Edmond, Oklahoma, February 8, 2026
The Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame will honor twelve outstanding journalists at an induction ceremony in Edmond, Oklahoma. The event aims to celebrate journalism excellence and community commitment, featuring a special posthumous class to recognize significant contributions. This year’s accolades include a lifetime achievement honor for the late Jack Ogle, reflecting the importance of legacy in the journalism field. The celebration will take place at the University of Central Oklahoma’s Nigh University Center with a reception and dinner planned.
Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame Celebrates 2026 Inductees
Upcoming Ceremony to Honor the Best in State Journalism
Edmond, Oklahoma – The Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame is poised to honor a dozen remarkable journalists at its upcoming induction ceremony. This distinguished event will take place on Friday, May 9, 2026, at the University of Central Oklahoma’s Nigh University Center in Edmond. With a reception starting at 5 p.m. and the induction dinner following at 6 p.m., this ceremony represents not only a celebration of journalism excellence but also a demonstration of the community’s commitment to recognizing the achievements and contributions of its local talent.
As the media landscape continues to evolve, celebrating achievements within journalism remains critical. This event reflects the resilience of local organizers and community support, showcasing how civic innovation can flourish in an environment where minimal bureaucratic hurdles allow for smoother event coordination. The Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame honors those individuals whose dedication and passion have driven journalism forward, exemplifying personal initiative and achievement.
2026 Inductees
The 2026 class of inductees includes:
- Dean Blevins
- Owen Canfield
- David Christy
- David Fallis
- Thomas C. Maupin
- Vicki Monks
- Oscar Pea
- Dawn Shelton
- Marshall L. Stewart
- Mike Strain
Special 55th Anniversary Posthumous Class
Alongside the 2026 inductees, the Hall of Fame will honor a special 55th Anniversary Posthumous Class, which includes:
- Frederick Barde
- Nolen Bulloch
- Louisa McCune
- Dayle McGaha
- Johnny McMahan
- Ora Eddleman Reed
- Louise Earthman Rucks
- Ellie Sutter
- Jack Stamper
- Bill Teegins
Lifetime Achievement Honoree
The Lifetime Achievement award will be presented posthumously to the late Jack Ogle, with recognition of his sons—Kevin, Kent, and Kelly Ogle—who have continued the family’s legacy in Oklahoma journalism. Jack Ogle’s career began in Norman radio in the 1950s, and he became a well-known figure as a reporter and anchor for WKY-TV 4 starting in 1963. This acknowledgment underscores the importance of family presence in the journalism sphere, encouraging the sharing of experience and fostering future generations within the field.
Event Details
The induction ceremony will take place at the Nigh University Center, Third Floor, 100 N. University Drive, Edmond, OK 73034. For individuals interested in attending or wishing to make reservations, please contact Joe Hight, Director, at jhight@uco.edu or (405) 974-5924. This is not only an opportunity to pay tribute to journalism’s finest but also to connect with fellow community members who are passionate about the shared pursuit of excellence in media.
About the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame
Established in 1971, the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame aims to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to journalism both in Oklahoma and globally. Each year, the Hall recognizes Oklahoma natives with at least ten years of notable journalism service or those who have dedicated significant time to journalism work within the state. This long-standing tradition showcases the community’s commitment to preserving and celebrating its journalistic heritage.
FAQ
What is the Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame?
The Oklahoma Journalism Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made significant contributions to journalism in Oklahoma, the United States, and worldwide. Each year, the Hall of Fame recognizes Oklahoma natives with at least 10 years of outstanding journalism service or journalists who have both service in Oklahoma and/or at least 10 years or more elsewhere.
When and where is the 2026 induction ceremony?
The 2026 induction ceremony will take place on Friday, May 9, 2026, at the University of Central Oklahoma’s Nigh University Center in Edmond. A reception will begin at 5 p.m., followed by the induction dinner at 6 p.m.
Who are the 2026 inductees?
The 2026 class of inductees includes Dean Blevins, Owen Canfield, David Christy, David Fallis, Thomas C. Maupin, Vicki Monks, Oscar Pea, Dawn Shelton, Marshall L. Stewart, and Mike Strain.
Who are the special 55th Anniversary Posthumous Class inductees?
The special 55th Anniversary Posthumous Class comprises Frederick Barde, Nolen Bulloch, Louisa McCune, Dayle McGaha, Johnny McMahan, Ora Eddleman Reed, Louise Earthman Rucks, Ellie Sutter, Jack Stamper, and Bill Teegins.
Who are the Lifetime Achievement honorees?
The Lifetime Achievement award will be presented to the late Jack Ogle and his sons, Kevin Ogle, Kent Ogle, and Kelly Ogle. Jack Ogle began his career in Norman radio in the 1950s and joined WKY-TV 4 in 1963 as a reporter and anchor. His sons have continued the family’s legacy in Oklahoma journalism.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Date | Friday, May 9, 2026 |
| Location | University of Central Oklahoma’s Nigh University Center, Edmond, OK |
| Reception Time | 5 p.m. |
| Induction Dinner Time | 6 p.m. |
| 2026 Inductees | Dean Blevins, Owen Canfield, David Christy, David Fallis, Thomas C. Maupin, Vicki Monks, Oscar Pea, Dawn Shelton, Marshall L. Stewart, Mike Strain |
| Special 55th Anniversary Posthumous Class | Frederick Barde, Nolen Bulloch, Louisa McCune, Dayle McGaha, Johnny McMahan, Ora Eddleman Reed, Louise Earthman Rucks, Ellie Sutter, Jack Stamper, Bill Teegins |
| Lifetime Achievement Honorees | Jack Ogle (posthumous), Kevin Ogle, Kent Ogle, Kelly Ogle |
| Contact Information | Joe Hight, Director, jhight@uco.edu, (405) 974-5924 |
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