Four College of Education and Human Sciences students selected as OSU Seniors of Significance

Wednesday, November 30, 2022

Media Contact: Kirsi McDowell | Senior Communications Specialist | 405-744-9347 | kirsi@okstate.edu

Four College of Education and Human Sciences students have been selected as Oklahoma State University Seniors of Significance for the 2022-2023 academic year by the OSU Alumni Association. These four students are among the top one percent of the 2023 graduating class. 

The Seniors of Significance Award recognizes students who have excelled in scholarship, leadership and service to campus and community and have brought distinction to OSU. For the students, this award holds even more meaning in their personal lives. 

“Being a Senior of Significance is the cherry on top of a long and rewarding journey through this chapter in life,” said MacKenzie Jones, human development and family science student. “Through all of the difficult assignments and challenging field placements, I have at times wondered if I was on the right path or if I was truly utilizing all of the resources in front of me, but this award confirms that I was.”

This sentiment rings true for all four Seniors of Significance who are, in one way or another, marking the end of one journey before embarking on the next. 

“As I approach my last few weeks as an undergraduate student at OSU, it is so important to cherish all that Stillwater has given me in the last three and a half years. This town has provided opportunities of a lifetime, worthwhile relationships and the ability to build a successful future for myself,” said Cali Fletcher, an applied exercise science major. “I am so honored to be recognized for the time and dedication I have applied toward my education and I’m thrilled for what’s to come.”

Jessica Cortez, who is also a human development and family science student, said this award embodies all of the hard work that has gone into earning her undergraduate degree.

“It's a great honor to showcase all of my accomplishments as a Hispanic/Latinx woman who is a first-generation college graduate,” Cortez said.

Cortez credits much of her success to the support provided by her friends, family and university staff, including former Coordinator of Hispanic/Latinx Affairs Rey Maruffo.

“By distinguishing and selecting students who have made an impact on campus, future students are inspired to continue working hard and carry on with their education in a meaningful way,” said Garrin Williams, human development and family science student. “Being named a Senior of Significance is a recognition of living out the Cowboy Code. Students are recognized for their accomplishments and it showcases to alumni the passion of current students and the differences that are being made by the campus community.”

The College of Education and Human Sciences Seniors of Significance are listed below with their hometown and major:

Jessica Cortez — human development and family science — Tulsa

Calissa Marie Fletcher— applied exercise science — Frisco, Texas

MacKenzie Jones — human development and family science — Orlando, Florida

Garrin Williams — human development and family science — Manhattan, Kansas