OU Campus Activities Council announced its 2023 Homecoming Royalty Court Tuesday.
Among the court are: OU Student Government Association President Christopher Firch, Maria Fernanda Gonzalez, Angeline Huynh, Andrew Jacob, Mandinyara Kanhema, Amelia Landry, Megan Neaves, Julian Ruger, Mia-Lynne Smith, Katie Tramel, Corbin Walls and Stevi Wampler.
Ruger, a public health senior, told OU Daily it’s an honor to be on the Homecoming Royalty Court.
“It’s not just about me, but rather, it’s an opportunity to be a visible representation of the proud Afro-Latino community I represent and my fraternity (Omega Delta Phi),” Ruger said. “Having the chance to step onto the field, I’m reminded of the journey of those who came before me and the potential I hold to inspire those who will come after.”
Being on the court is a testament to the values, dedication and resilience of the people who've supported him, Ruger said.
“It signifies breaking barriers, challenging norms and being a beacon for others,” Ruger said. “It’s a tangible manifestation of my commitment to represent and uplift the voices of my communities, serving as a bridge between tradition and progression.”
Ruger said he hopes to represent the university with integrity, excellence and authenticity.
“I aim to embody our institution’s values while highlighting the richness of my Afro-Latino culture and the tenets of Omega Delta Phi,” Ruger said. “I want every student, irrespective of their background, to see in me a reflection of the university’s commitment to diversity, inclusion and excellence. Through my actions and interactions, I aim to show that the university is a place where all communities can thrive, be celebrated and make a lasting impact.”
Kanhema, a public health biology pre-med senior, also said it was an honor.
“I am in awe of the amazing people on that court and the amazing work they’ve done on campus,” Kanhema said. “Their dedication to their respective communities is so inspiring and I couldn’t be happier.”
She added that being on the court means showing her love for the OU community and the impact it had on her life and career growth.
“I am elated and happy to be a part of this court representing women, African women, and international students,” Kanhema said.
Kanhema hopes to uphold the positive values the school has given her, she said, and wear the OU emblem proudly on her chest while striving to demonstrate community and leadership.
“The university has helped me grow as a person and I am so grateful,” Kanhema said.
Tramel, an anthropology senior, said the recognition of being on the court helped to push herself to do more at OU to help other students find their purpose. “I am constantly in awe of the peers who were selected alongside me, and I am so grateful for this opportunity,” Tramel said.
She said the honor represents the culmination of all the work she’s done at OU over the last few years.
“I have served in various positions in CAC over the last four years, and I am so thankful for the opportunity to represent this organization on homecoming court,” Tramel said.
Tramel said she will continue to act as a leader who serves others first and foremost.
“My experiences within CAC have helped me become a better leader, student and person,” Tramel said. “In representing the university, I hope to use the skills I have gained to promote self-confidence, kindness and stewardship among other students. Lastly, I hope that showing school spirit throughout the week will help show how passionate I am about the University of Oklahoma.”
The royalty announcement will be during halftime at the homecoming football game on Saturday against the University of Central Florida.
This story was edited by Alexia Aston. Mary Ann Livingood copy edited this story.
