Celebrating Two Remarkable Individuals at the 2025 OPSU Alumni Ambassador Hall of Fame Induction

At Oklahoma Panhandle State University, the Alumni Ambassador Hall of Fame is more than just recognition; it's a tribute to individuals whose passion, dedication, and legacy continue to shape the fabric of the university and its community. This year, OPSU is proud to honor two extraordinary individuals who have left a lasting impression on the university and the Panhandle region: Bill Newman and Mark Freeman.

For Bill Newman, it all started with a spark at South Plains College. A 1964 graduate of Perryton High School, Bill initially rodeoed at South Plains before his friends, Dale Johnson and Bob Crill, persuaded him to transfer to Panhandle Agricultural and Mechanical College (PAMC), now OPSU. It was there, under the mentorship of rodeo sponsor Lynn Gardner, that Bill found not only a competitive outlet but a family and a future.

It was also at OPSU that Bill met the love of his life, Virginia (Vee) Eddy, from Lamar, Colorado. The couple met at a Rodeo Club meeting in the fall of 1969, and Bill fondly recalls his first impression, "Holy cow, she was the prettiest thing I'd ever seen." Just a few months later, they were engaged, and on June 7, 1970, they married. Together, they have supported OPSU's rodeo program in every way possible, from participating in the Top Hand Auction to making countless contributions to ensure that the next generation of rodeo athletes has the resources they need to thrive. Under the sponsorship of Bill E Newman Real Estate, Bill and Vee have also supported numerous cowboys in pursuing their PRCA careers, helping young athletes achieve their dreams on the national stage. Their contributions have gone beyond OPSU, showcasing their enduring commitment to the rodeo community.

Mark Freeman's story is one of devotion-devotion to family, community, and his beloved Panhandle. Born in Guymon, Oklahoma, and raised in Texhoma, Mark's deep roots in the region are a testament to his commitment to the people and land that shaped him. After graduating from high school in 1972, Mark pursued a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture at Oklahoma State University, returning home to the Panhandle to build his life and career.

In 1978, Mark began his professional journey at Anchor D Bank (formerly First National Bank of Texhoma), where he would serve for more than four decades. As president of the bank, Mark played a pivotal role in securing Anchor D Bank's naming rights for OPSU's basketball arena and football stadium-marking a landmark partnership between the bank and the university. Mark's contributions to OPSU didn't stop there, though. His passion for the Panhandle led him to invest not only in his career but in the region itself, where he made his home on the family ranch, raising cattle and quarter horses alongside his father, Jack Freeman.

Beyond his work in banking and ranching, Mark was a civic leader. He served as Mayor of Texhoma for 20 years and was deeply involved in the community, earning accolades such as Rotarian of the Year. He was also a dedicated member of organizations like the Stratford Area Foundation and Goodwell Hilltoppers. His kindness defines Mark's legacy, commitment to community service, and devotion to the Panhandle region, a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Sadly, Mark Freeman passed away on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, surrounded by family, but his legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the lasting impact he made on OPSU and the community. Though we mourn his loss, we celebrate his extraordinary life and the remarkable contributions he made to the Panhandle region.

Bill Newman shared heartfelt words about his friend, saying, "Mark was a good friend, and he always asked about my family. It wasn't a general family ask-it always was, 'How's Vee? How's Nikki? How's Chad?' He knew everybody by their name. He was a good person."

Dr. Julie Dinger, President of Oklahoma Panhandle State University, remarked, "Bill Newman and Mark Freeman exemplify the grit, resilience, and strong sense of community that define the Oklahoma Panhandle. Bill's steadfast dedication to supporting our rodeo program and nurturing rodeo athletes is truly inspiring. Mark's visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the Panhandle community have left a profound and lasting legacy. I am so grateful that the Alumni Association has chosen to recognize these two outstanding men by inducting them into the Hall of Fame."

Shawn Joy, Director of Alumni Relations, expressed, "We are honored to induct Bill Newman and Mark Freeman into the OPSU Alumni Ambassador Hall of Fame this year. Both have exemplified what it means to be an Aggie and dedicated to their community, families, and university. While we mourn the passing of Mark Freeman, his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched. Bill's ongoing contributions and involvement with OPSU further embody the spirit of excellence we celebrate in our alumni. It is with pride that we recognize their remarkable achievements and lasting influence."

This year's induction is a testament to two lives well lived, to two individuals whose passion and dedication will continue to inspire the OPSU community for years to come. The induction will be hosted on the OPSU Campus on January 18th in the Athletics Team Room starting at 5pm with a Reception and the Ceremony starting at 6pm.