A double major in political science and economics with minors in history and media studies, Cyrus Carter became a leader on and off campus during his undergraduate journey at The University of Tulsa. His academic excellence and dedicated engagement earned him a special honor in May: Kendall College of Arts & Sciences Standard Bearer.
During the annual undergraduate commencement ceremony, standard bearers carry the gonfalon and lead their college’s graduating class in the processional. The honor recognizes students for their achievements in the classroom, across campus, and in the community.
Carter has been involved in student organizations, serving as president of the Student Economics Association, an A&S senator in the Student Government Association, vice president of the Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature, and more. Earlier this year, he became a 2024 Interdisciplinary Research Fellow with the Oklahoma Center for the Humanities, joining members of UTulsa faculty and greater Tulsa region in a collaborative series of seminar-style discussions designed to lead to larger collective or individual projects.
In April, Carter was among several economics students participating in a discussion with Donald J. Kochan, law professor and executive director of the Law & Economics Center at George Mason University’s Antonin Scalia Law School, during the Justice Dana Kuehn Inaugural Symposium on Justice and Law at UTulsa. Kochan discussed how private corporations like Disney have historically been able to leverage state powers such as eminent domain for private gain.
Carter’s service extends to the community, including canvassing for the Terrence Crutcher Foundation through UTulsa Service Day and hosting a public interview and forum for alumnus Monroe Nichols, who went on to be elected mayor.
Last summer, Carter participated in Kendall College’s D’Arcy Internship Program, in which he worked closely with the Tulsa City Council – sitting in on council meetings, assisting with communications, and conducting research into noise ordinances to facilitate changes in the city’s code. “The program gave me an idea of the potential careers I’d like to go into,” Carter said. “I’d like to not only help better people’s lives but learn and grow as a person. That would be an amazing experience for me.”
In addition to his recognition as Kendall College Standard Bearer, Carter was awarded the Greg Burn Outstanding Senior Award in the Department of Economics and named Outstanding Senior in the Department of Political Science.
“Whether he’s leading the Student Economics Association, volunteering in the community, or taking the stage with national legal experts to demonstrate the remarkable preparation of our undergraduates, Cyrus embodies the spirit of the Kendall College of Arts & Sciences,” said Blaine Greteman, dean of the college.
One of UTulsa’s newest alumni, Carter will continue to serve the city through the Tulsa Service Year Fellowship.