By Dr. Dan Mabery, NSU
November is here, bringing a new season and exciting developments for the NSU–Broken Arrow campus community!
Beginning in Spring 2026, NSU-Broken Arrow will expand its academic offerings to include freshman and sophomore-level courses — a milestone that allows students to start here and finish here in Broken Arrow.
This expansion, made possible through Senate Bill 701, empowers regional universities to offer lower-division coursework that meets local workforce needs. More than 20 new courses have already been added for the Spring 2026 semester beginning Jan. 12. There’s still time to apply — visit Go2NSU.com.
SOAR at NSUBA. Registration is now open for Spring 2026 SOAR, NSU’s free one-day orientation for admitted freshmen and transfer students. SOAR connects students to peers, faculty, staff and the resources they need for a strong start. The event is Jan. 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. A complimentary lunch is provided. For more information or to register, visit nsuok.edu/SOAR.
Scholarship spotlight. The Transfer Scholarship Application for 2025–2026 is now open. This single application covers tuition waivers, NSU Foundation Scholarships and Out-of-State Tuition Waivers.
Deadline: May 1, 2026 (students must be admitted before the deadline). The application appears in a student’s admissions portal upon admission. Also, don’t forget that incoming freshmen admitted by Dec. 1, who meet eligibility requirements, are automatically awarded one of NSU’s freshman scholarships. Learn more at scholarships.nsuok.edu.
Gazebo Glow & Holiday Festival – Dec. 11. The holidays will shine bright at NSU-Broken Arrow during the annual Gazebo Glow & Holiday Festival on Dec. 11, a free family-friendly celebration open to the public.
Festivities begin at 3:30 p.m. with campus tours, offering a preview of the academic programs and spaces that will soon welcome first-year students. At 4:30 p.m., attendees can enjoy vendor booths, a student organization fair and opportunities to meet NSU faculty, staff and students.
At 5 p.m., the lighting of the NSU Gazebo will kick off the evening’s entertainment, followed by guest speakers, local choir performances, a drone light show and a special appearance from Santa Claus.
Going aces for ACE. I am pleased to share that Northeastern State University’s Alternative Certification for Educators Institute continues to open new pathways for Oklahoma professionals who wish to transition into teaching. This fully online program provides 6-18 credit hours of focused preparation in classroom management, lesson planning, assessment and strategies for diverse learners seeking alternative teacher certification.
ACE removes barriers while helping meet critical teacher shortages across the state. Scholarship applications are open though January 12, 2026. The online program requires no entrance exam and offers flexible course formats. I encourage those interested to learn more at nsuok.edu/ACE.
Did You Know? The Little Rowdy Childcare Center on the NSU–Broken Arrow campus is now accepting enrollment applications. The center provides a safe, nurturing environment that supports curiosity, growth and school readiness. Learn more at coe.nsuok.edu/little-rowdy.aspx.
Thank You, NSU-BA! As we head into the holidays, please note all NSU campuses will be closed for Thanksgiving Break, Nov. 26-28. Take time to rest, recharge and reflect on a successful semester.
From expanding academic access to celebrating community partnerships, there is much to be thankful for this season at NSU-Broken Arrow.
Here’s to a strong finish to the fall semester and exciting opportunities ahead!
Dr. Dan Mabery
Vice President of University Relations
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