D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 2

MAGAZINE OF THE OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME

T E L L I N G O K L A H O M A ' S S T O R Y T H R O U G H I T S P E O P L E S I N C E 19 2 7

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, Oklahomans are living faster, more demanding lives
than ever.

That’s why we’re introducing new health care innovations that deliver more
flexibility, convenience and high-quality experiences.

From new urgent care centers across the metro, to a cutting-edge home
hospitalization program for acute care patients, the only hospital-based
Medicare Advantage program in the area and a brand-new heart hospital,
we are committed to meeting your every health care need—at your speed.

Your Health Partner for Life.

integrisok.com
 DECEMBER 2022
VOLUME 27 • NUMBER 2
PRESIDENT & CEO

CONTENTS
Shannon L. Rich
VICE PRESIDENT
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
Rebecca Dixon Shannon L. Rich
OK L A H O M A H A L L of FAM E

Subscription...................................... $35
DONOR LEVELS

Individualism....................................$50 3 Reflection Symmetry:

Perseverance..................................$100 Lawrence Naff & Jason Wilson
Pioneer Spirit..................................$250 Carol Mowdy Bond
Optimism....................................... $500
Friends of the Medallion.................... $1,000
Mistletoe Circle.............................. $2,500
Gold Circle.................................$5,000 14 ASCANs in Oklahoma
Constancy Circle............................$10,000 Bill Moore
Mission Partner........................$25,000

For additional information contact the

Oklahoma Hall of Fame 21 An Extraordinary Public Servant:
1400 Classen Drive Oleta Lawanda Crain
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73106 Betty Katherine Permetter Falato
Telephone 405.235.4458 or
Toll Free 888.501.2059
E-mail info@oklahomahof.com 27 The 2022 Oklahoma
Hall of Fame Induction
Visit the organization's website at
Ceremony: Celebrating
OklahomaHOF.com
Oklahoma’s Highest Honor
Unsolicited manuscripts must be
accompanied by return postage.
Gini Moore Campbell

Unless otherwise noted, all images are

courtesy of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. 34 Oklahoma Hall of Fame
Member Spotlight:
LIBRARY DISTRIBUTION MADE POSSIBLE Merle Newby Buttram
THROUGH THE GENEROSITY OF
DONORS STATEWIDE. Mattie Barlow

MISSION PARTNERS
MR. AND MRS. BOB BURKE 39 Oklahoma’s Story
THE CHICKASAW NATION Through Its People
E.L. AND THELMA GAYLORD FOUNDATION
OKLAHOMA CHILLER
THE PUTERBAUGH FOUNDATION
 FROM THE FROM THE
CHAIRMAN... PRESIDENT...

Last month we celebrated eight
incredibly talented and generous
Oklahomans with our state’s highest
honor—induction to the Oklahoma
Hall of Fame. It was wonderful
hosting everyone in Tulsa and we
have heard nothing but positive
feedback on the 95th annual
Oklahoma Hall of Fame Induction
Ceremony. First and foremost, the
diversity of the class on all levels has
received much acclaim. You can
learn more about the event and this
year’s class in this issue. And, just
a reminder, you have until March
1, 2023 to nominate those to be
considered for the Class of 2023.
As I reflect on my first year as
chair of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame,
I am grateful for the opportunity
to work with such a professional
and result-driven team. Our staff
continues to expand programming,
enhance existing programming,
and raise the bar each and every
day. At a time when schools are
struggling, the Oklahoma Hall of
Fame is finding ways to meet the
needs of the next generation. Not
only are we serving people in the
Gaylord-Pickens Museum, but
online programming, statewide
outreach programs, and our
Library Distribution Program are
making a huge impact in the
community in which they live.
As you think about year-end or
New Year giving, please consider
increasing your current level of
support or make an additional
gift. I promise you, every penny
is put to the very best use.
Wishing you and your family a
safe and happy holiday season!
Rebecca Dixon
CHAIRMAN
It is hard to believe we are nearing the different abilities. In the coming
end of 2022. I am pleased to share year, you will learn about how the
with you that from Free Field Trips and Oklahoma Hall of Fame will be
scholarship participation to publishing growing our reach and making new
and outreach, we have reached and and exciting opportunities available—
exceeded pre-pandemic numbers. In further enhancing how we are “Telling
addition, we have launched OHOF Oklahoma’s Story Through its People!”
in the Wild—weekly curated content On behalf of the Oklahoma Hall
for children with educational and of Fame team, we wish you a holiday
recreational activities that facilitate time season surrounded by those you
spent outdoors and engaging with the cherish the most and a New Year
natural world around them—and the filled with great possibilities! We look
Scouts program—allowing youth the forward to seeing you in 2023!
opportunity to reach their goals through
curriculum created by the Museum
Experience Team. And, our Homeschool
Days have been so well received that
additional days to meet demand were
necessary. Shannon L. Rich
None of what we do would be PRESIDENT & CEO
possible without YOU—our donors.
365 days a year you are fulfilling the
dream of higher education for a high
school student, inspiring an elementary
student by providing a connection to a
local hero, and making programming
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
BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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
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
CORPORATE SECRETARY DEWEY F. BARTLETT JR. TULSA WHITNEY RAINBOLT OKLAHOMA CITY
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
STAN CLARK STILLWATER BRANDON D. SCOTT BROKEN ARROW
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AT LARGE T.W. SHANNON OKLAHOMA CITY
JODI CLINE PONCA CITY
CLAYTON I. BENNETT OKLAHOMA CITY KAYSE SHRUM STILLWATER
AMANDA R. CLINTON TULSA
LINDA ENGLISH WEEKS NORMAN C. RENZI STONE OKLAHOMA CITY
TERRI CORNETT OKLAHOMA CITY
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
GINI MOORE CAMPBELL OKLAHOMA CITY ANNE M. GREENWOOD STILLWATER ALLEN WRIGHT OKLAHOMA CITY

OklahomaHOF.com

2
 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
L A W R E N C E N A F F A N D J A S O N W I L S O N
SYMMETRY

BY C A R O L M OW DY B O N D
Carlos Barboza with the mural
he created for Tease Hair Design
Studio in Yukon, Oklahoma.
(Courtesy Carlos Barboza) 3
 REFLECTION
SYMMETRY
L AW R E N C E N A F F

Born and bred in the Now a visual artist and

jewelry designer, Lawrence
characters with rings that
possessed powers that
Naff was born in and grew could control the elements,
Sooner State, abstract up in Oklahoma City. His
mother was a software
and the video game ‘Sonic
the Hedgehog’ had the
artists Lawrence Naff specialist and his father a
sales professional. During
Chaos Emeralds which
gave him super powers.

and Jason Wilson Naff’s youth, he held no

inclination toward art. But
This caused me to be
interested in crystals in

emerged from different

he was passionate about
geology, especially crystals
and minerals, and video
backgrounds. However, games and anime.
both of their journeys “During the 1980s and
1990s, I was consuming
elementary school.”
After graduating from
Oklahoma City’s Northeast
Academy for Health
Sciences and Engineering,
Naff entered university

circle back to the past, entertainment that

centered around a theme
life. At that point, his
childhood love of crystals
of magical crystals,” and minerals connected
connecting to their 36-year-old Naff says.
“‘Sailor Moon’ had a
with a new experience that
tapped into his previously-
personal origins which storyline centered on a
magical silver crystal and
hidden artistic abilities.

integrate into the art the villains were named

after gemstones and
“In college, a friend, who
was from Japan, had

they produce.
minerals. ‘Captain Planet her iPad decorated with
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
Osaka, Japan. It just so communication from WITH GLIMMERING
happened that I was going the University of Central
Oklahoma, Naff landed
OBJECTS
to Osaka for the summer
vacation that year, so I a full-time IT career in STEMS FROM
went to the shop, bought Oklahoma City where he
rhinestones and had a currently works and lives. OUR NATURAL
friend there show me how
to decorate my phone and However, Naff’s love of ATTRACTION TO
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
of decoden. The word to a large supply of THE DESIGN,
“decoden” is from an computer components
and incorporates them
WE ARE DRAWN
English-Japanese fusion
of the words “decoration” into his art, which involves TO ITS
and “denwa,” which means creating glimmering
phone. In order to express mosaics by patiently and KINETIC DANCE
themselves, Japanese individually glueing crystal
youth were decorating rhinestones and gemstones WITH LIGHT.”
their cell phones with on substrate.
rhinestones, fabrics,
LAWRENCE NAFF

Justice, Crystal, Tiger’s Eye,

and Brass, by Lawrence Naff.
(Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition)

55
 “Ideas pop into my head all
of the time, but the most
frequent is the moment
at bedtime after I close
my eyes and before I
begin to sleep,” Naff says.
“Sometimes an image
pops in my head and I
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
it. After I’ve drawn it, I
can’t forget it, and I can
execute the design later on
a panel. I have to decide
the color, but that doesn’t
take long. The time it takes
to completely execute
depends on how large the
canvas is. If it is 4”x4,” it
can be from two to three
6
days. If it’s 24”x24,” it can
be a few months. Because
I have a full-time job, the
time I have to work on art
is limited.”
Although Naff says his work
does not communicate a
specific message, he admits
there is an underlying
concept to his art.
“The juxtaposition of
manmade and natural
components is meant to
question if technology
and nature are as separate
as we have been led
to believe. I fight the
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)

35
7
 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,”
Rhinestones on Birch Panel,
impressive.
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

REFLECTION
SYMMETRY
JASON WILSON
When he is not traveling,
art enthusiasts will find
Jason Wilson about two
hours away from the
Oklahoma City area. Born
and raised in Hartshorne,
Wilson now lives in
McAlester with his wife
Patte. His father was a
supervisor at Boeing
in McAlester and his
mother taught English at
Hartshorne High School.
Art was integral to the
now-57-year-old Wilson’s
growing-up years. His
mother was an artist,
although she never
promoted her work. She
painted landscapes, still
life, animals, and cartoons,
and gifted Hartshorne
area residents with her
paintings. Also, Wilson
enjoyed art projects in
school, and his mother
nurtured his inclination. As
well, he loved car models,
painting by number, grid
drawings, and other art-
inspired childhood activities.
JASON WILSON:
Carpe Artem Gallery, 1104 Northwest 30th Street,
Oklahoma City, and
Our Favorite Place, 127 North Main Street, Eufaula;
artbyjasonwilson.com; and Instagram @artbyjasonwilson.
Far and Wide, 36”x36,” Acrylic on
gallery wrapped canvas, by Jason
Wilson.(Courtesy Jason Wilson)
Tripartite, 48”x36,” Acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas,
by Jason Wilson. (Courtesy Jason Wilson)
The narrative of Wilson’s
journey into the art world
is incomplete without his
paternal grandparents who
were a constant during
his formative years. In
fact, every aspect of his
grandparents’ lives made
a deep-and-life-long
impression on Wilson.
That includes meals in
their home, with the entire
family squished around a
tiny kitchen table.
“My favorite meals were
fried squirrel with biscuits
and gravy,” Wilson says.
“I’m not sure why, but
squirrel gravy is the best
gravy. Another favorite was
fried deer meat and gravy.”
Wilson’s paternal
grandfather told him, “I’d
rather try and fail, than
never tried at all.” Those
words still inspire Wilson
as he pushes forward in
the art world and wrestles
with rejections that come
with the territory.
Northern Shift, 36”x36,”
Acrylic on gallery wrapped canvas,
by Jason Wilson.
(Courtesy Jason Wilson)
35
9
 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.
Her quilts continue to influence
Wilson was well known for
Jason Wilson’s art. her quilts which she gifted to
(Courtesy Jason Wilson) numerous elected politicians,
including numerous U.S.
presidents, bringing her
national recognition.

“Born in 1890, this pioneer

This stable and strong
relationship, between
Wilson and his paternal
grandparents, remains
important because Wilson’s
paternal grandmother
was one of four influential
quilters in his life. In fact,
the strongest impetus for
Wilson’s art career rests in
the creative, quilting hands
of his Cherokee, paternal girl, busy making quilts
grandmother Gladys Wilson. in her two-room log
cabin, had no idea her
Remembering her, Wilson quilts would someday
says, “She quilted in the grace the nation’s White
very back room of their House,” Wilson says. “My
house. The quilt was Great-Grandma Garis and
suspended from the ceiling, Great-Grandma Gilreath
with a rope to each corner. also produced quilts. As
I can remember playing you can see, quilts were
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
influence Jason Wilson’s art. me as an artist and an 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
handed to presidential hopeful
“Art was just something that Jimmy Carter and his running
I always did,” now-full-time mate Walter Mondale in Norman.
Both women were quilters and
artist Wilson says. “I was 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.
(Courtesy Jason Wilson)
And innumerable people,
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)

35
11
 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)

12 35

to scale,” Wilson says.
“After I have the concept
on the grid paper, I draw
it on the canvas using
precise measurements and
rulers. After the drawing
is finished, I use a masking
technique that took me
years to perfect. I use
acrylic paint, but I have a
formula combining heavy
body acrylics with student
grade acrylics. I do this
to obtain an ultra-smooth
finish. My desire is for
my paintings to be
so technically flawless
and precise that they
are stunning.”
“In my paintings, the form
is what I see—patterns,
shapes, color, lines,
values. However, after the
viewer sees one of my
paintings, their perception
surfaces in an attempt
to make meaning of the
work. I can manipulate
the elements of art in an
attempt to communicate
the content or feeling
that I want them to
experience. But in reality,
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)
viewers often bring their
own interpretations to my The genesis of Wilson’s
paintings. In perceptual
art, there is so much room
for interpretation and
career aligns with strong
interaction. I bring order to
this process by eliminating
family relationships
distractions. I don’t want
clutter to interfere or interwoven with his
distract the viewer. I want
my work to be technically five senses, and women
precise and as flawlessly
finished as possible.” who were avid quilters.
With a massive and
impressive list of For Naff, his childhood
hobbies and fascinations
publications, awards,
recognitions, events,
exhibits, and solo
exhibitions, Wilson’s
work is quickly gaining
merged with experiences
attention. Wilson does not
make social or political and aptitudes that
statements through his
work. His goal is to show brought forth his innate
the beauty of patterns,
colors, and visual effects. artistic abilities and a
“As an art teacher, every
year for years, I took my
growing career. For both
students to the Festival of
the Arts in Oklahoma City. men, their roots are key
I never dreamed I would
one day be an artist.” to their success.
35
13
 ASCANs
IN OKLAHOMA
BY BILL MOORE

14
W
hat’s an ASCAN? And,
why are they in the
Sooner State? Well, it’s
a 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.

35
15
 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

Duane Ross, born in Oklahoma
City, served as director of the
Astronaut Training Program at
Johnson Space Center, Houston,
Texas. Courtesy Duane Ross.
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
killed in the explosion of the Shuttle Challenger in 1986.

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.

35
17
 graduating from East Central State College in Ada,
Oklahoma in the summer of 1967. Ross would eventually
go on to serve as manager of the Astronaut Selection
Office, as a member of the Astronaut Selection Board,
and as manager of the Astronaut Candidate (ASCAN)
Training Program from 1994 to 2013, personally chosen
by Johnson Space Center Director George Abbey. During
this time, he participated in the selection of 246 of
the 338 NASA astronauts and was responsible for the
basic training of 124 NASA and 28 international partner
astronaut candidates.
Several astronauts came through Vance early in their
Air Force careers, much like Eileen Collins. Tom Jones
spent one year at Vance in 1978. While he was there,
Skylab astronaut Owen Garriott would often land in
a NASA T-38 jet to see family in Enid. Jones loved to
admire the beautifully kept NASA jet, not knowing he
would one day be flying them for NASA. He would later
return to Vance with the 13th group of ASCANs in July
1990. He would fly into space on STS-59, STS-68, STS-
80, and STS-98 as a Mission Specialist.
Karol Bobko attended flight training at Vance and
received his wings in 1960. He served as pilot of STS-6.
He then commanded STS-51D and STS-51J.
Frederick Gregory was assigned to Vance from October
1965 to May 1966 as an H-43 Helicopter Rescue Pilot. He
served as pilot for STS-51B and as Commander for STS-
18
33 and STS-44. Gregory was the first African-American
to serve as deputy administrator of NASA and as acting
administrator of NASA for two months in 2005.
Joe Allen was selected as a scientist-astronaut in August
1967 and was then sent to flight training at Vance. He flew
as a Mission Specialist on STS-5 and STS-51A.
Karl Henize was selected as a Scientist Astronaut in
1967 and was sent to Vance for a 53-week jet pilot
training program. He flew on STS-51F as a Mission
Specialist serving on board the Spacelab 2 Mission.
Roy Bridges was a T-37 Instructor Pilot at Vance from
January 1969 to July 1970. He served as pilot on STS-51F.
After that, he served as director of the Kennedy Space Center
and went on to be the director of Langley Research Center.
Loren Shriver spent one year in undergraduate pilot
training at Vance and then served as an instructor in
T-38s for four years, 1969-1973. He flew as pilot on
STS-51C, Commander on STS-31 and STS-46.
Tom Jones finished his pilot training at Vance in 1977.
He went back to Vance with his astronaut group one
week after reporting for duty. Like others, this was for
ejection seat and parachute training.
Mark Polansky earned his wings at Vance graduating
from pilot training in 1978. He served as pilot of STS-98,
then as Commander on STS-116 and STS-127.
Maurizio Cheli, an Italian Air Force officer, came to
Vance in 1982 for pilot training, graduating in 1983.
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.

35
19

Vance Air Force Base is located in north central Oklahoma in the city
of Enid. Courtesy Vance AFB.
Rick Husband commanded the fatal mission of STS-107. The entire crew
was lost when Shuttle Columbia broke up on reentry. Courtesy NASA.
Dr. Shannon Lucid set records for longest time in space. Courtesy NASA.
20
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
flew to the International Space Station on the Soyuz
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
re-entry, killing all on board in 2002.
The legacy of Vance AFB will always include the fact
that it was a part of America’s space program. Several
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.
 An Extraordinary Public Servant:
Oleta Lawanda Crain
H eeding her mother’s advice to “take
a chance,” Oleta Lawanda Crain
(September 8, 1913–November 7, 2007)
joined the military during World War
II to play in a band to help win the war.
She served the American public with
distinction for more than half a century.
A schoolteacher, a Major in the U.S. Air
Force, a civil servant, and an advocate
for working women’s rights, Oleta was
born in, reared in, and began her career
in Oklahoma, where her ancestors had
lived since traveling the Trails of Tears to
Indian Territory.
Oleta came to my attention when
I was researching education history
about my home town of Earlsboro,
Oklahoma. She grew up near Earlsboro
and attended school with my mother’s
relatives. Based on my research and what
my family told me about Oleta, I became
intrigued by her passion for education,
BY BETTY KATHERINE PERMETTER FALATO
her diplomacy, her wit, her boundless
energy, and her refusal to let others’
beliefs about gender or race, during the
era of Jim Crow, deter her from pursuing
her goals. These traits blossomed as she
was navigating her public service roles.
I began writing a paper on Oleta
in early 2007, hoping to meet her.
Librarians at the Blair-Caldwell African
American Research Library in Denver,
Colorado, where she had donated her
military papers after she retired, gave
me information on her and alerted
Oleta that I was writing about her. I
was delighted to hear that she wanted
to read my paper. Sadly, she died later
that year before we had a chance to
meet. To continue my research, I
sought information on Oleta and her
experiences from persons at the Library
of Congress and the Historical Society
of Iowa. I listened to oral interviews and
read newspaper and magazine articles;
census records; military records; and
books, including When the Nation Was
in Need: Blacks in the Women’s Army
Corps During World War II by Martha
S. Putney, Women of Consequence: The
Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame by Jeanne
Varnell, and Colorado Women in World
War II by Gail M. Beaton.
Oleta’s ancestors were prominent
Native American Freedmen in Indian
Territory. She was born into the
Seminole Nation Bruner Band in
Seminole County to William A. Crain
(1878–1942) and Violet Paula “Polly”
Alexander (1882–1966). Her paternal
grandparents were Alexander W. Crain,
an influential white in the Seminole
Nation, and Seminole Freedwoman
Rosie Fay. Her maternal grandfather
was Albert Alexander, son of Chickasaw
Freedman Isaac Alexander and Creek
35
21
 Freedwoman Polly Ann (last name
unknown); her maternal grandmother
was Lucy Bruner, daughter of former
Seminole Freedman band leader Caesar
Bruner and Freedwoman Nancy Lincoln.
Oleta was the fifth of William’s and
Polly’s seven children, all of whom she
outlived. She and her siblings—Gladys
Sypert (1902–1980), Albert Crain
(1904–1989), Hallie Floyd (1907–1977),
Pearl Edwards (1909–1990), William
Crain (1915–1962), and Grace Hicks
(1919–2007)—were reared on their
father’s farm.
Pallas Athena, official insignia
of the WAAC/WAC.
The Seminole Bruner Band
promoted education. Polly attended
a Seminole Nation school before
Oklahoma statehood and spent at least
three years in college. She inspired her
children when she advised them to
“take a chance.” After statehood, Oleta
attended segregated schools. During
early childhood, she attended Crain
Elementary School. The school was built
on her father’s farm and named after
him. Polly was the school principal and
teacher. Oleta graduated from Douglass
High School in Wewoka, Oklahoma, as
class valedictorian.
Following high school, Oleta spent
three years at Langston University in
Langston, Oklahoma, then earned a
bachelor’s in history and English from
Lincoln University in Jefferson City,
Missouri. During college, she joined the
22
Young Women’s Christian Association
(YWCA), Delta Sigma Theta Sorority,
and dramatic and debating societies.
She also played volleyball and
basketball. After college, Oleta taught
history and band in Hugo, Oklahoma,
then moved to Colorado where she
could earn a higher salary. She worked
in the Denver Ordnance Plant and
enrolled in Iliff School of Theology at
Denver University, seeking a master’s
in religious education.
Like many American women,
after World War II broke out Oleta
felt compelled to aid the war effort
and aspired to join the military when
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,
Americans were segregated by race
and ethnicity. Jobs were linked to race,
ethnicity, and gender. Although several
careers were open to women, only
men could be soldiers. The public and
the Army rejected the idea of women
in the military, fearing that it would
threaten prevailing race and gender
norms. Even the news media painted
women who desired to join the
military as immoral. After the Japanese
bombed Pearl Harbor on December
7, 1941, and more men faced combat
duty, women were needed in the
military to work in noncombatant jobs
previously held by men.
The WAAC was created to use
the skills of American women of
all ethnicities in the military and
simultaneously to give them benefits—
but not social equality. The WAAC
leaders established the corps as an
auxiliary alone to placate the army,
which refused to accept women
directly into its ranks. WAAC leaders
advertised images of its members
to counter public fear and reinforce
prevailing systems of power relations
between men and women and whites
and Blacks. The WAAC was organized
to ensure that women supporting the
military would not command men,
would dress in ladylike fashion, and
would continue to be segregated by race.
All women faced gender discrimination
in military jobs. Black women, like Oleta,
faced race and gender discrimination.
Sgt. Oleta Lawanda Crain, dated 1943.
Courtesy of the Blair-Caldwell African
American Research Library.
The first WAAC training center
was located at Fort Des Moines, Iowa,
a segregated base. The first group of
trainees arrived at Fort Des Moines on
July 20, 1942. The trainees consisted of
440 officer candidates, 40 of whom were
Black, enrolled in the WAAC Officer
Candidate School (OCS) and 125 white
enlisted women. Officer candidates of
different races trained together while
being socially segregated. They attended
class and mess together, but seated at
separate tables. Black officer candidates
were placed in a separate platoon, and
were not allowed to attend the officers’
club. Officers graduated throughout the
fall of 1942. White officers were placed
according to need at various military
installations. Black officers remained at
Fort Des Moines.
Enlisted women were trained under
segregated conditions, lived in separate
barracks, and frequented separate
service clubs on the base. The first 125
white enlisted women began training
on August 17, 1942. Oleta later began in
a training class with 175 Black enlisted
WAACs. She was the first Black enlisted
WAAC in the six Rocky Mountain states.
She reported to Fort Des Moines for
Oleta Lawanda Crain and fellow servicewomen, 1943–44. Oleta is standing third from the left.
Courtesy of the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library.
training on November 15, 1942, ready
to join the band, and was shocked and
disappointed to learn that she could not
join because she was Black and the band
was white. Informed that she would
be a cadre (Fort Des Moines training
corps) member, Oleta took the news in
stride. After completing basic training,
she volunteered to be a mail clerk and
served as acting leader, sergeant, of a
Black platoon. She was promoted to
leader on February 20, 1943.
Oleta was selected for the WAAC
OCS on March 3, 1943, as one of only
three Black women. Because racial
mixing was still not acceptable in the
barracks, the Black women stayed in
private rooms, arose early, showered,
and dressed before the white women.
Oleta graduated from OCS on April 17,
1943, and was commissioned as WAAC
third officer (second lieutenant). On
May 13, she was assigned as a platoon
commander and recreational officer
in a Black WAAC company. She often
dealt with racial issues when leading her
troops to the swimming pool.
The WAAC became an integral part
of the Army on July 4, 1943, and was
renamed the WAC. Oleta remained in
the military. As a cadre member, Oleta
trained her troops well and strove to
improve race relations. She met with a
racially diverse group of WAACs known
as the “Charcoal Burners,” who tried
to improve conditions on the base. In
August 1943, the group learned about a
plan to segregate Black officers into one
regiment, to be operational on the date
when the WAAC would be converted
to the WAC. They saw it as a step back
in race relations and devised a strategy
to stop it—and were successful. On
the conversion date, September 1, 1943,
Oleta was discharged from the WAAC
and admitted to the regular service
in the WAC as an air force second
lieutenant. Then she met with the
commandant and aided in influencing
him to integrate the swimming pool.
Oleta became a battalion
commander and spent several more
months at Fort Des Moines. In April
1945, she went to Lincoln Army Air
Field in Nebraska, an integrated base
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
in 1946, she was in a short-lived
marriage to Alfred Froman Burnley
from Denver.
After World War II ended, the
Pentagon asked First Lieutenant
Oleta Crain to remain in the military
to support racial integration because
she had a good relationship with the
men. In May 1948, she was promoted
to captain. On June 12, President
Harry Truman signed the Women’s
Armed Services Integration Act of
1948, permitting women to serve as full
members of the armed services. On
35
23

Lt. Oleta Lawanda Crain, date unknown.
Courtesy of the Blair-Caldwell African
American Research Library.
July 26, he issued Executive Order 9981,
ending racial segregation in the military.
After those events, Oleta and other
officers were placed where needed,
regardless of race or gender.
In 1949, Captain Crain went to
Westover Air Force Base (AFB) in
Massachusetts, to work in intelligence,
a job usually held by men. Racial
and political problems followed her.
Sepia Magazine, which celebrated the
achievements of Black Americans, ran
an article about Oleta and her troops.
A superior officer, who disliked the
idea of working with Captain Crain,
saw the article and accused her of
being a Communist. When the military
investigated Captain Crain, she came out
clean and received top-secret clearance.
24
Following Westover AFB, Captain
Crain spent four months at Fort Lee,
Virginia. Next, she went to Groton,
Connecticut, in an experiment to set
up a post exchange to sell $21,000
of merchandise to the reserve forces.
In 1951, after she completed her
assignment, Captain Crain spent nine
months in Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, as
personnel director. Discrimination
cropped up, even in the Arctic. She and
the other eight women on the base were
not permitted to wear slacks in subzero
weather because slacks made them
look too masculine, while men were
issued long underwear. Oleta was the
last woman to leave the base. Next she
served in Europe.
Late in 1951, Captain Crain went
to Munich to command the first
integrated group there. However,
because of unfavorable post-World
War II conditions in Germany, and
her preference to be a staff officer, she
served in London instead as a group
adjutant and a top-secret officer for
an intelligence group. In 1952, after
being promoted to major, she served in
personnel as a test control officer for
England until mid-1955. She conducted
all of the tests for U.S. troops within a
sixty-mile radius—those who wanted
promotions and those who wanted to
attend West Point.
Capt. Oleta Crain from The Picture Man.
Charleston, SC. Arcadia Publishing, 2017
Major Crain faced various types
of experiences in London. Arriving
there on New Year’s Eve, she went to
Piccadilly Circus in her uniform. In an
oral interview, she said, “Some of the
English soldiers saw me . . . and they
pulled me away from the nice lady that
I was staying with and they put me in
a circle and they started singing about
the Yanks thought they won the war. . . .
The bobbies had to rescue me.” In other
instances, Communist sympathizers
around the U.S. base near Hyde Park
routinely beat up American soldiers.
Two sentries were killed on duty there.
Oleta took steps to increase the safety
of the other soldiers. In more pleasant
activities, Major Crain enrolled in a
course in international relations at
Cambridge, she spent the night in a
bedroom once occupied by King Henry
the Eighth and served as photography
officer for Queen Elizabeth’s lawn party
honoring Emperor Haile Selassie. She
always treasured her photograph that
she took of the three English queens.
In 1955, Major Crain returned to
the United States and was stationed
at Mitchel Field in New York, where
she spent two years as a manpower
management officer, a position usually
held by her male counterparts. She
traveled all over the base making
manpower surveys in order to advise
the general on his staffing needs. To
maintain up-to-date skills in her job, she
also attended manpower management
officer’s school.
Two years after Oleta arrived at
Mitchel AFB, her mother had a heart
attack in Denver. So that she could be
closer to her mother, Oleta was given
a “compassionate transfer” to the Air
Reserve Records Center in Denver,
which employed mostly civilians.
Being the first military person, and
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
civilian employees. In 1959, while
enroute to her next assignment in
Norway, Oleta’s orders were changed;
her airplane was diverted to England,
and she was sent back to Germany.
Oleta’s next and final military
assignment was at Lindsey Air Station
in Wiesbaden, Germany, where she
served as a contracting officer from
1959 to mid–1963. From headquarters,
she flew all over Europe and parts of
the Middle East—Saudi Arabia, Turkey,
Greece, Crete, Holland, France, Norway,
and England—performing manpower
evaluation studies. She also visited
Damascus, Jerusalem, and Cairo. Her job
was lonely, but fascinating. She enrolled
in Maryland’s extension university in
Heidelberg and earned a bachelor’s in
public administration. On June 1, 1963,
Major Crain retired from active duty at
Lindsey Air Station. During the summer,
Oleta Lawanda Crain, left, and Department
of Labor Administrator Alexis Herman, circa
1998. Courtesy of the Blair-Caldwell African
American Research Library.
before she returned to the United
States, she took a course in international
relations at the University of Vienna.
After retiring from the military,
Oleta remained active. She volunteered
as a counselor and taught in the
Washington, D.C., public school
system. During the summer, she
attended the School of International
Relations at American University. In
1964, Oleta retired from the D.C. school
system and was hired by the U.S.
Department of Labor as a manpower
development specialist. After beginning
her job at the Department of Labor,
she took a leave of absence to assist
in organizing the first government
program at the national YWCA offices
in New York. She returned to D.C. and
worked there for the next four years.
In 1968, Oleta went to the Boston,
Massachusetts, office as associate
regional administrator for the
Department of Labor’s Office of Job
Service for the six New England states.
She educated herself on the plight of
women in the workforce and questioned
whether some of her previous negative
experiences had been because of her
gender instead of her race. By 1974, she
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
7, 2007, at the age of ninety-four. Among Lawanda Crain Scholarship in her honor.
her awards and honors were the Dr. The scholarship is awarded annually
Mary McLeod Bethune Legacy Award to female high school seniors from
from the National Council of Negro Oklahoma, Missouri, and Colorado who
Women and a Martin Luther King, plan to study in a Historically Black
Jr. Humanitarian Award. Kentucky College or University (HBCU). Oleta
Governor Edward Breathitt conferred on Lawanda Crain’s national and Oklahoma
her the honor of Kentucky Colonel. In legacies continue.
1963, she received an Air Force Longevity
Service Award with four bronze oak-
leaf clusters. In 1987, she received a
Women at Work Award. In 1988, she was
inducted into the Colorado Women’s
Hall of Fame. In 1998, she received the
U.S. Department of Labor Distinguished
Career Service Award.
35
25
 C E L E B R AT I N G OK L A HO M A’ S H I

THE 2022 OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME IND

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
IGHEST HONOR
O n Thursday, November 17th
family, 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 K
L A HOM

A
O
Induction Ceremony.

HA

E
LL

M
OF FA

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.

DUCTION CEREMONY

BY GINI MOORE CAMPBELL

35
27
 P rior to the start of the
induction ceremony,
Oklahoma Hall of Fame President
& CEO Shannon L. Rich and
Chair Becky Dixon thanked
guests for attending before
reviewing the achievements of
the previous 12 months, thanking
Patron Donors for their support,
recognizing Members of the
L A HOM
K
A
O
HA
LL
M
OF FA
Dr. Madeline Manning Mims, right, with
Dian Jordan, provided the invocation for
the 95th annual Oklahoma Hall of Fame
Induction Ceremony.
Oklahoma Hall of Fame in
attendance, and paying tribute
to Members lost since the 2021
induction ceremony.
In addition, Rich and
Dixon introduced the 2022-
2023 Oklahoma Hall of Fame
Scholarship Recipient Madisyn
Myers. Awarded to one high
28
school senior annually, the
$6,000 scholarship is funded
predominantly by Members of
the Oklahoma Hall of Fame and
criteria includes not only academic
achievement, but community
involvement, volunteerism, and
extracurricular school activities.
Myers, a senior at Lomega High
School in Blaine County, has a
Lomega High School Senior Madisyn Myers
was recognized as the 2022-2023 Oklahoma
Hall of Fame Scholarship Recipient on the
evening of November 17th.
4.0 GPA, takes concurrent classes
at Redlands Community College,
has been class president three of
her four years of high school,
and runs cross country. She is
active in the FFA, the Lomega
Food Bank, and founded Beef
for the Bank, a nonprofit that
has donated more than 1,000
pounds of beef to local food banks.
She is planning on attending
Oklahoma State University and
majoring in Nutritional Sciences
with a minor in Spanish, before
earning her medical degree at the
University of Oklahoma. Myers
dreams of becoming a pediatrician
and serving families in her Blaine
County home.
On behalf of the State of Oklahoma,
Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell welcomed
those in attendance to the 95th annual
Oklahoma Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
To kick off the induction
ceremony, Oklahoma Lieutenant
Governor Matt Pinnell provided
the official welcome and reminded
the audience that induction to
the Oklahoma Hall of Fame is
the highest honor an Oklahoman
can receive from his or her home
state. Pinnell introduced to the
crowd Oklahoma Hall of Fame
Members Becky Dixon and J.C.
Watts, Jr. who served as masters
of ceremonies for the evening.
Kristen Olmsted, marketing
associate for the Oklahoma Hall of
Fame, performed “The National
Anthem” and was joined onstage
by the Class of 2022 to close the
show with “Oklahoma!”.
J.C. Watts, Jr. and Becky Dixon, both Members of
the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, served as masters
of ceremonies for the 95th annual Oklahoma
Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
Inducted as members of the
2022 Oklahoma Hall of Fame
Class were Sue Ann Arnall,
Poteau; Dr. Bob L. Backburn,
Oklahoma City; Chet Cadieux,
Tulsa; Patty Gasso, Norman;
Roger Hardesty, Fort Cobb/
Tulsa; Joy Harjo, Tulsa; Dr. Pamela
R. McCauley, Oklahoma City;
and Leon Russell, Lawton/Tulsa,
inducted posthumously. Serving
as Presenters for in-person
inductees were Dr. Mildred
Randolph, Memphis, Tennessee;
Clark Musser, Oklahoma City;
Alison Anthony, Tulsa; Jim Gasso,
Norman; Dr. Kayse Shrum,
Stillwater; Chief David W. Hill,
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
audience and COX has multiple
airings scheduled over the next
few months.
One thing remains the
same, the Oklahoma Hall of
Fame Induction Ceremony
would not be possible without
the generosity of many. The
Chickasaw Nation and the
Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma
served as Presenting Sponsors for
the 2022 event; taking advantage
of the new five-year opportunity
35
29
 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
THE CHICKASAW NATION THE CHICKASAW NATION
CHOCTAW NATION OF OKLAHOMA CHAIRMAN JOHN “ROCKY” BARRETT—
CITIZEN POTAWATOMI NATION CITIZEN POTAWATOMI NATION
CRESAP FAMILY FOUNDATION A.R. CLINTON: COMMUNICATIONS.
BOB FUNK STRATEGIES. CONTENT.
HERMAN AND LADONNA MEINDERS JAMES C. AND TERESA K. DAY
FOUNDATION
PREMIER PATRONS FOUNDATION MANAGEMENT
THE CHURCH STUDIO—TERESA KNOX VIRGINIA G. AND JOHN D. GROENDYKE
& IVAN ACOSTA, JACK & STEPHANIE HARDESTY FAMILY FOUNDATION
ALLEN, JOHN & LEIGH REAVES TIMOTHY HEADINGTON
LOVE FAMILY AFFILIATED FUND INASMUCH FOUNDATION
RCB BANK
HERITAGE PATRONS THE UNIVERSITY OF TULSA
RICHARD AND MO ANDERSON WHITTEN BURRAGE, LLC
MR. CHET CADIEUX
KYLE FAMILY FOUNDATION TRACKMAKER PATRONS
THE MUSCOGEE NATION BANK OF OKLAHOMA
CHARLES AND PEGGY STEPHENSON CHEROKEE NATION BUSINESSES
FAMILY FOUNDATION THE CHICKASAW NATION
CLAIMS MANAGEMENT RESOURCES
LEGACY PATRONS COX COMMUNICATIONS
AMERICAN FIDELITY FOUNDATION EXPRESS EMPLOYMENT PROFESSIONALS
SUE ANN ARNALL HARDESTY FAMILY FOUNDATION
THE MEANING BEHIND THE OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME MEDALLION
RIBBON
Originally pinned to the Honoree the Reddish in color, the ribbon that the
night of induction, today’s Oklahoma Oklahoma Hall of Fame Medallion
hangs from depicts Oklahoma’s
Hall of Fame Medallion is hung on rich red earth.
a ribbon around the Honoree’s neck.
WHITE STAR
Although design and implementation Taken from the Oklahoma
State Seal, the white star
have changed slightly, the elements
represents Oklahoma
and meanings have remained the as the 46th state of Union
and the 46th star on the
same since the first induction in
flag of the United States.
1928. Headed by Anna B. Korn,
GOLD CENTER
the founder of the Oklahoma Hall The blessing of the union
of Oklahoma and Indian
of Fame, a committee worked with territories by Uncle Sam,
a local Oklahoma City jeweler to the gold center is taken
from the impression stamp
design the medallion. of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame
upon its founding in 1927.
IBC BANK
E. L. AND THELMA GAYLORD FOUNDATION
GEORGE KAISER FAMILY FOUNDATION
MARILYN AND ED KELLER
JOE MORAN III
THE MUSCOGEE NATION
OG&E
OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER
OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY, OFFICE
OF THE PRESIDENT
OSU CENTER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES
OSU COLLEGE OF EDUCATION & HUMAN SCIENCES
OSU FOUNDATION
PATRICK T. ROONEY—FIRST NATIONAL
BANK OF OKLAHOMA
SEMINOLE STATE COLLEGE
MILANN SIEGFRIED FAMILY AND NORDAM
SOUTHWESTERN OKLAHOMA STATE
UNIVERSITY
TRUST COMPANY OF OKLAHOMA
TULSA REGIONAL CHAMBER
THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA
FOUNDATION
THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA
FOUNDATION, TULSA
RAYS OF THE SUN
Surrounding five Ts are rays of the
sun, the Indian symbol for constancy,
unchanging, or unwavering.
FIVE Ts
Situated above the white star,
the five Ts honor the five
Indian Nations that inhabited
Indian Territory prior
to Statehood.
MISTLETOE WREATH
Taken from the Oklahoma
Hall of Fame’s impression
stamp and the Oklahoma
State Seal, the Mistletoe
wreath first was used as an
element of the Great Seal
of the Territory of Oklahoma.
35
31
 G rowing up in Poteau at
the onset of the civil
rights movement provided for
formative experiences that
would guide the life work of Sue
Ann Arnall. An accomplished
saxophone player, Arnall was
named All State in band before
earning her economics and juris
doctorate degrees. She then began
building a distinguished career of
professional and public service.
After more than three
decades in the corporate world,
Arnall founded the Arnall
Family Foundation to create
lasting transformative change
through strategic investments
and innovative partnerships.
She is bringing together world
SUE ANN ARNALL
POTEAU
“Some people look at things as they
are and say ‘Why?’ Others dream
of things and say ‘Why Not!’
No one has embraced or exemplified
this quote more emphatically than
Sue Ann Arnall. Her life has truly
been a ‘Why Not’ quest.”
DR. MILDRED RANDOLPH
Dr. Mildred Randolph, left,
presented Sue Ann Arnall
for induction to the
Oklahoma Hall of Fame.
32
leaders to discuss initiatives that
are changing and saving lives,
expanding successful reforms to
social services systems from other
states into Oklahoma, addressing
transportation needs of individuals
involved in the criminal legal
system and supporting parents
whose children are in foster
care through a Transportation
Innovation Grant to thwart
transportation challenges, giving
hope through mentorship
opportunities for families through
the Oklahoma Partner Program,
created a women’s community
kitchen for the Firststep Women’s
Recovery Program, and funded
building construction for
ReMerge to continue its pre-trial
diversion program serving mothers
facing non-violent felony offenses.
With a soft spot for her four-
legged friends, Arnall, through
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.
She founded the Oklahoma
County Diversion Hub,
recognizing at the Wayfinders
Gala community leaders that
support the organization’s
mission of connecting justice-
involved individuals with
life stabilizing resources and
services to help them become
contributing, responsible,
and stable members of
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
amount of time for rehabilitation,
it changes their chances when
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.

35
33

DR. BOB L. BLACKBURN
OKLAHOMA CITY
“Dr. Bob Blackburn, as executive
director of the Oklahoma
Historical Society for more than
two decades, transformed the way
we learn, thus understand and
appreciate, our state’s history.”
CLARK MUSSER
Dr. Bob L. Blackburn, left,
was presented for induction
by Clark Musser.
34
B ob L. Blackburn is the first-
born child to Bob Blackburn,
Sr., a World War II veteran and
Oklahoma Highway patrolman,
and television personality Ida
Blackburn, known as Miss Ida
on Romper Room and later Ida
B on the show named for her.
Blackburn grew up in Edmond,
graduated from Putnam City High
School, and earned his bachelor’s
degree from Southwestern
Oklahoma State University and
his masters and doctorate degrees
in history from Oklahoma State
University.
He joined the Oklahoma
Historical Society in 1979
as editor of The Chronicles of
Oklahoma before being named
deputy executive director and
executive director, a position
he held until his retirement in
2021. With more than 30 sites
statewide, the OHS system of
museums has experienced higher
standards and greater efficiencies
under his leadership, while the
research collections have grown
exponentially. Today, through
the digital portal, Gateway to
Oklahoma History, everyone has
access to millions of searchable
newspapers, photographs, and
family records.
In 1998 Blackburn, commonly
referred to as Dr. Bob, announced
plans for a new state museum.
Leading the planning efforts,
construction, and exhibit
acquisitions, the Oklahoma
History Center opened to the
public in 2005. An affiliate of the
Smithsonian and the National
Archives, to date more than three
million visitors have explored the
215,000-square-foot Museum
and Research Center. One of his
last endeavors with OHS was the
planning for and announcement of
the Oklahoma Museum of Popular
Culture in Tulsa.
The state’s preeminent historian,
Blackburn takes great pride in
sharing Oklahoma’s rich history
and heritage. He is the authority
for state historical documentaries,
as well as a much sought-after
keynote speaker. For decades Dr.
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
Oklahoma of tomorrow.
Blackburn says, “We have to
make sure we embrace all of our
history, and not selective parts that
serve our particular purposes at the
time. The minute we start taking
pieces of this puzzle out, I call the
state a mosaic really . . . everyone’s
story, your story, my story, it’s a
little piece of the mosaic. But once
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
can’t connect the dots. You start
losing the focus on the real story,
and then we lose the ability to
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
 C het Cadieux was born and
raised in Tulsa, enjoyed
his time on the diamond, as
well as the pitch, and graduated
from Jenks High School before
earning his business degree
from The University of Tulsa.
It was during high school that
Cadieux first began working for
QuikTrip, the company founded
by his father Chester in 1958.
From sweeping the floors and
taking out the trash to chairman
and CEO more than 30 years
later, Cadieux rose through the
ranks learning every aspect of the
business and always remembering
CHET CADIEUX
TULSA
“Chet speaks with an authentic
open heart and joy about QuikTrip’s
25,000 employees and their families.
He is humbled by their dedication
to excellence and never misses
a chance to celebrate their
accomplishments—whether an
employee’s new car or new baby.”
ALISON ANTHONY
Alison Anthony, left, presented
Chet Cadieux for induction to
the Oklahoma Hall of Fame.
36
his father’s advice, “if you’re not
taking care of the customer, take
care of those who are.”
QuikTrip has been recognized
as one of Fortune’s “100 Best
Companies to Work for in
America” and is valued at more
than $10 billion, Cadieux is
often recognized for QuikTrip’s
community support and
successes. However, he is quick
to point out that it is the “guys
and gals in the red shirts who do
all the work that make the rest of
us look so good.” And it is their
successes that provide Cadieux
the greatest sense of achievement.
“I’m proud of the
achievements QuikTrip has made
by the opportunities we have
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
incessantly our success rate in
creating opportunities for people.
And all the decisions we make
are based around creating an
opportunity for QuikTrippers
to grow and succeed. And so,
that shows itself in all kinds of
different ways. If I am in a store
and an employee tells me they
bought their first house, that
brings me and all QuikTrippers
great joy. If I’m in a store, or
a warehouse, or in a facility
support shop, that’s where
maintenance guys and gals are,
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.

35
37
 P atty Gasso grew up
alongside her older brother
and younger sister in a single-
parent home in Torrance,
California. From a young age
she shared a love for sports
with her mother. After school
and on the weekends she spent
most of her time at the park
next to her childhood home. It
was there that her passion as a
player, combined with the keen
ability to teach others at a young
age, set in motion a career that
would break and set records in
collegiate sports.
A standout player at El
Camino College, following
graduation she began coaching
the sport she loves, first at the
PATTY GASSO
NORMAN
“Patty is the definition of hard
work, dedicated to perfecting
her craft and handles stressful
situations with poise and grace.
She is driven to succeed and
has the ability to bring
people together.”
JIM GASSO
Jim Gasso, left, presented
Patty Gasso for induction to
the Oklahoma Hall of Fame.
38
high school level and then as
head coach at Long Beach City
College. After attending the
Women’s College World Series
as a fan, Oklahoma came calling
and she accepted the position as
head coach for the University
of Oklahoma’s Sooners. With
husband Jim, son JT, and while
pregnant with son DJ, the
Gassos moved to Oklahoma
for the 1995 season. More
than 25 seasons later, Gasso’s
leadership and talent for player
development have made OU’s
softball program a national
powerhouse.
The 2022 National
Championship win was the
sixth for Gasso and the Sooners,
one of only three programs in
NCAA history to win more
than two national titles. The
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
in 2021. Gasso’s overall collegiate
coaching record exceeds 1,500
wins, with more than 1,300 at
the University of Oklahoma
alone, and she’s led the Sooners
to the Women’s College World
Series over a dozen times.
Gasso knows well the
commitment and sacrifice
needed to remain on top, saying
“This job is 365 days a year. I
don’t feel like this is a job; my
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
want because it feels good to
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.

35
39
 F rom humble beginnings,
Roger Hardesty was born
in Fort Cobb, Oklahoma, and
spent his early life working
the family farm with parents,
Floyd and Ruby, and younger
brother Butch, as well as caring
for the boys’ pet lion, Leo. After
relocating with the family to
Tulsa, Hardesty began making his
mark on his new hometown.
His concrete finishing business
expanded to single-family homes,
industrial buildings, commercial
office buildings, retail centers,
and multi-family housing units,
earning him the Tulsa Apartment
Association Hall of Fame Award.
Hardesty, who was laying pipe
ROGER HARDESTY
FORT COBB/TULSA
“You’re not going to find a harder
worker than Roger. He’s usually
the first person in the office
and the last to leave. Roger
knows that the road to success is
paved with hard work, resilience,
and determination.”
DR. KAYSE SHRUM
Dr. Kayse Shrum, left,
presented Roger Hardesty
for induction to the
Oklahoma Hall of Fame.
40
underwater at age 14 and drove
a milk route before he was old
enough for a commercial license,
was now founder and president
of The Hardesty Company,
one of the largest privately-held
real estate development firms
in the Nation.
His entrepreneurial spirit
also allowed him other business
ventures, including Alliance
Transportation and Bizjet
International. With a passion for
flying, Hardesty earned his first
rating in the mid-1950s. Today,
he is founder and president of
United States Aviation Company,
logging more than 15,000 hours
with 21 ratings and certifications.
He currently pilots a
Gulfstream G550, a Black Hawk
Helicopter, and a Carbon Cub.
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
pilot Chuck Yeagar and is known
for flying diplomats, famous
musicians and actors, politicians,
and astronauts, including John
Glenn and his wife Annie.
In 2005, The Hardesty Family
Foundation was established.
Their recent partnership with
Oklahoma State University will
be lifechanging for individuals
and families alike.
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
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.

35
41
 A member of the Muskogee
Creek Nation, Joy Harjo
grew up in Tulsa, where she
attended local schools before
enrolling at the Institute of
American Indian Arts in Santa
Fe, New Mexico for high school,
where she joined one of the
first all-Native drama and dance
troupes and traveled the Pacific
northwest with the Deep Roots,
Tall Cedar Show. Embodying
the gifts of her ancestors, she
began writing poetry with the
University of New Mexico’s
Native Student Organization and
JOY HARJO
TULSA
“Joy continuously demonstrates
her commitment to our
community and the advancement
of our culture through
participation in traditional and
ceremonial events and through
creating opportunities for
mentorship and arts education
for our youth.”
CHIEF DAVID W. HILL
went on to earn her MFA at the
Iowa Writer’s Workshop.
To date Harjo has released
more than a dozen award-
winning poetry collections,
memoirs, plays, children’s books,
and anthologies. Her numerous
awards include the Academy
of American Poets Leadership
Award, NEA and Guggenheim
fellowships, PEN USA Literary
and American book awards, and a
Tulsa Artist Fellowship.
As a musician and performer,
she has produced multiple
albums. Winding Through
The Milky Way earned her a
NAMMY for Best Female
Artist of the Year. She enjoys
playing the saxophone and flute
and jamming with bands and
other musicians. Regardless of
the medium or environment,
Harjo is constantly searching
for the answers to the questions
surrounding life, love, and
spirituality, always willing to
share her findings and thoughts
with others.
“I think artists are always
rooting around and searching
around in the land of ‘why’ for
those questions. We don’t really
answer the question, we explore
the question. Like Leon Russell
with his music, he wasn’t saying
‘this is the definitive,’ he was
saying ‘this is the realm in which
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.

35
43
 F rom Oklahoma City, Pamela
McCauley grew up in a
home where life principles and
faith were the framework. A
cheerleader at Wood Junior High
School, she enjoyed team sports,
attended Douglass High School
and, during her teen pregnancy,
Emerson Alternative School.
Graduating at the age of
16, she earned her Associate’s
Degree from Rose State
College before graduating with
bachelors, masters, and doctorate
degrees from the University of
Oklahoma—the first African
American woman to earn an
Engineering Ph.D. in the state.
Oklahoma’s own “Hidden
PAMELA R. McCAULEY
OKLAHOMA CITY
“She came often to share her
experiences as a new college
student and encourage the
parenting teen moms to consider a
college education. She taught them
the concept of overcoming hardship
by refusing to accept it.”
SANDRA BENNETT-WILLIAMS
Sandra Bennett-Williams, left,
presented Dr. Pamela R. McCauley
for induction to the
Oklahoma Hall of Fame.
44
Figure”, McCauley began doing
arithmetic operations as a child
while looking at license plates.
Today, she is a world renowned
industrial engineer, educator,
entrepreneur, and researcher in
the fields of ergonomics and
biomechanics.
Through her private firm,
she often is called upon for her
expertise. A much sought-after
speaker, her leadership, diversity,
innovation, and STEM-related
keynotes are representative of her
more than 100 published works,
including an internationally-
recognized Ergonomics
textbook. As an award-winning
educator, her recognitions
include being named the
Black Engineer of the Year for
Educational Leadership and the
Women of Color Technologist
of the Year. The National
Science Foundation chose her
to lead the Innovation Corps
Program to prepare scientists
and engineers to accelerate the
economic and societal benefits of
projects and discoveries towards
commercialization.
Her book Winners Don’t Quit
serves as an inspiration to others
as she shares her experiences
as a young mother chasing her
dream of becoming an engineer.
And she is an advocate for
others to achieve their dreams.
“I didn’t even know what an
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
entrepreneur, to own my own
engineering firm, to serve as a
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.

35
45
 F rom southwest Oklahoma,
Claude Russell Bridges was
born in Lawton. From an early
age, and with the keen ability
to play by ear, he was drawn
to music and the family piano.
By the time he was a teenager,
he had mastered multiple
instruments. And, after relocating
with his family to Tulsa, while
still in high school he began
playing in local nightclubs with
The Accents. The band caught
the attention of Jerry Lee Lewis,
and the group joined his tour.
Within just a few years, and
going by the name Leon Russell,
he had made the move to Los
Angeles, California, to pursue
LEON RUSSELL his music career. He formed The
Fencemen with fellow musicians
LAWTON/TULSA and former high school classmate
David Gates. As one of the most
sought-after session musicians in
the business, Russell became a
member of an elite studio group.
The Wrecking Crew backed the
biggest names of the 1960s—
including The Beach Boys, Frank
Sinatra, Aretha Franklin, and Bob
Dylan. They were often referred
“He was my hero.”
ELTON JOHN
46
to as “the most famous band you
didn’t know you loved.” During
1964, Russell appeared multiple
times on Shindig, ABC’s variety
show featuring entertainers from
all musical genres.
Already respected for his
talents as an arranger, producer,
and composer, it was during his
time with VIVA Records that
he honed his songwriting skills,
penning multiple hits including
“Everybody Loves a Clown”
for Gary Lewis & The Playboys.
In 1969 he co-founded Shelter
Records and the debut was
Russell’s album Leon, featuring
the hits “A Song for You” and
“Delta Lady.” It reached #60
on the Billboard 200. As lead
guitarist, pianist, and music
director, Russell pulled together
more than 20 musicians for
Joe Cocker and the Mad Dogs
and Englishman Tour. Russell
performed songs of his own and
the live album went to #2 on
the Billboard 200. In just more
than a decade after arriving in
California, Leon Russell was a
super star.
 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.”

35
47
 O K L A H O M A
H A L L O F F A M E M E M B E R

SPOTLIGHT
Merle Newby Buttram
M erle Newby Buttram
was 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
siblings. Her parents provided for their
family through farming in Kansas, until her
father felt a calling to be a minister like his
father, who had migrated to the United
States from Scotland. The family relocated
to Denver, Colorado for a few years
until her father was invited to become the
pastor of the Christian Church in Guthrie,
Oklahoma Territory, in 1899.
Merle had found a passion for music
during her time in Colorado. At the church
they attended there was an orchestra. When
she became interested in the violin her father
gifted her one. Her family, recognizing
her talent, supported her by prioritizing her
practice time. Her siblings took on extra
house chores and soon the extra practice
Photo by Armantrout Brothers, Guthrie, Oklahoma Territory, 1903. Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society.
time paid off. By the time the family moved
to Guthrie, Merle was a junior in high
school and traveling by train to Seward and
Navina to teach music courses she arranged
for any interested children. She also would
perform all over the state at various lectures,
contests, and church services, sometimes
accompanied by her sibling Errett on the
piano. In 1904 she enrolled at the University
of Oklahoma to pursue a music degree,
while continuing to teach music courses
to violin students in neighboring towns.
To reach her students she took the train or
a horse and buggy, and was sometimes
forced to ford the river when the Canadian
River had washed out the bridge.
She also worked in the first sorority
house on the Norman campus, Kappa
Alpha Theta, waiting on tables at meal time
and eventually invited to join the sorority.
Before graduating in 1906, Merle was
teaching classes at the university in violin,
mandolin, and guitar. All of her siblings
earned degrees from the University of
Oklahoma and her parents eventually
moved to Norman. To mark their departure
from Guthrie, Merle organized a farewell
concert full of local talent with proceeds
benefitting the First Christian Church’s fund
for a new pipe organ motor.
In 1908 Merle had the opportunity
to study violin abroad, so she vacated her
position at the university for two years while
she traveled Europe. News of her departure
was widely covered throughout Oklahoma
and her friends hosted a circus-themed
party just before she left for New York. From
New York she sailed to Italy where she
studied at the leading music conservatory
in Milan for several months. Following her
time in Italy, she traveled to Paris, France to
continue her studies under leading European
artists. When Merle returned to Norman,
she pursued a higher degree in the College
of Fine Arts, completing studies in 1912
while she simultaneously taught classes,
was appointed the concert master of the
University orchestra, and performed at
community events.
While studying in Europe, her sister
Jessie had a chemistry lab class at the
University of Oklahoma where she met
a senior classmate, Frank Buttram. Jessie
talked to him about her sister’s travels and
Merle Newby Buttram, 1930. Merle was
Oklahoma Mother of the Year in 1961.
Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society.
a “coincidental” meeting between Buttram
and Merle would come to change Merle’s
life profoundly. Merle married Frank in the
presence of only their families and a few
close friends on February 18, 1914, with
her father performing the ceremony. The
Cleveland County Enterprise reported, “Mr.
Buttram has been for several years chemist in
the geological department at the University,
35
49
 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
established and the Oklahoma Symphony
hosted regular performances from 1924
to 1931. When the depression hit the
symphony was discontinued. Just six years
later The Oklahoma Symphony Orchestra
was created as a Federal Music Project
of the Works Progress Administration, and
this organization is known today as the
Oklahoma City Philharmonic.
Merle believed strongly that string
music was important for Oklahoma students.
In her own words, “Without strings, the
Merle Buttram, far left, leading a club meeting,
1952. Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society.
great heritage of symphonic and chamber
music given us through the centuries by such
masters as Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms
will be lost.” She worked closely with the
Oklahoma City School Board in establishing
a string music program. In 1949 the program
began, and some of the first students would
eventually become string players in the
Oklahoma City Symphony Orchestra.
In the early 1950s, the conditions of the
state’s mental health institutions came into
question, with reports of inadequate facilities
and lack of funding. Reverend Bill Alexander
was tasked with addressing those issues and
formed a citizen’s state committee to work with
the legislature. Merle was asked to be the
chair for Oklahoma County, and thus the first
Oklahoma County Mental Health Association One’s great honor is to
was founded. As chair she engaged with
different clubs to book speakers and distribute have time and opportunity
leaflets with information about the state of to work on the many
mental health facilities in Oklahoma. Under
her leadership she built a network of 2,000 community needs. Their
members and it was at that time the largest realization is their reward.
effort of any county in the United States.
They worked to improve the institutions in MERLE BUTTRAM
Oklahoma, providing much needed everyday
supplies and enhancing the lives of patients
with programs for music and art.
The Buttrams moved to Nichols Hills
Merle Buttram with her violin, 1940. Courtesy The violin section of the Oklahoma Symphony
Oklahoma Historical Society. Orchestra, 1952. Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society.
in 1938, after eight years of planning and
construction of a beaux arts style home on
a large, immaculately landscaped estate. It
was designed by famed architects Ayers and
Ayers of San Antonio, Texas. The Buttram
home in Nichols Hills was a showplace
of the city for many years and housed an
extensive art collection with originals by
Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Millet, Raphael,
Gainsborough, and Leonardo da Vinci. The
home was often open for civic gatherings
and meetings for music and church groups.
In 1976 Dorsey Buttram was asked The Oklahoma City Junior Symphony,1955.
Courtesy Oklahoma Historical Society.
what kind of gatherings drew hundreds of
people to the sprawling estate in Nichols
Hills over the three decades his family lived
there, he replied, “You should be asking
35
51
 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
with the Oklahoma Art Center to form the
Oklahoma City Art Museum (OCAM).
The OCAM would eventually become
the Oklahoma City Museum of Art which
continues the original vision of its founders in
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
state. In her correspondence related to her
induction, she was in awe of the honor and
expressed that she had only done what
she felt was needed to be done for the
community. Her vision endures, enriching the
lives of all Oklahomans.
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
 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

35
55
 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
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

35
57
 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.

Patty Gasso , second from left, was congratulated on her induction by, from left, Tina Floyd, Amber Flores, Educational activities are designed for students of all ages during
and Jackie Livingston. Homeschool Day.

Denotes Member of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame

58
 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

35
59
 CALENDAR
JANUARY 3 MARCH 1 MAY 13
OKLAHOMA SCHOLARSHIP COMPETITION OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2023 SEE YOU SATURDAY
REGISTRATION OPENS NOMINATION DEADLINE FREE ADMISSION TO THE GAYLORD-PICKENS MUSEUM
JANUARY 10 MARCH 11 MAY 25
REFLECTION SYMMETRY: SEE YOU SATURDAY OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME
LAWRENCE NAFF & JASON WILSON FREE ADMISSION TO THE GAYLORD-PICKENS MUSEUM CLASS OF 2023 ANNOUNCEMENT
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LEE ALLAN SMITH OKLAHOMA LEGACY AWARD
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FEBRUARY 2 SUMMER THURSDAY
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REFLECTION SYMMETRY: REFLECTION SYMMETRY:
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FEBRUARY 24 APRIL 29 EDITH KINNEY GAYLORD:
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VISIT OKLAHOMAHOF.COM FOR DETAILS AND TO REGISTER

60
NEW RELEASES
Joint biographies of Thomas
P. Gore and Robert L. Owen.
Although Oklahoma’s first
two U. S. Senators, Gore and
Owen, were often far apart on
issues, they were instrumental
in establishing a power base
that would be built on by later
congressman and senators to
ensure that the Sooner State’s
voice in the federal government
was strong. Gore joined the
Democrats after years as an
activist for the Populist Party.
Having lost his eyesight at a
young age and dubbed “The
Blind Cowboy” by the press,
Gore was one of the nation’s
most effective orators. Owen
served as U. S. Senator for the
first 18 years of statehood. He
is best known as the Senate
sponsor of the Glass-Owen
Federal Reserve Act of 1913,
the legislation that created the
Federal Reserve System, and
is known as the “Father of the
Federal Reserve.”
An avid writer, following a
breast cancer diagnosis the
purpose for Cathy Leichter’s
writing changed. Her words now
provided therapy, exploration of
feelings and emotions she had
never experienced, and a way to
document the path she was on.
She also began to research, not
only the treatments and outcomes,
but those she would be entrusting
to navigate and help her through
the battle that lay ahead. Her
research led her to Sister Mary
Coletta—a Sister of Mercy. It
was Sister Coletta’s legacy that
provided not only the spiritual,
but the physical foundation for
her hope in beating cancer. This
book reminds us of the many
contributions of Sister Coletta and
the Sisters of Mercy and celebrates
the medical advancements,
doctors, and others that join the
fight along the way.
ALL TITLES ARE AVAILABLE AT SCISSORTAIL GIFTS IN THE GAYLORD-PICKENS MUSEUM,
SCISSORTAILGIFTS.COM, AND AT BOOKSTORES STATEWIDE.
Drawing from the uniqueness
and strength of the land of
Oklahoma’s Panhandle—
undulating land, dotted with
sagebrush growing in the short
buffalo grass, extending mile
after mile—Tim Leonard earned
a law degree and entered the
U.S. Navy. The stories of his
assignment as a military aide
at the White House during the
administration of President
Lyndon B. Johnson could fill
an entire book. But that was
GORE & OWEN: Tim Leonard:
not the end of his life of public
Oklahoma’s service. As Minority Leader of
Son of the the Oklahoma State Senate, U.S.
First Two Panhandle
Attorney, and federal judge,
U. S. Senators Leonard has gained respect from
BY BOB BURKE a legion of other public officials
BY ROBERT HENRY AND and everyday citizens across
AND JOE HEATON the nation. His integrity and
BOB BURKE perseverance reflect the land
$22.95 from which he came.
$22.95
Amateur golfer Charles Robert
“Charlie” Coe is recognized as
one of the best golfers to ever
play the game. Born in Ardmore,
he won the Oklahoma State
Championship during high school,
three conference championships
while attending the University
of Oklahoma, and just one
year after graduation his first
U. S. Championship. His career
The Last Amateur: included 27 consecutive match-
The Life of play victories, Trans-Mississippi
and Western Amateur wins, strong
Sister Coletta’s Charlie Cole finishes in the British Amateur,
Legacy Today: U. S. Open, and the Masters,
Hope and Faith in BY STEPHEN M. PRESCOTT six Walker Cup selections, and
Fighting Cancer multiple amateur records—some
$24.95 still on the record books today.
BY CATHY LEICHTER He played alongside Arnold
Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, both of
$14.95 whom have spoken openly about
their respect for Coe not only
as a golfer, but as a gentleman.
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
his wife Liz, decided to focus on
the family business—oil.
35
61
 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
Oklahoma Hall of Fame and its distribution to every senior high school library statewide. With questions, please
THE OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME contact Andy Melvin at 405.523.3203 or am@oklahomahof.com. 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
 G A Y L O R D - P I C K E N S M U S E U M

YES! I WOULD LIKE TO SUPPORT THE OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME.

MR./MRS./DR./MS. SUBSCRIPTION. . ....................................$35

SPOUSE PREFERRED TELEPHONE ( ) INDIVIDUALISM.. ...................................$50

PERSEVERANCE................................... $100
ADDRESS EMAIL
PIONEER SPIRIT. . ................................$250
CITY STATE ZIP OPTIMISM. . ........................................$500

PREFERRED LISTING FRIENDS OF THE MEDALLION............. $1,000

Your name as you wish to be acknowledged in Oklahoma Hall of Fame publications. MISTLE TOE CIRCLE........................... $2,500

CHECK PAYABLE TO: OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME GOLD CIRCLE .. ................................. $5,000
CONSTANCY CIRCLE........................ $10,000
CHARGE MY VISA MASTERCARD DISCOVER AMEX

NUMBER EXPIRATION DATE / CVV#

SIGNATURE

MAIL TO: OKLAHOMA HALL OF FAME | 1400 CLASSEN DRIVE | OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73106

DONATION LEVELS & BENEFITS

SUBSCRIPTION | $35 PIONEER SPIRIT | $250 MISTLETOE CIRCLE | $2,500
•One-year subscription to Oklahoma: Magazine •Perseverance benefits plus a 25% discount on a •Friends of the Medallion benefits plus upgrade to
of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame and Hall of Fame one-time rental of the Devon Classroom* one weeknight use of a Gaylord-Pickens Museum
Headlines e-newsletter event space*

INDIVIDUALISM | $50
•Subscription benefits plus annual admission pass
to the Gaylord-Pickens Museum, home of the
Oklahoma Hall of Fame
•Invitations to gallery openings, book signings and
other Oklahoma Hall of Fame and Gaylord-Pickens
Museum events
PERSEVERANCE | $100
•Individualism benefits plus annual family admission
pass for two adults and household children under
18 to the Gaylord-Pickens Museum, home of the
Oklahoma Hall of Fame
OPTIMISM | $500
•Pioneer Spirit benefits plus one weekday use of the
GOLD CIRCLE | $5,000
Devon Classroom or Centennial Boardroom •Friends of the Medallion benefits plus upgrade to
one weekend use of a Gaylord-Pickens Museum
event space*
FRIENDS OF THE MEDALLION | $1,000
•Optimism benefits plus invitation for two to Friends of
CONSTANCY CIRCLE | $10,000
the Medallion special events
•One weekday use of a Gaylord-Pickens Museum •Friends of the Medallion benefits plus upgrade to
event space* one weekend use of a Gaylord-Pickens Museum
event space*
•Advance opportunity to purchase tickets to the
Oklahoma Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony •Customized benefits package
•Recognition in Oklahoma: Magazine of the
Oklahoma Hall of Fame.

*Event space must be used within one year of contribution and is subject to availability; additional fees may apply
For more information about any of our donor levels or to customize your donor package at the $10,000 level and above, call Andy Melvin at 405.523.3203.

64
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