Western Oklahoma State College

The Western Shooting team has once again emerged triumphant at the ACUI CAA National Championship, proudly bringing home the championship trophy for the second consecutive year. 

Students were recognized at the 2024 All-Oklahoma Academic Team and Oklahoma Association of Community Colleges President's Tuition Waiver Awards Ceremony at the Oklahoma State Capitol on March 26. The All-Oklahoma Academic Team Program provides statewide recognition to outstanding two-year college students each year.  

Western Oklahoma State College recognized the Western Oklahoma State College  Foundation with the Business Partnership Excellence Award through the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education.  The award program annually honors outstanding partnerships that lead to significant contributions in educating and developing Oklahoma’s workforce.

Western Oklahoma State College is delighted to announce the official naming of the campus's central hub for musical creativity and education, formally known as the Band Hall, as "Larry Duffy Hall."  This honor recognizes the unparalleled contributions of Mr. Larry K. Duffy, a respected member of the Pioneer family since 1978.

Larry Duffy's impact on the institution transcends mere employment, with over 45 years of unwavering dedication spread across two pivotal departments. From his early days, Larry embodied the spirit of a Pioneer, the college's proud mascot, leaving an indelible mark on every corner of the campus through his exceptional leadership and service.

Duffy attended Altus Junior College and earned his Associate in Arts Degree from Western Oklahoma State College in 1975. He then earned his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Music Education at Southwestern Oklahoma State University. In 1978, Duffy was hired as a vocal and instrumental music instructor, starting a remarkable career at Western. His passion for the arts and commitment to nurturing student talent were evident as he dedicated his heart and soul to this program until 1991. Even today, Larry's love for and dedication to the arts resonates throughout the institution.

Duffy has dedicated his time and talents to numerous projects on campus. He served on the committee for the design and development of the WOSC Performing Arts wing, directed and co-produced 15 all-school Broadway productions, coordinated musical events for WOSC, organized and managed the WOSC Young Artist Series, organized the Oklahoma Junior College Choral Festival, established the WOSC Community Chorus’ annual Messiah performance, served as the Messiah director for 20 years.

The year 2019 brought a challenging chapter as severe statewide budget cuts led to the unfortunate decision to eliminate the vocal and instrumental degree programs. Duffy, however, turned adversity into an opportunity for growth. Swiftly taking action, he spearheaded the creation of the "Friends of WOSC Performing Arts," a fundraising initiative that transformed the campus cultural landscape. Under Duffy's guidance, the college has since hosted a diverse array of events, including a community chorus, a children's theatre program, the Miss Altus Pageant, the Nutcracker, and numerous additional performances.

Duffy’s pioneering spirit extended beyond the arts to the WOSC Foundation in 1991. Transitioning to the newly created Office of Development and Alumni, he played a pivotal role in the Foundation's growth. His exceptional ability to cultivate relationships helped the Foundation grow from $525,000 to over $7 million in total assets, empowering citizens of southwest Oklahoma to generously support student scholarships, academic and athletic programs, and student and staff development.

His accomplishments for the WOSC Foundation include securing bond funding, construction completion and lease agreement for a $1.5 million residential housing facility on campus; initiated, raised private funding, designed and supervised the construction of The Cecil R. Chesser Redbud Lane Project; instrumental in the design, completion and designation of the Rotary Courtyard dedicated to Western; designed, implemented and raised funds to establish the WOSC Foundation, Inc. Partners in Education Excellence donor recognition wall; managed, improved and supervised the sale of the WOSC Foundation-owned rodeo property to expand the agriculture and rodeo programs; established the WOSC Alumni Association Hall of Fame wall and annual recognition event.

Reflecting back on his career accomplishments, Duffy said, “These achievements at Western were all due to the cooperative spirit of people with whom I have worked. No one single person is able to accomplish his dreams and goals without the efforts of those that share his dreams.”

At the age of 80, he continues to shape his legacy at WOSC, embodying the college's spirit of innovation and community. Larry and his wife, Sharon, have two children who both attended Western. Their son, Michael, is an attorney in Altus. Their daughter, Kimberly Duerksen, is a secondary vocal music educator for Clinton (Oklahoma) Public Schools.

“It is difficult to put into words what Larry Duffy means to Western Oklahoma State College.  Since 1978, he has devoted his time and talents to the institution.  His love for Western runs deep which is the reason he has worked tirelessly to support over four decades of students, faculty and staff.  Although he is still painting his Pioneer portrait, it’s safe to say that it will be a masterpiece,” said Dr. Chad Wiginton, WOSC President.

The dedication ceremony for Larry Duffy Hall took place Friday, March 8, 2024 during a celebration of Duffy’s 80^th birthday. Family, friends, and colleagues came together to honor Duffy and commemorate his lasting legacy at Western Oklahoma State College.

The Western Oklahoma State College Foundation provides the opportunity to invest in the future by offering many ways to give. The WOSC Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c) 3 organization and exists to generate support for the students and programs of Western Oklahoma State College. For more information on the WOSC Foundation and ways to give, visit wosc.edu/give.   

Congratulations to the WOSC shooting team for their outstanding weekend at the OSU Cowboy Shootout in Arcadia, OK.

Sponsors of Western's World Wide Western student organization had the pleasure of taking four of our international students to the International Student Recognition Day at the Oklahoma State Capitol on February 28. These students were among 70 other students from schools across the state who came together at the Capitol to meet our representatives, take a tour, and talk to other students about their experiences of becoming international students. Students also got the chance to visit with Dr. Chad Wigiton, Western's president, over lunch.

We are thrilled to announce that Western's OER initiative is making a huge impact this spring semester! Thanks to the dedication of our incredible faculty and the Open Educational Resources (OER) initiative by OSRHE, we've managed to eliminate textbook costs for many courses.

What does this mean for students? We've saved our students $81,623 this semester! Now, accessing course materials won't burn a hole in your pocket.

A big shoutout to our faculty for their hard work in adopting OER, contributing to a more affordable and accessible education for everyone.

#OKHigherEdWorks #proudtobepioneer #AffordableEducation
Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education

Western is excited to welcome Shane Proctor to the Pioneer family. Shane will be using his talents and experiences to develop Western’s future and current bull riders. He is looking forward to helping the program grow and providing guidance to athletes to help lay a good foundation to be successful. Rodeo has become very business-oriented over the years, and it is important to be smart not only in the arena but also in the classroom and life.

The 5^th Annual Golf Ball Drop was held at the conclusion of the 33^rd Annual WOSC Foundation Jim Holland Memorial Golf Tournament on Saturday, August 12, 2023 at the Greens of Altus.

The golf ball drop consists of 100 golf ball tickets sold at $100 each for a total of $10,000. 50 percent of the proceeds go to the Jim Holland Scholarship Endowment and the remaining 50 percent goes to the winning ticket holder. 100 golf balls are numbered with the corresponding tickets and are dropped from the Altus Fire Department’s bucket ladder truck. The winning ball is the one that goes into the hole or is measured closest to the hole.

 The Jeff Wilmes Family has participated in the golf ball drop since its inception, 5 years ago. They purchase a total of ten tickets and designate them to ten not-for-profit charitable organizations in the community. This year, the winning ticket was ball #23, purchased by Wilmes Chevrolet-GMC and designated to the ALTUS SALVATION ARMY!

 The Altus Salvation Army staff are absolutely thrilled to receive the funds. Sgts. Michael and Priscilla Schlichting, Corps Administrators, told of their appreciation to the Wilmes’ for their continued support of the Altus Salvation Army and specifically the soup kitchen. Sgt. Priscilla Schlichting stated “We are so grateful to the Wilmes’ as this donation helps the soup kitchen continue to help those who are struggling with food instability.” John McCloy, Regional Resource Development Director for the Salvation Army, says “We are grateful for the long-standing support from the Wilmes’, through events and monthly support of The Salvation Army.”

 Congratulations to the Altus Salvation Army and a big THANK YOU to the Jeff Wilmes Family and Wilmes Chevrolet-GMC! We are grateful for your support of the WOSC Foundation, Inc.

The 33^rd Annual WOSC Foundation Jim Holland Memorial Golf Tournament was held Saturday, August 12, 2023 at the Greens of Altus. The 2023 Annual Tournament will provide $18,700.00 in additional funds to the WOSC Foundation Jim Holland Memorial Scholarship Endowment.  This year’s benefit will increase the endowment to nearly $382,000.00 with only the interest earned from the endowment providing scholarships on an annual basis.  

The National Science Foundation (NSF) has bestowed a significant grant of $1,179,147 upon the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education (OSRHE) and OneNet to fortify campus cyberinfrastructure through the Campus Cyberinfrastructure (CC*) program. This transformative grant aims to extend the reach of the OneOklahoma Friction Free Network (OFFN), fostering technological advancement across academic institutions. Western Oklahoma State College (WOSC), situated at the heart of Western Oklahoma, stands out among the beneficiaries of this pioneering initiative.

ALTUS, Okla. – Western Oklahoma State College is proud to partner with Oklahoma State University, Northern Oklahoma College, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and Louisiana State University, receiving grant funding from the National Science Foundation to focus on the effects of climate change in rural communities throughout the United States due to their strong dependence on natural resources. This project will substantially advance rural climate resilience research and generate lasting improvements in rural STEM opportunities.

Four Western Oklahoma State College rodeo team members qualified and competed at the 2023 College National Finals Rodeo in Casper, WY, June 11-17. All were competing in team roping. Jessen James and former Pioneer Garret Elmore won round two. Nicholas Lovins and Mason Appleton won the short round and ended the year 3rd in the nation. Nicholas Lovins was selected as the Rookie Heeler of the CNFR and received a $500 scholarship.

Western Oklahoma State College is excited to announce there will be no tuition and fee increase for the upcoming fall 2023 semester. Western’s Board of Regents voted to approve this request at their June meeting. Providing an affordable education is vital to Western and helps ease the minds of families.

After a loss of game one of the NJCAA Region 2 tournament, the Pioneer baseball team fought back to win five straight games to compete in the championship game against South Arkansas. The Pioneers fell short in the second championship game and ended their season at the NJCAA Region 2 runner-ups. 

Congratulations to nursing instructor Katharine Hamilton for being selected as the 2023 Teacher of the Year at Western Oklahoma State College. Ms. Hamilton is the Freshman Nursing Coordinator and Instructor at the Lawton campus.

Western Oklahoma State College faculty and staff members honored the 2023 President’s Excellence Award nominees at a luncheon on April 26th in the Pioneer Heritage Center. 

The main purpose of the WOSC Hispanic Student Association is to promote Hispanic culture by providing opportunities to meet and socialize with other Hispanic students, promoting awareness of Hispanic cultures, people, traditions, and language, providing educational opportunities to members as well as the campus community, and creating a sense of community within the Latino student body.

Altus, OK. – The Western Oklahoma State College Alumni Association was honored to induct Representative Gerrid Kendrix into the Alumni Hall of Fame on Saturday, April 29th. The evening was filled with family and friends to celebrate the accomplishments of an outstanding Western Oklahoma State College alum and supporter. 

Being a Lifetime Member of the Western Oklahoma State College Alumni Association has become a tradition for Gavin Sirmons’ family. Looking over the leaves on the Alumni Lifetime Member Trees, we joked that his family needs their own branch, as he is the third generation to attend Western.  His mother, father, sister, grandparents, great aunt and cousins are all alumni. It was his great-aunt who gifts her family with lifetime memberships upon graduation.

The WOSC Shooting Team competed in the ACUI Nationals in San Antonio on March 20-25 and left the competition with the Division 4 Classic All-Around National Champion title! 

Western Oklahoma State College welcomes Dillon and Katy Butchee as new President’s Partners. Dillon and Katy live in the Altus community and have two children, Boe and Josy. Dillon and Katy are Western graduates and both went on to obtain their Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in agricultural economics and plant and soil science from Oklahoma State University. They are now both agents at Legacy Insurance Group. 

The Western Pioneer men's basketball team finished with a historic season for the men's program. The Pioneers reached the Region 2 finals for the first time since 1980.
The team attained the 20-win mark, led the NJCAA in three-pointers per game (13.5), was second in total points per game (98.7), and was in the top 5 in three other offensive categories. Throughout the season

Western Oklahoma State College faculty member, Rachel Randall, was named AFA Chapter 342 Teacher of the Year (9-12). Randall combines eight years of teaching experience and many years of outside work experience to give students a well-rounded view outside the classroom.

Western Oklahoma State College welcomes Micky and Georganna Lively as new President’s Partners. Micky and Georganna are from Mangum, Oklahoma and have two daughters, Lauren and Madi. Micky became an Oklahoma Farm Bureau agent in 2016 and Georganna an esthetician in 2013 after both taught in the Mangum Public Schools for many years. Micky serving as Superintendent the last four of those years. They love their community and stay active by serving on various board and committees to help keep the town progressing. 

Western Oklahoma State College (WOSC) and Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) have partnered to increase collaborations in the critical fields of nursing and education. The partnerships signed on March 8 promote degree completion for students and enable both institutions to collaborate in these areas of critical need. 

Congratulations to Western math instructor Misty George on being voted Best of the Southwest by the Altus Times readers! She was named the best college professor.

Altus, OK- Western Oklahoma State College and Cameron University have entered into an agreement that will enable students majoring in early childhood studies to earn their associate degrees at WOSC, then more easily work toward bachelor’s degrees at Cameron.

The men's Pioneer basketball season wrapped up their regular season with many recognitions from the NJCAA!

The WOSC Foundation is proud to announce that Jenna Morain is the 2023 recipient of the
Edward L. Zeiser Scholarship.

Western Oklahoma State College hosted its 2^nd Workforce Summit and Career Fair on Tuesday, November 29 from 9 A.M. - 2 P.M. During this year’s event, there was an increased focus with area high schools to assist students with their Individualized Career and Academic Plans (ICAPs) to set them on a pathway for success. The event consisted of career prep to help attendees learn strategies for success, information about career pathways and exploration, and much more. There were over 300 participants ranging from students enrolled in high school from eight separate locations, college, and current working adults.

The event consisted of morning and afternoon sessions along with a panel of eight current employers who discussed qualities they look for in employees. Students rotated through three breakout sessions including Strategies for Successful, Career Pathways, and Career Exploration-career fair. “It is exciting to see the participants making connections and learning how to obtain a career. Western offers traditional degrees and certificates along with micro-credentials to allow individuals to prepare for initial entry into the workforce or to upskill for a new career,” said Chrystal Overton, Vice President for Academic Affairs.  

Attendees who completed the entire summit and took the required assessment will receive a Career Readiness Certificate and digital badge, endorsed by the Oklahoma State Regents.

Western was approved to offer the Career Readiness micro-credential and associated digital badge on November 14, 2022 and is pleased to provide the opportunities to students and members of the community. 

The rodeo team at Western Oklahoma State College has a proud heritage of athletes continuing to showcase their talent on a professional stage. With the 2022 Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) season coming to an end, six former Pioneers, along with current WOSC rodeo coach Jess Tierney, have qualified for their respective world championship events.

Redlands Community College, Western Oklahoma State College awarded $2.75 million 

Healthcare in rural Oklahoma continues to be impacted by a lack of providers, but a five-year federal grant totaling $2.75 million awarded to Redlands Community College in El Reno and Western Oklahoma State College in Altus is designed to address the healthcare shortage.

Western Oklahoma State College welcomes Emily Worrell, Southwest Crop Insurance Agency, LLC, as a new President’s Partner.  Emily grew up in Hollis, Oklahoma, and now resides in Altus with her husband Chance, six-year old daughter, Lucy and four-year old son Levi. Emily opened Southwest Crop Insurance Agency, LLC, in 2013 after graduating from OSU with a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Communications.

ALTUS, Okla. – The Western Oklahoma State College Alumni Association is excited to have Brayden Smith as our newest Lifetime Alumni Member! 

Western Oklahoma State College is pleased to announce an increase in enrollment for fall 2022. The total student population rose to 1,304 which is an increase of 3.66% compared to last fall. Credit production hours increased 3.12% and full time equivalent (FTE) enrollment also increased by 3.13%. On a national level, community college enrollment has dropped over 20% since spring 2020. With rising tuition and fees and a strong economy, many potential students are choosing to enter the workforce . “At Western, we have worked very hard to stay affordable. Our board is always perceptive to the needs of our students and very conservative when it comes to adding costs,” said Dr. Wiginton, WOSC President. Data continues to show that as educational attainment increases, so does an individual’s earning capacity. Associate degree holders earn a median income 25% higher than those with only a high school diploma.

Western prides itself on the relationships built with local high schools through the concurrent enrollment program. This fall there are 389 high school students enrolled concurrently which is 13.4% higher than last year. High school seniors who meet the eligibility requirements are entitled to receive tuition waivers for up to 18 credit hours and high school juniors can receive tuition waivers up to 9 credit hours. Students are responsible for fees and related textbook costs. Dr. Chad Wiginton said, “Not only is concurrent enrollment a huge savings, it gives students the ability to ease into the college classroom while still under the watchful eye of high school counselors and parents. Our instructors do an outstanding job helping students with this transition.”

Effective July 1, Western Oklahoma State College named Dr. Keila Manos Vice President for Student Affairs. Manos, a Navajo High School graduate, brings more than 15 years of higher education experience to Western Oklahoma State College. While at Western Manos has been a valuable asset in student services, serving as the Director of Student Success and Assistant Registrar, as well as, an Adjunct Sociology Instructor.  “I am thrilled to be able to move home and serve the community. I look forward to working with the students, faculty, and staff at Western and contributing to southwest Oklahoma’s future,” said Manos. 

Western Oklahoma State College freshman, Shay Skaggs, recently competed in the 2022 Grand American World Trapshooting Championships. The Grand American is held annually in Sparta, IL at the World Shooting & Recreational Complex and is the largest shooting event of its kind.
Skaggs had an outstanding performance with outstanding scores during the two weeks of competition. She only missed 7 single targets, 893/900 during the two weeks. Skaggs came home with the Lady 1 Grand American Handicap title. She shot 89/100 and competed in a shoot off to win. Skaggs also received Lady 1 Runner-Up ATA World HAA. She had a shoot off for the win, with a perfect score.

Providing concurrent enrollment opportunities has become a proud tradition at Western Oklahoma State College. A tradition that numerous students have taken advantage of over the past three decades. Not only does this program provide students the ability to finish high school with many college credit hours collected, but it has also saved students thousands of dollars.

ALTUS, OK. –On Friday, May 13, 2022, Trace Thomason graduated from Western Oklahoma State College as a 4.0 honor graduate, earning his associate’s in business administration, two days prior to graduating as the valedictorian of his senior class at Indiahoma High School. While this accomplishment came after a busy two years, the Thomason family is thankful for the opportunity high school concurrent enrollment provides.  

The Western Shooting Sports Team finished in 1st place at Operation Round Up (ORU), Southwest Rural Electrics's charitable foundation. All proceeds from the event will be given back to SWRE members and communities in need!

D’Lese Travis (Weatherford) appeared before the Senate Education Committee for appointment to the Western Oklahoma State College Board of Regents on May 3, 2022. She will succeed Clint Abernathy and will serve a seven–year term, ending March 24, 2029. “I am honored to serve Western Oklahoma State College on the board of regents. I strongly believe in the college’s mission and the inspiring opportunities offered the students. The spirit and culture of the board and leadership are a great asset to the college and I am truly looking forward to joining this great group of leaders,” said Ms. Travis.

Crystal Garcia, a graduate of Western Oklahoma State College, recently received the Outstanding Student/Graduate Award from the Oklahoma Career and Technical Education Equity Council.

The WOSC Rodeo Team held their first annual Rodeo Banquet Tuesday, May 10th. 

ALTUS, Okla. – Western Oklahoma State College student Claire Rose, recently attended the 2022 Nigh Leadership Academy as a Nigh Scholar at the University of Central Oklahoma.

Rose is a sophomore at Western from Sentinel, Oklahoma. Not only is Claire the student body president, but she is also involved in the Science Club, MRBC College Ministries, Phi Theta Kappa President, and is a Western Navigator. She plans to transfer to Oklahoma State University to pursue a Biochemistry and Molecular Biology degree and then complete the pre-requisites for medical school.

“I am honored to have represented Western at the Nigh Leadership Academy. Former Governor George and Donna Nigh were gracious and inspiring with their time and resources as our hosts. I appreciate the opportunity to learn and share ideas with other leaders about what is happening on campuses around the state,” said Rose.

Former Gov. Frank Keating established the George and Donna Nigh Public Service Scholarship in 1999. The purpose is to allow each of the two and four year higher educational institutions to select and honor one student each year as a Nigh Scholar. Each student selected receive a one-time $1,000 Leadership Scholarship.

The academy provides students with opportunities to increase both leadership and personal skills. The students heard from many powerful speakers and visited both the Oklahoma Memorial and the First Americans Museum. The Nigh Leadership Academy is supported by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, which contracts with the Nigh Academy for implementation. During the history of the academy, more than 600 students have been awarded the title of Nigh Scholar.

ALTUS, Okla. – Western Oklahoma State College (WOSC) is excited to announce the hiring of Coach Rick Carpenter as the new Head Coach of the men and women’s Cross Country coach, a new program that will begin in fall 2022.

Athletic Director, Matt Cartwright announced that Rick Carpenter, a two-time all-American in the indoor mile and the 1975 cross country captain and 1976 track captain at the University of Oklahoma, has agreed to accept the head coach position. “We are excited to bring a new program to Western Oklahoma State College.  Cross Country will give another opportunity for student-athletes to compete at a high level and gain a high-level education at the same time. Western is excited for the future of this program and for the student-athletes that are building an excellent running program in southwest Oklahoma. We couldn't be more excited to have Rick on board leading the program in that direction,” said Cartwright.

The Western Oklahoma State College Alumni Association announces Larry K. Duffy as the 2022 Hall of Fame Inductee.
The Alumni Association Hall of Fame, established in 1996, recognizes and honors Altus Junior College and Western Oklahoma State College alumni who, through leadership, character, and hard work, have made exceptional contributions in their field, in their community, and at Western Oklahoma State College.

Being a Lifetime Member of the Western Oklahoma State College Alumni Association has become a tradition for the Fixico family.  Justice Fixico tells us that his parents and his brother all attended Western and both of his parents joined the Alumni Association in 2012.  Justice felt that, for him, becoming lifetime alumni just made sense.

Each year the top 15 steer ropers in the nation compete at the National Finals Steer Roping. Western’s rodeo coach Jess Tierney entered the 2021 finals in the #6 spot.
He placed in 7 of the 10 rounds and tied down 9 of his 10 steers to secure the third spot in the average. An outstanding performance at the NFSR led to an overall 3rd place finish. Congratulations Coach Tierney. Your Pioneer family is proud of you!

Western Oklahoma State College (WOSC) and the City of Altus were recognized with a Business Partnership Excellence Award by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education.  The award program annually honors outstanding partnerships that lead to significant...