The 2025 honorees include Lucy Muller and Justin Kennedy, recipients of the Distinguished Alumnus Award; The Fugitt Family Foundation, honored with the President’s Community Spirit Award; Dr. Cathy Cogburn, who will receive the President’s Excellence in Teaching Award; and Patricia Rector, recognized with the J.C. Hunt Award for Staff Excellence.
“The Sapphire Ball is a celebration of the exceptional people who have shaped our community and our college,” said Dr. Janet Wansick, EOSC president. “Their continued support helps ensure Eastern students have the financial resources they need to succeed. We are incredibly grateful to our donors, alumni and community partners for their generosity.”
Muller, a 2005 graduate of Eastern, transitioned from theatre education to a career in healthcare. As the executive director of human resources at McAlester Regional Health Center, she has been instrumental in promoting employee wellness and engagement. Muller is a passionate advocate for rural healthcare and has been recognized with several awards, including the Oklahoma Rural Health Advocate of the Year Award.
Kennedy, a 2007 graduate of Eastern, is a visionary leader in education and auctioneering. After serving as superintendent of Buffalo Valley School, he became the director of Kiamichi Tech’s Talihina Campus and later founded the Oklahoma Auction School. Kennedy’s innovative work in fundraising and his commitment to education and community service continue to inspire others.
The Fugitt Family Foundation is being honored with the President’s Community Spirit Award for their significant philanthropic work. Their generous donation of $300,000 in 2024 to Eastern’s nursing program is supporting recruitment, retention and program expansion, providing new opportunities for aspiring healthcare professionals.
Cogburn is being recognized for her 26 years of service as a professor at Eastern. During that time, she has taught political science, criminal law, criminal procedure and evidence, American history, and co-taught the Phi Theta Kappa leadership class. She also established Eastern’s rodeo team and served as its coach for more than a decade. Cogburn’s dedication to students and education has had a lasting impact.
Rector, the assistant director of financial aid at Eastern, is being recognized for her outstanding service to students. Rector’s career at Eastern spans more than two decades, where she has held multiple roles and worked tirelessly to ensure students achieve their educational goals. In addition to her work, she is deeply involved in her community as a Girl Scout leader and active church member.
The Sapphire Ball will be held in the Tourtellotte Student Center Ballroom, beginning with a reception at 6 p.m., followed by dinner at 7 p.m. In addition to the awards presentation, the evening will feature a live auction and fundraising activities. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Sapphire Scholarship Fund, which provides vital financial support to Eastern students.
Tickets for the Sapphire Ball are available for $60 each, with corporate and table sponsorships also offered. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit eosc.edu/sapphireball.
The Sapphire Ball is more than just a fundraiser; it is a celebration of the Eastern’s unwavering commitment to education, service, and the future of Southeast Oklahoma.
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