Oklahoma Gov. Raymond D. Gary stood to ensure that the doors of education were opened to all students, regardless of race.

 

Gov. Raymond Gary was a practical, yet visionary man whose service to the state was distinguished by the belief that government had an important role to play in society.  There were limits, to be sure, but he believed that efficient government could provide for the well-being of its citizens.  His leadership to integrate Oklahoma’s schools, colleges and universities helped ensure that the young people of Oklahoma would have opportunities to be better, both personally and collectively.

 

That is what OU’s scholarship campaign is about, too, and the College of Arts and Sciences’ Second Century Scholarship campaign is investing in the future by ensuring open doors to students who need a little encouragement and financial support.  Endowed scholarships honoring Gov. Raymond Gary in African and African-American Studies remind us not only of what we have been, but what we can be.

 

We invite you to make your tax deductible contribution to the University of Oklahoma Foundation through its secure Web site.

 

Photo courtesy of OU Carl Albert Center Congressional Archives.