Eastern Oklahoma State College sophomores Jack Runsick (second from left) and Geralyn Haney (third from left) were presented with the 2025 Larry Stone Award on May 2 by EOSC President Dr. Janet Wansick (left), and Athletic Director and Head Softball Coach Kendra Whisenhunt (right).
WILBURTON, Okla. – For the past 57 years, Eastern Oklahoma State College has honored the legacy of a former two-sport athlete and Marine lieutenant who died in combat while on patrol in Vietnam, the late Larry Stone of Jay, Okla.
Stone played football and baseball at Eastern in the early 1960s and was known for his selfless attitude and commitment to his team. It is this lasting impression that prompted a group of his former college teammates and classmates to honor his legacy by presenting the annual Larry Stone Award to one male and one female student-athlete who exemplifies the same characteristics. A memorial scholarship is also awarded to two student-athletes who will return to Eastern for their sophomore years.
Eastern sophomores Geralyn Haney and Jack Runsick were selected for the 2025 Larry Stone Award on the basis of their overall contributions to the spirit of athletics and their demonstration of teamwork, determination, unselfishness and citizenship. Melanie Richard and Jude Hill each received the Larry Stone Memorial Scholarship.
Haney is a softball player from Stuart, Okla. She graduated with a degree in mass communication and carried a 4.0 GPA during her time at Eastern. She was a vital contributor to the Lady Mountaineer softball team was named to the NJCAA Region 2 All-Region 2nd Team. Haney will continue her academic career at Southeastern Oklahoma State University next year.
“Geralyn Haney is the athlete that every coach wants on their team, the student that every professor wants in the classroom, and just an all-around great person,” said Head Softball Coach and Athletic Director Kendra Whisenhunt. “She has excelled in the classroom, graduating with a 4.0 in mass communication, and was named the Outstanding Graduate in that department. Athletically, Geralyn leads by example and is always putting the team first and steps up in big moments. She has shined in the outfield for us both years and is a reliable bat in the lineup. She embodies the characteristics of Larry Stone by her selfless dedication to her team and community.”
Runsick is a baseball player from Greenbrier, Ark. He graduated with a degree in general studies and earned a 3.94 GPA. Runsick was an important contributor in the Mountaineer lineup and was named to the NJCAA Region 2 All-Region 1st Team.
“Jack Runsick battled through injury his first year at Eastern.,” said Head Baseball Coach Dru Sebastian. “He came back to become a 1st team All-Region 2 performer while maintaining a 3.94 GPA heading into graduation. Jack demonstrated resiliency and mental fortitude during his time at Eastern as a leader on and off the field.”
Richard is a women’s soccer player from Union Ti Morne, Saint Lucia. She is majoring in psychology and sociology and earned a 3.7 GPA through her first year at Eastern.
“Melanie has been a true leader not only on the soccer field but in the classroom,” said Head Soccer Coach Jake Cottage. “She leads by example with her brilliant work ethic and positive attitude. Melanie will be a big player for us next season and we look forward to seeing her grow as a person and soccer player.”
Hill is a men’s basketball player from Oklahoma City. He is majoring in general studies and earned a 4.0 GPA through his first year at Eastern.
“Jude encapsulates what the Larry Stone award is all about,” said Head Men’s Basketball Coach Tim Miser. “Jude is always going to do what is right and do it to the best of his ability. He is a true leader by his example, not only on the court, but in the classroom and in the community. He is a joy to be around and is always trying to better those around him.”
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