Rose State College’s TRIO Student Support Services program recently visited the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, where students participated in a STEM lab and explored the museum and memorial grounds.
During the STEM lab, students worked at interactive computer tables that accommodated up to four participants each. A museum instructor guided students through activities exploring the events of April 19, forensic evidence from the scene, and communications between the perpetrators of the attack.
After the lab, students toured museum exhibits that chronicle the bombing and show how Oklahomans came together to support one another after the tragedy.
“The museum, the first thing we passed, was as authentic as one could get; we were put through the eyes of McVeigh, the citizens, authorities, and press, being able to see, in person, actual items and debris from the Murrah Bombing,” RSC student Philip Frushour said. “The memorial section was somber; however, it brings your attention to the bright future inspired by the faith of how many people took their time and money to help during this time. This was a memorable visit to me, and sharing my experience there with my mother, who was alive and affected by the Murrah Bombing, has convinced her to go again, especially with the news of new things like McVeigh’s car that wasn’t there last she visited.”
Students concluded the visit with a guided walking tour of the memorial grounds. The guide explained the significance, placement, and construction of the 168 chairs that honor the people who died in the bombing. Each chair has weathered differently, reflecting the individuality of the person it honors.
The guide also explained how the gates at either end of the reflecting pool represent the moments before and after the explosion. Students observed evidence of the bombing’s damage, including bent stairs and missing bricks, and walked around the Survivor Tree, which stands as a symbol of hope.
“Going to the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum was life-changing for me,” RSC student Patricia Spann said. “I was able to see the Oklahoma City bombing from a whole new perspective and gain knowledge I otherwise wouldn’t have known. Thank you, TRIO, for giving me this experience.”
Many TRIO SSS students visited the memorial for the first time. Experiences like this help students explore Oklahoma history and understand the bombing’s lasting impact on the state and its communities.
“We are grateful to be able to provide our TRIO SSS participants with support inside and outside of the classroom,” TRIO SSS Director Jessica Nelson said. “The OKC National Memorial and Museum is a beautiful, inspiring, and thought-provoking experience. I know our students were touched by what they got to experience visiting this special place.”
Visit Rose State College’s TRIO Student Support Services program to learn more about opportunities to participate.