OSU dedicates memorial to ‘Remember the 4’

Thursday, November 16, 2017

Family, friends and members of the Oklahoma State University community came together to dedicate a permanent memorial to honor the lives of former Cowgirl basketball coach Kurt Budke, assistant coach Miranda Serna and OSU supporters Olin and Paula Branstetter. 

“I am so pleased today we are honoring Coach Budke, Coach Serna and the Branstetters. Although they left us much too soon the lives they each lived made a lasting mark on Oklahoma State University,” said OSU President Burns Hargis. "I also want to give special recognition to Don Beck and his team at Beck Design and Jeff Claxton and the team at Naboltz Construction for donating their talents and resources to create such a beautiful and touching memorial. This is such special gift to the OSU family." 

The dedication took place just a day before the six-year anniversary of the Nov. 17, 2011 plane crash in northern Arkansas that killed Budke, Serna and the Branstetters.

“It's fitting that this memorial, in essence, will serve as a gateway to Gallagher-Iba Arena, a place that meant so much to all four of those we are remembering,” said Mike Holder, Vice President and Director of Athletic. 

The memorial is located on the northeast side of Gallagher-Iba Arena and features four forms arranged in a perfect square symbolizing the completion of four unique lives. The forms also include illuminated images of the individuals and each lighted panel features in memoriam script provided by their families.  

There are also stone benches alongside each of the four panels and an inward-looking space to allow for an area of quiet reflection.  

PHOTOS: https://www.flickr.com/photos/ostatenews/albums/72157689658529975