The Seminole State College Public Relations team was honored with two awards at the annual Oklahoma College Public Relations Association conference, held from July 14-16 at the Renaissance Hotel and Convention Center in Tulsa.

Director of Communications Josh Hutton and Web and Multimedia Coordinator Brooks Nickell took home an award in the Special Publications category for their work on SSC’s 2023 Annual Report. Nickell shot and edited photos and Hutton wrote the copy and designed the publication.

“The Annual Report highlights campus events, student life, academic programs, the institution’s finances and the achievements of our students, faculty and staff. It’s always a major undertaking, but after it has been compiled, it’s always amazing to see what our campus community can accomplish in the span of a year,” Hutton said.

Hutton, Nickell and Director of Community Relations Kim Pringle were recognized in the Alumni Fundraising category for their materials created for the Lloyd Simmons Field fundraising campaign. Beginning in October of 2023, SSC Trojan baseball alumni spearheaded efforts to commemorate longtime Head Baseball Coach Lloyd Simmons by raising funds to

name the college’s home field in his honor. In addition to naming the field, funds were also raised for the construction of a Trojan baseball arch to greet guests as they entered the sports complex. More than $40,000 was raised for the project.

“Our goal was to support our alumni’s vision to honor Coach Simmons. It’s gratifying to know our efforts, alongside the efforts of our alumni, made an impact,” Pringle said. In addition to her responsibilities at SSC, Pringle also serves on the OCPRA Board as President Elect.

The OCPRA conference gathers public relations professionals from colleges and universities across Oklahoma to share best practices, network and celebrate outstanding achievements in the field. Two-year and four-year higher education institutions, both public and private, compete in the awards competition.

“We’re grateful to be recognized with these awards, especially considering the high level of competition. We left the conference inspired by the work of our peers and look forward to the next year of spotlighting the great things happening at SSC.”

A complete list of award winners can be found on the OCPRA website at ocpra.org.