State Rep. Mike Shelton to speak at Langston University’s 119th Founders Day Program

By: Christina Gray
Special to Guthrie News Page

Langston, Oklahoma – Langston University will host the annual 119^th Founders Day Program on Thursday, March 10. The event will take place at 11 a.m. in the I.W. Young Auditorium. Celebrating 119 years of rich tradition and the development of young leaders, Founders Day observes the vision that led to the establishment of Langston University in 1897. State Representative Mike Shelton will be the keynote speaker for the program.

Shelton is a native of Oklahoma City and a Langston University alumnus. While studying under a former state representative, Shelton became interested in politics. Shelton mentored and worked with several organizations including the Langston University – Oklahoma City campus. As the Community Outreach coordinator for Langston University – Oklahoma City, he launched the first adult scholarship program for the campus. In 2004, Shelton was elected to Oklahoma House District 97 and currently serves as the Assistant Democratic Floor Leader. He is currently the highest-ranking African-American in the Oklahoma State House of Representatives. He previously served as Assistant Minority Floor Leader. Shelton graduated from Langston University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics. His professional experience includes working as the district executive director for the Boy Scouts of America; director of community relations for Langston University; and director of community relations for Oklahoma County.

After the program, Langston University student leaders will take part in a ceremonial march to the gravesite of Langston University’s first president, Dr. Inman Page. The event is free and open to the public.

Langston University is located 12 miles east of Guthrie, Oklahoma. Founded in 1897, Langston University boasts three campuses located in Langston, Oklahoma City and Tulsa. The University offers more than 38 degree programs, including five masters degrees and one doctoral program. To learn more, visit the Langston University website at http://www.langston.edu.