SWOSU Press Release

The Reach Higher degree-finishing program at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) awarded nearly $90,000 in scholarships to students involved in Reach Higher degree programs. Fifty-five students received scholarships averaging around $1,700 each.

The scholarships were funded by two programs from the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education (OSRHE) designed to help adults return to college and finish their degrees. The Adult Learner Scholarship fund is a program limited to the 24-25 academic year. The Finish Line scholarship program is ongoing and provides funds for state system colleges and universities participating in the Reach Higher degree completion programs to support adult students nearing degree completion.

Reach Higher is a degree-finishing program designed for adults who have successfully completed some college coursework but have not yet finished a college degree. The program of study results in a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Leadership with a focus in general business.

“This amazing scholarship has helped me alleviate financial stress so I can focus on my education,” stated Diana Juarez, of Oklahoma City. “The Reach Higher Program has made it possible for me to accomplish this amazing milestone [graduating with a bachelor's degree] and goal.”

Michael Garcia, of Midwest City, stated, “As a returning business professional, a degree at SWOSU is crucial to proactively progressing my career. This will hopefully open the door for me in the management or project management field.” Garcia, an organizational leadership major, continued, “I especially want to complete college while I still have both of my aging parents with me. It is a promise to my mother that I intend to keep, and I hope she can watch me achieve this goal. This scholarship lessens the financial burden and allows me to continue down the path to my degree”

Finding comfort in completing his degree in an online format, Harry Nauni, from Cache, has several professional goals he wants to achieve. “Obtaining a degree will take me to the next level in my profession and this scholarship will help me overcome my financial barriers,” stated Nauni.

Dr. Todd Wiggen, Coordinator of SWOSU’s Organizational Leadership program, Reach Higher Flex Finish, said the adult-friendly degree completion options through the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education encourage adults who have earned some college credit to complete their degrees successfully.

“The program is geared to working adults by offering flexible enrollment and online coursework. Students can go as fast or as slow as they want and are able,” Wiggen said. “Many of our students may only take a class or two a semester due to their other obligations, and others will take five to six courses to try and finish as rapidly as possible. It is truly up to the individual.” The program results in a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and an area of focus (concentration) in business, education, psychology, and technology to provide even greater flexibility for students.

The Reach Higher/Organizational Leadership program is currently accepting students for the 2025 spring semester at SWOSU. There may also be some funding available for immediate scholarships. Additional information is available by contacting Wiggen at todd.wiggen@swosu.edu or at leadership@swosu.edu.