Cleo L. Craig Child Development Lab Centennial recognized during OSU football game

Tuesday, September 24, 2024

Media Contact: Christy Lang | Director, Marketing and Communications | 405-744-9740 | christy.lang@okstate.edu

On Saturday, Sept. 21, the Oklahoma State University College of Education and Human Sciences celebrated the Centennial of the Cleo L. Craig Child Development Lab during a special on-field recognition at the OSU-Utah football game.

Established in 1924, the CDL is the second-oldest continuously operating lab school on a college campus. In 2006, the lab was renamed after a generous gift from the Cleo L. Craig Foundation.

The CDL serves as a learning and research lab for OSU faculty and students, including future early childhood educators. It also offers a quality educational experience for children from 12 months through 6 years of age. 

Prior to the football game, the college hosted its annual alumni tailgate, where guests had the opportunity to tour the CDL, located in the Nancy Randolph Davis West building on campus. 

The on-field recognition reflected the CDL's past, present and future. CEHS Dean Jon Pedersen and CDL Director Sandy Major were joined by April Stobbe and Helen Craig, representatives from the Cleo L. Craig Foundation, and current CDL teachers Crystal McInturff, Jamie Jennings and Sarah Johnson.

Clara Robinson, Aras Mirchi and Hesston Atkinson, who currently attend the CDL, also joined the celebration. The bookend to the group included 95-year-old Bob Ware, who attended the CDL as a young child in the 1930s. Ware’s mother, Girdie, was one of the first teachers at the CDL. Bob and his son, Bryan, traveled to Stillwater from out of state to be part of the festivities. 

“The Cleo L. Craig Child Development Lab is truly a gem in our college and on the OSU campus. The important work of educating young children and serving local families, while providing a learning and research lab for OSU students and faculty, reflects our land-grant mission,” Dr. Pedersen said.

Major has enjoyed reflecting on the CDL’s first century while preparing for the next one. 

“It is exciting to look back on both the history and transformation of early childhood education over the last 100 years. It is also an honor to be part of the next 100 years by continuing to provide a high-quality program that enriches the lives of children and families,” Major said.

To find out how you can make a gift to leave your mark on the CDL’s 100th anniversary, visit OSUgiving.com or contact Sheri Carter at scarter@osugiving.com or 405-612-9637.

Story By: Jillian Walker | jillian.walker@okstate.edu