OSU to celebrate 75th anniversary of Nancy Randolph Davis’ enrollment

Tuesday, January 30, 2024

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

A pioneer who broke racial barriers at Oklahoma State University, Nancy Randolph Davis will be honored on the 75th anniversary of her historic enrollment.

The campus community is invited to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Davis’ enrollment as the first Black student at OSU during a celebration on Feb. 29. Hosted by OSU’s College of Education and Human Sciences and the Division of Access and Community Impact, the event will take place at 9 a.m. in the Student Union Ballroom.

In 1949, the young home economics teacher from Spencer, Oklahoma, began pursuing a master’s degree at what was then Oklahoma A&M College. 

Davis faced many challenges along the way but remained steadfast and preserved. Davis spent summers taking classes at OSU while continuing to teach, and completed her master's degree in 1952. She went on to have a storied 43-year career as an educator, shaping the lives of thousands of Oklahoma students.

OSU will honor Davis' courage and determination with an event titled "Inspired Leadership for Engaged Citizenship." Nancy’s son, Calvin Davis, will deliver a keynote address focused on the life lessons his mother taught him about leadership. Now a district director for the U.S. Small Business Administration, the younger Davis aims to inspire today's students to follow in his mother's footsteps as engaged citizens. 

In recognition of the 75th anniversary of Davis’ enrollment at OSU, and to honor her legacy at OSU, the university has unveiled the 75 for 75 capital campaign. Calvin and his wife, Renee, stepped forward to initiate the campaign with the generous pledge of  $25,000 matching gift for every new gift given toward the existing $25,000 endowment. Gifts will support student scholarships in Nancy Randolph Davis' name, benefiting OSU students for generations to come. Individuals can also make a tax-deductible gift to support this effort to amplify the impact and legacy of Ms. Davis.

Please RSVP if you're interested in attending the Nancy Randolph Davis 75th anniversary commemoration.

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