MIAMI, Okla. – Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College (NEO) is proud to announce the establishment of two endowed scholarships made possible through the generosity of the Kilgore family. These lasting legacies will honor the lives and contributions of Jimmie and Betty Kilgore, proud NEO alumni whose story began on campus and whose impact will now benefit future generations.
The Jimmie Neil Kilgore Memorial Endowed Scholarship celebrates the life of Jimmie Kilgore, a 1965 Adair High School graduate who attended NEO before earning a mechanical engineering degree from Oklahoma State University. Jimmie enjoyed a 33-year career with Conoco Phillips Oil Company, which took him and his wife Betty across the globe, including assignments in England, Norway, Japan, Malaysia, and the Netherlands. Remembered for his warmth, work ethic, and adventurous spirit, Jimmie passed away in 2022 at the age of 74.
The Kilgore Family PTA Endowed Scholarship honors both Jimmie and Betty Kilgore, who each attended NEO and believed deeply in the power of education. This scholarship will specifically support students enrolled in NEO’s Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program—a growing and vital healthcare field that reflects the Kilgores’ commitment to helping others. The scholarship underscores the family’s connection to NEO and their desire to support student success through practical, life-changing careers.
“These scholarships are a reflection of a life well-lived and a couple who truly valued education, service, and opportunity,” said Ryan Orcutt, Executive Director of Development at NEO. “We are incredibly grateful to the Kilgore family for entrusting us with Jimmie and Betty’s legacy.”
Together, these two endowments ensure that the Kilgores’ story will continue to empower students through an education at NEO.
For more information about endowed scholarships, please contact the NEO Development Foundation at 918-540-6250 or visit www.neo.edu/give.
