Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has announced the establishment of the Jack Harrel Leadership Scholarship Fund.
The fund honors the memory of the late Celo Jackson Harrel – “Jack” to nearly everyone who knew him – who passed away on 30-August-2025. Harrel’s family and friends are generously endowing the fund through charitable contributions.
Harrel was born on 16-March-1943. He grew up in Leedey, where he graduated high school before setting off on a journey in education that would span more than four decades. Harrel graduated from SWOSU on 27-May-1966 where he studied Mathematics and Physics.
Harrel went on to earn a Master’s in Mathematics from the University of Arkansas and completed all but residency for his Doctor of Education at Oklahoma State University.
Following a trailblazing three decades as Superintendent of the public schools in Fargo, Okeene, Mooreland, and Kingfisher, Harrel went on to dedicate thirteen years as Executive Secretary of the Oklahoma Association of School Business Officials. He also served as a Deputy State Superintendent of Public Instruction and helped guide the establishment of multiple CareerTech districts in Oklahoma.
Harrel and his late wife, Darla Jo Harrel, were devoted parents of three and grandparents of seven.
“SWOSU is honored to have played a part in shaping the minds of multiple members of the Harrel Family. Mr. Jack Harrel was a legendary educator and a shining exemplar of community involvement. We are deeply honored that the Harrels have asked SWOSU to partner with them to carry on Mr. Harrel’s deep commitment to learning,” said SWOSU Foundation, Inc. Executive Director Mr. Garrett King.
The Jack Harrel Leadership Scholarship will provide endowed support to SWOSU students studying Chemistry, Physics, Math, or Education who have demonstrable qualities of leadership and a commitment to serving others.
The Jack Harrel Leadership Scholarship Fund is stewarded by the SWOSU Foundation, Inc. An independent 501 C 3 entity. The Foundation was established in 1977 to promote philanthropy, award scholarships, and support the activities and programs of SWOSU.
For more information, or to contribute to the endowed scholarship in honor of Mr. Harrel, please contact the Foundation at 580-774-3267 or visit www.SWOSUFoundation.com.