SW Oklahoma News

Western sophomore Star Sims recently attended the 2023 Nigh Leadership Academy as a Nigh Scholar at the University of Central Oklahoma.

“I am so honored to have been selected as Western Oklahoma State College’s representative at the Governor George and Donna Nigh Leadership Academy. Over the course of the academy, I gained so much knowledge about leadership, Oklahoma, and so many friendships! This experience has allowed me to venture into different avenues of leadership, Oklahoma history, and so many opportunities to further my education and I am so thankful and blessed. If you’re ever looking for a family that supports your growth, Western is the place,” said Sims. 

One particular quote that stuck out to Sims was, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

 “We can do anything, no matter where you are from or where you currently are. I believe being a leader means having integrity, empathy, and the courage to disciple and guide others while always continuing to learn and knowing when to ask for help,” said Sims. 

Former Gov. Frank Keating established the George and Donna Nigh Public Service Scholarship in 1999. The purpose is to allow each of the two and four-year higher educational institutions to select and honor one student each year as a Nigh Scholar. Each student selected receive a one-time $1,000 Leadership Scholarship. The academy provides students with opportunities to increase both leadership and personal skills. The students heard from many powerful speakers and visited both the Oklahoma Memorial and the First Americans Museum. The Nigh Leadership Academy is supported by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, which contracts with the Nigh Academy for implementation. During the history of the academy, more than 600 students have been awarded the title of Nigh Scholar.

Original source can be found here