Meet Bryce Matteson. He’s an original board member and unabashed Sooner fan. How did he get that way? This is his story.
Author Archives: Mark Chamberlin
Kelly Pappan – My Sooner Story
If you measure Sooner loyalty by the size of their memorabilia collection, Kelly Pappan would compete for the top spot. How did this happen? He explains in this video and urges you to join the club.
Lori Ellison-Zuercher – My Sooner Story
Lori Ellison-Zuercher, board member and scholarship chair, talks about her journey as a fan and alumna of the University of Oklahoma.
Ben Powers Meet and Greet – June 29, 2019
Nearly 200 fans filled the conference center at Wichita’s Advanced Learning Library to meet OU All-American and Baltimore Ravens draftee Ben Powers.
Scholarship Recipients named for 2019
The OU Club of Wichita has awarded six scholarships to Wichita-area high school seniors who will begin attending the University of Oklahoma in the fall of 2019.
They are
Natalie Knowles – Derby High School
Natalie was selected as our Sheridan Drowatzky Scholarship Award winner for her impressive display of devotion to the military forces through her participation with the Air Force JROTC, and dedication to the community service of honoring our service members and military veterans. She is the daughter of Kim Gray and plans to major in Political Science and minor in Mandarin.
“You have to learn that you aren’t always right and that everyone isn’t always going to agree with your decisions. How you respond to these reactions and learn from them going forward makes you a better leader”
Brayden Steven – Bishop Carroll Catholic High School
Brayden is the daughter of Jenni and Johnny Steven; She plans to study Marketing and Advertising.
“There are problems in this world that are bigger than the day-to-day issues that I face. It is a great feeling for me to know that when I participate in these things [volunteer activities] that I know I am part of something helping someone or some issue greater than myself.”
James “Bailey” Caughran – Derby High School
Bailey is the son of Brad and Jennifer Caughran; he plans to major in Human Health and Biology.
“I believe my passion, effort, and creativity allow me to effectively lead and motivate my groups to complete their tasks quickly and effectively, and work through the problems that frequently arise when working with inadequate supplies or unfamiliar people.”
Isabel Harmon – Ark City High School
Isabel is the daughter of Kelly and Eva Harmon; she plans to major in Biology.
“…when you commit to something, you must follow through even when not enjoyable so you do not to let down those counting on you.”
Katrina Mason – Derby High School
Katrina is the daughter of Patrick Mason and Melina Sengchanh; she plans to major in Biochemistry.
“Succeeding means more when we succeed together. I’ve always been the type to lead by example and service rather than by command.”
Malayna Unkel – Derby High School (no picture available at this time)
Malayna is the daughter of Curtis and Shara Unkel; she plans to study Biomedical Engineering.
“Through [Chick-Fil-A Leader Labs] I have had the opportunity to work with others as we collectively increase our abilities to lead and be examples in our worlds.”
Club Announces Scholarship Recipients
Three Wichita-area students have been awarded a scholarship from the OU Club of Wichita for the 2018-19 school year.
Gracyn Reynolds – Derby High School
Gracyn, a National Honor Society Member, served as Volleyball Team Captain, attended Chick-Fil-A Leadership Academy, and served as new student Ambassador at Derby High School. She will be the first in her family to attend the University of Oklahoma. Amidst her collegiate studies and hard work, she looks forward to having attending OU football games this fall.
Parents: Craig and Kristin Reynolds
“Leadership experiences help build a solid foundation to one’s character and success in life. I know the Sooners are dedicated and exceptional people, and I hope to keep this expectation alive by becoming a leader in my new community.”
Academic Major: Biomedical Engineering to prepare for Medical School.
Jordan Renard – Derby High School
Parents: Amber & Daniel Finneran and Christopher & Shamra Renard
Jordan, a National Honors Society Member, played with the Derby High School Varsity football and helped his team to earn two state titles. He also served as Vice President of the Future Business Leaders of America. Jordan loves to read and watch movies. Looking forward to his OU, he plans to play intramural athletics and states he is looking forward to his first ever college football game watching one of the best teams in the nation – the Sooners!
“Accounting is not always about spreadsheets or Excel documents, but that it can also involve you going out and interacting with your clients, helping them make better financial decisions, reducing their expenses, and making sure they too are people and not just pieces of paper.”
Academic Major: Accounting
Vivian Nguyen – Kapaun Mount Carmel
Vivian, a National Honor Society member who graduated Cum Laude, served as Student Ambassador, Secretary of Cultural Diversity and Community Club, Treasurer, Lead Tutor, and Volunteered at Via Christi St. Joseph! At OU she plans to pursue the Pre-Med track majoring in Biology. She will rush in a couple of weeks and is excited to explore Norman and call it her home.
A true leader means that you have to keep others in mind. It cannot be about you or your wants. It has to be for the good of others.”
Parents: Johnny and Hannah Nguyen
Academic Major: Undetermined
In the past ten years, the OU Club of Wichita has awarded 42 scholarships valued at $87,400. Half of those scholarships are from the club’s treasury, the other half represents a match from the university.