Meadows named 2024 Mr. OSU

Wednesday, April 10, 2024

Media Contact: Jordan Bishop | Editor, Department of Brand Management | 405-744-7193 | jordan.bishop@okstate.edu

Dustin Meadows, a sophomore studying physiology pre-med, won the title of Mr. Oklahoma State University 2024 on April 1.

The pageant, in its third year, took place in the Student Union Theater. 

Originating from Paradise, Texas, Meadows' journey to the pageant began when recruiters visited his fraternity, FarmHouse. Intrigued by the promise of a free haircut for participation, he decided to take a shot at the title.

“That was the main entryway,” Meadows said. “Then I began to learn more about it. The winner got a $500 scholarship and a free custom suit, so it became more appealing.”

Meadows focused his platform on increasing Special Olympics volunteer participation. His inspiration to promote the program came from his experience as part of the Best Buddies program at OSU. As a Best Buddies member, he regularly meets with individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities at the Wes Watkins Center.

“Just about every time I talk with them, they ask me to go to the Special Olympics,” Meadows said. “It’s really heartwarming to be able to create a relationship with someone who usually wouldn’t be able to. It’s a unique thing, and I’ve always done things involving it. In high school, after our regular baseball season, we would have a Special Olympics game after. These things inspired me to make it my platform for the competition.”

Meadows found being outgoing to be one of the most challenging parts of the competition. He mentioned that he is generally outgoing but had to ramp it up for the pageant, which was difficult. During his talent performance, he played the banjo, something he had done before in front of a crowd of 15,000 people. Although well-prepared, putting all the pieces together was a new experience for him.

When his name was called as the winner, Meadows said he was surprised. 

“It felt really good,” Meadows said. “It felt worth the time I put in. But I heard the people’s choice award and second place weren’t me. Then they called my name, and I was quite shocked and thankful.”

As Mr. OSU, Meadows is ready to make a difference in the community with his platform. 

“Just like any other platform, it makes you a more credible source and allows you to advocate and spread awareness for whatever you desire,” Meadows said. “Wherever I go, like to the events I’m going to, I get to speak about things I’m passionate about, and ultimately spread awareness and cause change from person to person.”

Story By: Mak Vandruff | makenzie.vandruff@okstate.edu