WILBURTON, Oklahoma – Eastern Oklahoma State College sophomore Geralyn Haney was recently selected to represent the college at the George and Donna Nigh Leadership Academy in Oklahoma City.

“Over the last four days, the places I visited, the people I met, and the conversations I had reminded me of the goodness and potential within Oklahoma,” Haney said. “Witnessing all that we, as Oklahomans, have overcome through this program pushed me to reflect on the true meaning of the Oklahoma Standard.”

Every year, each participating higher education institution in Oklahoma selects one student representative to attend the academy and receive the $1,000 George and Donna Nigh Public Service Scholarship. Recipients are selected based on academics, leadership qualities and community involvement.

Haney, along with the other participants, visited the First Americans Museum, the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, the Oklahoma State Capitol, and several other iconic Oklahoma sites. She also volunteered at the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma.

“As I left the conference, I felt a deep sense of pride, knowing that I, too, could make a difference in this incredible state, just as Governor Nigh did,” Haney said. “His servant leadership and volunteerism are incredibly inspiring, and I strive to follow in his footsteps by staying true to my morals and living the life that the Lord has planned for me.”

Upon graduating from EOSC in May 2025, Haney plans to transfer to Southeastern Oklahoma State University to pursue a bachelor's degree in political science. She also plans to pursue and obtain a master's degree in education policy, with the intention of someday running for public office and advocating for improvements in the Oklahoma educational system.

George Nigh, an EOSC alumnus, served as the governor of Oklahoma from 1979-1987. The Oklahoma State Legislature established the George and Donna Nigh Public Service Scholarship in 1999.