In the coming year, Cameron University graduates will have a facility devoted to alumni activities on the Lawton campus, thanks to a gift of $385,000 from alumni Todd and Cindy Sanner. The funds, along with a $55,000 donation from alumnus Ed Goeas, will provide for the renovation of the current Cameron Exchange. The facility will be named The Todd and Cindy Sanner Alumni Center once renovations are complete. The naming of the building in honor of the Sanners was approved this week by the University of Oklahoma, Cameron University and Rogers State University Board of Regents.
The gifts were acknowledged during an appreciation ceremony in early November. During that event, Barbara Braught, chair of the Cameron University Foundation Board of Directors, and Wayne Andrews, vice president of the Cameron University Alumni Association Board of Directors, joined CU President Jari Askins in expressing their gratitude for the donations made by the Sanners and Goeas. The ceremony was held in what is now the Todd and Cindy Sanner Alumni Center.
The revitalized building will evolve from a seldom-used space into a vibrant hub of connectivity, providing a venue for events that foster ongoing relationships among alumni and facilitate meaningful engagement with current students, preparing them to navigate the transition to graduation.
With this gift, Duncan residents Todd and Cindy Sanner have provided donations totaling more than $500,000 to the Cameron University Foundation. In addition to being members of President’s Partners, they established the Todd and Cindy Sanner Endowed Lectureship in Chemistry in 2006.
In announcing the gift, Askins said, “I have witnessed Todd and Cindy’s unwavering commitment to our university and the community. They are a remarkable couple, consistently working behind the scenes to support initiatives that benefit Cameron University. Their pride in being Cameron alumni is not just evident; it’s inspiring. They embody the spirit of giving back and investing in future generations.”
After earning a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry in 1983, Todd Sanner exhibited entrepreneurial qualities and started his business, Flotek Chemical and Logistics.
“After completing his studies, Todd put his degree to excellent use by running a successful company that continues to thrive today,” Askins said. “He has demonstrated that a Cameron education opens doors and creates opportunities, and his journey is a testament to that.”
A former vice president/mortgage lending officer at a banking institution, Cindy Sanner graduated from CU with an Associate in Science degree in interdisciplinary studies in 1989. Since then, she was often reflected on her time living on campus, citing the invaluable connections she formed with her roommates. Late-night study sessions, shared meals in the dining hall and participation in various campus events enriched her college experience in ways that have left a lasting impression.
“It is this sense of community that she cherishes and which has fueled her desire to give back to the university that played such a pivotal role in her life,” Askins said. “The establishment of the Todd and Cindy Sanner Alumni Center will provide our alumni with a special place on campus – a true home where they can gather, connect, and collaborate. This center is more than just a building; it represents a hub for our alumni community, fostering relationships that will last a lifetime. It will serve as a venue for events, networking opportunities, and a space for alumni to engage with current students, sharing their experiences and insights.”
The Cameron University Foundation, which promotes educational, scientific and cultural interests at Cameron University, welcomes additional support for the Todd and Cindy Sanner Alumni Center or other initiatives. Learn more at https://www.cameron.edu/foundation or contact the Office of University Advancement at (580) 581-2999 or email foundation@cameron.edu.
###
PR# 24-170
