Monks inducted into Education Hall of Fame

The Oklahoma Higher Education Heritage Society has inducted the monks of Saint Gregory’s Abbey, past and present, into the Oklahoma Higher Education Hall of Fame. The recognition was bestowed during a banquet at the University of Central Oklahoma on Nov. 5.

“We are very honored that the higher education community has recognized the contributions made by generations of monks to students, colleagues and the culture of our state,” Abbot Lawrence Stasyszen said. “We greatly appreciate this wonderful affirmation and expression of gratitude for our many years of sacrifice and service in the education of young people and adults.” 

The founding monks of Saint Gregory’s opened their first school in Atoka, Indian Territory, in January 1876, just three months after they arrived in the territory and six months before they determined their permanent settlement among the Citizen Potawatomi.

“The promotion of learning and the advancement of culture always has been part of our mission as Benedictine monks,” Abbot Lawrence said.

Their commitment to education eventually led to the opening of the Catholic University of Oklahoma in Shawnee in 1915, which quickly became known as Saint Gregory’s College and High School. The monks closed the high school in 1965 to focus on the first two years of higher education by offering associate’s degrees.

The monks approved the inauguration of bachelor’s degrees at Saint Gregory’s in 1997 and of master’s degree programs in 2003. Maintaining its strong Catholic liberal arts identity, the university was a leader for Oklahoma in special programs for working adults and in the integration of information technology into the classroom.

Despite continued investment by the monastic community, the university suspended its operations in December 2017 due to financial difficulties.

Saint Gregory’s Abbey was nominated for the recognition by the Hon. Robert Henry, former chief judge of the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals and immediate past president of Oklahoma City University.

In accepting the recognition on behalf of the community, Abbot Lawrence said, “With the collaboration of many colleagues, the generosity of many donors, the encouragement of many family members and the receptivity of many students, we monks enjoyed the privilege of meaningful and fulfilling service in higher education for 140 years. We trust that the legacy of our mission at Saint Gregory’s will live on in the lives of our former students and alumni for generations to come, making a positive difference in our society and in our world.”

The monks are examining several new initiatives as well as expanding their commitment to existing services.

“We remain committed to the incredible mission of the Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art, which provides arts education experiences to more than 18,000 school children each year and to thousands of other visitors. The National Institute on Developmental Delays founded by Father Paul Zahler, O.S.B., continues its important and pioneering work. We also will be increasing the number of days of reflection and workshops that we offer through the year. Finally, we continue to provide pastoral assistance to parishes and military communities throughout the state.”

Photo: Br. Damian Whalen looks at the Hall of Fame certificate. In the background is Dr. Jasmine Johnson, former nursing faculty, and Fr. Charles Buckley. Photo Theresa Bragg.