Two NSU instructors honored by OSTCA

Northeastern State University's Kristopher Copeland, instructor of communication studies, and Robyn Magee Pursley, instructor of theatre, were recognized by the Oklahoma Speech Theatre Communication Association at its annual convention Sept. 11 on the Rogers State University campus in Claremore.

Pursley was named the Ruth Arrington Outstanding College Theatre Educator and said it was humbling to be recognized by her colleagues in such a fashion.

"I feel so fortunate to have the job that I do," she said. "I have wanted to be a teacher since I was five years old and theatre is my passion. So my job and NSU is honestly a dream position for me. It was also exciting that Kris won his award since he and I are both NSU alumni."

Copeland was named the D.J. Nabors Outstanding College Forensics Coach and also was gracious for the recognition from his peers.

"I love coaching the speech and debate team at NSU," he said. "My students work so hard and represent the university very well. It was a dream of mine to work for NSU in this capacity. This honor is just the icing on the cake."

The Arrington award was established in 1987 in honor of Ruth Arrington, a long-time theatre professor at NSU who also created the institution's Native American Studies program.

The Nabors award was created in 1989. Nabors was an honorary permanent member of the OSTCA and a founder of the organization which became the Oklahoma Speech Association.