Fun facts about Southeastern Oklahoma State University

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Introduction

Southeastern Oklahoma State University (SOSU) is a public university located in Durant, Oklahoma. Founded in 1909 as Southeastern State Normal School, SOSU has a rich history and is home to a diverse student population. In this blog post, we will explore some fun and interesting facts about SOSU that you may not have known before. From its famous alumni to its unique traditions, SOSU has a lot to offer. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of SOSU!

Fun facts about Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Notable Alumni

Southeastern Oklahoma State University has produced many notable alumni over the years. Here are just a few examples:

  1. Reba McEntire: Reba McEntire is a country music singer, songwriter, and actress. She attended SOSU in the 1970s and was a member of the school’s music program. McEntire has gone on to become one of the most successful country music artists of all time, selling over 75 million records worldwide.
  2. Charles W. Blackwell: Charles W. Blackwell is a Cherokee Nation citizen and a retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant General. He attended SOSU in the 1960s and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics. Blackwell served in the military for over 35 years, including serving as the Commander of the U.S. Air Forces in Europe.
  3. Richard D. Roberts: Richard D. Roberts is a Nobel Prize-winning biochemist. He attended SOSU in the 1950s and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry. Roberts went on to receive his Ph.D. from the University of Sheffield in England and was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1993 for his work on introns.

SOSU’s Unique Traditions

Like any university, SOSU has its own unique traditions that have been passed down through the years. Here are two of the most notable traditions:

  1. The Homecoming Bonfire: The SOSU Homecoming Bonfire is a beloved tradition that takes place every year. The bonfire is held the night before the Homecoming football game and is a time for students, alumni, and community members to come together and celebrate. The bonfire is accompanied by a pep rally and fireworks display.
  2. The Spirit Bridge: The Spirit Bridge is a small wooden bridge located on the SOSU campus. According to tradition, if a couple walks across the bridge while holding hands, they will be together forever. Many students and alumni have made the trek across the bridge over the years, and it has become a symbol of love and commitment.

SOSU’s Campus and Location

SOSU’s campus is located in Durant, Oklahoma, which is in the southeastern part of the state. The campus covers over 200 acres and features a mix of modern and historic buildings. Here are two interesting facts about SOSU’s campus and location:

  1. The Magnolia Tree: The Magnolia Tree is a famous landmark on the SOSU campus. The tree is over 100 years old and is believed to be one of the oldest magnolia trees in the state of Oklahoma. The tree has been the site of many weddings and other special events over the years.
  2. Lake Texoma: Lake Texoma is a large reservoir located near the SOSU campus. The lake covers over 89,000 acres and is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and other water activities. Many SOSU students and faculty members enjoy spending time at the lake during their free time.

Academics at SOSU

SOSU is known for its strong academic programs and dedicated faculty members. Here are two interesting facts about academics at SOS

  1. The Aviation Program: SOSU is home to one of the top aviation programs in the country. The program offers a variety of degree options, including a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Sciences and a Bachelor of Science in Professional Pilot. Students in the program have access to state-of-the-art flight simulators and aircraft, and many graduates go on to have successful careers in the aviation industry.
  2. The Masters in Native American Leadership Program: SOSU’s Masters in Native American Leadership program is unique in its focus on Native American leadership and governance. The program is designed to prepare students to become leaders in their communities and is taught by Native American faculty members. The program has been recognized for its excellence and has received numerous awards and accolades over the years.

SOSU’s Sports Teams

SOSU is home to a variety of sports teams, including football, basketball, baseball, softball, and volleyball. Here are two interesting facts about SOSU’s sports teams:

  1. The Savage Storm: SOSU’s sports teams are known as the Savage Storm. The name was chosen in the early 2000s and reflects the strong and determined spirit of the university and its athletes. The Savage Storm teams have had many successes over the years, including multiple conference championships and appearances in NCAA tournaments.
  2. The Women’s Basketball Team: SOSU’s women’s basketball team has a strong legacy of success. The team has won multiple conference championships and has made numerous appearances in NCAA tournaments. The team is also known for its commitment to academic excellence, with many players receiving academic honors and scholarships.

Conclusion

In this blog post, we have explored just a few of the many fun and interesting facts about Southeastern Oklahoma State University. From its notable alumni to its unique traditions, SOSU has a rich history and a bright future. Whether you are a current student, an alumnus, or just someone interested in learning more about this great institution, we hope that you have enjoyed reading about SOSU’s many accomplishments and offerings.