A collaborative project between Southeastern Oklahoma State University, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, and the Chickasaw Nation will be featured prominently on campus when “The Two Brothers” is unveiled in Legacy Plaza at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, October 4.
The ceremony will be a centerpiece of the Homecoming 2024 celebrations on the Southeastern campus and is open to the public.
“The Two Brothers” is a larger-than-life sculpture by Southeastern alumna and celebrated Choctaw artist Jane Semple Umsted of Durant. The creation of the sculpture, collaboration between tribes, and location on campus are a symbol of the importance of sovereign tribal nations to Southeastern and its 115 year legacy in the region.
At the ceremony, speeches will be offered by Southeastern President Dr. Thomas Newsom, Chief Gary Batton of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Governor Bill Anoatubby of the Chickasaw Nation and other dignitaries.
“Homecoming weekend is such a wonderful time as we celebrate our university’s legacy every year, but the unveiling of this sculpture adds another level to that,” said Newsom. “The contributions of sovereign tribal nations to our university run deep. We are excited to install and unveil this sculpture at the front of campus to celebrate the collaborative spirit of Southeastern Oklahoma.”
Parking for the ceremony will be available next to Einstein Bros. Bagels on University Boulevard, but will likely fill up quickly with Homecoming events. Other parking areas are noted on the campus map at www.se.edu/about/map.
“The Two Brothers” will be located in Legacy Plaza, the showcase of the SE Legacy Fund, which supports scholarships for Southeastern legacy students. More information on the SE Legacy Fund, Legacy Plaza, and how to support the project can be found at www.SELegacy.org.
