NEWS
NORMAN, OKLA. – Events celebrating the University of Oklahoma’s first day as a member of the Southeastern Conference drew thousands of attendees from across the nation.
“Our inaugural day in the SEC was one we’ll always remember, with the unity and enthusiasm of the OU Family on full display,” said OU President Joseph Harroz Jr. “Joining the SEC is more than just a milestone in our university’s history; it’s a bold step into a future full of potential and a testament to our dedication to excellence in all endeavors. Sooner Magic will shine even brighter in the SEC, inspiring countless more to experience the transformative impact of the University of Oklahoma.”
“Yesterday was a monumental day for our university, athletics department, sports programs, student-athletes and fans,” said OU Vice President and Director of Athletics Joe Castiglione. “We’ve awaited this moment for some time, and the celebration to mark our entry to the SEC didn’t disappoint. Thankfully, the celebrating doesn’t have to end. We’re gearing up for a year of ‘firsts’ and we can’t wait to show SEC Country what Oklahoma is all about. We’re headed for more – more competition, more pageantry, more tradition and more Sooner Magic. We’re thrilled to officially be members of the SEC, and we know the days, weeks, months and years ahead will set us up to achieve our grandest ambitions.”
An estimated 1,500 participated in a “Race to the SEC 5K Glow Run” held at 11 p.m. on June 30, followed by a full slate of celebration events, sponsored by Riverwind Casino, enjoyed by thousands of fans of all ages. Events included “Wake Up in the SEC” breakfasts in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, the athletics department's popular summer equipment sale, open houses at the Barry Switzer Center and Love's Field, SEC Network programming, and a free and family-friendly "Party In The Palace presented by motorola razr" inside Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium with live music, appearances from Harroz, Castiglione and SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey, as well as a drone show above Owen Field.
“We are grateful to everyone in the OU Family who joined us to celebrate this momentous occasion,” Harroz said. “You – your presence, pride, and dedication – are what make OU so special. As we begin this exciting journey, let’s embrace the opportunities ahead with the spirit and determination that define us. Together, we’ll shape a bright future, ensuring that the legacy of Sooner Magic continues to inspire and lead for generations to come.”
More information about the day’s events can be viewed at soonersports.com/sec.
About the University of Oklahoma
Founded in 1890, the University of Oklahoma is a public research university located in Norman, Oklahoma. As the state’s flagship university, OU serves the educational, cultural, economic and health care needs of the state, region and nation. OU was named the state’s highest-ranking university in U.S. News & World Report’s most recent Best Colleges list. For more information about the university, visit ou.edu.
A decade-long partnership between the University of Oklahoma and Southcentral Foundation, an Alaska Native-owned, nonprofit health care organization based in Anchorage, Alaska, has been awarded a five-year grant from the National Institutes of Health to grow and strengthen a research workforce serving American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities.
Soami Ellis, a recent OU graduate, has become the university’s first professional helicopter major to earn a CFI rating. This milestone is made possible through a recently established School of Aviation program made in partnership with Semper Fly Helicopters in Norman.
The University of Oklahoma is experiencing a period of transformation few institutions in higher education can match – but OU President Joseph Harroz Jr. says the university’s progress is less a finish line than a foundation for what comes next.
