Join ORU Athletics every Friday in a weekly series featuring interviews with coaches, staff members and former student-athletes.
10 Questions with Michael Rogers, Oklahoma Secretary of State (ORU Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2011):
- How have coronavirus precautions affected your schedule?
It has made my work life even busier. Since the state took the lead in implementing precautionary policies for schools, industry, and social gatherings, my work-life and meeting schedule has been around the clock since March.
- How challenging is it to keep up with the constantly changing policies about social distancing, etc.?
It is always a challenge to manage and make decisions for any organization when there is a lot of uncertainty.
- What are the biggest challenges you are facing today?
Managing my team during a time when a lot of changes are happening and so much uncertainty.
- In your role as Secretary of State, what effects are you seeing statewide from the coronavirus?
The most significant effects are the disruptions in our everyday lives, from work, sports, and even church. As Secretary of State, I see what the effects are happening to industries like hotels, restaurants, and sporting events. Some of these effects will be felt for many years to come.
- As a former ORU baseball player, how much do empathize with the season getting canceled last February?
My heart breaks for these young men and coaches; I can't imagine the disappointment they felt after working all year to prepare. It is truly heartbreaking. I know how much preparation the coaches and players put into getting ready for the season, and it to get canceled so abruptly must have been a hard pill to swallow.
- What are your fondest memories as a player here at ORU?
I have so many as I loved every minute of my time at ORU. One that comes to mind is winning the conference championship every year I was there. Secondly, pitching a two-hit shutout win in the opening game of the NCAA regional against #1 Wichita State on their home field.
- Do you have hope that high school and college sports can go on as scheduled this year?
Absolutely, as a father of two high school boys who are dying to compete this year in games, we have to acknowledge that COVID-19 is in our state and nation, but we also have to recognize that we have to get back to some sense of normal. Sports teach so many lessons on teamwork, leadership, adversity, and setting and striving for our goals. With the proper testing and precautions, we can and need to have high school and college sports.
- You formerly worked in Development at ORU. What do you miss most about that job?
I miss connecting with ORU alumni and supporters. ORU has such a great community of people who love ORU and believe in the vision of ORU. I also miss being around the buzz of the campus and seeing students develop the gifts God has planted in their hearts.
- What is something that people don't know about you, but should?
ORU sent me to play in the Alaska Summer Baseball League. I met my wife there, and we have been married for 17 years.
- When things get tough, what Bible verse do you go to for encouragement?
Philippians 4:6-7
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
10 Questions with....
March 27, 2020 – Mike Carter
April 3, 2020 – Ryan Bush
April 10, 2020 – Mark Milner
April 17, 2020 – Joe Dial
April 24, 2020 – Lance Watson
May 1, 2020 – Roger Bush
May 8, 2020 – Ashtin Meerpohl
May 15, 2020 – Tim Johnson
May 22, 2020 – Adam Hildebrandt
May 29, 2020 – Paul Mills
June 5, 2020 – Scott Williams
June 12, 2020 – Steve Upshaw
June 19, 2020 – Misti Cussen
June 26, 2020 – Frank Craig III
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