WILBURTON, Oklahoma – For the fifth consecutive year, donors set a new record for the amount of scholarship funds raised during Eastern Oklahoma State College’s annual Sapphire Ball. The college’s largest fundraising event raised $60,875 for the Sapphire Scholarship Fund at Eastern.
“Since its start in 2010, the Sapphire Ball has generated more than $420,000 in scholarship support for Eastern students,” said Dr. Cathy Cogburn, director of the Eastern Development Foundation. “That kind of impact reflects the incredible generosity of our community and their belief in the potential of our students. I’m sincerely grateful to everyone who attended, sponsored the event, donated auction items, or contributed in any way. Their support helps us continue opening doors and creating opportunities for students at Eastern.”
During the event, the 2025-2026 Sapphire Scholarship recipients were recognized, including Addison Brown, of Perkins, Okla.; Bailyn Hill, of Antlers, Okla.; Ashlyn Jackson, of Blanchard, Okla.; Laney McAlester, of Wilburton, Okla.; Cooper Plyler, of Hope, Ark.; Blake Sawyer, of DeQueen, Ark.; Dawson Smith, of Claremore, Okla.; Hailey Steele, of Morris, Okla.; Claire Walden, of Smithville, Okla.; Gracie Ward, of Indianola, Okla.; and Lily Warnock, of Sallisaw, Okla.
The college also presented awards for outstanding alumni, community supporters and employees. This year’s Distinguished Alumni were Claude Bess, Shauna Williams and Sterling Zearley. In addition, the Oklahoma Miner Training Institute received the President’s Community Spirit Award, Dr. Julie Collins received the President’s Excellence in Teaching Award, and Maria Martinez was recognized with the J.C. Hunt Award for Staff Excellence.
A total of 24 corporate, organization and individual donors contributed to the success of the event as event sponsors and fund donors, while more than 80 businesses and individuals donated items for the live and online auctions.
PHOTO: Eastern Oklahoma State College President Dr. Randy Harp (left) presents the 2026 Sapphire Ball honorees with their awards. The Oklahoma Miner Training Institute, represented by Director Michael Reed, received the President’s Community Spirit Award. Dr. Julie Collins received the President’s Excellence in Teaching Award. Sterling Zearley received the Distinguished Alumnus Award. Maria Martinez received the J.C. Hunt Award for Staff Excellence. Shauna Williams and Claude Bess also received the Distinguished Alumnus Award.
Get Local News!
