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91Ӱ��’s New Student Orientation program was honored for its efforts in helping new students transition to college life.

91Ӱ��’s New Student Orientation program earned regional recognition for its work welcoming students to its campuses. 91Ӱ�� brought home two awards from the 2025 Region IV Conference for the .

Student NSO leader Jared Gutierrez Nunez was named the Region IV Two-Year Outstanding Student Leader, and NSO Coordinator Nash McQuarters earned the Region IV Outstanding Professional Award. The 2025 Region IV award winners were announced during the conference in Denton, Texas, in late March. Region IV is comprised of Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas.

“We’re so proud of our NSO team for the energy, enthusiasm, and care they bring to every new student’s experience,” says McQuarters. “This recognition shows the heart our leaders put into making students feel welcome and supported from day one.”

McQuarters earned the Region IV Outstanding Professional Award and is now a national award finalist, with winners announced in October. Employed with the College since 2012, McQuarters oversees planning orientations for nearly 3,000 first-time college students annually. He supervises one full-time staff member and 22 student employees.

“I was an orientation leader in high school and in college at Oklahoma State,” says McQuarters. “Orientation has become a passion of mine. I enjoy welcoming students and getting them excited for their next step. I believe orientation is the last step of admission and the first step of retention.”

Gutierrez Nunez joined the NSO team in Summer 2024 after being recommended by a professor for his strong communication skills and outgoing nature. A self-described “theatre kid,” he quickly found that his passion for speaking and connecting with others translated to skills he could use in the orientation program.

As an NSO leader, Gutierrez Nunez guides new students through campus tours and orientation sessions throughout the academic year. He says the most rewarding part of the experience is answering questions and helping students feel confident about starting college.

“I love speaking with people and telling them about the College,” he says. “I really enjoy when people have questions for me because that’s what we’re here for. We’re here to answer your questions and help you.”

“Jared embodies the qualities of an outstanding student leader. He’s dedicated, adaptable, and demonstrates steady commitment to student success. His ability to lead and create meaningful connections has left a lasting impact on 91Ӱ��,” says McQuarters.

Gutierrez Nunez earned his associate degree in English from 91Ӱ�� in Fall 2024 and continues to serve on the NSO team, leading orientations for the families of future students. He credits NSO with helping him develop presentation and leadership skills, build lifelong friendships, and deepen his connection to the College.

“I would tell students who want to get involved in NSO or any other student organization to go for it. It’ll help you build relationships and become more comfortable in your own skin,” says Gutierrez Nunez.

Region IV winners will advance for consideration in NODA’s annual awards in October.