Even in retirement, Rollins knew she still had more to give to OSU. College of Education and Human Sciences, at an emeriti faculty luncheon. Eager to give back to the university, Rollins pitched the “She approached me and the former dean of the College of Education about asked for suggestions on areas that needed funding. We suggested some scholarship options and the Dean’s Excellence Fund as possibilities for her to consider.” They eventually settled on the MyrLou Rollins Wade Endowed Scholarship for physical education majors interested in creative rhythms and movement. In 2004, the scholarship moved to the College of Arts and Sciences for students majoring in theatre. “The process of setting up her said. “She said that OSU had been a great part of her life, and she wanted to give something back.” The Wades would often frequent concerts and recitals. After Kenneth passed away in 2019, Rollins moved back to Stillwater and devoted her time to attending as many performances at The McKnight Center for the Performing Arts as possible. With age came new barriers, though. No longer comfortable driving at night, she found a helping hand in McKnight Center house manager Hannah Mans, who drove Rollins to and from a performance during the fall 2022 semester. “Myr-Lou was having trouble finding a ride to the performance, and asked if I would be able to assist her, even if it meant she had to arrive much earlier than normal,” Mans said. “I was able to give her a ride, and I am glad I did.” It was at this performance that Mans also witnessed a heartfelt moment between Rollins and a group of students from the performance. “After the concert, while she waited patiently in the lobby as I finished up my concert duties, a couple of students approached Myr-Lou,” Mans said. “They recognized her from all of the times she had attended their performances, and thanked her for being there and supporting them. MyrLou was visibly moved.” In her 88 years, Rollins has achieved a life of adventure and success. Even 36 years after retirement, she remains dedicated to the creative minds in the performing arts at OSU. “I keep coming back because of how hard these students work,” she said. “It warms my heart to see these wonderful people put together such beautiful performances.” Left: Myr-Lou Rollins Wade has lived an adventurous life from dancing on stage around the country to being an instructor at Oklahoma State University. Above: Rollins Wade is a fervent supporter of the Greenwood School of Music and gets tickets for nearly every GSM event at The McKnight Center for the Performing Arts. OSU COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SC I ENCES 5
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjAxMjk=