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I had the pleasure of visiting Mid-America Christian University this week, where I had discussions with President Rev. Phil Greenwald, students, athletes, and faculty. I also had the chance to check out MACU's new science labs and hear how students are benefitting from the new STEM-based programs.
On Wednesday, I sat down with Mercy Hospital Ada leadership, including Chief Medical Officer Dr. Benjamin Lynch and Chief Nursing Officer Malissa Reardon, to discuss the hospital’s federal priorities. I received a tour of the cancer and radiation facilities and got an update on the hospital’s new groundbreaking coronary calcium scans which catch heart problems in patients before they become life-threatening. It was great to see the recent remodel of the hospital’s labor, delivery, recovery, and postpartum care rooms, which were funded through community philanthropic efforts. I am thrilled to report that Mercy Hospital received $10 million dollars in project funding in the FY2024 spending package, which directly benefits the Ada Community Cancer Center.
This week, I also had the opportunity to meet with the Greater OKC Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. We spoke about some of the common challenges facing job creators in the community, and Chamber members expressed concern with illegal immigration and asked questions regarding military and retention issues, energy security, and the ongoing crisis on the southern border.
I had a great visit with leadership and students at University of Central Oklahoma (UCO), the 3rd largest public four-year university in the state. I met with UCO President Todd Lamb for a brief tour of campus and discussion regarding workforce development, FAFSA, and grant funding opportunities. As a former collegiate wrestler, it was an honor to congratulate Head Wrestling Coach Todd Steidley, who was recently named the 2024 Division II Coach of the Year, and the wrestling team for winning their second straight national title.
Additionally, I sat down with Warr Acres Mayor Roger Godwin, Bethany Mayor Nikki Lloyd, and a dozen local leaders from both cities to discuss a range of issues, including pressing water and wastewater infrastructure needs, federal grant opportunities, illegal marijuana growing operations, and the border crisis. I was able to provide an update on my work as a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee to cut red tape and streamline regulatory conditions for local communities and businesses.
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