Oklahoma City University (OCU) has a long and esteemed history of educating and inspiring students, many of whom have gone on to make significant contributions in various fields. The university’s alumni base includes a diverse array of leaders, artists, entrepreneurs, scholars, and public figures who have left an enduring mark on Oklahoma and beyond.
Political Leaders
1. David Boren
- Former United States Senator and Governor of Oklahoma
- Led efforts to create the Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences and establish the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
2. Brad Henry
- Former Governor of Oklahoma
- Oversaw the implementation of the Prescription Drug Benefit Act and the creation of the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission
3. Mary Fallin
- Former Governor of Oklahoma
- First female governor of Oklahoma; led efforts to improve education and job creation
Business Leaders
1. Harold Hamm
- Founder and CEO of Continental Resources, the largest independent oil and gas producer in the US
- Estimated net worth of $21.7 billion, making him one of the wealthiest people in Oklahoma
2. Clay Bennett
- Owner of the Oklahoma City Thunder NBA team
- Former chairman of the Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce and the United Way of Central Oklahoma
3. Jane Jayroe Hamblin
- President and CEO of the Inasmuch Foundation
- Leads philanthropic initiatives that support education, healthcare, and arts organizations in Oklahoma
Arts and Entertainment
1. Kristin Chenoweth
- Tony and Emmy Award-winning actress and singer
- Known for her roles in the Broadway musicals “Wicked” and “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”
2. Josh Ritter
- Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter
- Known for his folk-rock music and introspective lyrics
3. David Holt
- Mayor of Oklahoma City
- Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter and pianist
Education and Academia
1. Bob Riley
- Former President of Oklahoma Christian University
- Led the university through a period of significant growth and expansion
2. Lana Wallace
- Former President of East Central University
- Oversaw the development of new academic programs and facilities on campus
3. Janet Kerr
- Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at OCU
- Renowned scholar in the field of musicology
Professional and Public Service
1. James Inhofe
- United States Senator for Oklahoma
- Former U.S. Representative and Mayor of Tulsa
2. Kendra Horn
- Former U.S. Representative for Oklahoma’s 5th Congressional District
- Advocated for affordable healthcare and economic development in Oklahoma
3. Nannette Brown
- Former Oklahoma Supreme Court Justice
- First African-American woman to serve on the Oklahoma Supreme Court
Notable Graduates by Industry
| Industry | Notable Alumni |
|---|---|
| Politics | David Boren, Brad Henry, Mary Fallin |
| Business | Harold Hamm, Clay Bennett, Jane Jayroe Hamblin |
| Arts and Entertainment | Kristin Chenoweth, Josh Ritter, David Holt |
| Education and Academia | Bob Riley, Lana Wallace, Janet Kerr |
| Professional and Public Service | James Inhofe, Kendra Horn, Nannette Brown |
Impact on Oklahoma City
OCU alumni have played a pivotal role in shaping the economic, cultural, and civic landscape of Oklahoma City. They have created businesses, supported arts organizations, served in elected offices, and made significant philanthropic contributions to the community.
According to a study by the Economic Impact Group, OCU graduates contribute over $1 billion annually to the Oklahoma City economy. They also account for over a quarter of the jobs created in the city’s arts and culture sector.
Motivations and Needs
OCU alumni are driven by a desire to make a difference in their communities and the world at large. They value education, creativity, and public service. They are motivated by a deep understanding of the social, economic, and cultural challenges facing Oklahoma and are committed to finding innovative solutions.
Overcoming Pain Points
OCU alumni have faced challenges in their pursuit of success, including discrimination, economic hardship, and political adversity. They have overcome these obstacles through perseverance, resilience, and a strong belief in their abilities.
Key Insights
- OCU alumni have made significant contributions to Oklahoma City and beyond in a wide range of fields.
- They are driven by a desire to make a difference and are motivated by challenges facing their communities.
- They have faced and overcome obstacles through perseverance, resilience, and a strong belief in their abilities.
- OCU alumni continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of Oklahoma City and the state of Oklahoma as a whole.
