Pollard named 2014 CASNR Distinguished Alumni
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
The Oklahoma State University College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources recently named Dr. Barry Pollard a 2014 CASNR Distinguished Alumni.
Pollard, Waukomis, Oklahoma, graduated from OSU with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry in 1973 before earning his doctorate of medicine in 1977 from the University of Oklahoma. For more than three decades, Pollard has been a neurosurgeon in Enid, Oklahoma, where his practice is based.
“Barry demonstrates exceptional support for the quality of life of the citizens of Oklahoma through, not only his medical practice, but also his support of students who desire to provide healthcare to rural communities,” said Tom Coon, vice president, dean and director of the Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.
In 2007, he created the OSU Medical Cowboys Scholarship program, which is designed to promote OSU as the first choice for undergraduate students who strive to pursue a career in medicine.
“This demonstrates Dr. Pollard not only provides healthcare leadership in the community he serves, but he supports measures designed to secure healthcare in rural communities well into the future,” said John Gustafson, biochemistry and molecular biology department head.
Pollard also owns P&K Equipment, the largest John Deere dealership in Oklahoma. Since purchasing his first dealership in 1983, the company now has 10 dealerships in Oklahoma, and nine dealerships in Iowa, which are known as P&K Midwest.
“Chances are, you or a family you know is served by P&K equipment,” said Coon. “Barry is adding value to Oklahoma agriculture through his businesses and creates relationships in every community where he has a presence.”
In addition to his medical practice and P&K dealerships, Pollard owns and operates Pollard Farms, where he farms 6,000 acres and has a registered Angus cattle herd.
Pollard and his wife, Roxanne, have five children and five grandchildren. He is on the OSU Foundation Board of Governors and was the past Chairman of the OSU Foundation Board of Trustees.
Friends and colleagues are invited to attend a reception for Pollard on Oct. 24 at 1:30 p.m. on the 3rd Floor Atrium of the Noble Research Center on OSU’s campus.