DURANT, Okla. -- A re-dedication ceremony was held Wednesday in the historic Morrison Building on the campus of Southeastern Oklahoma State University.
Members of the Simon Parker family were in attendance to announce their gift of funding the renovation of the light pole outside the Morrison Building, as well as the purchase of a new plaque and new landscaping around the site.
The original light pole was presented by the Class of 1937 with a plaque that read: "Presented by Seniors 1937."
The new plaque reads as follows: "Light presented by the Senior Class of 1937 Renovated by the family of Simon Parker (1937 Senior Class President)."
The late Simon Parker, long-time Hugo educator, served as president of the Class of '37 and his family made the gift in his honor during the University's centennial year.
Martha Childs, daughter of Mr. Parker, Southeastern interim president Larry Minks, and Southeastern executive director of university advancement Kyle Stafford all made comments at the ceremony.
Mr. Parker served in a variety of roles in the Hugo School System, including stints as a teacher, coach, principal, and superintendent. His 43-year professional career was recognized by Gov. George Nigh and the Oklahoma Senate on June 20, 1980, with a proclamation of "Simon Parker Day."
Upon his death in 1991, a scholarship was established in Mr. Parker's honor for a graduating senior aspiring to enter the field of education.