Cameron University staff member Vicki Henson was recently awarded the Francie Wright Lifetime Achievement Award by the Oklahoma Veteran Education Specialist Association (OVESA). The association’s executive committee made the selection. Henson serves as Assistant Director of Financial Assistance/Coordinator of Veteran Affairs. She is now in her 40th year as a member of the CU staff.
“Henson has been a steadfast advocate for military-affiliated students at Cameron University, dedicating 39 years to supporting veterans, active-duty service members, and military dependents,” said Angela Coleman, OVESA president when presenting the award. “Vicki has guided countless students toward achieving their educational and career goals, helping them navigate the path to degree completion with care and expertise.”
Coleman continued by mentioning Henson’s involvement in advancing veteran education at the state, regional and national levels. Henson has served in multiple leadership roles, including that of president, for OVESA, the Oklahoma Association of Veterans Coordinators and Counselors (OAVCC) and the Western Association of Veterans Education Specialists (WAVES).
“Vicki’s leadership has helped Cameron University achieve significant milestones in veteran support,” Coleman said. “Under her guidance, Cameron became the first VetSuccess on Campus site in Oklahoma. Her initiatives have also earned the university recognition on the Military Times Best for Vets: Colleges list and established hallmark programs such as Vet Fest and Military Veterans Resource Fairs, connecting service members, veterans and their families with essential educational and community resources. Through her unwavering dedication, innovative leadership and compassionate service, Vicki has profoundly shaped the landscape of veteran education in Oklahoma and beyond.”
Henson’s commitment and excellence have been recognized with numerous honors. She has received the Marshall Webb Award from OAVCC, the Bill Pearson Lifetime Achievement Award, the President’s Award and the Diana Davis Service Award for Excellence from WAVES and the Community Caregiver Award from the Association of the U.S. Army, Lawton-Fort Sill Oklahoma Fires Chapter. She has also received the Cameron University Staff Award for Excellence in Student Success and the Pickaxe Award.
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