By CAITLIN HOFEN, Features Editor
Linda Tutwiler will carry the title of parade marshal in Northwestern Oklahoma State University’s Homecoming parade this year.
Tutwiler said she is excited for the opportunity, and she doesn’t take it lightly.
“It was such an honor to be chosen,” Tutwiler said. “I was so surprised and honored that I was even considered.”
An Alva resident for nearly 50 years, Tutwiler started working at Northwestern as the president’s administrative assistant in 1986. She held that position for 23 years.
“I worked under four different presidents during my time at Northwestern,” Tutwiler said. “I learned so much from each of their different leadership styles. I also made many lifelong friends.”
While working at Northwestern, Tutwiler chose to further her education. She graduated summa cum laude in 1992 with a bachelor’s degree in office administration and a master of education degree in 1998, obtaining both from Northwestern.
Tutwiler has two sons: Mark, who graduated with her in 1992, and Eric, who has worked at Northwestern for 21 years.
As a Northwestern alumnae, Tutwiler remains active on campus, serving as the chair of the Northwestern Foundation Stewardship Committee and attending any Ranger event she can.
“I love going to the plays on campus, so I try to go to every one I can,” Tutwiler said. “I’m also a season ticketholder for the Northwestern concert series on campus. I think the band and choral concerts are always great, too.
“I try to attend every football and basketball game I can. I enjoy getting to know the players and cheering on Northwestern. I try to stay involved as much as possible.”
In the Alva community, Tutwiler is a member of the Woods County Retired Educators Association, the Nescatunga Arts and Humanities Council and is a volunteer with the Graceful Arts Gallery and Studio.
Tutwiler said her favorite Homecoming tradition is watching the parade.
“I always love watching the bands in the parade,” Tutwiler said. “I think I should’ve been a musician so I could march in the band with them. I love hearing the Ranger band play ‘Ride Rangers, Ride’ as they march around the square.”
Northwestern’s Homecoming was canceled in 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic. Tutwiler said she couldn’t be happier to have Homecoming continue this year.
“I think it’s fabulous that we can have Homecoming this year,” Tutwiler said. “We missed so much because of the pandemic, and I can’t wait to wave to everybody and see their happy faces.”
