DURANT, OK - Students, faculty, staff, and community members celebrated Southeastern Oklahoma State University's 13th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service on Monday.

During an hour-long program in the University Ballroom, Mayor Joe Chow of Addison, Texas, inspired the audience with his recollections of his days at SE in 1979-80. He received his master's degree at Southeastern in 1980, and in addition to his public service career, is a successful business owner (restaurant, insurance, and real estate) in the Dallas area.

Chow came to the United States in 1979 to pursue his educational dreams.
While at Southeastern, he lived in the old Shearer Hall. After graduating, he began working in a Dallas restaurant with the goal one day to be "my own boss.''

"The United States is a great country,'' he said. "And this is a country where you can make your dreams come true.''

Also participating in the program were Southeastern interim president Larry Minks, Dean of Students Camille Phelps, the Chorvettes singing group, the SE Quartet, and students Kayla Minor, Allen Benson, Dexter Elliott, and Tiffany Martinez. In addition, Trina Bowen and SE graduate Fisa Mihy-mihyndu were involved in the program.

Following the program, students participated in community service projects at Durant Intermediate School (reading to students), the Wesley Center (painting), and the Victory Life Food Bank (serving lunch).

-Press Release by Southeastern Oklahoma State University Public Information