By Journalist Abigail Bowman (ORU)
In a recent press conference, the Lieutenant Governor of the Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature (O.I.L.) provided valuable insights into the anticipated evolution of the organization over the next decade. When asked about her hopes for the future, she expressed a vision for growth within delegations and a more robust connection between O.I.L. legislators and their real-world counterparts. The Lieutenant Governor emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between O.I.L. and actual legislators, envisioning increased connections with justices. Additionally, she articulated a desire to enhance the press competition by bringing active press secretaries to connect with competitors.
Addressing the crucial aspect of gathering feedback for continual improvement, the Lieutenant Governor preferred Google Forms and Excel. She detailed using these tools to collect participant suggestions, facilitate direct communication, and compile contact information for future engagement. Furthermore, she highlighted implementing a post-mortem process a few weeks after each session, allowing participants to provide detailed feedback on their experiences, preferences, and areas for organizational enhancement.
The Chief of Staff elaborated on O.I.L.’s marketing strategies for the future aimed at attracting new colleges. This comprehensive approach includes visits to every school, leveraging alumni who share their O.I.L. experiences to encourage the establishment of new O.I.L. clubs. Social media is also actively utilized to expand outreach and attract fresh talent to the competition.
As the Lieutenant Governor approaches retirement after the current session, her sentiments encapsulate a spectrum of emotions, reflecting on the journey leading up to this significant moment. Professing a deep-seated love for the organization, she acknowledges the inherent challenge of bidding farewell. However, she emphasizes the inevitability of passing the torch, recognizing the cyclical nature of leadership transitions. In expressing her unwavering confidence in the capable hands that will guide O.I.L. into the future, she underscores the collective strength and resilience embedded within the organization. The Lieutenant Governor’s anticipation for the bright future ahead is a testament to her belief in the enduring legacy of O.I.L. and an affirmation of the dynamic and transformative potential that will continue to define the organization under new leadership. As she prepares to step aside, her words resonate as a poignant affirmation of O.I.L.’s vitality and ability to evolve, adapt, and thrive in the hands of those who will carry its legacy forward.