Oklahoma Christian University’s annual Homecoming festivities are in full force, bringing many noteworthy alumni back to their old stomping grounds.
The alumni banquet will honor some of Oklahoma Christian’s finest. The event will be held in Baugh Auditorium starting tonight at 5:30 p.m. The honorees for the event are:
Distinguished Alumni Award
David and Barbara Duncan, members of Oklahoma Christian’s 1988 and 1989 graduating classes, have served in both local and foreign missions helping areas of Brazil and Houston, TX. According to the Oklahoma Christian alumni office, Oklahoma Christian has developed an increasingly strong presence in the south-central region of Texas as a direct result of their stewardship. The Duncans have encouraged countless students and made numerous donations for the betterment of their alma mater.
Austin Stokes, a 2019 graduate from the Houston area, has stated the Duncans’ work is admirable and of great necessity in this spiritual climate.
“Typically, in Houston at least, community outreach and social advocacy are not really held with that high of regard,” Stokes said. “The Duncans’ work, after hearing their story, is inspiring, and I think it is necessary for their actions to be highlighted. It is tough work that they are doing.”
Young Alumnus of the Year
Social entrepreneur and 2011 graduate Ryan Groves spent time at Oklahoma Christian meticulously developing a non-profit organization dedicated to work on clean water solutions. While undertaking this project, he also produced a documentary calling attention to this global crisis. Groves continued his education at Pepperdine University and is now working as the director of Strategic Employer Partnerships.
Junior Jordan Kennedy, a biology major, said Grove’s success establishes the framework every Oklahoma Christian student should strive to embody.
“It is an amazing story,” Kennedy said. “The fact that he started all of this while he was at OC is a true encouragement to others looking to make a direct impact on the world—it makes me feel like I should aim for something higher.”
Missions Service Award
Members of Oklahoma Christian’s 1968 and 1969 graduating classes, Dennis and Susan Cady are renowned for their decades of missions service spanning across Southeast Asia. Making strides in the Muslim community, the Cadys have worked diligently in the Philippines, Indonesia and South Sudan. Their global mission, known as the Starfish Foundation, is now headquartered in Wichita Falls, TX.
Freshman Tristyn Hamilton said the reach of the Cadys and the work connected to their missions is directly linked to their generosity.
“I think that their life grasps the picture of true missionary work,” Hamilton said. “Their willingness to go to some rougher areas, like [South] Sudan, shows what their values truly are.”
Honorary Alumnus of the Year
Lee Allan Smith has worked hard for his nickname, “Mr. Oklahoma,” serving both city and state in a plethora of leadership roles over the past 50 years. Smith played a major role in developing Oklahoma City into the town it has become. The namesake of the Spirit of Oklahoma Award presented each spring, Smith has been a continuous contributor and supporter of Oklahoma Christian.
Sophomore Kevin Collyar, an Oklahoma native, stated Smith’s fingerprints have been left in Oklahoma for as long as he can remember.
“He is just always doing something productive,” Collyar said. “He is Mr. Oklahoma for a reason—he sets the bar high.”
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