A Commitment to Making a Difference
Building Bonds Through Play
For almost 50 years, Oklahoma Christian University’s Recreation for the Exceptional Child class has offered a unique opportunity for students to connect with children with special needs.
Started by Dr. Max Dobson in the ’70s, it’s now led by Dr. Allison Cassady, Professor of Education, whose passion reinvigorates the program.
Twice weekly, the Payne Athletic Center transforms into a play space filled with scooters, tricycles, building blocks, balls and ultimately, laughter and shouts of joy.
To begin each semester, students discover their match, a child they connect with personally. Dr. Cassady describes it as “speed dating.” It’s a search for friendship transcending spoken language.
The impact isn’t one-sided. College students gain valuable experience working with individuals with exceptionalities.
“These are the kids that all too often are pushed aside or left out of classroom events because they can’t communicate. They can’t advocate for themselves. And here are these college students being their voices and figuring out ways to communicate and connect,” Dr. Cassady said.
Dr. Cassady dreams of making the class mandatory for all OC students. She believes it would inspire future generations to serve those with special needs.
“I pray this is the start of their own legacy, realizing how they can serve individuals with exceptionalities,” Dr. Cassady said. “It’s my ultimate hope that this sticks with them for the rest of their lives.”
Empowering Compassion
With an unwavering belief in the power of community and compassion, Oklahoma Christian University’s Residence Life organizes 25 service opportunities each academic year. From partnering with organizations like RestoreOKC to lending a hand at Tealridge Assisted Living and the Ronald McDonald House, OC students engage directly with the community.
Student input and passion drive the selection and organization of these projects.
“I love having their input and ideas because that means our team has buy-in and excitement about who and where we will be serving,” Resident Director Molly Burke (’20) said.
Residents and staff alike find deeper connections and purpose through their efforts.
“Our residents love helping with our service projects. They always go into these projects with enthusiasm, and they’re always happy in the knowledge that they’re making a better difference in the lives of others,” Resident Hall Director Gentry Dodson (’23) said.
Indeed, the legacy of service ingrained in Residence Life aligns seamlessly with the university’s mission of nurturing leaders who embody compassion, integrity and community.
“As followers of Jesus, our mission is always to love others and expand His Kingdom on earth by being His hands and feet to those around us. We have found ways to do that and make an impact in our community outside of OC,” Resident Director 2017-2024 Mackenna King (’15) said.
Fighting Food Insecurity
Hunger doesn’t take a break, but neither does Talon’s Table.
On campus, an innovative food pantry ensures every student has access to meals and essentials, regardless of financial circumstances. Studies reveal a startling reality: one in three college students faces food insecurity. Recognizing this gap, Hannah Miller Leftwich, Senior Director of Student Success and Undergraduate Enrollment, launched Talon’s Table in the fall of 2023.
“We bridge the gaps,” Leftwich said. “When The Branch closes, practices run late or student paychecks haven’t arrived, Talon’s Table provides a safety net, ensuring food security even during breaks and holidays.”
Before Fall Break, over 50 students utilized its services. Break bags ensure sustenance during campus closures, and convenient access options like weekday hours and scheduled pickups make visiting the pantry convenient.
A generous grant from the Oklahoma Christian Women’s Association fueled the initial launch, while ongoing support comes from staff, faculty and the Memorial Road Church of Christ.
Leftwich envisions even greater impact.
“We want to be even busier; and now, with a year under our belt, we understand student needs better. We’d love more nonfood items like toiletries, which are expensive for students and disappear quickly,” Leftwich said.
If you would like to donate items, contact studentsuccess@ oc.edu for more information. To donate financially, visit oc.edu/hero and designate your gift to “Talon’s Table.”
