WILBURTON, Oklahoma – For the fourth consecutive year, donors set a new record for the amount of scholarship funds raised during Eastern Oklahoma State College’s annual Sapphire Ball. The college’s largest fundraising event raised $51,456.23 for the Sapphire Scholarship Fund at Eastern.

“The Sapphire Ball has raised more than $360,000 in student scholarship funds since it began in 2010,” said Eastern President Dr. Janet Wansick. “This tremendous achievement speaks volumes about our community's dedication to empowering our students. I extend my deepest gratitude to all those who attended the Sapphire Ball, sponsored the event, donated an item to the auction, or made a financial contribution in any way. Together, we're not just raising funds, we're changing lives at Eastern.”

During the event, the 2024-2025 Sapphire Scholarship recipients were recognized, including Noah Benjamin of McAlester, Okla.; Maebrey Wallace of Allen; Jacy Browne of Wilburton; Caden Goodson of Atoka; Dristan Harber of Wilburton; Alexis Watts of McAlester; Jessica Gilliam of McAlester; Landon Lynchof of Coalgate; Tristan Weaver of Stigler; Mikayla Pierce of Talihina; Kassandra Rector of Wilburton and Geena Beall of Livermore, Calif.

The college also presented awards for outstanding alumni, community supporters and employees. This year’s Distinguished Alumni included Lucy Muller and Justin Kennedy. In addition, the Fugitt Foundation received the President’s Community Spirit Award, Dr. Cathy Cogburn received the President’s Excellence in Teaching Award, and Patricia Rector was recognized with the J.C. Hunt Award for Staff Excellence.

A total of 35 corporate, organization and individual donors contributed to the success of the event as event sponsors and fund donors, while another 64 businesses and individuals donated items for the live and online auctions.