Jabar Shumate
Class of 1998, B.A. in Public Administration;
Member of the Oklahoma State House of Representatives - District 73
Q. How did you choose Public Administration for your major?
A. From the age of 6, I knew that I wanted to be a politician. My mother tells stories about me trying to run for Usher Board President at that age. I believe public servants must first be honest; secondly, politicians must understand public policy so that they aren’t abused by lobbyists or governmental staff.
Q. What was your biggest academic challenge while at OU? How did you overcome it?
A. Understanding that I couldn’t fix everything at OU and still graduate within my parents’ deadline of four years. OU was where I experienced the hard lessons of “balance.” However, those hard lessons have been the foundation of my success today.
Q. What was your favorite class at OU?
A. Political Science 1113, taught by OU President David Boren. He brought government to life with real stories. Also, his class was where he got a lot of ideas about changes needed at the university, so it was like being in a bull session about how to make OU better.
Q. Who was your favorite OU professor?
A. OU President Boren (wonder why?). President Boren has always brought the best out in me by realizing my full potential. He has been my best supporter and in many ways a true gift from God. My life would be much different without his guidance and support.
Q. What are some study techniques, campus resources, or other factors that helped you graduate?
A. Project Threshold advised me and helped me to develop a four year plan for graduation. In addition, I stayed extremely connected to the Center for Student Life and took every opportunity that came my way from the Student Affairs Family. I really feel that OU has a wealth of people who care BUT YOU MUST LET THEM KNOW YOU EXIST!!!!
Q. What organizations were you involved in at OU?
A. UOSA (serving as the first Couch Center President (1994-95), UOSA Vice-President (96-97), and UOSA President (97-98); Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity (Zeta Omega Chapter); and the Black Student Association
Q. How did your degree help you achieve your goals?
A. My degree has helped, but my real education came from the experiences outside of the classroom. A degree validates you but experiences shape you and I would match what I have learned and experienced against just about anybody!
Q. As a State Representative, what is your favorite aspect of your current job?
A. Being able to help people. When my constituents call, I am usually their last resort. I am blessed to be able to solve problems instead of being the one that creates them!
Q. What are your future goals?
A. I believe that we are all originals. We have been sent to this Earth for such a time as this. I can’t wait to truly discover what God sent me here to do and I look forward everyday to understanding that.
Q. What one piece of advice can you offer students seeking to graduate in four years?
A. Understand Balance! Study, Play, and Serve equally.