University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma to Host Annual Spring Triad
The University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma will host its annual Spring Triad on Thursday, April 2nd, and Friday, April 3rd, 2026. This long-standing tradition combines academic competition, visual arts, and live music into a massive community celebration on the university’s historic campus.
The Spring Triad is comprised of three distinct events: the Scholastic Meet, the Montmartre Chalk Art Festival, and the Droverstock Music Festival.
On Thursday, April 2nd, students from over 30 different schools – a total of over 700 students – will descend on Chickasha for the annual Scholastic Meet. This rigorous competition tests high school and junior high students across a wide array of subjects, including mathematics, science, social studies, business, language and literature, art, music, and theatre.
Running concurrently with the Scholastic Meet on Thursday, the Montmartre Chalk Art Festival transforms the campus sidewalks into a sprawling outdoor gallery. Named after the famous arts district in Paris, the festival is a judged competition where hundreds of artists – ranging from elementary students to professional adults – have just four hours to complete vibrant chalk masterpieces. In 2024, the event saw over 600 artists create 227 works of art.
The celebration culminates with the 30th annual Droverstock Music Festival on Friday, April 3rd. Due to the upcoming weather, the festival will be held in the USAO Fieldhouse. The festival is free and open to the public. This year’s landmark anniversary features the event's largest musical act to date, Nashville-based singer-songwriter Chase McDaniel.
“Bringing Chase McDaniel to campus marks the biggest musical act we’ve hosted yet,” said Cameron Roberts, USAO Director of Student Life and organizer of Droverstock. “We’ve made a strong effort this year to emphasize that Droverstock isn’t just a campus event—it’s a celebration for the entire community.”
The musical lineup begins at 5:15 p.m. and includes:
- Degrees of Freedom: The evening begins with a folk duo; two former USAO professors come together to form this Chickasha-founded cover band, performing iconic songs we all know and love.
- isaiah!: Multi-instrumentalist and visual artist Isaiah Young brings an avant-garde flair to the stage. Young is known for his award-winning track "dnd" and a style influenced by textures ranging from Björk to moshable rock.
- Gage Wilkerson & the Young Guns: This Oklahoma-based singer-songwriter delivers a raw sound rooted in the traditions of Red Dirt and outlaw country.
- Toliver Rey: Introducing his signature "Variety Country" brand, Rey blends Country Rock, Modern, and Red Dirt influences to ensure a performance with "several flavors" of the genre.
- Adara Kay: Self-described as "Y’allternative," this five-piece band combines Southern Rock with a splash of country, delivering a stage presence defined by grit and energy.
- Chase McDaniel: Headlining the night, Nashville-based singer-songwriter Chase McDaniel brings his signature rock/country hybrid. Known for his edgy swagger and honest lyrics, McDaniel’s set explores life’s misadventures with humor and heart.
In addition to live music, Droverstock will offer family-friendly activities including food trucks, a rock-climbing wall, a mechanical bull, and booths hosted by local vendors and student organizations. Guests are encouraged to bring alternative seating; such as lawn chairs and blankets.
For more information regarding the Spring Triad events, visit usao.edu/spring-triad.
About USAO:
The University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma is Oklahoma’s only public liberal arts college. Located in Chickasha, USAO is a distinctive institution offering a challenging interdisciplinary curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving. With a focus on broad-based education and civic responsibility, USAO prepares students to become well-rounded, adaptable leaders ready to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world.
Contact: Hannah Thompson | 405-574-1362