USAO to host Women’s History Appreciation Night at softball games
The University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma’s roots run deep with women’s history. Founded as the state’s first women’s college (Oklahoma College for Women) in 1908, USAO never misses a chance to celebrate our heritage.
Friday, March 15, the No. 2 Drover softball team will welcome three women who have had a significant impact on the university to the Bill Smith Ballpark for Women’s History Appreciation Night.
“Dr. Kathy Black, Mo Anderson and Dr. Krista Jones were immediate choices when planning this event,” said JP Audas, senior vice president for external affairs. “These women have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also made significant contributions to their communities and represent all that USAO stands for.”
Since her graduation from OCW, Black has exhibited a deep passion for education. Her extensive career in higher education administration reflects a commitment to innovative teaching methods and fostering an inclusive educational environment. She has been instrumental in many USAO Alumni programs and advancements. She was inducted into the USAO Alumni Association Hall of Fame in 2016. Black will throw out the first pitch of the double-header.
From her first career as a music teacher to her most challenging professional endeavor as CEO of Keller Williams Realty, one of the most successful real estate companies in the world, Anderson pursues everything she does with passion. During her time at OCW, she discovered her true potential and developed her natural leadership skills. She used those skills to build a real estate powerhouse. She opened her first real estate office, a Century 21 franchise, in Edmond in 1975. Within a few short years, Anderson had grown the franchise into one of the top-producing offices out of 7,500 Century 21 locations in North America. She was inducted into the USAO Alumni Association Hall of Fame in 2003 and the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 2018.
Jones has been the epitome of “leaving things better than how you found them.” She has forged countless advancements in the communities she has been a part of, empowering others along her path. Jones was named the 2012 Citizen of the Year by the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce, a result of her dedication to prosperity for all kinds. She is a dedicated supporter of USAO programs, including the Ada Lois-Sipuel Center for Social Justice and Racial Healing.
These women’s ability to adapt, think compassionately and contribute positively to their communities showcases the forward-thinking mindset that was the foundation upon which our great institution was created.
“Their stories serve as an inspiration for current and future students, showcasing the impact education can have on one's life and the importance of giving back to the community,” said Audas. “That is why we wanted to make sure they were recognized during this year’s Women’s History Appreciation festivities. They join another group of inspiring women, our Drover softball program.”
The USAO softball team was recently selected as the No. 2 team in the country after an astounding 11-2 start to the season. Led by renowned head coach Jadyn Wallis, the team has built a reputation of consistent success since winning the NAIA World Series Championship in 2018.
The team will host their biggest rival of the season, No. 5 Oklahoma City University. The ceremonial first-pitch is scheduled for 5 p.m. on Friday, March 15, at Bill Smith Ballpark. Stay up to date on the current season at usaoathletics.com.
About the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma
As Oklahoma’s liberal arts college, the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma provides a distinctive education in the liberal arts and sciences, supporting both its interdisciplinary core curriculum and major fields of study with superior teaching. USAO fosters diversity of thought and practice to help students realize meaningful, purposeful and productive lives as global citizens in a rapidly-changing world.