During the academic year, and across coursework, student development, research and external engagement, the Collins College of Business has continued to build a reputation defined by high standards, practical impact and a deep commitment to preparing students for lives of leadership and purpose.
One of our clearest priorities has been ensuring that students graduate with more than technical expertise alone. This year, we strengthened the undergraduate experience through required courses in teamwork, professional development, communication and cultural appreciation. These additions reflect this conviction: Business education should develop not only skilled analysts, but thoughtful professionals who can communicate well, lead responsibly and work effectively across boundaries. Making these courses a reality was something many in the college discussed for many years, and I am proud to say we have finally accomplished this.
I would also like to acknowledge and celebrate an extraordinary gift to future UTulsa students: a $12 million gift from the Asbjornson Foundation to support scholarships and transformative student experiences. The gift includes endowed support for undergraduate and graduate scholarships, summer tuition assistance, global learning and experiential opportunities that broaden what students can imagine for themselves today and tomorrow. There is no doubt that this generous gift will transform students’ lives for generations to come.
Student life has gained renewed energy in the college. We relaunched the marketing and management student clubs, so that every discipline in the college now offers opportunities for leadership, connection and career exploration. Our outreach to the broader business community has also grown through gatherings such as Friends of Finance and the Conference of Accountants, which continue to strengthen CCB’s role as a place where professionals come together to learn and connect.
As we look forward to our college’s Honors and Awards ceremony in May, congratulations to every student who is graduating, as well as their friends, families and support groups, for all that they have accomplished here at UTulsa.