Six individuals who earned their degrees at Northwestern Oklahoma State University will be honored for their accomplishments on Saturday, April 26, 2025, during the Northwestern Spring Alumni Reunion Banquet.
Kristy Benson, Arts
Originally from Cherokee, Okla., Benson received her Bachelor of Arts in Speech and Theatre with a minor in Studio Arts from Northwestern in 2012. She holds a MFA in Scenic Design from Illinois State University. Benson currently serves as the charge artist and adjunct professor at Oklahoma City University.
Cherrie Dixon Greco, Business/Professional
Greco received her Bachelor of Arts in Education from Northwestern in 1969. She also holds a M.A.Ed. degree from Lesley University, Cambridge, Mass. Prior to working in criminal justice, Greco taught language arts, speech, debate and theater, holding teaching certificates in eight states.
Dr. Don Raleigh, Education
A Claremore, Okla., native, Dr. Raleigh received his Bachelor of Science in Natural Sciences from Northwestern in 1988. He also holds a M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction and a Doctorate of Education in School Administration from Oklahoma State University. Dr. Don Raleigh is the Dean of the School of Education at Liberty University, Lynchburg, Va.,
Rose Blunk, Humanitarian
Blunk graduated from Northwestern in 1967 with a Bachelor of Arts in Public School Music. She returned to Northwestern and earned an M.A. Ed., with an emphasis in Elementary Art in 1976. In 1983, she obtained a School Counselor Certificate from Northwestern and later enhanced it with a School Psychometrist Certificate.
Dash Johnson, Ranger Recognition
Johnson graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in Health and Sports Science. He remained at Northwestern and earned his M.Ed. in Adult Education/Sports Administration. Johnson currently serves as the Director of the Kansas City Royals Urban Youth Academy’s Baseball & Softball program.
Elda Hart Jones, Ranger Spirit
A Laverne, Okla., native, Elda Jones graduated from Northwestern with her Bachelor of Science in 1976 and earned her M.Ed. from Northwestern in 1980. In the same year, she became a part-time physical education instructor at Northwestern. Jones became an assistant professor of health and physical education in 1993, retiring from Northwestern in 1999.