OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (Sept. 24, 2024) — Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) welcomed more than 400 attendees to the second annual Rosewood Gala, presented by Herman and LaDonna Meinders, on Sept. 19.
The black-tie dinner and program was held in the OCCC Visual and Performing Arts Center atrium and featured a performance by Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Boney James. Comedian and vocalist Jammin Jay Lamont served as event emcee.
Proceeds from the event will support the initiatives of the Foundation for Oklahoma City Community College.
“At the Rosewood Gala, we celebrate excellence in education and the transformative power that education has on our city,” said Dr. Mautra Staley Jones, president of OCCC. “OCCC is committed to delivering promising and well-prepared graduates into our dynamic economy. Tonight’s event was a chance to recognize special members of the community who have helped support OCCC’s mission.”
There were 12 recipients of the 2024 Rosewood Awards.
The Herman and LaDonna Meinders Rosewood Champion Award was presented to T.C. and Christie Burgin. The Outstanding Award for Community was given to BancFirst. State Sen. Paul Rosino and Oklahoma City Councilman Matt Hinkle received a Distinguished Award for Leadership, and Devon Energy received a Community Champion Award.
Mo and Jacque Grotjohn Outstanding Commitment Awards were presented to Citizen Potawatomi Nation Chairman John “Rocky” Barrett, Mick Brannan, Max and Margi Harned, Gay and Larry Hellman, Sabih and Natalie Kalidy, Fred Mendoza, Andy Sherrer, and Reggie and Rachelle Whitten.
“The Foundation at Oklahoma City Community College assists students by funding scholarships, student assistance programs, and specific academic programs,” said Lesley Martin, executive director of the Foundation for OCCC. “We are deeply grateful to our sponsors and all of those who supported the second annual Rosewood Gala and continue to support OCCC with their generosity.”
Rosewood Gala sponsors included Presenting Sponsors Herman and LaDonna Meinders; Platinum Sponsors Ed and Barbara Krei; Gold Sponsor BancFirst; Silver Sponsors the Chickasaw Nation and White and Weddle PC; VIP Reception Sponsor Sallie Mae; Bronze Sponsors American Fidelity, Devon Energy, Express Employment Professionals, First United Bank, Inasmuch Foundation, Langston University, OG&E, Farzaneh Family Foundation, Regent Ana and Miguel Garcia, Trustee Kristen and state Rep. Jon Echols, and the Carsey Family Trust; Floral Sponsor Trustee Max and Margi Harned; Valet Sponsor Armstrong Bank; Program Sponsor HES Facilities Management; Wine Sponsor AT&T; Table Gift Sponsor Ogletree Deakins; and Day After Sponsor Scott Cleaners.
Oklahoma City Community College’s Rosewood Gala 2025 is planned for Sept. 18.
About Oklahoma City Community College
Since its inception in 1972, Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) has been the heartbeat of the Metro, dedicated to empowering learners and strengthening communities. Serving more than 18,000 students in credit-seeking courses and more than 5,000 students in non-credit-seeking programs, we are committed to producing leaders. “Student Success, Community Enrichment” is our mission, and we offer 87 degree and certificate programs plus more than 50 micro-credentials that provide a foundation for further education or immediate career readiness. We remain dedicated to providing accessible, affordable, high-quality education that equips students to achieve personal and professional goals. OCCC is more than an institution; we are a community catalyst, fostering growth and success in our city, our workforce, and the lives of our students. Discover your potential at OCCC, where your future is our purpose.
