A Transformational Miracle: Oklahoma Secretary of Education Visits Langston University

For a long time, I have eagerly anticipated the opportunity to share this truly transformative experience with you. My time at Langston University was a living testament to the power of faith and the potential for miracles. It was a journey that vividly illustrated that when we believe, anything is possible. I witnessed a miracle unfolding at Langston in the early weeks of February, a moment that will forever be etched in my memory.

My administrative assistant informed me that I had a call. I always try to be responsive, so I answered. On the other end was an enthusiastic person discussing my commentary featured in the Oklahoman newspaper titled, “How do we navigate change in 2024 to retool higher education for greater student success?” Although I was excited about this feature, I did not realize its impact.

The person on the call was not just anyone, but Oklahoma’s new Secretary of Education. She had just been sworn into office in January 2024. Governor Kevin Stitt appointed Nellie Tayloe Sanders the Oklahoma Secretary of Education on January 24, 2024. Nellie Tayloe Sanders, a graduate of Salve Regina University, shares our values and commitment to education. In 2013, she started working for the Center of Family Love, a hospice care center that supports disabled people. In February 2023, Senator Greg Treat appointed her to the Oklahoma Statewide Virtual Charter School Board. She is also the great-granddaughter of Nellie Tayloe Ross, the first woman governor in the United States. Her visit to Langston was not just a professional obligation, but a personal commitment to our shared mission.

Secretary Sanders, deeply impressed with our conversation, made a momentous decision. She chose to make her first visit to an Oklahoma university at Langston in February, a decision that underscored the importance of our institution. The impact of her visit was profound, sparking a wave of innovation and change. Meeting her was an extraordinary experience. She is a compassionate, dedicated individual who is truly committed to enhancing higher education. She brought Torrey Pervey, Star Spencer High School Band Director and an alumnus, along with her, further highlighting the significance of her visit.

We convened in the president’s conference room, where Secretary Sanders shared her transition to higher education. I was humbled to witness President Jackson’s interactions during our opening meeting. Secretary Sanders embraced our culture, proudly showcasing her “L up” pride hand gesture.

Later, I brought Secretary Sanders and Torrey to my office to discuss higher education challenges and innovative opportunities. She engaged with students, met faculty and staff, and was thoroughly immersed in the Langston experience. She dined in the café with students and attended our career fair.

Her visit was a monumental event for Langston. Secretary Sanders enjoyed her visit, and I knew that many were surprised by the feat of bringing the Oklahoma Secretary to our campus. During my first year as a business dean, navigating my inaugural position, this accomplishment is a testament to my faith and belief that the impossible is possible.

This remarkable experience capped off my first semester at Langston University. It’s a reminder of the magic and possibilities that faith can bring. I hope this impossible miracle at Langston will inspire you to reach higher and believe that with determination and faith, anything is achievable.