DURANT, Okla. – Friday was a memorable day as the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and Chickasaw Nation teamed up to honor Southeastern Oklahoma State University and president Larry Minks for the school’s commitment to and support of Native American student success.

To recognize this commitment to excellence, a program and reception were held in the Glen D. Johnson Student Union on the Southeastern campus.

Representing Choctaw Chief Gregory E. Pyle and Chickasaw Gov. Bill Anoatubby to offer remarks and jointly present a plaque of appreciation to Minks were Assistant Chief Gary Batton and Administrator of Education Services Lisa John. Both tribal representatives praised Minks and the University for their leadership and commitment to Native American students.

President Larry Minks, center, accepts a plaque from Lisa John of the Chickasaw Nation and Assistant Chief Gary Batton of The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.

In his comments, Minks said he was proud of the fact that this spring, 30 percent (1,164 students)  of Southeastern’s enrollment is comprised of Native American students.

Minks also commended director Chris Wesberry and his staff at the Native American Center for Student Success for the contributions they make each and every day. He noted that the partnership with the Choctaw and Chickasaw Nations’ education departments has created more than $4 million in federal grant monies to support Native American students. 

Finally, Minks proudly stated that Southeastern has been recognized among the nation’s leaders for graduating Native American students in a number of fields. According to one national publication, Southeastern ranks sixth in the nation in awarding undergraduate degrees to Native American graduates in all disciplines combined.

“We take a great deal of pride in this (national) recognition,” Minks said. “It confirms that the initiatives and programs that we have in place are working and working well. The University’s commitment to Native American students could not be stronger, and that is only possible because of the outstanding support of the Choctaw and Chickasaw tribes. Time after time, they have stepped up to partner with Southeastern to establish academic support programs, scholarships, or help fund improved facilities. It’s just a tremendous partnership and one of which we are very proud.”

Serving as master of ceremonies for the event was Rep. T.W. Shannon, Speaker Designate, from the Oklahoma House of Representatives. Also on the program were Native American students Brenner Billy, Caley Wesberry, and Jessica Gann, Chris Wesberry, and Rev. Bertram Bobb, Choctaw Elder.

The students presented Minks with a gift as well -- a gorget – an accessory worn around the neck symbolizing one who leads. The three-piece silver gorget was handmade by Eddie Postoak, Chickasaw Artist and Director of Cultural Resources of the Chickasaw Nation.