OPSU Student-Athlete Jair Cruz Returns From Nigh Leadership Academy With Civic Lessons

Oklahoma Panhandle State University education major and student-athlete Jair Cruz returned to OPSU on March 5, 2026 after attending the Nigh Leadership Academy at the Oklahoma State Capitol, saying a conversation with Representative Kenton Patzkowsky stood out when Patzkowsky told him, "you have to listen first." Cruz identified the interaction as a concrete lesson he intends to apply with teammates and in his Panhandle community.

Cruz described the Academy as an opportunity to "step beyond the classroom and onto the floor of the Oklahoma State Capitol," and said the experience "reshaped how he views leadership, service, and civic responsibility." He spent time observing legislative proceedings and meeting state leaders, an exposure he said turned abstract coursework into real-world practice: "Leadership theory and the mechanics of government can only get you so far in a classroom," Cruz said. "At the Academy, I got to see it up close. Speaking to leaders from across our state about their personal journeys taught me that being a leader means serving your community with responsibility."

The student recalled asking how a leader balances responsibility with accountability and cited Patzkowsky’s response in explaining how the lesson connects to team management and local service. "He said you have to listen first," Cruz shared. "That really stuck out to me because I can use that with my team and at home in my community." Cruz added that his prior sense of duty as an athlete expanded into a more intentional approach: "I knew responsibility as a student-athlete, but leadership taught me it goes further than showing up and doing well," he said.

OPSU administrators framed the Academy as part of the university’s efforts to link classroom learning to civic engagement. Dr. Charla Lewis, Vice President for Academic Affairs, said, "At Oklahoma Panhandle State University, we are committed to providing students with opportunities that connect classroom learning to real-world leadership." Lewis added, "Jair’s experience at the State Capitol reflects the kind of engaged, thoughtful leadership we strive to cultivate in our students. Programs like the Nigh Leadership Academy empower students to understand their impact and confidently serve their communities." Dr. Julie Dinger is identified as President of Oklahoma Panhandle State University.

OPSU materials described the Nigh Leadership Academy as an annual event and in university communications called it "a driving force behind the continued success of OPSU Rodeo." Shelbie Rose, head rodeo coach, commented on program momentum: "We are proud of where this program stands. We’re even more excited about where we’re headed, and we’re grateful to have this community riding with us."

Cruz said the trip has already reshaped his plans for leadership at OPSU: "Leading requires intentionality, serving one another, and using your voice for good," he said. "I intend to implement what I have learned by leading with intentionality. Whether through sports, schoolwork, or community service, I want to lead more in terms of service and decision-making for other people.