Southeastern Oklahoma State University - Savage Yearbook (Durant, OK)

Page 19 text:

Hibbs became the dean of col lege and university presidents with his 20 years as head of Southeast- ern Oklahoma State University. No other Oklahoma president of a higher education facility has served their school as long, or as well in the minds of students. The kindness, patience, charm and understanding of Dr. Leon Hibbs made him a special part of each student’s education experi- ence. His walks through campus greeting faculty and students, the short notes of congratulations and encouragments brought ‘‘the man’”’ closer to the hearts of those he served. aaNet ene ape BIE GRANDCHILDREN Brian and Kristen find “Grandpa” a willing audience and a “‘im- partial’ admirer. CINDERELLA and other fairy tales are as big a part of Leon Hibbs life as budgets and schedules. Relaxing wifh young Kristen ranks as a favorite activity. THE OTHER WOMAN in Dr. Hibbs’ life is secre- tary and assistant Pat Norris, who is a partner in the smooth operation of South eastern. Opening— 15

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Hidbs begins third Decade as president jy Dr. Leon Hibbs was one of the few people on campus who could truthfully answer the ques- tlon, ‘‘Are We Having Fun Yet?” Hibbs completed 20 years as president of the southeastern Oklahoma school. He and his family came to the Durant college with many goals and expectations. Dreams of modernizing the campus and attracting top Oklahoma students were quickly realized. The difficult goals became reality with the 14—Opening impossible one taking only more time and concentration. Hibbs brought a sense of pride as well as humor into his duties. He quickly took part in many civic and social functions—which made him one of the most visible college presidents in Oklahoma. FAMILY MEMBERS surround Dr. Hibbs during a birthday party for his wife. Members of the family are Gay Hibbs Hart, Dr. Hibbs, wife Maxine, Craig Hibbs, LeAnn Hibbs and Max Hibbs. WESTERN DAYS is a favorite part of the ) school year for the equestrian Hibbs, a skilled horseman and trainer. ; ; Bl 4 i

Page 20 text:

Dr. Leon Hibbs, a man of many talents and dreams, began his twentieth year last spring with a plan to keep the university finan- clally, physically, mentally and emotionally sound—a task few would dream and fewer still would try. Because of his dedication to bringing the best education and school experience to Southeast: ern Oklahoma State University stu- dents, the Savage 1987 staff felt it was time to honor “the man in charge.” Editor Harvey Brumley said, ‘“‘He belleves in each of us. We definitely believe in him and his leadership.” TWENTY YEARS AGO freshman president Leon Hibbs got the ‘‘greenhorn treat. ment’’—a face full of green paint and the traditional blue and gold freshman bean. le—from Earl Kilpatrick and members of the student body. CHRISTMAS WISHES from the past remain a special part of Leon and Maxine Hibbs’ campus family. 16—Opening