OSU Non-Traditional students prepare for the Holidays

Thursday, November 12, 2015

The Oklahoma State University Non-Traditional Student Organization is kicking off the holiday season a little early this year. With December quickly approaching, the season of giving is almost here providing the community an opportunity to give to those children who might not otherwise receive this holiday season. 

The Cowboy Angel Tree, sponsored by NTSO, hosts the annual kick-off event at 11:45 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 17 in the Campus Life lounge, located on the second floor of the Student Union. Guests will have the first opportunity to view and adopt an angel from the tree. Pistol Pete and at least one member of Pete’s Pet Posse will also assist with the festivities.

Last year, more than 330 children were able to receive gifts thanks to the generous OSU community. Many of these children would not have received a gift for the holidays without the help of NTSO’s Cowboy Angel Tree program.

“The Student Union is honored to play a role in this long-standing spirit of giving tradition,” said Mitch Kilcrease, Student Union director. “This program is made possible with the concerted efforts of many different Student Union departments and brings the community together in the true essence of the holiday season.”

This year, many agencies in the community have submitted candidates for the Cowboy Angel Tree program. These children become “angels” on the tree featuring a gift wish list that specifies the child’s age, gender and size. Anyone is welcome to adopt an angel and return the unwrapped gifts from the wish list by Tuesday, Dec. 1 at 5 p.m. to 211 Student Union.

The giving of money donations or gift cards is also welcome in place of adopting an angel. To make a donation please contact Marie Basler at marie.basler@okstate.edu.

As a university-recognized organization, the Non-Traditional Student Organization’s members are those who have had at least a two-year break in education.  For more information about being a non-traditional student and the services provided to these students, visit campuslife.okstate.edu/non-traditional-student-services.