Eight Extraordinary OU Alumni Honored with Regents’ Alumni Award

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NORMAN, OKLA. – The University of Oklahoma recognized the achievements and contributions of nine remarkable alumni at the Nov. 21, 2025 Regents’ Alumni Award ceremony on the OU Norman campus. Regents’ Alumni Awards celebrate OU graduates who have shown exceptional dedication and service to the university.

Presented by the OU Board of Regents and OU Alumni Association, the award highlights the profound ways in which OU alumni and supporters are helping shape the university’s vibrant future. An Alumni Association committee reviews nominations submitted by alumni, friends and OU faculty and staff to select each year’s awardees. The recipients are awarded a commemorative plaque in recognition of their exceptional contributions, and their names are permanently inscribed on a plaque displayed in the historic Oklahoma Memorial Union.

This year’s recipients include Governor Bill J. Anoatubby, Betty Katherine Falato, Hemant P. Goradia, Larry H. Lemon, Nicole L. Lynn, Judy R. McReynolds, G. Jeffrey Records Jr., Keith A. Reed, R.N., MPH, CPH and Josh Woodward. 

GOVERNOR BILL J. ANOATUBBY | Accounting, BA, 1972

Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby has been a transformative leader and steadfast partner to the University of Oklahoma. Since 1987, his leadership of the Chickasaw Nation has fostered deep, strategic collaborations with OU, advancing Indigenous scholarship, cultural representation and student success.

When Governor Anoatubby took office in 1987, the Chickasaw Nation included 250 employees. Today, the Chickasaw Nation is one of Oklahoma’s largest employers with more than 15,000 employees. Governor Anoatubby has overseen the development of nearly 400 tribal programs and services, as well as more than 100 tribal businesses.

In 2018, the Chickasaw Nation endowed OU’s Native Nations Center, supporting its expansion and the renovation of Copeland Hall, including the creation of the Hall of Native Nations, which honors Oklahoma’s 39 tribes. In 2023, the center was elevated to the Office of the President, strengthening OU’s role as a national leader in Indigenous research and deepening tribal-university collaborations.

Governor Anoatubby has also championed environmental initiatives and tribal engagement, supporting joint research efforts in sustainability and climate science that benefit tribal communities across Oklahoma. His focus on education has opened pathways for Chickasaw students through scholarships, cultural programs and campus partnerships, most notably the 2021 short-term financing of Cross Village housing, which enhanced student life and university infrastructure.

Through his visionary leadership, Governor Anoatubby has left a lasting mark on OU, elevating Indigenous voices and reinforcing the university’s mission of excellence, equity and community impact. Governor Anoatubby is not only a friend to OU but a faithful steward of its future.

BETTY KATHERINE FALATO | Mathematics, BA, 1963 | Human Relations, MA, 1975 and Civil Engineering, 1978 – University of California, Berkley

Betty Katherine Permetter Falato is a pioneering engineer for the National Airspace System architecture, civil rights advocate and community leader. As a high school senior, she became the first female student to integrate Earlsboro High School following a landmark desegregation case supported by her parents and the NAACP. She earned degrees in mathematics, human relations and civil engineering from the University of Oklahoma and the University of California, Berkley, launching a distinguished career at the Federal Aviation Administration. At the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, she broke barriers as the first Black woman on the computer programming staff and the first female instructor who co-developed IT training programs for transitioning air traffic controllers to data system specialists. As a Senior System Engineer for the NAS at the FAA Headquarters in Washington, D.C., she helped shape NAS integration strategies for air and space transportation vehicles and received awards for leadership, innovation and mentorship.

During her college years, Falato promoted racial equality. In her community, she supported the Urban League and the YWCA. Through the YWCA Board of Directors, she co-founded Oklahoma City’s first women’s resource center, promoting racial harmony and professional development. As a dedicated volunteer, she supports educational efforts through Oklahoma University and Oklahoma libraries, history programs, museums and television. She is also an Oklahoma Hall of Fame Publishing Board member. In Washington, D.C., she supported outreach efforts in city neighborhoods.  At St. John’s Episcopal Church, she worked with the Washington Interfaith Network’s education committee to help bring several Washington, D.C. public schools up to code. Other efforts she supported include the Kennedy Center, Smithsonian Institute, Washington, D.C. libraries, Washington, D.C. museums and Washington, D.C. Black History educational programs.

Falato has authored several historical works, including “Oklahoma’s Brown Decision Test Case: A Participant’s Perspective,” “Black Interpreters Living Among the Absentee Shawnee Indians in Early Central Oklahoma: The Chronicles of William Ellsworth: Shawnee,” and “Black Schools in Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma, 1891-1966, and School Censuses, 1930-1950,” documenting her rich legacy in Oklahoma and beyond.

A long-serving Dodge Family College of Arts & Sciences board member and active community leader, Falato is celebrated for her lifelong commitment to equity, education and public service.

HEMANT P. GORADIA | Chemical Engineering, BS, 1981

Hemant P. Goradia, an alumnus of the University of Oklahoma, distinguished himself as a student with numerous achievements, including the Award for Excellence in Chemistry. He contributed to biochemical research through a summer research program, studying the enzymic oxidation of ethyl morphine and its effects on dissolved oxygen in human plasma. His academic foundation at OU set the stage for a remarkable professional journey. As a committed alumnus, Hemant has demonstrated outstanding leadership, collaborating with alumni, faculty, students and staff to advance the university’s mission.

Goradia joined his brother’s small business, Vinmar, in New York in 1981. He helped grow it into a global enterprise and later succeeded him as CEO for twenty years. Goradia’s son has succeeded him as CEO, allowing Goradia to serve on a number of non-profit boards and to manage his family office, which invests in various businesses.

Goradia serves on the Board of Visitors- at the Gallogly College of Engineering, offering strategic advice to shape programs and initiatives that strengthen engineering education and research. As a member of the Board of Advisors, he supports efforts in academic excellence, faculty and student recruitment, fundraising and enhancing the college’s national and global stature. As the leader of Vinmar International Ltd., Goradia transformed the company into a global industry leader through his visionary strategy and innovation. His commitment to education is further reflected in his mentorship and engagement with students, providing industry insight and supporting the next generation of engineers.

Together with his wife, Indrani, Goradia established a research fellowship at Texas Children’s Hospital Cancer Center to advance pediatric cancer research. Their philanthropy also extends to multiple educational and research initiatives at the University of Oklahoma. Through Pratham USA, Goradia has championed educational access for underprivileged children in India, significantly improving literacy and advancement opportunities for millions.

From international student to global business leader, Goradia’s journey exemplifies perseverance, vision and generosity. His dedication to education, cross-cultural understanding and global collaboration underscores his belief in the transformative power of learning and unity.

LARRY H. LEMON | Business Management, BBA, 1966 | MBA, 1968

Larry H. Lemon has had a distinguished career in the asphalt industry, serving multiple terms as Chairman of the Oklahoma Asphalt Pavement Association and over 40 years on the National Asphalt Pavement Association Board, where he served as Chairman from 2009–2010. In recognition of his contributions, NAPA established the Larry H. Lemon Quality in Construction Award. He remains active on several committees and participates in men’s Bible studies at Acts 2 Methodist Church in Edmond, Oklahoma.

The Lemon family shares a deep, multi-generational connection with the University of Oklahoma. Lemon’s parents, Haskell and Irene Lemon graduated in the 1930s. Larry earned both a BBA in Management and an MBA, while his wife, Suzy, earned a BS in Secondary Education. Their children and grandchildren have also attended OU. As President Emeritus of Haskell Lemon Construction Co., Larry’s 49-year career spanned roles from laborer to president. The company, founded by his parents in 1948, has been widely recognized for its contributions to infrastructure projects across the region.

In 2010, a bequest from his parents’ estate helped establish the Haskell and Irene Lemon Construction Science Division in the Gibbs College of Architecture. Lemon and his wife frequently participate in OU’s Osher lifelong learning program. He and Suzy are members of the Seed Sower Society and the Arthur B. Adams Society in the Price College of Business.

In 2024, Lemon and Suzy, along with his sister Martha Jean Lemon, created the Lemon Family Distinguished Speaker Series Fund to benefit both the Gibbs College of Architecture and the Price College of Business. Their philanthropic support also includes naming the Larry H. and Susan H. Lemon Conference Room in the Gene Rainbolt Graduate School of Business in Oklahoma City, the Suzy and Larry Lemon Game Room in Headington Hall, the Larry and Suzy Lemon 3rd Base Plaza at Love’s Field and the National Championship Trophy display in the Switzer Center.

NICOLE L. LYNN | Business Administration in Business Management, BA, 2011 | Law, JD, 2015

Nicole L. Lynn’s journey from the University of Oklahoma to national prominence is a testament to her tenacity, excellence and commitment to lifting others as she rises. As an undergraduate in the Price College of Business, Lynn stood out for her academic performance and leadership, earning a place in a prestigious Wall Street analyst program. She later returned to OU for law school, where she excelled in moot court competitions, served as Managing Editor of the American Indian Law Review and graduated with honors, earning induction into the Order of the Barristers and Order of the Coif.

After passing the Texas Bar in 2015, Lynn joined Norton Rose Fulbright in Houston. While practicing law, she began representing NFL players, quickly earning recognition for her ability to balance a demanding legal career with her growing presence in sports representation. In 2019, she became the first Black woman to represent a top three NFL draft pick and has since negotiated two of the largest contracts in NFL history, including Jalen Hurts’ $255 million extension.

Nicole’s impact extends beyond her professional achievements. She has mentored OU students, spoken on campus, supported admissions efforts, and served on the OU Law Young Alumni Board. Her book, “Agent You,” reflects her mission to empower others to pursue their goals with purpose and clarity. Lynn exemplifies the values of the University of Oklahoma College of Law: excellence, leadership and service. Her career reflects the power of an OU education and the profound impact one alumna can have on a profession and a community.

JUDY R. McREYNOLDS | Accounting, BBA, 1985

Judy R. McReynolds is a nationally recognized executive whose career blends strategic leadership with a deep commitment to mentorship, education and community service. As chairman and CEO of a multibillion-dollar logistics company, she has led with vision and purpose for over a decade, earning accolades such as the Arkansas Business Executive of the Year, induction into the Arkansas Business Hall of Fame and recognition on Forbes’ 50 Over 50 list.

McReynolds’ influence spans industries and communities. She has been honored as one of the best CEOs for women, a Distinguished Woman in Logistics and a Top 100 Woman of Impact. Her leadership extends to national and regional boards, including OG&E Energy Corp., First Bank Corp., First National Bank of Fort Smith and the American Trucking Associations, where she is the retired chair of the American Transportation Research Institute.

A proud OU alumna, McReynolds actively supports student development by hosting Price College of Business students at her company’s headquarters, offering real-world insights and mentorship. She has also served on college boards, helping shape academic programs and strengthen ties between education and industry.

Beyond business, she is a passionate advocate for children and a driving force behind community engagement and philanthropy. McReynolds’ story exemplifies the values of excellence, service and leadership that OU strives to instill in its students. Her continued success and visibility elevate the university’s reputation and inspire the next generation of leaders.

G. JEFFREY RECORDS JR. | Economics, BS, 1981

Under G. Jeffrey Records’ leadership, MidFirst Bank has grown into the largest privately owned bank in the U.S., with $39.5 billion in assets and operations across eleven states. Known for combining the personalized service of a community bank with the capabilities of a national institution, MidFirst has earned top honors from Forbes and The Oklahoman for its workplace culture and customer service with Newsweek naming it “Best Big Bank in Oklahoma” for the fourth consecutive year.

A proud OU supporter, Records has contributed more than $7.3 million through MidFirst Bank and the Records family, supporting athletics, medicine, and student success. He played a key role in launching OU’s MoneyCoach program, which has significantly improved student retention, and has championed major philanthropic efforts, including over $3 million to the Inspiring Champions Fund and naming rights for key athletic facilities.

Beyond OU, MidFirst has donated millions to causes such as pediatric cancer, heart disease, and youth development, including $1 million to Boys & Girls Clubs across six cities and $1.3 million to the American Heart Association. Records also serves as a Campaign Champion for OU’s largest-ever fundraising initiative, aiming to raise $2 billion by 2027.

Through visionary leadership, community investment, and unwavering support for education, Records exemplifies the values of excellence, service, and impact that define the University of Oklahoma.

KEITH A. REED, R.N., MPH, CPH | Nursing, BS, Northeastern State University | Health Administration and Policy, MPH, 2006

Colonel Keith A. Reed, a dedicated member of the Oklahoma Air National Guard, has served multiple tours in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. He is currently assigned to Joint Force Headquarters, Oklahoma Military Department in Oklahoma City.

As Oklahoma’s Commissioner of Health, Reed also chairs the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials Performance Improvement and Accreditation Policy Committee, where he advances public health standards nationwide. A committed advocate for public health education, he serves on the Hudson College of Public Health advisory board and played a key role in establishing the Center for Public Health Practice.

Reed actively supports student development by facilitating practicum opportunities, serving as a mentor and engaging in Public Health Grand Rounds. He regularly consults with Hudson College leadership on emerging public health issues and training needs, offering valuable insights into policy and practice.

A proud and engaged alumnus, Reed exemplifies leadership, service and a deep commitment to advancing the field of public health and supporting the next generation of professionals.

JOSH WOODWARD | Economics, BBA with Honors, 2006, University of Oklahoma | Comparative Government, MPhil, University of Oxford, 2009

As the Vice President of Google Labs and Gemini, Josh Woodward leads teams focused on turning artificial intelligence research into new products. His leadership was recently recognized by TIME Magazine when they named him one of the 100 most influential people in AI.

Before his time in Silicon Valley, Woodward grew up in Edmond, Oklahoma, and was a leader at OU. He was a member of the PLC Class of 2002 and later served as a PLC advisor. He was also involved in the JCPenney Leadership Program, Campus Activities Council, Crimson Club and PE-ET, and he was named the outstanding senior man of his graduating class.

After graduating from Oxford, Woodward joined Google as an intern and has worked on a series of early-stage projects since then. He helped build the first several generations of Chromebooks, co-founded Google’s Next Billion Users effort for first-time internet users and led the expansion of Google Pay. Today, he oversees a portfolio of cutting-edge AI products used by hundreds of millions of consumers and developers around the world including Gemini, NotebookLM, AI Studio, Flow and more.

Woodward and his wife Kate, also a proud Sooner and the outstanding senior woman of her graduating class, have remained dedicated supporters of OU and taught all their kids how to sing Boomer Sooner from a young age.