICE PRESIDENT JANE JAYROE GAMBLE OKLAHOMA CITY CHAD WIGINTON ALTUS BO GINI MOORE CAMPBELL OKLAHOMA CITY ANNE M. GREENWOOD STILLWATER ALLEN WRIGHT OKLAHOMA CITY OklahomaHOF.com 222

Lawrence Naff is an abstract, visual artist in Oklahoma City. Jason Wilson is an abstract, visual artist in McAlester. (Photo by defining Image) (Courtesy Jason Wilson) REFLECTION LAWRENCE NAFF AND JASON WILSON Y TR YMME S BY CAROL MOWDY BOND Carlos Barboza with the mural he created for Tease Hair Design Studio in Yukon, Oklahoma. (Courtesy Carlos Barboza) 33

REFLECTION SYMMETRY LAWRENCE NAFF Born and bred in the Now a visual artist and characters with rings that jewelry designer, Lawrence possessed powers that Naff was born in and grew could control the elements, Sooner State, abstract up in Oklahoma City. His and the video game ‘Sonic mother was a software the Hedgehog’ had the artists Lawrence Naff specialist and his father a Chaos Emeralds which sales professional. During gave him super powers. and Jason Wilson Naff’s youth, he held no This caused me to be inclination toward art. But interested in crystals in he was passionate about elementary school.” emerged from different geology, especially crystals and minerals, and video After graduating from backgrounds. However, games and anime. Oklahoma City’s Northeast Academy for Health both of their journeys “During the 1980s and Sciences and Engineering, 1990s, I was consuming Naff entered university circle back to the past, entertainment that life. At that point, his centered around a theme childhood love of crystals of magical crystals,” and minerals connected connecting to their 36-year-old Naff says. with a new experience that “‘Sailor Moon’ had a tapped into his previously- personal origins which storyline centered on a hidden artistic abilities. magical silver crystal and integrate into the art the villains were named “In college, a friend, who after gemstones and was from Japan, had minerals. ‘Captain Planet her iPad decorated with they produce. and the Planeteers’ had rhinestones,” Naff says. LAWRENCE NAFF: 1515 Lincoln Gallery, 1515 North Lincoln, Oklahoma City; lawrencenaff.com; and Instagram @lawrencenaff. Lawrence Naff demonstrates his visual art methods. (Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition) 4

Egg I, 2”x1.5”x1.5,” Rhinestones and Lapis Lazuli, by Lawrence Naff. (Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition) Azurite I, 24”x6”x1,” Rhinestones, Brass, and Azurite, by Lawrence Naff. (Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition) “I asked her about it toy pieces, and other and she told me she did embellishments. “HUMAN it herself and got the materials from a craft After snagging a FASCINATION store in her hometown of degree in interpersonal WITH GLIMMERING Osaka, Japan. It just so communication from happened that I was going the University of Central OBJECTS to Osaka for the summer Oklahoma, Naff landed vacation that year, so I a full-time IT career in STEMS FROM went to the shop, bought Oklahoma City where he OUR NATURAL rhinestones and had a currently works and lives. friend there show me how ATTRACTION TO to decorate my phone and However, Naff’s love of my Nintendo DS.” decoden evolved into an WATER. art career, simultaneously During his time in Osaka, dovetailing with his IT NO MATTER Naff embraced the art career. He has access THE DESIGN, of decoden. The word to a large supply of “decoden” is from an computer components WE ARE DRAWN English-Japanese fusion and incorporates them of the words “decoration” into his art, which involves TO ITS and “denwa,” which means creating glimmering KINETIC DANCE phone. In order to express mosaics by patiently and themselves, Japanese individually glueing crystal WITH LIGHT.” youth were decorating rhinestones and gemstones their cell phones with on substrate. rhinestones, fabrics, LAWRENCE NAFF Justice, Crystal, Tiger’s Eye, and Brass, by Lawrence Naff. (Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition) 5 5

“Ideas pop into my head all days. If it’s 24”x24,” it can of the time, but the most be a few months. Because frequent is the moment I have a full-time job, the at bedtime after I close time I have to work on art my eyes and before I is limited.” begin to sleep,” Naff says. “Sometimes an image Although Naff says his work pops in my head and I does not communicate a Carborundum, 4”x4”x1,” Crystal and Carborundum on Birch, by Lawrence Naff. (Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition) Languages, 12”x12,” Crystal, Found Computer Parts, Tiger’s Eye, Red Jasper, and Mahogany Obsidian, by Lawrence Naff. (Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition) Pyrite IV, 24”x24”x1,” Crystal, Brass, and Pyrite, by Lawrence Naff. (Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition) wake back up to sketch specific message, he admits it. After I’ve drawn it, I there is an underlying can’t forget it, and I can concept to his art. execute the design later on a panel. I have to decide “The juxtaposition of the color, but that doesn’t manmade and natural take long. The time it takes components is meant to to completely execute question if technology depends on how large the and nature are as separate canvas is. If it is 4”x4,” it as we have been led can be from two to three to believe. I fight the 66

Necklace made of Lapis Lazuli, Pyrite, and Steel, by Lawrence Naff. (Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition) Necklace made of Shell, Freshwater Pearl, and Steel, by Lawrence Naff. (Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition) Destiny, 12”x12,” Crystal, Glass, Lapis Lazuli, Pyrite, by Lawrence Naff. Necklace made of Tiger’s Eye and Steel, by Lawrence Naff. (Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition) 77 35

Pyrite II, 4”x4”x1,” Crystal, Brass, Pyrite, and Computer Processor, by Lawrence Naff. (Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition) forced obsolescence of electronics by incorporating them into my designs,” Naff says. “My work fuses my childhood fascination with crystals, and my love for electronics during college, when I was introduced to decoden in Japan.” But Naff is combining the unique Japanese art form with his own intricate designs, channeling his work in new directions. He is still decorating tech devices, but Naff is also creating free standing pieces, work on substrate, and pieces of jewelry that brilliantly reflect light. His work also sets a mood that easily connects to others. A self-taught artist, Naff’s list of publications, and exhibitions, including solo exhibitions, is extensively Certain, 4”x4”x1,” impressive. Rhinestones on Birch Panel, by Lawrence Naff. (Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition) Cube II, 2”x2”x2,” Rhinestones and Tiger’s Eye, by Lawrence Naff. (Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition) 8

Far and Wide, 36”x36,” Acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas, by Jason Wilson.(Courtesy Jason Wilson) REFLECTION SYMMETRY JASON WILSON Tripartite, 48”x36,” Acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas, by Jason Wilson. (Courtesy Jason Wilson) When he is not traveling, The narrative of Wilson’s art enthusiasts will find journey into the art world Jason Wilson about two is incomplete without his hours away from the paternal grandparents who Oklahoma City area. Born were a constant during and raised in Hartshorne, his formative years. In Wilson now lives in fact, every aspect of his McAlester with his wife grandparents’ lives made Patte. His father was a a deep-and-life-long supervisor at Boeing impression on Wilson. in McAlester and his That includes meals in mother taught English at their home, with the entire Hartshorne High School. family squished around a tiny kitchen table. Art was integral to the now-57-year-old Wilson’s “My favorite meals were growing-up years. His fried squirrel with biscuits mother was an artist, and gravy,” Wilson says. although she never “I’m not sure why, but promoted her work. She squirrel gravy is the best painted landscapes, still gravy. Another favorite was life, animals, and cartoons, fried deer meat and gravy.” and gifted Hartshorne area residents with her Wilson’s paternal paintings. Also, Wilson grandfather told him, “I’d enjoyed art projects in rather try and fail, than school, and his mother never tried at all.” Those nurtured his inclination. As words still inspire Wilson well, he loved car models, as he pushes forward in painting by number, grid the art world and wrestles drawings, and other art- with rejections that come inspired childhood activities. with the territory. JASON WILSON: Carpe Artem Gallery, 1104 Northwest 30th Street, Oklahoma City, and Northern Shift, 36”x36,” Our Favorite Place, 127 North Main Street, Eufaula; Acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas, artbyjasonwilson.com; and Instagram @artbyjasonwilson. by Jason Wilson. (Courtesy Jason Wilson) 9 35

Different Angles, 30”x40,” Acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas, by Jason Wilson. (Courtesy Jason Wilson) was a tent. I was fascinated with the patterns, especially the 3-D patterns. It was an adventure for me and I always enjoyed being in their home.” Of Wilson’s great- grandmothers, one was Jason Wilson’s grandmother, known as “Ma.” Gertie “Ma” Gladys Wilson, was a quilter. Wilson was well known for Her quilts continue to influence her quilts which she gifted to Jason Wilson’s art. (Courtesy Jason Wilson) numerous elected politicians, including numerous U.S. presidents, bringing her national recognition. “Born in 1890, this pioneer This stable and strong of his Cherokee, paternal girl, busy making quilts relationship, between grandmother Gladys Wilson. in her two-room log Wilson and his paternal cabin, had no idea her grandparents, remains Remembering her, Wilson quilts would someday important because Wilson’s says, “She quilted in the grace the nation’s White paternal grandmother very back room of their House,” Wilson says. “My was one of four influential house. The quilt was Great-Grandma Garis and quilters in his life. In fact, suspended from the ceiling, Great-Grandma Gilreath the strongest impetus for with a rope to each corner. also produced quilts. As Wilson’s art career rests in I can remember playing you can see, quilts were the creative, quilting hands underneath the quilts like it an important part of my young life.” Discussing his paternal Jason Wilson’s great-grandmother grandmother and three and quilter Gertie “Ma” Wilson, great-grandmothers, of Hartshorne, began quilting at Wilson says, “They knew age nine. Her quilts continue to me as an artist and an art influence Jason Wilson’s art. (Courtesy Jason Wilson) teacher, but none of them were able to see what has become my ‘style.’ A style directly inspired by their quilts.” Wilson graduated from Hartshorne High School, before earning two bachelor’s degrees—one in art education and one in religion—from Oklahoma Baptist University. He became a public school art teacher, retiring from that career just a few years ago. Enveloped, 24”x24,” Acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas, by Jason Wilson.(Courtesy Jason Wilson) 10

A vintage newspaper article shows Jason Wilson’s paternal grandmother Gladys Wilson, on the left, and his great- grandmother Gertie “Ma” Wilson. The women are showcasing one of Ma Wilson’s quilts, which she “Art was just something that handed to presidential hopeful Jimmy Carter and his running I always did,” now-full-time mate Walter Mondale in Norman. artist Wilson says. “I was Both women were quilters and their quilts still influence Jason the ‘kid that could draw,’ Wilson’s art. so that’s what I did. I was (Courtesy Jason Wilson) fortunate to have a mother who invested in my creative side, and wonderful art teachers as I grew up.” Now Wilson literally paints quilts by using a detailed, time consuming process. He Fractured, 24”x48,” creates geometric puzzle Acrylic on gallery wrapped pieces that defy dimension. canvas, by Jason Wilson. And innumerable people, (Courtesy Jason Wilson) even professional art critics, claim his work is computer generated. But nothing could be further from the truth. Wilson hand makes each piece of art using paint brushes, not air brushes. “Once I have an idea, I start by developing my paintings on grid paper Flamboyant, 24”x36,” Acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas, by Jason Wilson. (Courtesy Jason Wilson) 11 35

Jason Wilson, on the left, discusses his painting Utopia with a visitor at the Salina Biennial, Salina Art Center in Salina, Kansas. (Courtesy Jason Wilson) Skyscrapers, 24”x36,” Acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas, by Jason Wilson. (Courtesy Jason Wilson) I WANT TO PROVOKE A REACTION FROM THE VIEWER. BUT I HAVE LEARNED TO LET EACH PAINTING STAND ON ITS OWN BECAUSE SOMETIMES PEOPLE SEE IN THEM SOMETHING MUCH BETTER THAN I PLANNED. JASON WILSON Jason Wilson at work in his studio. (Photos by Alyssa Roper) 35 12

Commissioned by Vision Eufaula, Jason Wilson completed his first mural, “Fractured,” September 2022 on the back of a building located on the corner of J.C. Watts, Jr., and Front Streets in Eufaula, for the 2022 Eufaula Mural Festival. (Courtesy Jason Wilson) to scale,” Wilson says. viewers often bring their The genesis of Wilson’s “After I have the concept own interpretations to my on the grid paper, I draw paintings. In perceptual it on the canvas using art, there is so much room career aligns with strong precise measurements and for interpretation and rulers. After the drawing interaction. I bring order to family relationships is finished, I use a masking this process by eliminating technique that took me distractions. I don’t want interwoven with his years to perfect. I use clutter to interfere or acrylic paint, but I have a distract the viewer. I want formula combining heavy my work to be technically five senses, and women body acrylics with student precise and as flawlessly grade acrylics. I do this finished as possible.” who were avid quilters. to obtain an ultra-smooth finish. My desire is for With a massive and For Naff, his childhood my paintings to be impressive list of so technically flawless publications, awards, hobbies and fascinations and precise that they recognitions, events, are stunning.” exhibits, and solo exhibitions, Wilson’s merged with experiences “In my paintings, the form work is quickly gaining is what I see—patterns, attention. Wilson does not and aptitudes that shapes, color, lines, make social or political values. However, after the statements through his brought forth his innate viewer sees one of my work. His goal is to show paintings, their perception the beauty of patterns, surfaces in an attempt colors, and visual effects. artistic abilities and a to make meaning of the work. I can manipulate “As an art teacher, every growing career. For both the elements of art in an year for years, I took my attempt to communicate students to the Festival of men, their roots are key the content or feeling the Arts in Oklahoma City. that I want them to I never dreamed I would experience. But in reality, one day be an artist.” to their success. 13 35

ASCANs IN OKLAHOMA BY BILL MOORE 14

hat’s an ASCAN? And, why are they in the Sooner State? Well, it’s Wa good thing. ASCAN is a NASA acronym meaning AStronaut CANdidate and for more than two decades, the non-pilot astronaut candidates and even some of the pilots came to Vance Air Force Base in Enid, Oklahoma for a short two- or three-day training session in parachuting and survival training. The 1978 Class of Astronauts in ASCAN Training at Vance AFB in Enid with, back from left, George Nelson, Judy Resnick, and an unknown airman. Front from left are Ron McNair, Sally Ride, Kathy Sullivan, Rhea Seddon, Anna Fisher, and Dr. Shannon Lucid. Courtesy NASA. The goal of all the ASCAN was to fly into space on the Space Shuttle. Courtesy NASA. 15 35

YOU COULD EASILY SAY THAT THE WAY TO GET TO SPACE WAS THROUGH ENID, OKLAHOMA. Sally Ride, America’s first woman in space on STS-7 is seen in her ASCAN training at Vance in 1978. Courtesy NASA. In 1978, the first class of female astronaut candidates were chosen which included Bethany, Oklahoma’s Shannon Lucid. The others were Sally Ride, Judith Resnick, Rhea Seddon, Anna Fisher, and Kathy Sullivan. Sally Ride was the first American woman in space on the STS-7 mission. Judith Resnick was unfortunately Duane Ross, born in Oklahoma killed in the explosion of the Shuttle Challenger in 1986. City, served as director of the Astronaut Training Program at Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas. Courtesy Duane Ross. 16

Lucid received her Ph.D, Masters, and Bachelors degrees from the University of Oklahoma after having grown up in Bethany. She was working for the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation when she received the call from Houston telling her she had been selected as an astronaut in 1978. She flew five times with her final mission on the Russian Mir Space Station where she set a record for the longest time in space for an American and a world record for the longest time in space for a female. But to reach those records, Lucid first had to go to Enid with the other female astronauts and attend training sessions. Shuttle astronauts came in two groups—either as a pilot or Mission Specialist. The Mission Specialists were on board to run experiments and equipment, as well as perform spacewalks. They weren’t required to be pilots, so they didn’t necessarily have the parachute skills. Because of that, the Vance training became a standard for all non-pilot astronauts. Second Lieutenant Eileen Collins reported to Vance AFB in September 1978 for jet pilot training. She was among the first group of female pilots being trained by the Air Force for jet fighter flight. This was part of a test program for women in flight training. Her first week at Vance was also the time the six female ASCANs showed up for parachute and survival training. This group of ASCANs, that included Shannon Lucid, became role models for Collins. She noticed none were training as pilots. That’s when she began to think that she could be a space shuttle pilot someday. Collins went on to become the first female pilot on STS-63 and the first female Commander on STS-93. Collins spent a year in Jet Pilot Training at Vance and then stayed on as an instructor. She was the only female instructor in Vance’s T-38 squadron from September 1979 to December 1982. Collins spent a total of four years at Vance. Duane Ross, born in Oklahoma City and raised in Healdton, Oklahoma, began work for NASA after Returning years later as an ASCAN, in 1990 Eileen Collins participated in parachute training. Courtesy NASA. At Vance AFB, Eileen Collins spent four years stationed in Enid, Oklahoma as one of the first female jet pilots, students, and instructors. Courtesy NASA. 17 35

graduating from East Central State College in Ada, 33 and STS-44. Gregory was the first African-American Oklahoma in the summer of 1967. Ross would eventually to serve as deputy administrator of NASA and as acting go on to serve as manager of the Astronaut Selection administrator of NASA for two months in 2005. Office, as a member of the Astronaut Selection Board, Joe Allen was selected as a scientist-astronaut in August and as manager of the Astronaut Candidate (ASCAN) 1967 and was then sent to flight training at Vance. He flew Training Program from 1994 to 2013, personally chosen as a Mission Specialist on STS-5 and STS-51A. by Johnson Space Center Director George Abbey. During Karl Henize was selected as a Scientist Astronaut in this time, he participated in the selection of 246 of 1967 and was sent to Vance for a 53-week jet pilot the 338 NASA astronauts and was responsible for the training program. He flew on STS-51F as a Mission basic training of 124 NASA and 28 international partner Specialist serving on board the Spacelab 2 Mission. astronaut candidates. Roy Bridges was a T-37 Instructor Pilot at Vance from Several astronauts came through Vance early in their January 1969 to July 1970. He served as pilot on STS-51F. Air Force careers, much like Eileen Collins. Tom Jones After that, he served as director of the Kennedy Space Center spent one year at Vance in 1978. While he was there, and went on to be the director of Langley Research Center. Skylab astronaut Owen Garriott would often land in Loren Shriver spent one year in undergraduate pilot a NASA T-38 jet to see family in Enid. Jones loved to training at Vance and then served as an instructor in admire the beautifully kept NASA jet, not knowing he T-38s for four years, 1969-1973. He flew as pilot on would one day be flying them for NASA. He would later STS-51C, Commander on STS-31 and STS-46. return to Vance with the 13th group of ASCANs in July Tom Jones finished his pilot training at Vance in 1977. 1990. He would fly into space on STS-59, STS-68, STS- He went back to Vance with his astronaut group one 80, and STS-98 as a Mission Specialist. week after reporting for duty. Like others, this was for Karol Bobko attended flight training at Vance and ejection seat and parachute training. received his wings in 1960. He served as pilot of STS-6. Mark Polansky earned his wings at Vance graduating He then commanded STS-51D and STS-51J. from pilot training in 1978. He served as pilot of STS-98, Frederick Gregory was assigned to Vance from October then as Commander on STS-116 and STS-127. 1965 to May 1966 as an H-43 Helicopter Rescue Pilot. He Maurizio Cheli, an Italian Air Force officer, came to served as pilot for STS-51B and as Commander for STS- Vance in 1982 for pilot training, graduating in 1983. 18

The T-38 is one of the primary training jets at Vance and is NASA’s choice for flying astronauts around the country. Courtesy Vance AFB. ASCAN group from 1992 gathered to receive their gear for parachute and survival training at Vance AFB. From left, Jerry Linenger, Scott Parazynski, Koichi Wakata, Andrew Thomas, Mary Ellen Weber, Joseph Tanner, John Grunsfeld, and Richard Linnehan. Courtesy NASA. 19 35

As a European Space Agency astronaut, Cheli flew as a Mission Specialist on STS-75. Michael Bloomfield completed his undergraduate pilot training at Vance in 1983. He served as pilot of STS- 86 and STS-97. In 2002, Bloomfield commanded the STS-110 mission to the ISS. Ronald Garan finished his undergraduate pilot training at Vance in 1985. He served as a Mission Specialist on STS-124. Then on his second mission he Vance Air Force Base is located in north central Oklahoma in the city flew to the International Space Station on the Soyuz of Enid. Courtesy Vance AFB. TMA-21 and served for five months as part of Expedition 27/28, returning to Earth on TMA-21. Michael Anderson took his pilot training at Vance in 1986. He flew on STS-89 as a Mission Specialist. On STS- 107, Anderson would be killed along with his crewmates when Columbia broke up during re-entry. Rick Husband reported to Vance in 1980 for pilot training. He was born in Amarillo, Texas, so he wasn’t far from home. His future wife, Evelyn, flew to visit him in Enid during the summer of 1981. He proposed to her and they were married after he finished at Vance. Husband flew as pilot on STS-96 and commanded the ill-fated mission of STS-107. That mission ended in disaster when Space Shuttle Columbia broke up on Rick Husband commanded the fatal mission of STS-107. The entire crew re-entry, killing all on board in 2002. was lost when Shuttle Columbia broke up on reentry. Courtesy NASA. The legacy of Vance AFB will always include the fact that it was a part of America’s space program. Several Dr. Shannon Lucid set records for longest time in space. Courtesy NASA. Air Force pilots who did their pilot training at Vance eventually became astronauts. The later ASCAN training for Shuttle Mission Specialists would make the trip from Houston to Enid, Oklahoma, a necessary step to gain knowledge and experience that would assist them on their journey to space. And, it was an Oklahoman, Duane Ross, who oversaw that training program. Many future astronauts passed through the gates of Vance for pilot training or for ASCAN training. You could easily say that the way to get to space was through Enid, Oklahoma. 20

An Extraordinary Public Servant: Oleta Lawanda Crain eeding her mother’s advice to “take her diplomacy, her wit, her boundless read newspaper and magazine articles; Ha chance,” Oleta Lawanda Crain energy, and her refusal to let others’ census records; military records; and (September 8, 1913–November 7, 2007) beliefs about gender or race, during the books, including When the Nation Was joined the military during World War era of Jim Crow, deter her from pursuing in Need: Blacks in the Women’s Army II to play in a band to help win the war. her goals. These traits blossomed as she Corps During World War II by Martha She served the American public with was navigating her public service roles. S. Putney, Women of Consequence: The distinction for more than half a century. I began writing a paper on Oleta Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame by Jeanne A schoolteacher, a Major in the U.S. Air in early 2007, hoping to meet her. Varnell, and Colorado Women in World Force, a civil servant, and an advocate Librarians at the Blair-Caldwell African War II by Gail M. Beaton. for working women’s rights, Oleta was American Research Library in Denver, Oleta’s ancestors were prominent born in, reared in, and began her career Colorado, where she had donated her Native American Freedmen in Indian in Oklahoma, where her ancestors had military papers after she retired, gave Territory. She was born into the lived since traveling the Trails of Tears to me information on her and alerted Seminole Nation Bruner Band in Indian Territory. Oleta that I was writing about her. I Seminole County to William A. Crain Oleta came to my attention when was delighted to hear that she wanted (1878–1942) and Violet Paula “Polly” I was researching education history to read my paper. Sadly, she died later Alexander (1882–1966). Her paternal about my home town of Earlsboro, that year before we had a chance to grandparents were Alexander W. Crain, Oklahoma. She grew up near Earlsboro meet. To continue my research, I an influential white in the Seminole and attended school with my mother’s sought information on Oleta and her Nation, and Seminole Freedwoman relatives. Based on my research and what experiences from persons at the Library Rosie Fay. Her maternal grandfather my family told me about Oleta, I became of Congress and the Historical Society was Albert Alexander, son of Chickasaw intrigued by her passion for education, of Iowa. I listened to oral interviews and Freedman Isaac Alexander and Creek BY BETTY KATHERINE PERMETTER FALATO 21 35

Freedwoman Polly Ann (last name Young Women’s Christian Association directly into its ranks. WAAC leaders unknown); her maternal grandmother (YWCA), Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, advertised images of its members was Lucy Bruner, daughter of former and dramatic and debating societies. to counter public fear and reinforce Seminole Freedman band leader Caesar She also played volleyball and prevailing systems of power relations Bruner and Freedwoman Nancy Lincoln. basketball. After college, Oleta taught between men and women and whites Oleta was the fifth of William’s and history and band in Hugo, Oklahoma, and Blacks. The WAAC was organized Polly’s seven children, all of whom she then moved to Colorado where she to ensure that women supporting the outlived. She and her siblings—Gladys could earn a higher salary. She worked military would not command men, Sypert (1902–1980), Albert Crain in the Denver Ordnance Plant and would dress in ladylike fashion, and (1904–1989), Hallie Floyd (1907–1977), enrolled in Iliff School of Theology at would continue to be segregated by race. Pearl Edwards (1909–1990), William Denver University, seeking a master’s All women faced gender discrimination Crain (1915–1962), and Grace Hicks in religious education. in military jobs. Black women, like Oleta, (1919–2007)—were reared on their Like many American women, faced race and gender discrimination. father’s farm. after World War II broke out Oleta Sgt. Oleta Lawanda Crain, dated 1943. felt compelled to aid the war effort Courtesy of the Blair-Caldwell African and aspired to join the military when American Research Library. she heard that women were needed to play in military bands to help win the war. To assist her country and simultaneously improve her skills on the coronet, French horn, and saxophone, she quit her job, withdrew from Iliff, and joined the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) in Denver on September 21, 1942, expecting to play in a band. The WAAC, a precursor of the Women’s Army Corps (WAC), had been established in May 1942, amid much controversy. At that time, Pallas Athena, official insignia Americans were segregated by race of the WAAC/WAC. and ethnicity. Jobs were linked to race, ethnicity, and gender. Although several The Seminole Bruner Band careers were open to women, only promoted education. Polly attended men could be soldiers. The public and a Seminole Nation school before the Army rejected the idea of women Oklahoma statehood and spent at least in the military, fearing that it would three years in college. She inspired her threaten prevailing race and gender The first WAAC training center children when she advised them to norms. Even the news media painted was located at Fort Des Moines, Iowa, “take a chance.” After statehood, Oleta women who desired to join the a segregated base. The first group of attended segregated schools. During military as immoral. After the Japanese trainees arrived at Fort Des Moines on early childhood, she attended Crain bombed Pearl Harbor on December July 20, 1942. The trainees consisted of Elementary School. The school was built 7, 1941, and more men faced combat 440 officer candidates, 40 of whom were on her father’s farm and named after duty, women were needed in the Black, enrolled in the WAAC Officer him. Polly was the school principal and military to work in noncombatant jobs Candidate School (OCS) and 125 white teacher. Oleta graduated from Douglass previously held by men. enlisted women. Officer candidates of High School in Wewoka, Oklahoma, as The WAAC was created to use different races trained together while class valedictorian. the skills of American women of being socially segregated. They attended Following high school, Oleta spent all ethnicities in the military and class and mess together, but seated at three years at Langston University in simultaneously to give them benefits— separate tables. Black officer candidates Langston, Oklahoma, then earned a but not social equality. The WAAC were placed in a separate platoon, and bachelor’s in history and English from leaders established the corps as an were not allowed to attend the officers’ Lincoln University in Jefferson City, auxiliary alone to placate the army, club. Officers graduated throughout the Missouri. During college, she joined the which refused to accept women fall of 1942. White officers were placed 22

according to need at various military three Black women. Because racial in race relations and devised a strategy installations. Black officers remained at mixing was still not acceptable in the to stop it—and were successful. On Fort Des Moines. barracks, the Black women stayed in the conversion date, September 1, 1943, Enlisted women were trained under private rooms, arose early, showered, Oleta was discharged from the WAAC segregated conditions, lived in separate and dressed before the white women. and admitted to the regular service barracks, and frequented separate Oleta graduated from OCS on April 17, in the WAC as an air force second service clubs on the base. The first 125 1943, and was commissioned as WAAC lieutenant. Then she met with the white enlisted women began training third officer (second lieutenant). On commandant and aided in influencing on August 17, 1942. Oleta later began in May 13, she was assigned as a platoon him to integrate the swimming pool. a training class with 175 Black enlisted commander and recreational officer Oleta became a battalion WAACs. She was the first Black enlisted in a Black WAAC company. She often commander and spent several more WAAC in the six Rocky Mountain states. dealt with racial issues when leading her months at Fort Des Moines. In April She reported to Fort Des Moines for troops to the swimming pool. 1945, she went to Lincoln Army Air Oleta Lawanda Crain and fellow servicewomen, 1943–44. Oleta is standing third from the left. Field in Nebraska, an integrated base Courtesy of the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library. that was the last stop for 20,000 male troops going overseas. Oleta commanded a company of Black WACs who were accused of indecent behavior. When she investigated the charge, Oleta found intelligent, but furious, women. Rumors had been started about the women by male soldiers who had not been able to take advantage of them. There were also fights among the men over the women. Oleta brought the situation under control. In December 1945, Lincoln was closed. However, Oleta’s military career catapulted. She was transferred to Amarillo Army Air Field in Texas, which was closed September 1946. Next, she went to Lockbourne Army Air Field in Columbus, Ohio, where she commanded the base’s WAC squadron at the request of Benjamin O. Davis Jr., the first Black general in the Air Force and commander of the Tuskegee Airmen. Between the time Oleta graduated from OCS in 1943 and was transferred to Lockbourne training on November 15, 1942, ready The WAAC became an integral part in 1946, she was in a short-lived to join the band, and was shocked and of the Army on July 4, 1943, and was marriage to Alfred Froman Burnley disappointed to learn that she could not renamed the WAC. Oleta remained in from Denver. join because she was Black and the band the military. As a cadre member, Oleta After World War II ended, the was white. Informed that she would trained her troops well and strove to Pentagon asked First Lieutenant be a cadre (Fort Des Moines training improve race relations. She met with a Oleta Crain to remain in the military corps) member, Oleta took the news in racially diverse group of WAACs known to support racial integration because stride. After completing basic training, as the “Charcoal Burners,” who tried she had a good relationship with the she volunteered to be a mail clerk and to improve conditions on the base. In men. In May 1948, she was promoted served as acting leader, sergeant, of a August 1943, the group learned about a to captain. On June 12, President Black platoon. She was promoted to plan to segregate Black officers into one Harry Truman signed the Women’s leader on February 20, 1943. regiment, to be operational on the date Armed Services Integration Act of Oleta was selected for the WAAC when the WAAC would be converted 1948, permitting women to serve as full OCS on March 3, 1943, as one of only to the WAC. They saw it as a step back members of the armed services. On 23 35

Following Westover AFB, Captain Major Crain faced various types Crain spent four months at Fort Lee, of experiences in London. Arriving Virginia. Next, she went to Groton, there on New Year’s Eve, she went to Connecticut, in an experiment to set Piccadilly Circus in her uniform. In an up a post exchange to sell $21,000 oral interview, she said, “Some of the of merchandise to the reserve forces. English soldiers saw me . . . and they In 1951, after she completed her pulled me away from the nice lady that assignment, Captain Crain spent nine I was staying with and they put me in months in Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, as a circle and they started singing about personnel director. Discrimination the Yanks thought they won the war. . . . cropped up, even in the Arctic. She and The bobbies had to rescue me.” In other the other eight women on the base were instances, Communist sympathizers not permitted to wear slacks in subzero around the U.S. base near Hyde Park weather because slacks made them routinely beat up American soldiers. look too masculine, while men were Two sentries were killed on duty there. issued long underwear. Oleta was the Oleta took steps to increase the safety last woman to leave the base. Next she of the other soldiers. In more pleasant served in Europe. activities, Major Crain enrolled in a Late in 1951, Captain Crain went course in international relations at to Munich to command the first Cambridge, she spent the night in a integrated group there. However, bedroom once occupied by King Henry because of unfavorable post-World the Eighth and served as photography War II conditions in Germany, and officer for Queen Elizabeth’s lawn party her preference to be a staff officer, she honoring Emperor Haile Selassie. She served in London instead as a group always treasured her photograph that Lt. Oleta Lawanda Crain, date unknown. adjutant and a top-secret officer for she took of the three English queens. Courtesy of the Blair-Caldwell African an intelligence group. In 1952, after In 1955, Major Crain returned to American Research Library. being promoted to major, she served in the United States and was stationed July 26, he issued Executive Order 9981, personnel as a test control officer for at Mitchel Field in New York, where ending racial segregation in the military. England until mid-1955. She conducted she spent two years as a manpower After those events, Oleta and other all of the tests for U.S. troops within a management officer, a position usually officers were placed where needed, sixty-mile radius—those who wanted held by her male counterparts. She regardless of race or gender. promotions and those who wanted to traveled all over the base making In 1949, Captain Crain went to attend West Point. manpower surveys in order to advise Westover Air Force Base (AFB) in the general on his staffing needs. To Massachusetts, to work in intelligence, maintain up-to-date skills in her job, she a job usually held by men. Racial also attended manpower management and political problems followed her. officer’s school. Sepia Magazine, which celebrated the Two years after Oleta arrived at achievements of Black Americans, ran Mitchel AFB, her mother had a heart an article about Oleta and her troops. attack in Denver. So that she could be A superior officer, who disliked the closer to her mother, Oleta was given idea of working with Captain Crain, a “compassionate transfer” to the Air saw the article and accused her of Reserve Records Center in Denver, being a Communist. When the military which employed mostly civilians. investigated Captain Crain, she came out Being the first military person, and clean and received top-secret clearance. female, assigned to management, she noted that no civilians spoke to her in the first twelve days. However, during her two years there, she worked to raise the low grade levels of the Capt. Oleta Crain from The Picture Man. civilian employees. In 1959, while Charleston, SC. Arcadia Publishing, 2017 enroute to her next assignment in Norway, Oleta’s orders were changed; 24

her airplane was diverted to England, Department of Labor as a manpower and she was sent back to Germany. development specialist. After beginning Oleta’s next and final military her job at the Department of Labor, assignment was at Lindsey Air Station she took a leave of absence to assist in Wiesbaden, Germany, where she in organizing the first government served as a contracting officer from program at the national YWCA offices 1959 to mid–1963. From headquarters, in New York. She returned to D.C. and she flew all over Europe and parts of worked there for the next four years. the Middle East—Saudi Arabia, Turkey, In 1968, Oleta went to the Boston, Greece, Crete, Holland, France, Norway, Massachusetts, office as associate and England—performing manpower regional administrator for the evaluation studies. She also visited Department of Labor’s Office of Job Damascus, Jerusalem, and Cairo. Her job Service for the six New England states. was lonely, but fascinating. She enrolled She educated herself on the plight of in Maryland’s extension university in women in the workforce and questioned Heidelberg and earned a bachelor’s in whether some of her previous negative public administration. On June 1, 1963, experiences had been because of her Major Crain retired from active duty at gender instead of her race. By 1974, she Lindsey Air Station. During the summer, was women’s program coordinator and equal employment opportunity officer for the Boston office. She spoke to women around the country about their employment rights. Oleta earned a master’s in public administration at Northeastern University and taught night school there for five years. In 1984, Oleta was transferred to Oleta Lawanda Crain, date unknown. Courtesy Denver as the Department of Labor’s The Denver Post, 2007 and 2016. regional administrator of the Women’s Bureau, which addressed working Oleta donated her collection of women’s rights in the six Rocky documents and memorabilia from her Mountain states. Oleta retired from military service to the Blair-Caldwell Labor on December 31, 1998, with many African American Research Library in admirers in attendance. In an interview Denver. The Oleta Crain Enrichment after retiring, she said, “I don’t know Academy Community Center in why I retired so young [she was eighty- Denver was named in her honor. The five]—I guess I just got a little tired.” Denver chapter of the Delta Sigma Oleta died in Denver on November Theta Sorority established the Oleta Oleta Lawanda Crain, left, and Department 7, 2007, at the age of ninety-four. Among Lawanda Crain Scholarship in her honor. of Labor Administrator Alexis Herman, circa her awards and honors were the Dr. The scholarship is awarded annually 1998. Courtesy of the Blair-Caldwell African Mary McLeod Bethune Legacy Award to female high school seniors from American Research Library. from the National Council of Negro Oklahoma, Missouri, and Colorado who before she returned to the United Women and a Martin Luther King, plan to study in a Historically Black States, she took a course in international Jr. Humanitarian Award. Kentucky College or University (HBCU). Oleta relations at the University of Vienna. Governor Edward Breathitt conferred on Lawanda Crain’s national and Oklahoma After retiring from the military, her the honor of Kentucky Colonel. In legacies continue. Oleta remained active. She volunteered 1963, she received an Air Force Longevity as a counselor and taught in the Service Award with four bronze oak- Washington, D.C., public school leaf clusters. In 1987, she received a system. During the summer, she Women at Work Award. In 1988, she was attended the School of International inducted into the Colorado Women’s Relations at American University. In Hall of Fame. In 1998, she received the 1964, Oleta retired from the D.C. school U.S. Department of Labor Distinguished system and was hired by the U.S. Career Service Award. 25 35

CELEBRACELEBRATING OTING OKLAHKLAHOOMAMA’S ’S HIGHEST HONORHIGHEST HONOR THE 2022 OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME INDUCTION CEREMONY Seated from left, 2022 Oklahoma Hall of Fame Honorees Patty Gasso, Roger Hardesty, Chet Cadieux, Sue Ann Arnall, Joy Harjo, Dr. Pamela R. McCauley, and Dr. Bob L. Blackburn. Leon Russell’s portrait is right. Standing from left are Presenters Jim Gasso, Dr. Kayse Shrum, Alison Anthony, Dr. Mildred Randolph, Chief David W. Hill, Sandra Bennett-Williams, and Clark Musser. 26

CELEBRACELEBRATING OTING OKLAHKLAHOOMAMA’S ’S HIGHEST HONORHIGHEST HONOR n Thursday, November 17th Ofamily, friends, and colleagues gathered in the Grand Hall of Tulsa’s Cox Business Convention Center to celebrate the induction of eight remarkable Oklahomans at the 95th annual Oklahoma Hall of Fame L A HOM OK A Induction Ceremony. HA E L L O F F AM The doors opened at 5:30 p.m. and guests began making their way to their tables for dinner. Dr. Madeline Manning Mims of Tulsa, a member of four Olympic teams, a gold and silver medalist, the first American to break the 2-minute barrier in the 800 meters, and founder and president of the United States Council for Sports Chaplaincy, provided the invocation. THE 2022 OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME INDUCTION CEREMONY BY GINI MOORE CAMPBELL 27 35

rior to the start of the school senior annually, the Pinduction ceremony, $6,000 scholarship is funded Oklahoma Hall of Fame President predominantly by Members of & CEO Shannon L. Rich and the Oklahoma Hall of Fame and Chair Becky Dixon thanked criteria includes not only academic guests for attending before achievement, but community reviewing the achievements of involvement, volunteerism, and the previous 12 months, thanking extracurricular school activities. Patron Donors for their support, Myers, a senior at Lomega High recognizing Members of the School in Blaine County, has a L A HOM OK A HA E L L O F F AM Dr. Madeline Manning Mims, right, with Lomega High School Senior Madisyn Myers Dian Jordan, provided the invocation for was recognized as the 2022-2023 Oklahoma the 95th annual Oklahoma Hall of Fame Hall of Fame Scholarship Recipient on the Induction Ceremony. evening of November 17th. Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 4.0 GPA, takes concurrent classes attendance, and paying tribute at Redlands Community College, to Members lost since the 2021 has been class president three of induction ceremony. her four years of high school, In addition, Rich and and runs cross country. She is Dixon introduced the 2022- active in the FFA, the Lomega 2023 Oklahoma Hall of Fame Food Bank, and founded Beef Scholarship Recipient Madisyn for the Bank, a nonprofit that Myers. Awarded to one high has donated more than 1,000 28

pounds of beef to local food banks. crowd Oklahoma Hall of Fame and Leon Russell, Lawton/Tulsa, She is planning on attending Members Becky Dixon and J.C. inducted posthumously. Serving Oklahoma State University and Watts, Jr. who served as masters as Presenters for in-person majoring in Nutritional Sciences of ceremonies for the evening. inductees were Dr. Mildred with a minor in Spanish, before Kristen Olmsted, marketing Randolph, Memphis, Tennessee; earning her medical degree at the associate for the Oklahoma Hall of Clark Musser, Oklahoma City; University of Oklahoma. Myers Fame, performed “The National Alison Anthony, Tulsa; Jim Gasso, dreams of becoming a pediatrician Anthem” and was joined onstage Norman; Dr. Kayse Shrum, and serving families in her Blaine by the Class of 2022 to close the Stillwater; Chief David W. Hill, County home. show with “Oklahoma!”. Okmulgee; and Sandra Bennett-Williams, Elmore City, respectively. Oklahoma Hall of Fame Member Jim Halsey accepted induction on behalf of the Leon Russell family. Audiences had a number of options in viewing the 2022 Oklahoma Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, including the organization’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. OETA aired the induction ceremony on November 19th and 20th to its statewide On behalf of the State of Oklahoma, J.C. Watts, Jr. and Becky Dixon, both Members of audience and COX has multiple Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell welcomed the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, served as masters airings scheduled over the next those in attendance to the 95th annual of ceremonies for the 95th annual Oklahoma few months. Oklahoma Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. One thing remains the To kick off the induction Inducted as members of the same, the Oklahoma Hall of ceremony, Oklahoma Lieutenant 2022 Oklahoma Hall of Fame Fame Induction Ceremony Governor Matt Pinnell provided Class were Sue Ann Arnall, would not be possible without the official welcome and reminded Poteau; Dr. Bob L. Backburn, the generosity of many. The the audience that induction to Oklahoma City; Chet Cadieux, Chickasaw Nation and the the Oklahoma Hall of Fame is Tulsa; Patty Gasso, Norman; Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma the highest honor an Oklahoman Roger Hardesty, Fort Cobb/ served as Presenting Sponsors for can receive from his or her home Tulsa; Joy Harjo, Tulsa; Dr. Pamela the 2022 event; taking advantage state. Pinnell introduced to the R. McCauley, Oklahoma City; of the new five-year opportunity 29 35

The Class of 2022 joined Kristen Olmsted onstage to lead the singing of the best state song—“Oklahoma!”. as Production Partners are The Family Foundation, Bob Funk, ceremony possible, as well as 365 Chickasaw Nation, Choctaw and Herman and LaDonna days of programming offered by Nation of Oklahoma, Citizen Meinders; and Patron Donors at the Oklahoma Hall of Fame and Potawatomi Nation, Cresap every level made the induction Gaylord-Pickens Museum. Members of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame Teen Board served as escorts for the 95th annual induction ceremony, ensuring dignitaries were in place throughout the evening. 30

2022 OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME PATRON DONORS PRODUCTION PARTNERS MIKE AND PAT CASE IBC BANK THE CHICKASAW NATION THE CHICKASAW NATION E. L. AND THELMA GAYLORD FOUNDATION CHOCTAW NATION OF OKLAHOMA CHAIRMAN JOHN “ROCKY” BARRETT— GEORGE KAISER FAMILY FOUNDATION CITIZEN POTAWATOMI NATION CITIZEN POTAWATOMI NATION MARILYN AND ED KELLER CRESAP FAMILY FOUNDATION A.R. CLINTON: COMMUNICATIONS. JOE MORAN III BOB FUNK STRATEGIES. CONTENT. THE MUSCOGEE NATION HERMAN AND LADONNA MEINDERS JAMES C. AND TERESA K. DAY OG&E FOUNDATION OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER PREMIER PATRONS FOUNDATION MANAGEMENT OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY, OFFICE THE CHURCH STUDIO—TERESA KNOX VIRGINIA G. AND JOHN D. GROENDYKE OF THE PRESIDENT & IVAN ACOSTA, JACK & STEPHANIE HARDESTY FAMILY FOUNDATION OSU CENTER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES ALLEN, JOHN & LEIGH REAVES TIMOTHY HEADINGTON OSU COLLEGE OF EDUCATION & HUMAN SCIENCES LOVE FAMILY AFFILIATED FUND INASMUCH FOUNDATION OSU FOUNDATION RCB BANK PATRICK T. ROONEY—FIRST NATIONAL HERITAGE PATRONS THE UNIVERSITY OF TULSA BANK OF OKLAHOMA RICHARD AND MO ANDERSON WHITTEN BURRAGE, LLC SEMINOLE STATE COLLEGE MR. CHET CADIEUX MILANN SIEGFRIED FAMILY AND NORDAM KYLE FAMILY FOUNDATION TRACKMAKER PATRONS SOUTHWESTERN OKLAHOMA STATE THE MUSCOGEE NATION BANK OF OKLAHOMA UNIVERSITY CHARLES AND PEGGY STEPHENSON CHEROKEE NATION BUSINESSES TRUST COMPANY OF OKLAHOMA FAMILY FOUNDATION THE CHICKASAW NATION TULSA REGIONAL CHAMBER CLAIMS MANAGEMENT RESOURCES THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA LEGACY PATRONS COX COMMUNICATIONS FOUNDATION AMERICAN FIDELITY FOUNDATION EXPRESS EMPLOYMENT PROFESSIONALS THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SUE ANN ARNALL HARDESTY FAMILY FOUNDATION FOUNDATION, TULSA THE MEANING BEHIND THE OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME MEDALLION RIBBON Originally pinned to the Honoree the Reddish in color, the ribbon that the RAYS OF THE SUN night of induction, today’s Oklahoma Oklahoma Hall of Fame Medallion Surrounding five Ts are rays of the hangs from depicts Oklahoma’s sun, the Indian symbol for constancy, Hall of Fame Medallion is hung on a ribbon around the Honoree’s neck. rich red earth. unchanging, or unwavering. Although design and implementation WHITE STAR FIVE Ts Taken from the Oklahoma Situated above the white star, have changed slightly, the elements State Seal, the white star the five Ts honor the five and meanings have remained the represents Oklahoma Indian Nations that inhabited as the 46th state of Union Indian Territory prior same since the first induction in and the 46th star on the flag of the United States. to Statehood. 1928. Headed by Anna B. Korn, GOLD CENTER MISTLETOE WREATH the founder of the Oklahoma Hall The blessing of the union Taken from the Oklahoma of Fame, a committee worked with of Oklahoma and Indian Hall of Fame’s impression a local Oklahoma City jeweler to territories by Uncle Sam, stamp and the Oklahoma the gold center is taken State Seal, the Mistletoe design the medallion. from the impression stamp wreath first was used as an of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame element of the Great Seal upon its founding in 1927. of the Territory of Oklahoma. 31 35

rowing up in Poteau at leaders to discuss initiatives that the onset of the civil are changing and saving lives, G rights movement provided for expanding successful reforms to formative experiences that social services systems from other would guide the life work of Sue states into Oklahoma, addressing Ann Arnall. An accomplished transportation needs of individuals saxophone player, Arnall was involved in the criminal legal named All State in band before system and supporting parents earning her economics and juris whose children are in foster doctorate degrees. She then began care through a Transportation building a distinguished career of Innovation Grant to thwart professional and public service. transportation challenges, giving After more than three hope through mentorship decades in the corporate world, opportunities for families through Arnall founded the Arnall the Oklahoma Partner Program, Family Foundation to create created a women’s community lasting transformative change kitchen for the Firststep Women’s through strategic investments Recovery Program, and funded and innovative partnerships. building construction for She is bringing together world ReMerge to continue its pre-trial diversion program serving mothers facing non-violent felony offenses. With a soft spot for her four- SUE ANN ARNALL legged friends, Arnall, through POTEAU the Wastershed Animal Fund, has been a longtime supporter of organizations caring for and bettering the lives of animals, including the Coalition for Tulsa Pets. “Some people look at things as they She founded the Oklahoma are and say ‘Why?’ Others dream County Diversion Hub, recognizing at the Wayfinders of things and say ‘Why Not!’ Gala community leaders that No one has embraced or exemplified support the organization’s mission of connecting justice- this quote more emphatically than involved individuals with Sue Ann Arnall. Her life has truly life stabilizing resources and been a ‘Why Not’ quest.” services to help them become contributing, responsible, and stable members of DR. MILDRED RANDOLPH the community. Arnall regularly educates the public on incarceration and the misconceptions surrounding it. “Incarcerating more people does not create public safety, it does the opposite. When a person is incarcerated beyond the Dr. Mildred Randolph, left, amount of time for rehabilitation, presented Sue Ann Arnall it changes their chances when for induction to the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. 32

they get out of being able to have any kind of productive life. So they’re going to have to steal, they’re going to have to commit crimes, they’re going to have to run drugs, they’re going to have to do something to survive, because it’s even hard to get state benefits after a person has a felony or has been in prison. We decrease their opportunities. A lot of employers are learning now that people who have been in prison or jail can be the very best employees. The general public still doesn’t understand that extreme punitive measures don’t work,” Arnall said. For its dedication to creating better lives for others, the Foundation’s honors include the Community Partner Award from the Oklahoma County Drug Court and the John and Berta Faye Rex Community Builder Award from United Way of Central Oklahoma. Arnall’s personal recognitions are vast and diverse, with induction into the Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame and the Lifetime Achievement Award from Oklahoma City University’s Meinders School of Business. Although Arnall has donated more than $200 million, she will tell you there is still much work to be done. Her achievements are immeasurable, none greater than motherhood and family. Daughters Hilary and Jane are her greatest blessing, and she welcomed son-in- law Tom in 2014. Traveling with those she loves the most, experiencing new adventures, time in the saddle, and nurturing a friendship with Dr. Mildred Randolph that has spanned more than 50 years, these are the things that fill the heart for Sue Ann Arnall. 33 35

ob L. Blackburn is the first- the digital portal, Gateway to Bborn child to Bob Blackburn, Oklahoma History, everyone has Sr., a World War II veteran and access to millions of searchable Oklahoma Highway patrolman, newspapers, photographs, and and television personality Ida family records. Blackburn, known as Miss Ida In 1998 Blackburn, commonly on Romper Room and later Ida referred to as Dr. Bob, announced B on the show named for her. plans for a new state museum. Blackburn grew up in Edmond, Leading the planning efforts, graduated from Putnam City High construction, and exhibit School, and earned his bachelor’s acquisitions, the Oklahoma degree from Southwestern History Center opened to the Oklahoma State University and public in 2005. An affiliate of the his masters and doctorate degrees Smithsonian and the National in history from Oklahoma State Archives, to date more than three University. million visitors have explored the He joined the Oklahoma 215,000-square-foot Museum Historical Society in 1979 and Research Center. One of his as editor of The Chronicles of last endeavors with OHS was the Oklahoma before being named planning for and announcement of deputy executive director and the Oklahoma Museum of Popular executive director, a position Culture in Tulsa. he held until his retirement in The state’s preeminent historian, 2021. With more than 30 sites Blackburn takes great pride in statewide, the OHS system of sharing Oklahoma’s rich history museums has experienced higher and heritage. He is the authority DR. BOB L. BLACKBURN standards and greater efficiencies for state historical documentaries, OKLAHOMA CITY under his leadership, while the as well as a much sought-after research collections have grown keynote speaker. For decades Dr. exponentially. Today, through Bob has spoken to groups and organizations an average of 85 times per year. He instills in others the importance of understanding all of our history to make the greatest positive impact on the “Dr. Bob Blackburn, as executive Oklahoma of tomorrow. director of the Oklahoma Blackburn says, “We have to Historical Society for more than make sure we embrace all of our history, and not selective parts that two decades, transformed the way serve our particular purposes at the we learn, thus understand and time. The minute we start taking pieces of this puzzle out, I call the appreciate, our state’s history.” state a mosaic really . . . everyone’s story, your story, my story, it’s a little piece of the mosaic. But once CLARK MUSSER you get more pieces of the mosaic in and the farther away you get, ahh, the more clear the picture becomes. The minute you start taking pieces out, because it’s not happy history, it’s not something we necessarily are proud of, you Dr. Bob L. Blackburn, left, can’t connect the dots. You start was presented for induction losing the focus on the real story, by Clark Musser. and then we lose the ability to 3434

learn from our history. So in terms of tribal sovereignty today, and state relationship, tribal relationship, with federal relationship, with local governments, if you don’t understand the story of the assault on tribal sovereignty, there is no way to understand the resurrection of tribal sovereignty. There is no way to understand today dealing with America’s Indian’s resentment if you don’t understand the story of their grandparents whose land was taken away, because they didn’t understand contracts or they thought that money for a wagon might make the difference in their children’s lives forever, not really understanding the land was that first opportunity to break the cycle of poverty. They did not have the cultural baggage to make that decision. Without understanding all of that, we can’t make good decisions today.” Through partnerships and advocacy, Blackburn has lent a helping hand to projects outside the orbit of the OHS, ranging from preservation of the Skirvin Hotel and a re-design of the Zink Ranch Museum to the re-birth of the Oklahoma Military Academy Museum and the creation of the National Park Service’s Battle of the Washita National Monument. The author of more than 25 books, the first published while still in graduate school, Blackburn continues to enjoy research and writing in retirement. His extensive career and deep sense of community have provided him with friendships to last a lifetime. If you ask Blackburn what his greatest achievement is, he will tell you it is his family. With wife Debbie, a former teacher, non-profit CEO, and state legislator, they are the proud parents of son Beau and daughter- in-law Tori. And, Blackburn is thrilled with his new title— Papa—given to him by grandsons Bodhi and Waylon. 35

het Cadieux was born and his father’s advice, “if you’re not Craised in Tulsa, enjoyed taking care of the customer, take his time on the diamond, as care of those who are.” well as the pitch, and graduated QuikTrip has been recognized from Jenks High School before as one of Fortune’s “100 Best earning his business degree Companies to Work for in from The University of Tulsa. America” and is valued at more It was during high school that than $10 billion, Cadieux is Cadieux first began working for often recognized for QuikTrip’s QuikTrip, the company founded community support and by his father Chester in 1958. successes. However, he is quick From sweeping the floors and to point out that it is the “guys taking out the trash to chairman and gals in the red shirts who do and CEO more than 30 years all the work that make the rest of later, Cadieux rose through the us look so good.” And it is their ranks learning every aspect of the successes that provide Cadieux business and always remembering the greatest sense of achievement. “I’m proud of the achievements QuikTrip has made CHET CADIEUX by the opportunities we have TULSA created for QuikTrip employees to find success. And for people that don’t work here, I know they are probably like ‘oh yeah, pull this finger.’ But we track “Chet speaks with an authentic incessantly our success rate in creating opportunities for people. open heart and joy about QuikTrip’s And all the decisions we make 25,000 employees and their families. are based around creating an opportunity for QuikTrippers He is humbled by their dedication to grow and succeed. And so, to excellence and never misses that shows itself in all kinds of a chance to celebrate their different ways. If I am in a store and an employee tells me they accomplishments—whether an bought their first house, that employee’s new car or new baby.” brings me and all QuikTrippers great joy. If I’m in a store, or a warehouse, or in a facility ALISON ANTHONY support shop, that’s where maintenance guys and gals are, Alison Anthony, left, presented Chet Cadieux for induction to the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. 36

and one of those tells me that their retirement plan just added a comma, that’s a QuikTrip term for they just crossed a million dollars, and that brings me enormous satisfaction. To hear that someone got to put their kid through college, and they were the first one from their family to go to school, those are awesome achievements that we have achieved together as a team. And I’m very proud of those.” From annual days of caring and supporting armed services personnel, including Title Sponsor for the Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500, to internal activities such as office dog sledding and rewarding team members for their dedication and achievements, QuikTrip is community and Cadieux is always ready to get in on the action and the fun. With a strong appreciation for the outdoors, Cadieux does not shy away from adventure, especially when it includes family. From his father, Cadieux learned the importance of being present in the lives of his children—daughters Maddie and Jessie. With wife Casie, he takes every opportunity to support a worthy cause and make new memories. Family comes in all forms and fashions, making it life’s greatest reward for Chet Cadieux. 37 35

atty Gasso grew up high school level and then as Palongside her older brother head coach at Long Beach City and younger sister in a single- College. After attending the parent home in Torrance, Women’s College World Series California. From a young age as a fan, Oklahoma came calling she shared a love for sports and she accepted the position as with her mother. After school head coach for the University and on the weekends she spent of Oklahoma’s Sooners. With most of her time at the park husband Jim, son JT, and while next to her childhood home. It pregnant with son DJ, the was there that her passion as a Gassos moved to Oklahoma player, combined with the keen for the 1995 season. More ability to teach others at a young than 25 seasons later, Gasso’s age, set in motion a career that leadership and talent for player would break and set records in development have made OU’s collegiate sports. softball program a national A standout player at El powerhouse. Camino College, following The 2022 National graduation she began coaching Championship win was the the sport she loves, first at the sixth for Gasso and the Sooners, one of only three programs in NCAA history to win more PATTY GASSO than two national titles. The NORMAN Sooners previously had claimed the national title in 2000, 2013, followed by an invite to the White House by President Barack Obama, 2016 and 2017, the first back-to-back wins, and “Patty is the definition of hard in 2021. Gasso’s overall collegiate coaching record exceeds 1,500 work, dedicated to perfecting wins, with more than 1,300 at her craft and handles stressful the University of Oklahoma situations with poise and grace. alone, and she’s led the Sooners to the Women’s College World She is driven to succeed and Series over a dozen times. has the ability to bring Gasso knows well the commitment and sacrifice people together.” needed to remain on top, saying “This job is 365 days a year. I don’t feel like this is a job; my JIM GASSO family feels like this is a job because I am away from them significantly. But I try to keep them included in everything that we’re doing. But my attitude, I am such a competitor, and once you’re at the top, that’s all you Jim Gasso, left, presented want because it feels good to Patty Gasso for induction to the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. 3838

say ‘you’re the best’. So to be the best, you have to outwork the best. And that’s what our motto is, so I’m out recruiting constantly. I don’t take a break. When you need a break is right after the World Series, and that’s when camp happens, recruiting happens, transfer portals happen, go out and travel all over the country recruiting, and then you’re finishing up around August and here comes your team back and ready to roll. And we are running on empty, so it’s a big sacrifice. It takes a lot to want to stay there, but I’ve got a great group of coaches and support staff that allow us to do it and have fun doing it. I’ve done this so long, so it doesn’t feel like a job to me. It’s my passion.” For Gasso, academics are important. Her players have received academic all-conference honors and been named Academic All-Americans. Gasso’s honors include Big 12 Coach of the Year, named a Top Five Division I head coach by Softball America, and induction to the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame. Softball is a family affair, carrying on the commitment to family modeled by her mother. From the early days of coaching to the Hall of Fame career Gasso has built with the Sooners, her family always has been her biggest cheerleaders. While some encourage from the sidelines, others are integral members of the coaching staff. The Gasso family is all for one and one for all, regardless of the demands or schedules, allowing dreams realized for legendary coach Patty Gasso. 3939 35

rom humble beginnings, underwater at age 14 and drove FRoger Hardesty was born a milk route before he was old in Fort Cobb, Oklahoma, and enough for a commercial license, spent his early life working was now founder and president the family farm with parents, of The Hardesty Company, Floyd and Ruby, and younger one of the largest privately-held brother Butch, as well as caring real estate development firms for the boys’ pet lion, Leo. After in the Nation. relocating with the family to His entrepreneurial spirit Tulsa, Hardesty began making his also allowed him other business mark on his new hometown. ventures, including Alliance His concrete finishing business Transportation and Bizjet expanded to single-family homes, International. With a passion for industrial buildings, commercial flying, Hardesty earned his first office buildings, retail centers, rating in the mid-1950s. Today, and multi-family housing units, he is founder and president of earning him the Tulsa Apartment United States Aviation Company, Association Hall of Fame Award. logging more than 15,000 hours Hardesty, who was laying pipe with 21 ratings and certifications. He currently pilots a Gulfstream G550, a Black Hawk ROGER HARDESTY Helicopter, and a Carbon Cub. FORT COBB/TULSA He has thrilled onlookers and passengers with acrobatics in his Stearman biplane, flying formation, and in air shows and television commercials. He has flown with record-setting test “You’re not going to find a harder pilot Chuck Yeagar and is known worker than Roger. He’s usually for flying diplomats, famous musicians and actors, politicians, the first person in the office and astronauts, including John and the last to leave. Roger Glenn and his wife Annie. knows that the road to success is In 2005, The Hardesty Family Foundation was established. paved with hard work, resilience, Their recent partnership with and determination.” Oklahoma State University will be lifechanging for individuals and families alike. DR. KAYSE SHRUM Hardesty says, “What we try to do in the philanthropy is support an organization that can make change occur. We have a certain amount of funds allocated to support the needy that need to eat and have shelter. But the Dr. Kayse Shrum, left, presented Roger Hardesty for induction to the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. 40

real for us is to an organization that a year from now or two years from now can show me the change our donation has helped make. And that is where our big interest is. One of the most recent is the OSU Biomedical Imagery and Research that we partnered with OSU to try to stamp out addiction—both alcohol and chemical. It’s a real drag on this country and we need to do all we can to put an end to that and we think we are on the right track with some chemical that can help get people away from the addiction.” Among countless others receiving support, the Girls Scouts of Eastern Oklahoma gained a new headquarters, students at The University of Tulsa have access to a new residence hall in the heart of campus, and the Tulsa City- County Library System’s state- of-the-art Hardesty Regional Library has become a hub for the community. By Hardesty’s side, since she wed him at age 16, has been his wife Donna. They met at a high school basketball game and he will tell you “none of the adventure, success, and philanthropy would be possible without her.” The family grew with the births of daughters Debbie and Michelle, followed by grandsons Alex, Connor, and Paul. An avid outdoorsman, whether hunting in Denmark, on safari in Africa, or cruising with the Rolex Riders, soaring to new heights has been and will continue to be the mantra for Roger Hardesty. 41 35

member of the Muskogee went on to earn her MFA at the A Creek Nation, Joy Harjo Iowa Writer’s Workshop. grew up in Tulsa, where she To date Harjo has released attended local schools before more than a dozen award- enrolling at the Institute of winning poetry collections, American Indian Arts in Santa memoirs, plays, children’s books, Fe, New Mexico for high school, and anthologies. Her numerous where she joined one of the awards include the Academy first all-Native drama and dance of American Poets Leadership troupes and traveled the Pacific Award, NEA and Guggenheim northwest with the Deep Roots, fellowships, PEN USA Literary Tall Cedar Show. Embodying and American book awards, and a the gifts of her ancestors, she Tulsa Artist Fellowship. began writing poetry with the As a musician and performer, University of New Mexico’s she has produced multiple Native Student Organization and albums. Winding Through The Milky Way earned her a NAMMY for Best Female Artist of the Year. She enjoys JOY HARJO playing the saxophone and flute TULSA and jamming with bands and other musicians. Regardless of the medium or environment, Harjo is constantly searching “Joy continuously demonstrates for the answers to the questions her commitment to our surrounding life, love, and spirituality, always willing to community and the advancement share her findings and thoughts of our culture through with others. “I think artists are always participation in traditional and rooting around and searching ceremonial events and through around in the land of ‘why’ for creating opportunities for those questions. We don’t really answer the question, we explore mentorship and arts education the question. Like Leon Russell for our youth.” with his music, he wasn’t saying ‘this is the definitive,’ he was saying ‘this is the realm in which CHIEF DAVID W. HILL I’m moving with others’, and that’s a really cool realm to hang out in. Like everybody else, I Chief David W. Hill, left, presented Joy Harjo for induction to the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. 42

am, we are, trying to figure out what we’re doing here, how we got here, why, how, and where we’re going. Artists are usually at the forefront of where we might be going. And that is why it’s really important to have an open society that is respectful of other peoples and other ways of thinking and being.” In June, 2019, Harjo was named the 23rd Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress—the first Native American and the first Oklahoman to hold the distinction. Appointed to two additional terms, her signature project— Living Nations, Living Words— featured the works of 47 Native Nations’ poets through an interactive story map and audio collection, in addition to an educator’s guide and a companion anthology. Harjo continues to preserve and celebrate the stories of fellow Natives, including as chancellor of the Academy of American Poets, chair of the Native Arts & Culture Foundation, and as artist-in-residence at the Bob Dylan Center. A mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and wife, Harjo resides in her hometown with husband Owen Sapulpa. Championing the art of poetry, “soul talk” as she calls it, fuels the days and dreams of Joy Harjo. 43 35

rom Oklahoma City, Pamela Figure”, McCauley began doing FMcCauley grew up in a arithmetic operations as a child home where life principles and while looking at license plates. faith were the framework. A Today, she is a world renowned cheerleader at Wood Junior High industrial engineer, educator, School, she enjoyed team sports, entrepreneur, and researcher in attended Douglass High School the fields of ergonomics and and, during her teen pregnancy, biomechanics. Emerson Alternative School. Through her private firm, Graduating at the age of she often is called upon for her 16, she earned her Associate’s expertise. A much sought-after Degree from Rose State speaker, her leadership, diversity, College before graduating with innovation, and STEM-related bachelors, masters, and doctorate keynotes are representative of her degrees from the University of more than 100 published works, Oklahoma—the first African including an internationally- American woman to earn an recognized Ergonomics Engineering Ph.D. in the state. textbook. As an award-winning Oklahoma’s own “Hidden educator, her recognitions include being named the Black Engineer of the Year for PAMELA R. McCAULEY Educational Leadership and the OKLAHOMA CITY Women of Color Technologist of the Year. The National Science Foundation chose her to lead the Innovation Corps Program to prepare scientists “She came often to share her and engineers to accelerate the economic and societal benefits of experiences as a new college projects and discoveries towards student and encourage the commercialization. Her book Winners Don’t Quit parenting teen moms to consider a serves as an inspiration to others college education. She taught them as she shares her experiences as a young mother chasing her the concept of overcoming hardship dream of becoming an engineer. by refusing to accept it.” And she is an advocate for others to achieve their dreams. “I didn’t even know what an SANDRA BENNETT-WILLIAMS industrial engineer was when I was younger, so I had never met a female engineer, much less a black female engineer. And now, the fact that I have been given these opportunities, and to go into these places, to be an Sandra Bennett-Williams, left, entrepreneur, to own my own presented Dr. Pamela R. McCauley engineering firm, to serve as a for induction to the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. 44

program director at the National Science Foundation, for the Innovation Corps where we are trying to show people how to innovate. Those opportunities, the door to those opportunities, have not been opened wide enough for enough people. And so I feel like I have spent my career with a parallel goal, in addition to my engineering activities, but a parallel goal where I am constantly looking at how can I open the door of opportunity or create an awareness about engineering for little girls, for people of color, for people in rural communities who may have never seen an engineer. How can I now do this for people who want to own businesses or don’t know that the National Science Foundation has $50,000 that you can apply for to evaluate your ideas that is your money? How do we change the dynamics so we have more of us in this country getting access to these amazing opportunities? That is something that is always on my mind and I have spent a lot of time throughout my career making sure I am not the last one that looks like me to enter that door,” McCauley said. McCauley’s honors, both professional and personal, are immeasurable. Her journey is an inspiration to countless young women and men. And by her side, through it all, has been her family, providing the support and encouragement that has allowed her to achieve her dreams and provide the same to others. Creating endless opportunities is the legacy of Dr. Pamela McCauley. 45 35

rom southwest Oklahoma, to as “the most famous band you FClaude Russell Bridges was didn’t know you loved.” During born in Lawton. From an early 1964, Russell appeared multiple age, and with the keen ability times on Shindig, ABC’s variety to play by ear, he was drawn show featuring entertainers from to music and the family piano. all musical genres. By the time he was a teenager, Already respected for his he had mastered multiple talents as an arranger, producer, instruments. And, after relocating and composer, it was during his with his family to Tulsa, while time with VIVA Records that still in high school he began he honed his songwriting skills, playing in local nightclubs with penning multiple hits including The Accents. The band caught “Everybody Loves a Clown” the attention of Jerry Lee Lewis, for Gary Lewis & The Playboys. and the group joined his tour. In 1969 he co-founded Shelter Within just a few years, and Records and the debut was going by the name Leon Russell, Russell’s album Leon, featuring he had made the move to Los the hits “A Song for You” and Angeles, California, to pursue “Delta Lady.” It reached #60 LEON RUSSELL his music career. He formed The on the Billboard 200. As lead LAWTON/TULSA Fencemen with fellow musicians guitarist, pianist, and music and former high school classmate director, Russell pulled together David Gates. As one of the most more than 20 musicians for sought-after session musicians in Joe Cocker and the Mad Dogs the business, Russell became a and Englishman Tour. Russell member of an elite studio group. performed songs of his own and The Wrecking Crew backed the the live album went to #2 on biggest names of the 1960s— the Billboard 200. In just more including The Beach Boys, Frank than a decade after arriving in Sinatra, Aretha Franklin, and Bob California, Leon Russell was a Dylan. They were often referred super star. “He was my hero.” ELTON JOHN 46

The next several decades were filled with in-studio and live sessions, rigorous tour schedules, album releases, founding new record labels, benefit concerts, and collaborations. In 1973, he recorded his first country album, followed by a volume two and a “best of”. During his career, he released more than 30 albums and over 430 songs. His awards and honors include Grammys, induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, presented for induction by longtime friend Elton John, and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. “This Masquerade” is the only song to hit number one on the jazz, pop, and rhythm and blues charts. Russell’s legacy is The Church Studio, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is the sanctuary of sound he created with the 1972 purchase and built into a world-renowned recording studio and home to Shelter Records. Leon Russell will forever be known as “the father of the Tulsa Sound” and the “master of space and time.” 47 35

OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Merle Newby Buttram erle Newby Buttram Mwas one of the most influential contributors to the cultural development in the state of Oklahoma. Her devotion to music, civic engagement, and community service still touches the lives of Oklahomans today. Fifty years after her passing her vision for a culturally rich and vibrant community continues through schools, museums, and performing arts venues. Merle once said, “One’s great honor is to have time and opportunity to work on the many community needs. Their realization is their reward.” Merle Buttram, 1953. Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society. BY MATTIE P. BARLOW 48

Born in 1884, Merle was the eldest of six of Oklahoma to pursue a music degree, party just before she left for New York. From siblings. Her parents provided for their while continuing to teach music courses New York she sailed to Italy where she family through farming in Kansas, until her to violin students in neighboring towns. studied at the leading music conservatory father felt a calling to be a minister like his To reach her students she took the train or in Milan for several months. Following her father, who had migrated to the United a horse and buggy, and was sometimes time in Italy, she traveled to Paris, France to States from Scotland. The family relocated forced to ford the river when the Canadian continue her studies under leading European to Denver, Colorado for a few years River had washed out the bridge. artists. When Merle returned to Norman, until her father was invited to become the She also worked in the first sorority she pursued a higher degree in the College pastor of the Christian Church in Guthrie, house on the Norman campus, Kappa of Fine Arts, completing studies in 1912 Oklahoma Territory, in 1899. Alpha Theta, waiting on tables at meal time while she simultaneously taught classes, Merle had found a passion for music and eventually invited to join the sorority. was appointed the concert master of the during her time in Colorado. At the church Before graduating in 1906, Merle was University orchestra, and performed at they attended there was an orchestra. When teaching classes at the university in violin, community events. she became interested in the violin her father mandolin, and guitar. All of her siblings While studying in Europe, her sister gifted her one. Her family, recognizing earned degrees from the University of Jessie had a chemistry lab class at the her talent, supported her by prioritizing her Oklahoma and her parents eventually University of Oklahoma where she met practice time. Her siblings took on extra moved to Norman. To mark their departure a senior classmate, Frank Buttram. Jessie house chores and soon the extra practice from Guthrie, Merle organized a farewell talked to him about her sister’s travels and Photo by Armantrout Brothers, Guthrie, Oklahoma Territory, 1903. Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society. Merle Newby Buttram, 1930. Merle was Oklahoma Mother of the Year in 1961. Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society. time paid off. By the time the family moved concert full of local talent with proceeds a “coincidental” meeting between Buttram to Guthrie, Merle was a junior in high benefitting the First Christian Church’s fund and Merle would come to change Merle’s school and traveling by train to Seward and for a new pipe organ motor. life profoundly. Merle married Frank in the Navina to teach music courses she arranged In 1908 Merle had the opportunity presence of only their families and a few for any interested children. She also would to study violin abroad, so she vacated her close friends on February 18, 1914, with perform all over the state at various lectures, position at the university for two years while her father performing the ceremony. The contests, and church services, sometimes she traveled Europe. News of her departure Cleveland County Enterprise reported, “Mr. accompanied by her sibling Errett on the was widely covered throughout Oklahoma Buttram has been for several years chemist in piano. In 1904 she enrolled at the University and her friends hosted a circus-themed the geological department at the University, 49 35

and is a very popular young man with a bright future. The bride has been a teacher at the University for a number of years in the fine arts department, and is a beautiful and accomplished young lady.” The couple made their first home in Cushing as Frank organized the Fortuna Oil Company. It was quickly successful, making him a millionaire when the company sold in 1918 and he founded one of the nation’s largest oil operators at the time—Buttram Petroleum Company. The Buttrams had relocated to Oklahoma City and lived in the now historic Heritage Hills neighborhood. There they raised their five children: twins Myron and Merle, Dorsey, Donald, and Harold. Naturally, Merle was a member of the Ladies Music Club and, in 1921, she started The Buttram family, standing from left, are Dorsey, Merle, Myron and Mrs. Buttram. Seated from left are a string choir with other members. In order Frank, Harold, and Donald, 1930. Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society. A view of the Nichols Hills estate and gardens. Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society. The Buttrams’ Heritage Hills home, 1930. Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society. to evaluate the interest Oklahoma City might have in a symphony orchestra, a free concert was organized at Central High School by Merle with the help of Frederick Holmberg, dean of the University of Oklahoma’s School of Music. On May 21, 1924, a crowd of 1,500 people attended the city’s first local symphony concert. The program from that first concert stated, “A series of Symphony concerts marks a big step forward in the marvelous growth and history of our city. Perhaps no city of such few years growth has ever achieved a like accomplishment. Cities which have Symphonies regard them as their very best, highest civic advertisement.” At that time, according to Music Courier, there Frank and Merle Buttram in their favorite room of their new home,1938. Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society. were only twelve symphony orchestras in the 50

United States. A city symphony board was Oklahoma County Mental Health Association One’s great honor is to established and the Oklahoma Symphony was founded. As chair she engaged with have time and opportunity hosted regular performances from 1924 different clubs to book speakers and distribute to 1931. When the depression hit the leaflets with information about the state of to work on the many symphony was discontinued. Just six years mental health facilities in Oklahoma. Under community needs. Their later The Oklahoma Symphony Orchestra her leadership she built a network of 2,000 was created as a Federal Music Project members and it was at that time the largest realization is their reward. of the Works Progress Administration, and effort of any county in the United States. this organization is known today as the They worked to improve the institutions in MERLE BUTTRAM Oklahoma City Philharmonic. Oklahoma, providing much needed everyday Merle believed strongly that string supplies and enhancing the lives of patients music was important for Oklahoma students. with programs for music and art. In her own words, “Without strings, the The Buttrams moved to Nichols Hills Merle Buttram, far left, leading a club meeting, Merle Buttram with her violin, 1940. Courtesy The violin section of the Oklahoma Symphony 1952. Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society. Oklahoma Historical Society. Orchestra, 1952. Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society. great heritage of symphonic and chamber in 1938, after eight years of planning and music given us through the centuries by such construction of a beaux arts style home on masters as Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms a large, immaculately landscaped estate. It will be lost.” She worked closely with the was designed by famed architects Ayers and Oklahoma City School Board in establishing Ayers of San Antonio, Texas. The Buttram a string music program. In 1949 the program home in Nichols Hills was a showplace began, and some of the first students would of the city for many years and housed an eventually become string players in the extensive art collection with originals by Oklahoma City Symphony Orchestra. Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Millet, Raphael, In the early 1950s, the conditions of the Gainsborough, and Leonardo da Vinci. The state’s mental health institutions came into home was often open for civic gatherings question, with reports of inadequate facilities and meetings for music and church groups. and lack of funding. Reverend Bill Alexander In 1976 Dorsey Buttram was asked The Oklahoma City Junior Symphony,1955. was tasked with addressing those issues and what kind of gatherings drew hundreds of Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society. formed a citizen’s state committee to work with people to the sprawling estate in Nichols the legislature. Merle was asked to be the Hills over the three decades his family lived chair for Oklahoma County, and thus the first there, he replied, “You should be asking 51 35

what ‘not’ kind.” Of the many social events hosted there, one of the most renowned gatherings was in May of 1946 when it hosted 48 governors for their 38th annual conference. Many black-tie affairs and club meetings were hosted in the art room, the showplace for the Buttrams’ many prized artworks acquired on various trips to Europe and Russia. In 1975, the Buttram home in Nichols Hills became an art museum when the Oklahoma Museum of Art at Red Ridge relocated from 5500 N. Lincoln Blvd. The mansion’s three stories, plus a full basement, more than doubled the museum’s previous gallery space. The new caretakers of the former Buttram home continued the legacy of Merle, hosting art exhibitions, classes, Four of the Buttram children attended the unveiling of their parents’ portraits at the Oklahoma fundraisers, concerts, and music competitions Hall of Fame in the Oklahoma Heritage Center, 1972. Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society. Merle Buttram,1938.Courtesy Oklahoma Historical The 38th annual Governor’s Conference was hosted An audience sits on the lawn of the Oklahoma Museum Society. at the Buttrams’ estate,1946. Courtesy Oklahoma of Art, formerly the Buttrams’ estate, for an outdoor Historical Society. concert,1982. Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society. until 1989 when the museum merged state. In her correspondence related to her with the Oklahoma Art Center to form the induction, she was in awe of the honor and Oklahoma City Art Museum (OCAM). expressed that she had only done what The OCAM would eventually become she felt was needed to be done for the the Oklahoma City Museum of Art which community. Her vision endures, enriching the continues the original vision of its founders in lives of all Oklahomans. its downtown location. Merle was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 1964, joining her husband Frank as one of the many Oklahomans honored for outstanding service to the Oklahoma Symphony Orchestra performs for small children,1966. Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society. 52

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OHOF’S STORY THROUGH ITS PEOPLE Guests attending Fall Y’All at the Oklahoma Hall of Fame at the Enjoying the 95th annual Oklahoma Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in Tulsa were, from left, Mo Anderson , Gaylord-Pickens Museum enjoyed time with the Sensory Wall. Scott Hendricks , and Jane Jayroe Gamble . From left, Debbi Merrick, Frank Merrick, Tammy Taylor, Earnie Gilder, and Marilyn Gilder at the Cox Business Sherri Coale spoke to those attending the signing at the Oklahoma Hall of Convention Center in Tulsa for the Oklahoma Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Fame for her book Rooted to Rise. Kristin Olmsted shared all the Oklahoma Hall of Fame has to offer during Enjoying the Honoree and Patron Donor Reception on the eve of the 95th annual Oklahoma Hall of Fame Mesta Park’s Mesta Festa. Induction Ceremony were, from left, Mike Hearne, Gini Moore Campbell, Bailey Gordon, and Lauren Warkentine. Denotes Member of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame 54

OHOF’S STORY THROUGH ITS PEOPLE It was a beautiful night for the Second Century Board’s Oklahoma Born & Brewed event in August. Settlers Brewing Company was one of more than 20 brewers participating in the 2022 Oklahoma Born & Brewed event at the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. Welcoming guests to the Honoree and Patron Donor Reception at The Church Studio on November 16th were, from left, Brenda Schwartz, Bethany Deason, April Waggoner, and Mattie Barlow. Those attending Homeschool Day incorporated a wide range of subjects in The Oklahoma Hall of Fame Gallery is one of guests’ favorites. designing and building their guitars. Denotes Member of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame 55 35

OHOF’S STORY THROUGH ITS PEOPLE Stan Clark , J.C. Watts, Jr. , Steve Largent , and Bruce Benbrook catch up during the Pearl Beach Brew Pub provided samples during the 8th annual Oklahoma Born & Brewed. Honoree and Patron Donor Reception at The Church Studio. Masters of Ceremonies Becky Dixon , left, and Sherri Coale, left, and Lauren Warkentine visited during the book sign- Erick Taylor provided music for the crowd at the Second J.C. Watts, Jr. rehearse for the 95th annual ing for Coale’s Rooted to Rise at the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. Century Board’s Oklahoma Born & Brewed event to support Oklahoma Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. education programming. Getting ready for the 95th annual Oklahoma Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony were, Kirsten Therkelson leads an activity during Homeschool Day from left, Bruce Randolph, Trinity Randolph, Mildred Randolph, and Kobie Randolph. in the Edith Kinney Gaylord Garden. Mildred presented Sue Ann Arnall for induction. Denotes Member of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame 56

OHOF’S STORY THROUGH ITS PEOPLE The staff of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame following the 95th annual induction ceremony. Oklahoma Hall of Fame Honoree Patty Gasso looks on as husband and Presenter Jim Gasso completes television make-up. Two visitors to Fall Y’All enjoyed painting pumpkins to take home. The 8th annual Oklahoma Born & Brewed (OBB) at the Oklahoma Hall of Fame raised more for educational Aerial acrobatics was featured in the Edith Kinney Gaylord Garden during programming than any prior OBB event. Fall Y’All. Denotes Member of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame 57 35

OHOF’S STORY THROUGH ITS PEOPLE With registrations for Homeschool Days reaching capacity, the Oklahoma Hall of Fame is meeting the needs of the families it serves. 2022 Oklahoma Hall of Fame Honoree Dr. Pamela McCauley , right, and husband Johnnie Michael at the Honoree and Patron Donor Reception. Jim Halsey , seated, with, standing from left, wife Minisa Crumbo and daughter Gina. Halsey accepted induction on behalf of the family of Leon Russell following Russell’s posthumous induction to the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. Educational activities are designed for students of all ages during Patty Gasso , second from left, was congratulated on her induction by, from left, Tina Floyd, Amber Flores, and Jackie Livingston. Homeschool Day. Denotes Member of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame 58

OHOF’S STORY THROUGH ITS PEOPLE Dr. Bob L. Blackburn , left, was interviewed by Mike Hearne of the This is Oklahoma Podcast prior to his induction as a member of the Class of 2022. Guests enjoyed attending Oklahoma Born & Brewed and supporting the education programs offered by the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. Oklahoma Born & Brewed Chair Meredith McCasland Woods, left, and Michelle Sopp announce winners of the raffle items. Having some fun while waiting for television make-up were 2022 Honoree Celebrating the induction of Roger Hardesty were, from left, daughter Debbie Hardesty Cristo, wife Donna Chet Cadieux and his Presenter Alison Anthony. Hardesty, and daughter Michelle Hardesty. Denotes Member of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame 59 35

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NEW RELEASES Joint biographies of Thomas Drawing from the uniqueness P. Gore and Robert L. Owen. and strength of the land of Although Oklahoma’s first Oklahoma’s Panhandle— two U. S. Senators, Gore and undulating land, dotted with Owen, were often far apart on sagebrush growing in the short issues, they were instrumental buffalo grass, extending mile in establishing a power base after mile—Tim Leonard earned that would be built on by later a law degree and entered the congressman and senators to U.S. Navy. The stories of his ensure that the Sooner State’s assignment as a military aide voice in the federal government at the White House during the was strong. Gore joined the administration of President Democrats after years as an Lyndon B. Johnson could fill activist for the Populist Party. an entire book. But that was Having lost his eyesight at a GORE & OWEN: Tim Leonard: not the end of his life of public young age and dubbed “The Oklahoma’s Son of the service. As Minority Leader of Blind Cowboy” by the press, First Two Panhandle the Oklahoma State Senate, U.S. Gore was one of the nation’s U. S. Senators Attorney, and federal judge, most effective orators. Owen Leonard has gained respect from served as U. S. Senator for the BY BOB BURKE a legion of other public officials first 18 years of statehood. He BY ROBERT HENRY AND and everyday citizens across is best known as the Senate AND JOE HEATON the nation. His integrity and sponsor of the Glass-Owen BOB BURKE perseverance reflect the land Federal Reserve Act of 1913, $22.95 $22.95 from which he came. the legislation that created the Federal Reserve System, and is known as the “Father of the Federal Reserve.” An avid writer, following a Amateur golfer Charles Robert breast cancer diagnosis the “Charlie” Coe is recognized as purpose for Cathy Leichter’s one of the best golfers to ever writing changed. Her words now play the game. Born in Ardmore, provided therapy, exploration of he won the Oklahoma State feelings and emotions she had Championship during high school, never experienced, and a way to three conference championships document the path she was on. while attending the University She also began to research, not of Oklahoma, and just one only the treatments and outcomes, year after graduation his first but those she would be entrusting U. S. Championship. His career to navigate and help her through The Last Amateur: included 27 consecutive match- the battle that lay ahead. Her The Life of play victories, Trans-Mississippi research led her to Sister Mary Sister Coletta’s Charlie Cole and Western Amateur wins, strong Coletta—a Sister of Mercy. It Legacy Today: finishes in the British Amateur, was Sister Coletta’s legacy that U. S. Open, and the Masters, provided not only the spiritual, Hope and Faith in BY STEPHEN M. PRESCOTT six Walker Cup selections, and but the physical foundation for Fighting Cancer $24.95 multiple amateur records—some her hope in beating cancer. This still on the record books today. book reminds us of the many BY CATHY LEICHTER He played alongside Arnold contributions of Sister Coletta and Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, both of the Sisters of Mercy and celebrates $14.95 whom have spoken openly about the medical advancements, their respect for Coe not only doctors, and others that join the as a golfer, but as a gentleman. fight along the way. Although he possessed the talent to go pro, Coe played during a time when professional golfers did not earn enough to support themselves or a family. The father of three, Coe, with the support of ALL TITLES ARE AVAILABLE AT SCISSORTAIL GIFTS IN THE GAYLORD-PICKENS MUSEUM, his wife Liz, decided to focus on SCISSORTAILGIFTS.COM, AND AT BOOKSTORES STATEWIDE. the family business—oil. 61 35

FRIENDS OF THE MEDALLION GIVING SOCIETY Friends of the Medallion have a shared interest in preserving and telling the stories of extraordinary Oklahomans. Their support sustains the 95-year tradition of recognizing accomplished Oklahomans with the state’s highest honor–induction into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. MISSION PARTNERS Mr. and Mrs. Bob Burke The Chickasaw Nation E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation Oklahoma Chiller The Puterbaugh Foundation CONSTANCY CIRCLE Peggy Kates Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits Oklahoma City Thunder R.A. Young Foundation Standley Systems LLC GOLD CIRCLE Governor and Mrs. Bill Anoatubby James C. and Teresa K. Day Foundation Tim Headington McCasland Foundation Fred Jones Family Foundation Mary and Jeff McClean Larry and Polly Nichols Shannon L. Rich Walton Family Foundation MISTLETOE CIRCLE Citizens Bank of Edmond Mr. and Mrs. Steve Burrage Mr. Luke Corbett Mr. and Mrs. Ken Fergeson Anne and Mike Greenwood Mr. and Mrs. Joe Moran III Mustang Fuel Corporation Mr. and Mrs. David Rainbolt C. Renzi and Lee Anne Stone The Honorable J.C. Watts, Jr. FRIENDS OF THE MEDALLION Mr. and Mrs. Calvin J. Anthony The Honorable Jari Askins Mrs. Terri Cornett Mr. Joe D. Hall Dewey F. Bartlett, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Art Cotton Mr. Harold Hamm Chief Gary Batton Bill and Carol Crawford Hardesty Family Foundation Bruce and Sheryl Benbrook Page Davidson Mr. and Mrs. V. Burns Hargis Mr. and Mrs. Clayton I. Bennett Mr. and Mrs. Chad Dillingham Fred and Kellie Harlan Charles and Cassandra Bowen Foundation Ms. Rebecca Dixon Mrs. Jane B. Harlow Mrs. Barbara Braught Mr. Everett Dobson H.T. and Edna Mae Holden Mr. Steve M. Brown Mrs. Gordona Duca-Heiliger John and Janet Hudson Robert and Karen Browne Family Fund Mr. and Mrs. William E. Durrett Mr. and Mrs. Carlos E. Johnson Andre’ Caldwell Carl and Susan Edwards Hannibal B. Johnson Chris and Gini Moore Campbell Col. and Mrs. Stanley Evans The Honorable Bernard and Dr. Mautra Jones Mr. Brad Carson Tom and Cheryl Evans Dian Jordan Mr. and Mrs. Mike D. Case Amy Anne Ford The Honorable and Mrs. Frank Keating Jill Castilla Chad Ford Mr. Bill Lance Kristin Chenoweth Chip and Shannon Fudge Dr. Kathy and The Honorable Charlie Laster Mr. Stan Clark Jane Jayroe and Gerald Gamble Larry and Marilyn Lee -- RAM Energy LLC Ms. Jodi R. Cline Dr. and Mrs. Gib Gibson Roxana and Robert Lorton Ms. Amanda Clinton Earnie and Marilyn Gilder Tom and Judy Love Samuel and Rita Combs Mrs. AJ Griffin Erika Lucas Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth H. Cooper Mr. David Griffin Mollie Bennett McCurdy Mr. and Mrs. Rick Cooper Mr. and Mrs. Steven Grigsby Tom and Brenda McDaniel THANK YOU TO ALL DONORS OF A portion of every donation, regardless of the amount, goes toward funding Oklahoma: Magazine of the THE OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME Oklahoma Hall of Fame and its distribution to every senior high school library statewide. With questions, please contact Andy Melvin at 405.523.3203 or [email protected]. This list represents donors making unrestricted contributions as of November 30, 2022. 62

Bob Meinders Frank and Debbi Merrick Hedra and Harry Merson Mr. Wes Milbourn Mr. Scott Moore Michael S. Neal Mrs. Susan Bingham Neal The Honorable Ron and Kandy Norick Mr. William G. Paul Adam and Whitney Rainbolt Dr. Eli Reschef and Mrs. Edie Roodman Mr. Frank C. Robson Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Ross Phyllis Sandmann Ms. JoAnn Schaub William and Lynne Schonacher Mr. Brandon D. Scott Mr. T.W. Shannon Mr. Blake Shelton Kayse M. Shrum, D.O. Mrs. Milan Siegfried Lee Allan Smith Jon R. Stuart Mr. and Mrs. Barry Switzer Charles and Peggy Stephenson Family Foundation Justice and Mrs. Steven Taylor Judge and Mrs. Ralph. G. Thompson Mr. and Mrs. Michael C. Turpen Mrs. Peggy Upham Dr. Jim Utterback Mr. Gregg Wadley April Waggoner Judge Linda English Weeks Dr. Chad Wiginton Mr. and Mrs. Allen Wright MAGAZINE DONORS Mark Allen Argent Financial Group, Inc. Sheryl and Bruce Benbrook Bob Burke Dr. and Mrs. Tom Carlile Taryn Clark Samuel and Rita Combs Chad Dillingham Cheryl Evans Mr. and Mrs. John Gibbs Fred and Kellie Harlan Integris Baptist Medical Center Kent “Gib” and Jennifer James Peggy Kates Marilyn and Ed Keller The Kerr Foundation, Inc. Oklahoma City Community Foundation, Inc. Oklahoma Department of Libraries Mr. and Mrs. Richard M. Parker Dr. Barry and Mrs. Roxanne Pollard The Puterbaugh Foundation Lee Allan Smith Brannon B. Smith Member FDIC Mr. Pete White Mr. and Mrs. Joseph H. Williams

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