August 29, 2024
SWOSU Press Release
Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has achieved significant recognition from Niche’s 2025 rankings, earning top spots across multiple categories. SWOSU has been named the #3 safest college campus in Oklahoma, reflecting the university’s strong commitment to providing a secure and supportive environment for its students, faculty, and staff.
In addition to its safety ranking, SWOSU was also rated #3 in the 2025 Best Value Colleges in Oklahoma and #3 in the 2025 Top Public Universities in Oklahoma. These rankings highlight SWOSU’s dedication to offering an affordable, high-quality education that meets the needs of its students and the broader community. Notably, SWOSU holds the distinction of being the highest-ranked school in the Regional University System of Oklahoma (RUSO) in these two categories.
Niche, a leading platform known for its in-depth profiles, reviews, and ratings of schools and colleges, bases its rankings on a comprehensive analysis of various factors, including campus safety, affordability, academic quality, and student satisfaction. With over 140 million reviews and ratings, Niche is a trusted resource for families and students seeking the best educational institutions. SWOSU’s strong performance across these categories demonstrates the university’s balanced approach to delivering a well-rounded educational experience.
For more information about SWOSU’s rankings, visit https://www.niche.com/colleges/southwestern-oklahoma-state-university/rankings/.
About Southwestern Oklahoma State University
Since 1901, Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has proudly stood on the hilltop in Weatherford, Oklahoma. Offering over 100 affordable undergraduate and graduate programs across three locations in Weatherford, Sayre, and Yukon, SWOSU provides a diverse range of academic opportunities with high-quality education to its students. The university boasts a vibrant community of over 5,000 scholars and over 200 dedicated faculty and staff. With strong academic programs and a commitment to excellence, SWOSU continues to be a top choice for students seeking a quality education.
Copyright 2024 Paragon Communications. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission.
Elk City Woman Arrested in Oregon After Fleeing with Child in Custody Dispute
Sept. 18, 2024 More details released regarding the arrest of an Elk City woman who allegedly absconded with her child despite not having legal custody.
Early Morning Fire At Elk City Motorsports Business, Equipment Failure Suspected
Sept. 18, 2024 A fire broke out early Wednesday morning at a motorsports business in Elk City, located in the 700 block of South Main. The blaze started just after 6 a.m. and is believed to have
Black Vultures Spotted in Beckham and Washita Counties: Farmers Urged to Follow Laws When Protecting Livestock
Sept. 16, 2024 Farmers in Beckham and Washita counties are raising concerns over an increase in sightings of black vultures, particularly during the ongoing fall calving season. These birds are known to prey on newborn calves that
2024 SWOSU Homecoming Set for October 26
Sept. 16, 2024 SWOSU Press Release The 2024 Homecoming at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) is set for the week of October 26.
Lightning Sparks Grass Fire in Black Kettle National Grassland
Sept. 16, 2024 A grass fire ignited by a lightning strike burned roughly 200 acres Saturday night in the Black Kettle National Grassland, located 3 miles east of Reydon in Roger Mills County. Fortunately, no structures were
Fatal Crash Near Elk City Claims Life of Granite Man
Sept. 13, 2024 A late-night crash on Thursday claimed the life of a Granite man following a collision between a semi-truck and a car just south of Elk City.
Two Arrested Following Death of Two-Year-Old Child
Sept. 12, 2024 OSBI Press Release Two Cordell residents were arrested after felony murder warrants were issued on September 11. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) announced the arrests following an investigation into the death of
Elk City Man Arrested for Illegal Firearm Possession After Felony Conviction
Sept. 12, 2024 An Elk City man is being held in the Beckham County Detention Center after being charged with possession of a firearm following a felony conviction.
CASA Volunteer Training Begins February 17, 2025
Sept. 12, 2024 CASA Press Release CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteers are concerned citizens who are trained to be the eyes and ears of the juvenile court judge. These everyday heroes interview the children, their families
Great Plains Regional Medical Center Victim of Ransomware Attack
Sept. 12, 2024 It has been reported that Great Plains Regional Medical Center in Elk City is the victim of a ransomware attack, which has locked the hospital’s computer system and is demanding payment for its release.
William R. Morris Scholarship Endowment Established at SWOSU
Sept. 11, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has announced the receipt of a major gift from William and Gail Morris of Wichita (KS).
High-Speed Chase in Oklahoma Uncovers Human Trafficking Scheme, Suspects Arrested
Sept. 11, 2024 More details have been revealed about the high-speed chase in western Oklahoma back in August, which uncovered a possible human trafficking case.
Child Safely Recovered in Oregon After Parent Violates Custody Agreement, Thanks to Multi-State Law Enforcement Efforts
Sept. 10, 2024 In a complex case that spanned across the country, the Beckham County Sheriff’s Office were called upon by the Department of Human Services (DHS) to assist in locating a parent who had absconded with
Endangered Missing Advisory Issued for Diabetic Man Last Seen in Weatherford
Sept. 10, 2024 An Endangered Missing Advisory has been issued for 56-year-old Lanny Dean Wineberger, who was last seen on August 27 in Weatherford.
Fatal Single-Vehicle Crash Claims Life of Oklahoma City Man in Wheeler County
Sept. 9, 2024 A tragic single-vehicle crash claimed the life of 76-year-old Willie Curry of Oklahoma City on Friday afternoon. The crash occurred at approximately 3:41 p.m. on State Spur 556/Business I-40, roughly 1.6 miles west of
SWOSU Names 2024-25 Dr. Gerry & Phyllis Church Scholars
Sept. 9, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has named Danni Sottile of Elk City, Oklahoma and Justin Childress of Tulsa, Oklahoma as the Dr. Gerry & Phyllis Church Scholars for Academic Year 2024-2025.
Troy Lee Named 2024 Clinton Citizen of the Year at Annual Chamber Banquet
Sept. 9, 2024 The Clinton Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual banquet last week, celebrating the contributions of community members across various sectors. The highlight of the evening was the recognition of Troy Lee as the 2024
Local Schools Preparing to Save Lives
Sept. 6, 2024 SWODA Press Release Did you know… Drug-related deaths claimed 107,941 American lives in 2022, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Fentanyl and other synthetic opioids are responsible for approximately 70%
Mercy Clinic Oklahoma Provides Major Sponsorship to SWOSU
Sept. 6, 2024 SWOSU Press Release Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has announced a major sponsorship from Mercy Clinic Oklahoma Communities, the university’s Official Sports Medicine Provider.
Smithsonian Exhibit on American Democracy Debuts in Cheyenne This Weekend
Sept. 5, 2024 A new exhibit from the Smithsonian National Museum of American History will debut in Cheyenne this weekend. The traveling exhibit is part of the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street Program.
Medal of Honor Recipient and Merritt Graduate to Be Inducted into Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame
Sept. 5, 2024 Army Master Sergeant Earl D. Plumlee, a 2021 Medal of Honor recipient and Merritt graduate, will be inducted into the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame on October 26 at the Embassy Suites, located at
MA+ Architecture is Official 2024 SWOSU Homecoming Sponsor
Sept. 4, 2024 SWOSU Press Release The 2024 Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) Homecoming festivities are slated for the week of October 26.
Weatherford Police Arrest Suspect in String of Burglaries
Sept. 4, 2024 A homeless man was arrested on charges of first-degree burglary following an investigation into a series of break-ins at a local trailer park in Weatherford. The incidents, which began on August 7th, led officers
UPDATE: Feed Provider Issues Statement
Sept. 3, 2024 The Beutler and Son Rodeo Co., a respected provider of rodeo livestock for over 90 years, recently faced a heartbreaking tragedy, losing nearly 70 bucking horses in the last two weeks. The cause has
Missing Altus Couple Located in South Texas
Sept. 3, 2024 Police have located an Altus woman and her husband, who went missing last month, in Texas.