Rose State College students, leadership, staff, and Regents gathered at the Oklahoma State Capitol for Oklahoma’s Promise Day and OK Higher Ed Day to celebrate ongoing support from the Governor and Legislature for the future leaders of Oklahoma.
Representing Rose State College were students Ean Watham, Asa Watham, Carter Goldston, Jack Morrow, Abigail Prufert, Rylea Mendenhall, Dravin Henderson, Scarlet Simpson, Dallee Price, Casey Williams, Lily Goolsby, and Tyler Giaudrone. They were joined by RSC leadership and staff, including President Travis Hurst, Vice President for Student Affairs Kirby Harzman, Executive Vice President/CFO Kent Lashley, Director of Student Engagement Paige Stramski, Coordinator of Campus Activities and Service Learning Austin Borjas, and Recruiter Anna Grace Webb. RSC Regents Laure Vaught Majors and Brandon Clabes also attended in support of students and the College’s mission.
During the event, speakers, including Governor Kevin Stitt, Sen. Adam Pugh, Sen. Ally Seifried, Rep. Collin Duel, Rep. Mark Lawson, Rep. Arturo Alonso-Sandoval, State Regents Chair Courtney Warmington, and Chancellor Sean Burrage, discussed the importance of investing in higher education and student success.
Rose State College students also had the chance to meet directly with legislators, including Sen. Brenda Stanley, Rep. Jason Blair, Rep. Chad Caldwell, Rep. Dell Kerbs, Sen. Grant Green, and Sen. Mary Boren, sharing firsthand how programs like Oklahoma’s Promise affect their educational journeys.
“Higher education is one of the most powerful drivers of Oklahoma’s workforce and economic future,” President Travis Hurst stated. “Programs like Oklahoma’s Promise ensure more students can gain the skills, training, and credentials our employers need. When we invest in students, we are directly investing in a stronger, more competitive Oklahoma workforce.”
Recognized as one of the nation’s top scholarship programs, Oklahoma’s Promise combines academic preparedness with financial assistance. Since its inception, over 115,000 students have received college tuition scholarships through the program.
“Oklahoma’s Promise is truly life-changing for our students,” said VP of Student Affairs Kirby Harzman. “It not only removes financial barriers, but also motivates students to prepare academically and envision a future through higher education. At Rose State College, we see every day how this program opens doors that might not otherwise be possible.”
For more information or to apply, visit OK Promise.