• June 2010
• March 2010
• February 2010
• August 2009
• July 2009
• June 2009
• May 2009
• April 2009
• March 2009
• February 2009
• January 2009
• November 2008
• October 2008
• September 2008
• August 2008
• June 2008
• May 2008
• April 2008
• February 2008
• January 2008
• September 2007
• March 2007
• December 2006
• March 2006

News

Former Littles Receive Scholarships

08/29/2008

     Six former Oklahoma Littles have been awarded Mark H. Iola Scholarships of $1000 per semester to further their educations. New scholarships were awarded to Gina Ghazal (Tulsa), Matthew McAfee (Tulsa), Chelsea Pointer (Oklahoma City), Nolan Randolph (Norman), Joseph Stover Logan (Tulsa), and Shameko Faulk (Tulsa). Michelle Ghazal (Tulsa and older sister to Gina listed above) was a 2007 recipient. Her scholarship was renewed and increased to $1500 per semester due to excellent academic achievement. Ghazal graduated from Webster High School and attends Rogers State University as a Business Management major.

     Mark H. Iola, founder of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Green Country, created the scholarship program in 2003 to benefit former Littles. Iola understands the value of the Big Brother Big Sisters mentoring programs and wanted to give former Littles the opportunity to further their educational goals whether that meant a two or four year college program, trade or professional school. Scholarships may be used for any educational purposes ranging from purchasing books and supplies to subsidizing room and board, tuition or fees.

     This year's winners are ready and anxious to begin their educational journeys.
Gina Ghazal is a recent graduate of Berryhill High School. She plans to attend Tulsa Community College and then transition to Oklahoma State University. She plans to become a veterinarian. In high school she was active in marching band, Business Professionals of America, Educational Talent Search and powder-puff football.

Matthew McAfee graduated from Victory Christian School and will attend Oral Roberts University to study International Relations with a double minor in Spanish and business. He is involved in both his school and community, and has traveled the world with his church youth group on mission trips.

     Chelsea Pointer is a graduate of Capitol High School. She has been matched for five years and still stays in touch with her Big Sister. Pointer was a cheerleader and volunteered with Feed the Children. She hopes to attend Rose State College to major in science and psychology.

     Nolan Randolph has been a Little for seven years and still stays in touch with his Big Brother. He plans to attend the University of Oklahoma and major in engineering. He graduated from Norman High School where he was very active in music and sports. He ran track and cross country and served as the cross country team captain.

Logan Stover is a graduate of Bishop Kelley High School. He is a National Honor Society member and is listed in Who's Who of College Students. He played basketball and volunteered for basketball camps and the Catholic Charities food bank. He plans to attend the University of Arkansas to study engineering.

     Shameko Faulk graduated from Daniel Webster High School and was matched for six years. She served the community through Family Career Community Leaders of America (FCCLA). She spent time reading to elementary school students and organizing a local blood drive.

John W. Jacobs To Retire

08/26/2008

John W. Jacobs, President and Chief Executive Officer of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma has announced his retirement effective January 31, 2009.  John served as executive director of Big Brothers and Sisters of Green Country from 1989 until 2006 when he led an initiative to consolidate all five BBBS agencies across the state to form Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma.  John was selected as the first CEO.  BBBSOK served nearly 2400 children in 2007.

Jacobs said, "It has been my privilege to work with Big Brothers Big Sisters more than 30 years.  I am very proud to have been associated with an organization that makes such a difference in the lives of so many children.  BBBSOK has reached the point in its development where it is time for me to pass the baton to a new leader who can take us to the next level.  I will be assisting with the transition in any I can."

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma's statewide board chairman, Tom O'Brien, said, "John Jacobs is one of the most respected CEO's in the country.  We have been fortunate to have his leadership across the state.  His tireless efforts have allowed thousands of children to be matched with the role models they needed in some difficult circumstances."

After his retirement Jacobs plans to develop a consulting practice which will include executive coaching, public speaking, and training.