Three people are working together in a garden, holding bags filled with green plants or weeds. The person on the left wears an orange shirt that says 'INTO THE STREETS,' the person in the middle wears a white shirt with colorful text that says 'GO GREEK GO VOTE,' and the person on the right wears a gray shirt and gloves.

OSU’s ‘State of Orange: A Day of Cowboy Service’ named Outstanding Service Project of the Year by ACUI

Wednesday, May 21, 2025

Media Contact: Katie Maltbie | Communications Specialist, Campus Life | 972-922-3503 | katie.a.rose@okstate.edu

Oklahoma State University's far-reaching community engagement and service initiative, “State of Orange: A Day of Cowboy Service,” has been awarded the Outstanding Service Project of the Year by the Association of College Unions International.

The ACUI Outstanding Service Project of the Year recognizes an exceptional campus program that has significantly contributed to its community through service projects and a commitment to helping others. It recognizes a campus for its dedication to being a leader in supporting community needs.

“Receiving the ACUI Outstanding Service Project of the Year Award for State of Orange is a tremendous honor,” said Haley Osiek, OSU Student Volunteer Center coordinator. “This recognition reflects our university's deep commitment to service and the spirit of collaboration that drives meaningful change.”

This accolade underscores OSU's dedication to fostering the Ideal Graduate competency of engaged citizenship and service to communities through impactful initiatives like the State of Orange.

State of Orange, held on April 13, 2024, was a collaborative effort between OSU, OSU Student Volunteer Center, OSU Alumni Association, OSU Extension, OSU System institutions and Into the Streets, a semiannual day of meaningful service designed to give back to the Stillwater community. Together, they organized service opportunities throughout the state and nation for participants.

“State of Orange was a wonderful opportunity for us to connect alumni with OSU students and employees across Oklahoma and beyond for a singular day of service,” said Chase Carter, OSU Alumni Association senior director of marketing. “Not only were we able to support the many communities where Cowboys reside but also connect multiple generations of OSU alumni and students — all in the spirit of giving back.”

More than 3,500 students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members across Oklahoma and the country dedicated an estimated 14,000 volunteer hours during this single day, embodying the spirit of service and making a tangible difference in numerous communities while truly living out the principles of what it means to be an OSU Cowboy.

Visit the Student Volunteer Center webpage to learn more about opportunities to get involved and serve your community.