If you ever doubted the importance of an education, a special teacher, or that Okeene turns out some outstanding graduates, look no further than the story of Lieu Smith that appeared in STATE magazine, Oklahoma State’s Alumni publication. This is a touching story about a self described “poor farm boy from Okeene” who was inspired by his fourth grade English teacher and would go on to an engineering degree from Oklahoma State. That education afforded Smith the opportunity to help design the rocket test facilities at the Stennis Space Center for the Saturn V rocket that would later take astronauts to the moon. He would also help design the Space Shuttle Launch Pad Complex. His education led him to a life of purpose and meaning. Lieu has recognized the huge impact that his education has had on his life and since has made sizable contributions to Oklahoma State to start a series of scholarships to honor his favorite Okeene teacher and member of the Cherokee Nation, Kathryn Lorene Whiteturkey. Below you will find three articles that tells his story.
https://news.okstate.edu/magazines/agriculture/cowboy-journal/articles/2023/osu-agricultural-engineering-grad-makes-his-mark.html
https://news.okstate.edu/magazines/state-magazine/articles/2021/fall/osu_college_of_osteopathic_medicine-cherokee_nation_donor_honors_native_american_teacher.html
https://estategifts.osugiving.com/supporters-like-you/lieu-smith