May 24, 2024
SWOSU Press Release
The Reach Higher degree-finishing program at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) awarded over $59,000 in scholarships to 20 SWOSU students during the 2023-2024 academic year, including the 2024 summer semester. Over $54,000 came from a Finish Line scholarship funded by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. The remaining $5,000 came from Reach Higher Scholarships funded by the SWOSU Foundation.
The following students received scholarships:
Leanne Hileman—Altus
Rhonda Bennett—Anadarko
Laurie Crawford—El Reno
Kenneth Wilkins—Elk City
Erin Wagner—Harrah
Jamie Mundt—Hammon
Carley Carney—Hydro
Diana Juarez—Oklahoma City
Amelia Maxwell—Oklahoma City
Carly Nguyen—Oklahoma City
Jessika Johnstone Miller—Ponca City
Joshua Gossman—Moore
Brad Jones—Mustang
Michael Dropps—Mustang
Bobbi Jo Rowland—Piedmont
Kimbra Thomas—Weatherford
Michael Nguyen—Weatherford
Marissa Llamas—Wichita
Christopher Hurtt—Yukon
Josh Knight—Yukon
The Finish Line scholarship program provides funds for state system colleges and universities participating in the Reach Higher adult degree completion programs, targeting scholarships for adult students nearing degree completion. Reach Higher Flex Finish is designed for adults that have successfully completed some college coursework but have not yet finished a degree. The program results in a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Leadership with a focus in one of four areas: business, education, psychology, or technology.
“This program has already made a big impact that has been noticed at work and reflected positively in my recent yearly evaluation,” stated Leanne Hileman. “It is also helping me start up the small business my family has encouraged me to start once I finally finish school. This program and degree will help me to become not only a better leader but a better person for my family.”
Not completing a degree the first time was a major disappointment for Brad Jones. “I was disappointed in myself and had a sense of unfulfillment in not completing a degree,” he expressed. “I’m gaining confidence in the skills I am learning in the courses and, hopefully, will earn a promotion in my workplace. I’m going to be able to show my son what can be accomplished with patience, perseverance, and hard work.”
Dr. Todd Wiggen, Coordinator of SWOSU’s Organizational Leadership program, said that the Reach Higher adult-friendly degree completion options through the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education encourage adults who have earned some college credit to complete their degrees successfully. “This program really works for those adults who, for whatever reason, did not finish their degree the first time around. We offer flexible enrollment and online coursework. Students can set their own pace in completing their degree,” Wiggen said.
As the program coordinator and advisor, Wiggen provides personalized advising to ensure students finish in the most efficient way possible. In addition, the Reach Higher program is projected to have even greater scholarship funding for the 2024-2025 academic year. “I fully expect to be able to provide many more scholarships for both existing and new students in the program,” stated Wiggen.
The Reach Higher/Organizational Leadership program is currently accepting students for the 2024 fall semester at SWOSU. A Reconnect event on June 15 at the Stafford Air & Space Museum, providing an opportunity to speak with Reach Higher graduates, admissions personnel, and advisors. Additional information is available by contacting Wiggen at todd.wiggen@swosu.edu or at leadership@swosu.edu.
Copyright 2024 Paragon Communications. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission.
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