Oklahoma Hall Of Fame Announces 2026 Induction Class
- mike33692
- 11 hours ago
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Oklahoma Hall Of Fame Announces 2026 Induction Class
The Oklahoma Hall of Fame has announced its 2026 induction class, honoring eight Oklahomans whose leadership and accomplishments have shaped the state's history in athletics, business, military service, philanthropy, tribal leadership, and community development. The class is highlighted by former University of Oklahoma women's basketball coach Sherri Coale and longtime OU Athletic Director Joe Castiglione, who will officially be inducted during the organization's 99th Annual Induction Ceremony this fall.
The induction ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026, at the Oklahoma City Convention Center, where the newest members will join one of the state's most prestigious organizations recognizing lifetime achievement.
Oklahoma Hall Of Fame Honors Leaders From Across The State
The Oklahoma Hall of Fame selected eight individuals whose careers have made lasting contributions to Oklahoma and beyond.
Among the most recognizable honorees is Sherri Coale, who transformed the University of Oklahoma women's basketball program during her 25-year coaching career. Coale finished with 513 career victories, guided the Sooners to 19 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, and led Oklahoma to three Final Four appearances while becoming one of the nation's most respected coaches.
Joining her is Joe Castiglione, who has served as OU's athletic director since 1998. During his tenure, Oklahoma has captured 26 national championships and 117 conference titles, while Castiglione also oversaw the university's historic transition into the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
The complete list of 2026 inductees also includes Bruce T. Benbrook, Dwight W. Birdwell, Ann Felton Gilliland, Ann W. Hargis, Mary F. McCormick, and Ross O. Swimmer, each recognized for decades of leadership and service in their respective fields.
More information about the organization is available through the Oklahoma Hall of Fame.
Class Includes Leaders In Business, Military Service And Tribal Leadership
Beyond athletics, the Oklahoma Hall of Fame recognized several individuals whose work has impacted communities across the state.
Bruce T. Benbrook, chairman and CEO of Stock Exchange Bank, was honored for his leadership in banking and civic service.
Dwight W. Birdwell, a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient and former Cherokee Nation Supreme Court Justice, was recognized for both his military heroism during the Vietnam War and his continued public service.
Ann Felton Gilliland, chair and CEO of Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity, earned recognition for expanding affordable housing opportunities throughout central Oklahoma.
Also joining the class are Ann W. Hargis, noted philanthropist and former First Lady of Oklahoma State University; Mary F. McCormick, former Principal Chief of the Sac and Fox Nation; and Ross O. Swimmer, whose career has included significant leadership roles in tribal government and public service.
Additional information about Oklahoma history and notable state leaders is available through the Oklahoma Historical Society.
Induction Ceremony Scheduled For November In Oklahoma City
The Oklahoma Hall of Fame will formally induct the Class of 2026 during its 99th Annual Induction Ceremony on Thursday, Nov. 12, at the Oklahoma City Convention Center.
Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 5:45 p.m. Organizers say individual tickets and table sponsorships are expected to go on sale in August through the Oklahoma Hall of Fame.
For those unable to attend in person, the ceremony will also be broadcast live on COX YurView, allowing Oklahomans across the state to celebrate this year's honorees.
Since its founding nearly a century ago, the Oklahoma Hall of Fame has recognized hundreds of individuals whose accomplishments have helped shape Oklahoma's history, culture, education, business, and civic life, making induction one of the state's highest civilian honors.
Event updates and ticket information are available through the Oklahoma Hall of Fame Events.
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