Tulsa

The Oklahoma State University-Tulsa community gathered on Sunday, April 27 for the 2025 Student Life Excellence Awards, an annual celebration of student organizations and the individuals who bring them to life. The event, held in the Bank of Oklahoma Room, honored leadership, service and creativity that helps make the campus a more connected, inclusive and vibrant place.

 

“This event is all about shining a light on something special — our student organizations and the students who bring them to life,” said Nekki Reagan-Neeley, assistant vice president for student services and community engagement, during the welcome remarks. “They’re more connected, more confident and more likely to leave here with lifelong friendships and a true sense of belonging.”

 

This year, five awards were presented based on nominations submitted by faculty, staff and students.

 

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) earned two honors: Distinguished Student Organization and Program/Event of the Year. ASME’s student section was praised for its professional development lecture series, tutoring programs and STEM outreach efforts, including a standout exhibit at the Tulsa Engineering Challenge. Their work demonstrates a strong commitment to leadership, academic support and community engagement.

 

Ana Ibarra, a leader with the Hispanic Student Association (HSA), received the Emerging Leader Award for her passion, vision and dedication to building an inclusive community. Ibarra has helped shape the student experience through planning, peer support and advocacy.

 

The Hispanic Student Association was also recognized as the New/Reactivated Student Organization of the Year. After relaunching in late 2024, HSA quickly became a hub for cultural celebration and student engagement. Their efforts have helped reconnect Latino students on campus and provide a space for connection and pride.

 

The award for Outstanding Community Engagement went to International Student Ministries (ISM), a group that has created a home away from home for international students at OSU-Tulsa. Through mentorship, free lunches, cultural exchange events and retreats, ISM has fostered meaningful cross-cultural relationships and offered vital support services to hundreds of students.

 

“I'm constantly inspired by the creativity, leadership and heart our students bring to everything they do,” said Glenda Ross, community and campus specialist. “I’ve watched you show up, plan, pivot and pour yourselves into making this campus better for others — and sometimes all of that in one week!”

 

The celebration also welcomed members of the African American Student Association, Psychology Club, Management Information Systems Club and the Oklahoma State Pride and Acceptance Society, each demonstrating the depth and diversity of student involvement at OSU-Tulsa.

 

“I am especially proud of the ASME Student Section at OSU-Tulsa,” said Dr. Khaled Sallam, the ASME faculty advisor. “Not only did they maintain the momentum of last year’s group – who earned the Distinguished Student Organization of the Year Award – they also expanded their impact by winning an additional honor: the Program/Event of the Year Award. Their accomplishments exemplify the transformative role that student-led organizations play in advancing our educational mission and inspiring the next generation of engineers.”

 

As the event ended, students were encouraged to stay, celebrate and connect.

“You’re not just making things happen on campus — you’re setting the tone,” Ross said. “You’re showing what’s possible when we show up for each other and for our community.”

 

Please contact Nekki Reagan-Neeley or Glenda Ross for more information on the awards and how you can get involved in student organizations on campus.