Thank You!
Every year, The University of Tulsa is inspired by the generosity of the Golden Hurricane community. Your support for the innovative work, impactful experiences, and remarkable people elevates TU, strengthening our impact in Tulsa and beyond.
Ashley's TU Story
TU alumnae Ashley Jackson has always been passionate about education and empowering others. Ashley arrived at The University of Tulsa with a full-ride scholarship after becoming a National Achievement Semifinalist. Despite the financial relief her scholarship provided, Ashely still had to cover her book expenses. This experience inspired her to establish the Pursuit of Excellence Book Scholarship to help students overcome financial obstacles like the one she faced.
"It's about helping students get to where they want to be, and anything helps when you're trying to earn your degree. Getting a scholarship can be the key that unlocks so many doors," Ashley emphasized.
Ashley’s affection for TU extends beyond her academic contributions. She actively participates in the university’s community, particularly through her involvement with the Black Alumni Leadership Council (BALC). "I see BALC as another way to connect to the university. It's important to meet and share your experiences with others that look like you.”
Her commitment to giving back to TU is unwavering, driven by a desire to ensure students have the support they need to excel. "I want the students who receive my scholarship to pursue excellence by chasing what they are passionate about. Realizing you are not making this journey through college alone gives you the strength to push forward."
Ashley’s story is a testament to the power of giving back and the profound impact it can have on the lives of students. Her dedication to helping others achieve their educational goals is an inspiring example of how TU alumni can contribute to the ongoing success of their alma mater.
Sydney Slaven
Sydney Slaven, a dedicated second-year exercise science student from St. Louis, initially described the move to Tulsa as nerve-racking. However, she soon discovered that The University of Tulsa provided a welcoming environment for her to flourish. “Despite how nervous I was when I moved here, I knew TU was the place I was meant to be," Sydney said.
Her passion for athletic training and unique ambition to work with bull riders have driven her throughout her time at TU. She has maximized her experience, working alongside powerlifters and engaging in student organizations such as the Exercise Science Club and the Pathway to Sports Academy. TU has also facilitated her participation in athletic training conferences in Las Vegas and Edmond, where she got to network with professionals in her desired field.
Sydney expresses gratitude for the scholarship she received from TU and is enthusiastic about her future. “When I received a scholarship to attend TU, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn't pass up,” Sydney explained. "The scholarship I received has allowed me to pursue what I love to do: serving the community I'm in and building connections with those around me. It wouldn't have been possible without the support I have received."
Nick's TU Story
As soon as an admissions counselor hosted an information session at his St. Louis high school, Nick Parisi knew he wanted to be at TU. What started as interests in Computer Science and a study abroad program grew over four years of undergrad into so much more: a second major in Math with minors in Spanish and Physics, leadership roles on campus, and four study abroad programs that gained him recognition as a Global Scholar upon graduation.
When Nick began his studies, he thought the analytical role of software developer would be the end goal. As his interests at TU expanded, he leaned into new skill sets that made him dream bigger. While the interest in analytical work is still there, it's now coupled with a passion for leadership that makes a CIO role sound more like the dream job.
Now in his second semester of the MBA program, Nick reflects on how his TU experience started with a scholarship opportunity that allowed him to pursue so much more than he initially expected out of college. "My scholarships meant the world to me because they allowed me to take a few extra hours to go to games, meet friends, watch a movie – little moments that I wouldn't trade for anything. As great as the education is, it's the community you find here that makes TU so special."
Small University, Big Experiences
Amanda Aragon said yes to every opportunity that came her way at TU – thriving in the classroom, studying abroad, participating in Greek Life, and serving in student organizations across campus. A recent Facebook memory of running into not one or two but three professors on a single walk across campus reminded her of how special TU’s student-faculty dynamic is.
“TU is the definition of a small, personalized university with big university experiences. You get what you put in. That’s true, from your student experience to the alumni experience.”
As an at-large member on the National Alumni Association Board of Directors, Amanda remains involved and helps shape the future of this place that’s so close to her heart, all while connecting with other passionate alumni. “Everyone deserves the transformational experience of an excellent college education, and I want to help make that a reality for more students – that’s why I give to TU.” Like TU, a small university with big experiences, gifts of every size have a big impact on the next generation of TU students.