5 The power of the “Cowboy Connection” stems from the everlasting, inspired culture of Oklahoma State. By having an explicit set of shared institutional values-as we call it, the Cowboy Code-we establish not merely a common set of expectations, but also a communal set of aspirations that set out to inspire servant-leaders who humbly give of themselves to impact communities, improve society and steward the land and its people. What sets the Cowboy Family apart is that we live by the Cowboy Code. Taken together, these powerful ideas unite us within the context of a diverse and dynamic student body. The proof is in the exceptional creativity displayed by our students, faculty and alumni. Whether we’re talking about Garth Brooks–one of the most successful recording artist of all time-or any of an innumerable cast of entrepreneurs, political figures and community leaders we’ve seen grow into their immense potential, it is clear that OSU impacts the society around it. One of my great delights is watching students perform. From the performing arts arena to competing in livestock judging, the Cowboy Family displays a range of creativity that I hope continues to flourish under my leadership. As creativity is as essential to discovery as discovery is to advancement, OSU cherishes all modes of creative expression that exercise the powerful parts of our minds and expand our horizons. We can draw a direct line between students’ creative experiences and their success in the workforce. Part of what we aim to do with our emerging “Ideal Graduate” characteristics is to cultivate the habits of mind and disciplines of action that harness creativity in useful ways that will stay with our students for a lifetime. The culture of our Cowboy Family stems from the connectedness that runs through the core of who we are. We hope all our students and alumni maintain a sense of curiosity and a commitment to a growth mindset. The more our students interact with alumni, the more they will see successful examples of the creativity and community our campus inspires and how it equips our students for success in whatever endeavors they pursue after graduation. I wish our graduates the best of luck and watch with pride as they carry the OSU Cowboy Culture forward. - Kayse Shrum President of Oklahoma State University
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