2021 Spring Graduate Spotlight

Amanda Applegate

Master of Business Administration 
Tulsa, OK
Advice I would give future OKWU students: Engage in faith conversations with your peers and professors. Use this time to learn from others and to help others at the same time. Make the most of the time you have to make a difference in your life as a student.

Jamie Baier

Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Fort Smith, AR
Advice I would give future OKWU students: Study hard, prepare hard, and serve the Lord with all your might! Believe in Him always! He will make a way for you! Maybe not in your time, but in His time. Keep the faith, and carry on. God will answer all prayers in due time. I talk from personal experience! He has never let me down!

Emily Balliviero

Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Burleson, TX
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? I am so thankful for OKWU who helped me grow both academically and spiritually. Having Christian-based thought part of our everyday classes helped me grow into the person I am today. I cannot thank OKWU enough for the various learning opportunities plus spiritual growth I have gained from attending this school for the last five years.

One of my favorite memories from my time at OKWU would have to be spending two summers with OKWU Ventures traveling all across the country as a camp counselor ministering to young adults. I am so grateful for this experience where I met many friends, including my current roommate. However, a recent memory I would like to share would be when a bat was stuck in our bathroom and we had to call up some of our student leaders for help. It reminded me of the many memories I have experienced and cherished during my time at OKWU.

Riley Barrick

Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Ponca City, OK
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? My favorite class was Physical Science with Dr. T! He made it so fun to learn and it was an enjoyable change from my typical accounting classes!

Andrew Bevis

Bachelor of Science in Sports Marketing
Paola, KS
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Do your homework, and get involved on campus.

Ke’Von Boston

Bachelor of Science in Accounting 
Missouri City, TX
Advice I would give future OKWU students: Don’t be afraid to open up. A lot of people on campus are here to help and will do anything to see you succeed

Paige Bostwick

Bachelor of Arts in Digital Cinema 
Bartlesville, OK
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? CROQUET!! Technically it’s a club, but going to croquet nationals in Philadelphia was by far my favorite part of college!

Jessica Bradford

Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry 
Nashville, AR
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? I grew the most at OKWU through the chapel services by gaining more knowledge for God and having the ability to retain that knowledge to help those around me to know Him. My favorite memories are from all the basketball games I played and having good times with my coaches and teammates over the three years that I played.

Kylan Branscomb

Bachelor of Science in Marketing 
Lonoke, AR
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? My walk of faith grew the most during my time at OKWU. One of my favorite memories was when I went to a Business Career Fair at the Chesapeake Energy Arena and got to watch a NBA game.

Callie Brezillac

Bachelor of Science in Nursing 
Burleson, TX
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? I’ve grown the most spiritually and emotionally. Through being a nursing student, student mentor, and resident assistant, I’ve learned about the importance of community in all stages of life. My identity is not found in the things I do or will do, but in who God says I am. One of my favorite OKWU memories was Barn Bash my freshman year. I hadn’t ever been to an activity like that, but now Barn Bash has become one of my favorite campus events.

Tyler Calhoun

Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Wagoner, OK
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? Most definitely Contemporary Issues with Professor Peterson! I got to understand multiple perspectives of things outside of just the police world and debate both sides of well disputed arguments. Then we went to the range and shot guns together, I can say that was a lot of fun too!

Hannah Carr

Bachelor of Science in Sports and Recreation Leadership
Shawnee, OK
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? During my time at OKWU, I was able to meet some amazing people; both friends and coaches. They helped me grow spiritually. My favorite memory is when I gave Coach Grace my Top 25 Chicken Tender list from various restaurants that I have tried. There are also explanations to back my research.

April Chesser

Master of Education
Choctaw, OK
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? I grew the most during the times I thought I couldn’t continue. Those moments are when I discovered that I am strong and can do anything. My favorite memory is the moment I was told I was being approved to graduate. At that moment, I realized I had done it, and all of my hard work had paid off.

Laíne Conceição

Bachelor of Science in Business 
São Paulo, Brasil
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? I grew my confidence in speech; it was my main concern because English is my second language. The School of Business gave me strength to be confident and prepared for public speaking. A special thank you to Dr. Wendel Weaver for trusting and encouraging me.

Jaycee Cook

Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Mannford, OK
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? I learned that discipline is the only thing that stands between you and what you want. There will always be a thousand excuses, but there is only one outcome.

Zane Davis

Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice 
Coweta, OK
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? I grew much closer to God during my time at OKWU and I will forever be thankful for that! Some of my favorite memories were the ones I made with the wrestling team!

Julio De Sousa Belo

Bachelor of Science in Business
Belo Horizonte – Brazil
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? I decided to step out of my comfort zone and tried to be a better person. OKWU has helped in the formation/consolidation of my beliefs, and I’m grateful for that. My favorite memory is the Colorado Trip that I went with Dr. Weaver and some friends.

Kevin Drowatzky 

Master of Education  
Wichita, KS
What was a favorite class at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? It is hard to pick a favorite class as they were all very good and taught me a lot. If I had to pick one, it would be between Classroom Management and Technology Integration. In Technology Integration, I made a podcast where I pretended to take a class back in time to 1776 and watched the signing of the Declaration of Independence. In the podcast, I gave quotes from the signers of the Declaration and gave pieces of information on what happened to those men. My grandson helped me with the voice overs, and it turned out great. I think that I will use this podcast to help teach my students when I get into a classroom!

Kamron Dunn

Bachelor of Science in Sports Recreation and Leadership  
Tulsa, OK
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Get to know different people at OKWU, from your classmates to your teachers.

Abbey Ely 

Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry  
Farmington, NM
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? During my time at OKWU, I grew the most in my relationship with Christ. I am so thankful that OKWU was a part of God’s plan for my life. I am excited to continue to my walk with Christ, and I pray that I make an everlasting impact for His kingdom.
One of my favorite memories at OKWU was attending field trips with my junior/senior seminar classes. I made some life long friendships in those classes, and I am forever grateful for the memoires I created with them.

Raimot Fasasi

Master of Business Administration  
Bartlesville, OK
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Do not be shy to stand up and speak in front of a large class. Be confident with yourself. This will not only be needed at school, but throughout your lifetime. Do not hesitate to share your ideas and strive to be the best version of yourself.

James Faynik

Bachelor of Arts in Digital Cinema  
Duluth, MN
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? I spent most of my time making new friends and seeing what all these different people from different lives are like, and how they ended up here at OKWU.

Abigail Fernandez

Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science – Pre-Therapy Option
Coweta, OK
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Don’t be afraid to open up. Everyone on campus is willing to help you succeed for your future career.

Ashlyen Fisher

Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Strategy   
Bartlesville, OK
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Do make the most of these years! Get out of your room, meet new people, and take advantage of the professors who are eager to help you sharpen your skills. Don’t worry about the next steps after college, it will work out. Take advantage of this season and enjoy it!

Lyndsey Fowler

Bachelor of Science in Psychology Studies
Bartlesville, OK
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? My favorite classes at OKWU were any with Dr. Bell. He was always so knowledgeable with the studies and was so understanding whenever I was having issues with anything.
Having some amazing professors really made me grateful for my entire experience at OKWU. Being in school and a full-time working mom with a very active kiddo really makes things busy. My professors always worked well with me when it came to my busy schedule.

Aubrie Haskell

Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education – Mathematics
Caney, KS
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Do your best to go to the events and to spend time in Doc’s. This is really the best time of your life to dress up as old people and play bingo, or to ice skate at midnight! Stay silly and value your education at OKWU, it doesn’t get better than this. Also, it is very important to watch the turtles and appreciate them every time you pass the lake.

Victoria Herrera

Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Kiefer, OK
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Put God first. Never give up, and push through the hard times.

JoEllen Hindman

Bachelor of Science in Nursing 
Decatur, TX
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? I grew more spiritually at OKWU than I have at any other point in my life. I believe this is because I was able to be surrounded by like-minded people while I was in my prime maturing stages.

Tucker Holden

Bachelor of Science in Financial Advising
Lindsay, OK
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone. Growth and learning do not happen when you aren’t pushing yourself.

Jace Holt

Bachelor of Science in Nursing 
Tulsa, OK
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Study. If you don’t study, find someone who does and learn from them.

Morgan Horton

Bachelor of Science in Psychology Studies
Bartlesville, OK
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? I do not think I can pick just one, but if I had to I would pick my senior psychology seminar. It signified that I made it to the end, and I didn’t give up. I am proud of myself for accomplishing my Bachelor’s degree. The experience I am most grateful for is learning to trust in God and let Him lead me to where I need to be when He wants me there.

Rachel Hugeback

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration 
Bartlesville, OK
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? One of my favorite classes at Oklahoma Wesleyan was Old Testament Survey. This class along with its teacher encouraged me to dig deep into the Word of God. This class pushed me to better grasp the Old Testament, and I enjoyed learning about minor prophets and making my own opinions on them.

Meaghan Keck

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry 
Bartlesville, OK
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? My favorite classes were the hands-on labs. I am most grateful for the professors who pushed me further and harder when I needed it.

Tanner Kellerstrass

Bachelor of Science in Business Communications
Springfield, MO
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Work hard and don’t let yourself get overwhelmed. Make sure you have fun and try to get the most out of your college years.

Ashley Killion

Bachelor of Science in Accounting 
Atascocita, TX
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? My favorite class was Physical Science with Dr.Turner, because we got to do some really fun labs that I will remember in the future, and the fact that I sat on a boat in the pond for over 11 hours.

Kendall Lemelle

Bachelor of Science in Nursing 
Liberty, TX
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? I grew the most spirituality at OKWU. My favorite memory at OKWU is all the relationships I was able to develop during my time here.

Justtine Lewis 

Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science (Clinical Fitness Program Management Option)
Houston, TX
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? Methods of Team Sports because it was always a competitive, fun atmosphere. I am most grateful for OKWU teaching me to be independent and speak my mind.

Brittany Maniloff

Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
The Colony, TX
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? I grew the most at OKWU during my student teaching experience. I got to learn and grow under some of the best mentors, and finally got to a point where I feel comfortable and confident in my teaching. My favorite memory from OKWU was when I was baptized in the pond.

Matthew Martinez

Bachelor of Science in Financial Services
Houston, TX
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Get to know a wide range of people – faculty, staff, and students. Networking is important.

Jennifer Meyer 

Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management 
Bartlesville, OK
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? My favorite class was Executive Development. The class was taught from a higher level about employee and workforce management and taught how executives use their time and energy. Thinking like an executive will hopefully get me there one day. I am most grateful for the online programs offered at OKWU because it has me allowed me to finish my degree while still working full-time and running a house with four children. It wasn’t easy, but because the online program was available, it opened doors of opportunity for me to advance in leadership within my industry.

Shelly Moss

Bachelor of Science in Nursing 
Burlington, KS
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? My favorite classes were the General Education classes I took on Encountering the Old Testament and Biblical Perspectives!

Camila Müller dos Santos

Master of Business Administration 
Rio de Janeiro – Brazil
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? My favorite class was my first master’s class with Dr. Weaver. I looked at the content and the reading, and I panicked. I really did! But, at the end I had learned much more than just the theory. I learned life lessons!

I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to be part of my basketball girls’ journey and to be able to be there for them in a deeper level than just on the court!

Leonardo Müller dos Santos

Bachelor of Science in Marketing 
Blumenau – Brazil
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Do not expect to be perfect, because you will learn much more from your mistakes.

Hannah Nealis

Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education 
Tulsa, OK
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? My relationship with God has grown tremendously since my time here at OKWU, and I will forever be grateful for that. I learned a lot about myself throughout my 4 years here, and I feel more than prepared to go into the working field and become a classroom teacher. My favorite memories here at OKWU would definitely be with the basketball team. I have had some amazing teammates that I will cherish forever.

Nicole Niblett

Associate of Arts in General Studies 
Fort Smith, AR
What advice would you give future OKWU students? If you have the opportunity to grow and further your knowledge, do it. I have found that in life if we are extremely comfortable then there is room for growth within our lives. I was very nervous and anxious about applying to OKWU, let alone actually working my way through the courses, but I would not change it for the world. Sometimes, there were classes that I would dread the beginning of them because in my head I just imagined a class that was non-existent. I have never completed a course at OWKU that I was not thankful for taking after it was finished. Keep going!

Mary Nyambura 

Master of Science in Nursing  
Tulsa, OK
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Don’t give up!

Sydney Patterson

Bachelor of Science in Nursing  
Owasso, OK
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Be involved in a local church during college where you can grow from mature believers!

Tricia Phillips

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Copan, OK
What advice would you give future OKWU students? If at all possible, once you start, continue!

Antoinette “Toni” Proctor

Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Hampton, VA
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? OKWU was my first time trying distance learning. I actually learned how to create a power point as an OKWU distance-learning student. I loved the group assignments and figuring out a way to build relationships and meet common goals despite the challenge of distance.

Lense Ramey IV

Bachelor of Science in Business
Kiefer, OK
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? During my time at OKWU my faith was the thing that grew the most. My favorite memory is the national tournament trips with the basketball team.

Marcus Randall

Bachelor of Science in Marketing 
Carrollton, TX
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Make everyday count. One day you will get up and college will be over. Be intentional and take advantage of every opportunity you get to make memories!

Konnor Randolph

Bachelor of Science in Marketing 
Fayetteville, AR
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Be willing to open up to your professors and ask questions when you do not know the answer. Building relationships with your professors and classmates will help you succeed and make life much more enjoyable.

Heather Raposa

Bachelor of Science in Ministry and Leadership
Burlington, KS
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? My schedule was full before the opportunity to go back to school presented itself. After, there were times when it was a lot to handle, and I say this seriously, only with God was I able to finish this journey. I was diving into His Word because of the courses I was taking and I was getting to learn so much about Him and His character. I chose this degree because I wanted to learn ways to answer the tough questions about Christianity and I am confident that I can answer them BETTER than I could before. I may not have all of the answers, but I serve the One who does.

James Ricci

Bachelor of Science in Financial Services 
Denver, CO
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? My favorite class was Business Ethics because it challenged me to find solutions to difficult situations. We never know what we are going to do until we are in that situation. That class gave the perfect setting to challenge your own opinion without consequences. I’m most grateful for the internship opportunities with the School of Business. I had the opportunity to learn and grow as a future leader.

Tara Rodriguez

Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Yukon, OK
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Strive in life to be your best. Do not let anyone tell you that you can’t. Believe in God, in your destiny, and in His calling for your life. He will place your feet on the path where you need to go. Work hard and stay humble. Know the treasures in life are not fame and money, but family, truth, honor, and dignity. On the days you feel like giving up, straighten your crown and know your value in Christ. Know that everything you do in Him will have a purpose for His glory, and your hands will become the work of His hands touching others’ lives. Now go be doers of Christ!

Noah Rollins

Bachelor of Science in Pastoral Ministry
Thomasburg, Ontario – Canada
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? Pauline Writings. Dr. Ensor does such a good job at walking through the Pauline letters and teaching us while also giving plenty of space for conversation and push back. I learned so much from this class.

Riley Roth

Bachelor of Science in Biology
Bixby, OK
What advice would you give future OKWU students? It is okay to fail. You will have tough times with school, friendships, or sports. The most important thing is how you respond. Just remember to put your trust in God.

Wilford Russell

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Dewey, OK
What advice I’d give future OKWU students: Even the road looks to be long, the journey is worth it. Never give up; once you are standing at the finish line and looking back at your journey, you will see excellence.

Ryan Schouweiler

Associate of Applied Science in Technical Programs
Bartlesville, OK
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? Literature of the Old/New Testament with Jonathan Ensor was a very engaging class that has expanded my understanding of Scripture. Intro to Physical Science was a very fun class, especially when Professor Turner plugged a pickle into the wall.
I enjoyed hanging out at Doc Lacy’s to do my homework as I listened to music and sipped coffee.

Skylar Solis-Modisette

Bachelor of Science in Marketing 
Broaddus, TX
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? My favorite class had to be Intro to Physical Science with Dr. T. I never really liked science, and he made science so much fun. My team also beat a boat record, so that was cool. The experience I am most grateful for is getting to meet new people. I came from a small town where everyone knew everyone. Coming here, I knew no one so it was nice to step out of my comfort zone.

J. Dylan Stowell

Bachelor of Science in Business Communications
Springfield, MO
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Don’t be afraid to get out of your shell. Be open to new opportunities, and most importantly trust in God’s plan.

Shakiaya Strong

Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education 
Houston, TX
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? My favorite class that I took at OKWU was Student Teaching. I learned so much about myself and my future career that I will use forever, and I and beyond blessed for that opportunity. An experience that I am most grateful for is my basketball experience at OKWU. Basketball has given me forever friends, and without it I don’t know where I would be.

Reagan Terral

Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science (Pre-Physical Therapy Option)
Claremore, OK
How did you grow the most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? Where I think that I grew most was my character. OKWU helped me to affirm who I was, and they fully accepted me for who I was. My favorite memories are playing ultimate frisbee or hanging out playing video games.

Emma Thomas

Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Bartlesville, OK
What advice would you give future OKWU students? You need to take advantage of every opportunity you can because this is such a unique part of your life with an amazing community

Maloree Thompson

Bachelor of Science in Nursing 
Pawhuska, OK
How did you grow the most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? Looking back on the two years I’ve been at OKWU, I can confidently say that I grew the most during the Covid shutdown. Between working as an Emergency Dept. Nurse and attending school, there was a significant amount of growth through those hard times. Some of my favorite memories during those times had to be the encouragement, love, and support from not only my family, but my nursing school family.

Katie Tuggle

Bachelor of Science in Pastoral & Youth Ministry 
Shreveport, LA
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? My favorite class that I have taken at OKWU would be Evangelism with Dr. Hosey. Not only did we have fun and learn valuable information for our future in ministry, but he genuinely cared for each of his students! The experience I am most grateful for at OKWU would be every moment I got to grow deeper in my faith and create friendships that have impacted my life for the better.

Parker Tumelson

Bachelor of Science in Mathematics 
Edmond, OK
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? Calculus 1. I met some of the best people in that class and made some memories I won’t ever forget.

Marjolen Nekesa Wafula

Bachelor of Science in Sports Management 
Nairobi, Kenya
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? Being far from home, OKWU has helped me grow as an individual in different ways, especially how to associate with people and live in a community with completely different cultures from our cultures. My favorite memory at OKWU was going to the national tournament my freshmen year with the soccer team. I’m grateful to be part of the women’s soccer team.

Isaac Wersland

Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies
Cle Elum, WA
How did you grow most during your time at OKWU? What’s a favorite memory of your time at OKWU? Being so far away from home, I grew the most in my ability to trust and rely on other people. There have been so many people who have helped me feel comfortable and successful just by willing to help, and I can’t thank those people enough.

Carol Wheeler

Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Overland Park, KS
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Tackle the program one course and one assignment at a time. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and let your instructor know when you are feeling overwhelmed. You will be pleasantly surprised at the response.

Patricia Whitson

Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management
Bartlesville, OK
What was a favorite class you took at OKWU and why? What experience are you most grateful for at OKWU? My favorite class was my very first class. It grouped me with other individuals with similar ideals and gave me the confidence to achieve my goals.

Daniel Wilson

Bachelor of Science in Mathematics 
Cleburne, TX
What advice would you give future OKWU students? Go to the events the school puts on. They’re a lot of fun, and a great way to make friends.