NEWS
NORMAN, OKLA. – Events celebrating the University of Oklahoma’s first day as a member of the Southeastern Conference drew thousands of attendees from across the nation.
“Our inaugural day in the SEC was one we’ll always remember, with the unity and enthusiasm of the OU Family on full display,” said OU President Joseph Harroz Jr. “Joining the SEC is more than just a milestone in our university’s history; it’s a bold step into a future full of potential and a testament to our dedication to excellence in all endeavors. Sooner Magic will shine even brighter in the SEC, inspiring countless more to experience the transformative impact of the University of Oklahoma.”
“Yesterday was a monumental day for our university, athletics department, sports programs, student-athletes and fans,” said OU Vice President and Director of Athletics Joe Castiglione. “We’ve awaited this moment for some time, and the celebration to mark our entry to the SEC didn’t disappoint. Thankfully, the celebrating doesn’t have to end. We’re gearing up for a year of ‘firsts’ and we can’t wait to show SEC Country what Oklahoma is all about. We’re headed for more – more competition, more pageantry, more tradition and more Sooner Magic. We’re thrilled to officially be members of the SEC, and we know the days, weeks, months and years ahead will set us up to achieve our grandest ambitions.”
An estimated 1,500 participated in a “Race to the SEC 5K Glow Run” held at 11 p.m. on June 30, followed by a full slate of celebration events, sponsored by Riverwind Casino, enjoyed by thousands of fans of all ages. Events included “Wake Up in the SEC” breakfasts in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, the athletics department's popular summer equipment sale, open houses at the Barry Switzer Center and Love's Field, SEC Network programming, and a free and family-friendly "Party In The Palace presented by motorola razr" inside Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium with live music, appearances from Harroz, Castiglione and SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey, as well as a drone show above Owen Field.
“We are grateful to everyone in the OU Family who joined us to celebrate this momentous occasion,” Harroz said. “You – your presence, pride, and dedication – are what make OU so special. As we begin this exciting journey, let’s embrace the opportunities ahead with the spirit and determination that define us. Together, we’ll shape a bright future, ensuring that the legacy of Sooner Magic continues to inspire and lead for generations to come.”
More information about the day’s events can be viewed at soonersports.com/sec.
About the University of Oklahoma
Founded in 1890, the University of Oklahoma is a public research university located in Norman, Oklahoma. As the state’s flagship university, OU serves the educational, cultural, economic and health care needs of the state, region and nation. OU was named the state’s highest-ranking university in U.S. News & World Report’s most recent Best Colleges list. For more information about the university, visit ou.edu.
The University of Oklahoma has received a transformative gift from Jon and Shannon McCartney, which will name the McCartney Family Tunnel of Champions, the McCartney Family Gate of the Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium and the McCartney Family Grand Lecture Hall in the Michael F. Price College of Business. The gift will also support the Inspiring Champions and the Athletic Director’s Discretionary Fund, in addition to establishing the McCartney DFW Career Trek program at Price College.
The University of Oklahoma today celebrated the opening of a new air traffic control tower at the OU Max Westheimer Airport. Standing 106 feet tall, more than double the current 52-foot facility, the new tower will modernize air traffic control operations and improve safety for pilots and students operating in the airspace.
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