Northeastern State University announces 2026 Centurions

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University (NSU) is proud to present the selection of the 2026 Centurions.

A Northeastern State University Centurion is an individual whose leadership and commitment, through service to others, has made a significant impact on the university’s community and history. The honor is awarded to NSU alumni, faculty, staff, students or members of the NSU community, past or present, whose contributions have influenced the life of a nominator and the NSU community. Centurions may be living or deceased and are selected for embodying the legacy and spirit of NSU.

NSU first named 100 individuals as inaugural Centurions during its Centennial Celebration in 2009. Since that time, the university has continued to add new honorees annually.

The newest class of NSU Centurions to be honored includes:

• Randall Davis (Posthumous) – Late Superintendent of Woodall Public Schools known for his lasting impact on generations of students; 1954 and 1957 alumnus.
• Dr. Jennifer Doyle – Licensed Clinical Social Worker and owner of Resilient Hearts Therapy & Consulting Services recognized for her advocacy for underserved populations; 2006 alumna.
• Dr. Diane Poteete Johnston – Staff Physician with over 40 years of service at the Jack C. Montgomery Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Muskogee; 1974 alumna.
• Donald Ray Nichols – Combat-wounded Vietnam veteran and retired Veterans Affairs executive who led the campaign to save the Jack C. Montgomery Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Muskogee; 1972 and 1976 alumnus.
• Scott Pettus – Retired Assistant Director of Athletics and "The Voice of NSU Athletics" for more than 30 years; 1985 alumnus.
• Dr. Pamela Jumper-Thurman – CEO of Council Oak Training and Evaluation and internationally recognized psychologist focused on Native American health; 1982 and 1983 alumna.

“The Centurion honor reflects a long-standing NSU tradition of recognizing those who lead with purpose and give back in meaningful ways,” NSU President Rodney Hanley said. “These honorees embody the spirit of Northeastern State University and serve as an inspiration for current and future generations.”

In conjunction with NSU’s Founders Day celebration, the 2026 Centurions will be formally added to the university’s roll of honorees and recognized during a luncheon at 11:30 a.m. on March 6 in the Senator Herb Rozell Ballroom of the NSU University Center.

To register for the event, visit nsualumni.com/centurions. For more information, contact the Office of the President at 918-444-2000.

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