The John Massey School of Business at Southeastern Oklahoma State University dedicated a pair of new student laboratories in the Russell Building with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday.
The Spend Life Wisely Marketing and Entrepreneurship Lab and First United Bank Finance and Accounting Lab were created through generous donations from First United and the Massey family, as well as funds from grants provided to the Texoma Region Economic Empowerment (TREE) Center.
The labs provide students with a space to apply academic theories to real-time challenges faced by regional businesses. Many courses offered in the labs emphasize experiential learning, where students gain knowledge through direct experience, reflection, and hands-on engagement.
“Southeastern’s partnership with First United and the Massey family runs deep, and we’re thankful for their continued support of the John Massey School of Business and the creation of these laboratories,” said Dr. Thomas W. Newsom, President of Southeastern. “The experience our students can gain through their work in these labs will be of great benefit to the state of Oklahoma and the Texoma region as Southeastern continues to produce graduates who can be immediate contributors to the workforce and have the skills to Spend Life Wisely.”
“The TREE Center provides an opportunity for our students to bridge the gap between theory and practice, equipping them with real-world experience to enhance their education and career readiness,” said Dr. David Whitlock, Dean of the John Massey School of Business. “This approach not only strengthens the academic experience at Southeastern and the John Massey School of Business but also creates meaningful collaborations with regional businesses. By applying their knowledge to real business challenges, our students drive innovation and growth in our local economy while gaining the skills and confidence needed for future success.”
“I am super proud of the thing we call Spend Life Wisely and how over the last 20 years it has created its own like momentum. We talk a lot about ‘How do we inspire and empower others to Spend Life Wisely?’ – and that’s all about how we encourage them. If you knew my dad, he was always walking around, grabbing someone, putting his arm around them, and encouraging them. When I look at these labs, I see the ticker, the video screens, and the potential for collaboration – that’s what we can do to encourage someone looking for an education here. I really believe the leaders of tomorrow will come out of regional universities because we actually give the academic opportunities to kids who grew up in rural America,” said Greg Massey, President and CEO of First United Bank, and son of the late John Massey, who the School of Business is named for.
