Momentum Campaign Press Kit
An Investment in Students. An Investment in Oklahoma.
Oklahoma’s future depends on people prepared to teach, care, create, discover and lead. The University of Central Oklahoma helps prepare those people—and Momentum will expand what is possible for them.
The $75 million comprehensive campaign connects student opportunity with the needs of the state. Through scholarships, academic programs, hands-on learning, research and facilities, Momentum will help students turn their ambitions into contributions that reach beyond campus.
Expanding Opportunity
For a student working toward a degree, financial support and the right guidance can make a lasting difference. Momentum will strengthen scholarships, student-success programs and experiential learning opportunities that help students enter college, persist through challenges and complete their education.
The goal is to help students graduate with the knowledge, experience and confidence to pursue meaningful futures.
Strengthening the Workforce
UCO prepares professionals who serve throughout Oklahoma—in classrooms, hospitals, businesses, public agencies, cultural organizations and communities.
Momentum will strengthen the connections between academic learning and professional practice. Support for internships, clinical experiences, mentorship, applied projects and specialized learning environments will help students build skills while contributing to the organizations and communities around them.
Driving Innovation and Discovery
Research gives students opportunities to ask important questions, test ideas and develop solutions. Momentum will support the people, equipment and environments that make this work possible.
Campaign opportunities include scientific and forensic research, creative work, advanced computing, faculty support and modern learning spaces. These investments will help students and faculty pursue discoveries with practical value for Oklahoma and beyond.
Opportunities Across the University
The campaign case statements identify opportunities across the College of Business, College of Education and Professional Studies, College of Fine Arts and Design, College of Liberal Arts, College of Mathematics and Science, W. Roger Webb Forensic Science Institute, Broncho Athletics and Oklahoma A+ Schools Institute.
Together, these areas reflect the breadth of UCO’s contribution to the state: preparing professionals, strengthening institutions, inspiring creativity, advancing knowledge and bringing communities together.
A Public Launch Built on Early Support
The November 5, 2026, Momentum Gala marks the campaign’s public launch and the announcement of its fundraising progress. It builds on support received since July 2023 and invites broader participation as UCO works toward its $75 million goal by June 2031.
The larger story is the campaign’s investment in students and the contributions they will make throughout Oklahoma in the years ahead.
Media Advisory and Interview Resources
UCO to Announce Progress Toward $75 Million Momentum Campaign at November 5 Public Launch
WHAT: The University of Central Oklahoma will mark the public launch of Momentum: The Campaign for UCO, its $75 million comprehensive fundraising initiative, at the UCO Momentum Gala.
The university will announce the amount raised to date during the kickoff at approximately 7:30 PM, November 5.
Momentum focuses on expanding opportunity, strengthening the workforce and driving innovation and discovery. The program will also recognize Governor Emeritus Bill Anoatubby, Mo Anderson and Phil Busey, Sr., with the Order of the Broncho.
WHEN: Thursday, November 5, 2026.
- 6–7 p.m.: President Todd G. Lamb available for media interviews.
- 6:45 p.m.: Ballroom doors open.
- 7:15 p.m.: Dinner and program begin.
WHERE: Nigh University Center, University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond.
WHY IT MATTERS: Momentum will support students, academic programs, professional preparation and discovery across UCO, connecting philanthropy with the university’s contribution to Oklahoma’s future.
NEWS OPPORTUNITIES: The $75 million campaign goal, the fundraising total announced at the kickoff, campaign priorities through June 2031 and the potential impact on Oklahoma students and communities.
Media Arrangements and RSVPs
To RSVP, request an interview or arrange coverage, contact:
Kandace Taylor
Senior Director of Communication and Engagement
405-974-3553
ktaylor55@uco.edu
Please coordinate interview timing and coverage arrangements with Kandace Taylor in advance.
Interviews and Coverage
President Todd G. Lamb will be available for interviews from 6–7 p.m. on November 5. Contact Kandace Taylor to arrange an interview and confirm its location.
Interview topics include:
- The campaign’s $75 million goal and priorities.
- How philanthropic support expands student opportunity.
- UCO’s role in Oklahoma’s workforce and communities.
- Investments in innovation, discovery and academic programs.
- The campaign’s progress and plans through June 2031.
Requests for additional spokespeople, photography or video coverage should also be directed to Kandace Taylor.
Campaign Naming and Boilerplate Copy
Campaign Name
Full reference: Momentum: The Campaign for the University of Central Oklahoma
Subsequent reference: Momentum or the Momentum campaign
Campaign theme: Powering Oklahoma’s Future
Event name: UCO Momentum Gala
One-Sentence Description
Momentum is the University of Central Oklahoma’s $75 million comprehensive campaign to expand student opportunity, strengthen Oklahoma’s workforce and drive innovation and discovery.
Short Campaign Description
Momentum is a $75 million comprehensive campaign investing in the students, programs and discoveries that will help shape Oklahoma’s future. Through scholarships, student-success initiatives, hands-on learning, research and facilities, the University of Central Oklahoma is bringing alumni, friends and partners together to expand opportunity and strengthen the state. The campaign’s public launch will be celebrated November 5, 2026, at the UCO Momentum Gala.
Gala Description
The UCO Momentum Gala will celebrate the public launch of the university’s $75 million comprehensive campaign on November 5, 2026, at the Nigh University Center in Edmond. The evening will include dinner and a program recognizing Order of the Broncho honorees Governor Emeritus Bill Anoatubby, Mo Anderson and Phil Busey, Sr. Proceeds benefit the Momentum campaign.
UCO Foundation Description
Established in 1954, the University of Central Oklahoma Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to raising philanthropic support for the University of Central Oklahoma. Guided by its mission to build and sustain relationships that lead to meaningful contributions of service, knowledge, influence and resources in support of UCO's students, faculty and programs, the Foundation connects alumni, donors, businesses and community partners with opportunities to make a lasting impact. Through scholarships, academic and programmatic support, campus improvements and strategic university initiatives, the Foundation advances student success and strengthens UCO's future. The Foundation is leading Momentum: The Campaign for UCO, a comprehensive fundraising initiative designed to expand educational opportunity, strengthen Oklahoma's workforce, and drive innovation and discovery through the power of philanthropy.
Campaign Leadership Profiles
Todd G. Lamb | President, University of Central Oklahoma
Todd G. Lamb became UCO’s 22nd president on July 1, 2023. His career includes public service, law and business, with prior roles as Oklahoma lieutenant governor from 2011 to 2019, a state senator and a U.S. Secret Service special agent.
At UCO, Lamb emphasizes transformative learning, access to higher education and preparation for the workforce. His “B.R.O.N.C.H.O. Way”—Being Reflective of Our Neighborhood, Community, History and Oklahoma—connects the university’s mission with service to students and the state.
An Enid native, Lamb earned his bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma State University and his Juris Doctor from Oklahoma City University. He also attended UCO classes during his undergraduate studies.
Read President Lamb's full biography.
Allen Wright | Vice President for Advancement; President, UCO Foundation
Allen Wright brings more than 30 years of experience in fundraising, philanthropy, public relations and government relations to his work at UCO. His career includes senior executive roles with Devon Energy and Koch Industries, including service as vice president of the Fred and Mary Koch Foundation, and service as chief of staff to U.S. Rep. Frank Lucas.
Wright earned a master’s degree in political science from UCO, where he was named Outstanding Graduate, and received the university’s Distinguished Alumni Award in 2013. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Oklahoma. A fifth-generation Oklahoman, Wright is a member of the Choctaw Nation.
Read VP Wright's full biography.
Order of the Broncho Honorees
Mo Anderson
Mo Anderson is a business leader, philanthropist and Oklahoma Hall of Fame member whose work reflects a commitment to servant leadership, entrepreneurship and education. Her investment in people and opportunity has helped develop leaders and strengthen communities.
Phil Busey, Sr.
Phil Busey, Sr., is founder and chairman of DRG, an Oklahoma-based global aerospace and defense company. His leadership encompasses innovation, workforce development and community partnership, including support for higher education and opportunities for future generations.
Governor Emeritus Bill Anoatubby
Governor Emeritus Bill Anoatubby’s leadership of the Chickasaw Nation has emphasized education, economic development and community well-being. His partnership with UCO has helped expand educational opportunities and strengthen connections that benefit students and communities across Oklahoma.
About the Order of the Broncho
The Order of the Broncho recognizes individuals whose leadership, service and generosity have made a lasting impact on the University of Central Oklahoma, the state and the communities they serve. The November 5 gala will celebrate the contributions of the 2026 honorees.
Interview requests: Contact Kandace Taylor at ktaylor55@uco.edu or 405-974-3553. President Lamb will be available for interviews from 6–7 p.m. on November 5. Interviews with other individuals must be arranged separately.
Media contact
