Words from the Senior Associate Vice-President

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Winter invites us to slow down.

As the light softens and the year turns, this season gives us space to reflect on where we have been, on what we have built together, and on the purpose that continues to guide us. This edition of the OU Outreach Gazette beautifully reflects that spirit.

Within these pages, you will see the enduring global reach of the International Adult and Continuing Education Hall of Fame induction, a reminder that leadership in lifelong learning connects Norman, Oklahoma, to communities worldwide. You will read about professional learning centered on the Science and Power of Hope, challenging us to ground our work in measurable goals, clear pathways, and shared agency. You will see meaningful partnerships take shape, including creative collaboration with the Choctaw Nation that honors culture, inclusion, and representation.

You will also witness the transformative impact of Project SEARCH, where young adults are prepared for meaningful employment through immersive workplace experiences that change trajectories and expand opportunity. And you will see KGOU’s continued journalistic excellence, informing, elevating, and connecting communities across our state with integrity and depth.

This issue also highlights our continued investment in AI literacy through professional development in Microsoft Co-Pilot training. After two consecutive State of Outreach gatherings focused on artificial intelligence, we are moving beyond conversation into applied practice. By equipping our staff with practical AI tools, we are strengthening our capacity to work smarter, think creatively, and responsibly integrate innovation into our daily work. This commitment ensures that Outreach remains adaptive, forward-thinking, and prepared for the evolving landscape of higher education and public service.

Taken together, these stories reflect a community committed to extending knowledge, strengthening lives, and serving with competence and compassion

This winter also brings sorrow. We continue to grieve the sudden passing of Darlynn Dietrich, my Executive Program Assistant, who rejoined Outreach two years ago after having served the University of Oklahoma earlier in her career. Her return felt like a homecoming, and in a short time, she reestablished herself as a steady, capable, and deeply trusted presence among us. Her professionalism was matched by her loyalty and care for the people and mission she supported. Her absence is deeply felt by me and many others.

In this season of stillness, we are reminded that legacy is not measured only in years but in impact. Darlynn’s influence remains woven into our work and into the standards of excellence she quietly upheld.

As we step into 2026, we do so anchored in what we know to be true: hope is not wishful thinking. It is disciplined work. It calls us to set meaningful goals, design clear pathways, and sustain the agency required to move forward,  even amid uncertainty.

May we continue building, partnering, learning, and leading with intention in the year ahead.

With deep gratitude, 

Belinda Biscoe, Ph.D.
Senior Associate Vice President for 
Outreach/College of Continuing Education
The University of Oklahoma