Okla.City University inducts five business leaders into Hall of

Journal Record, The (Oklahoma City), Oct 23, 2007 by Brian Brus

Five business leaders were inducted into Oklahoma Commerce and Industry Hall of Honor by Oklahoma City University's Meinders School of Business.

"This is an outstanding group of leaders that deserves to join the Oklahoma business legends in the Hall of Honor," Business School Dean Vincent Orza said. "Individuals of accomplishment such as these serve as role models for our students as a result of their dedication, perseverance, service and success."

Tom Ward received the Chairman's Award on his induction. Ward has served as chairman and chief executive of SandRidge Energy since June 2006, and served as president, chief operating office and director of Chesapeake Energy Corp. from when he co-founded the company in 1989 until 2006.

Former Oklahoma City Mayor Ron Norick received the Meritorious Service Award. Norick is now controlling manager for Norick Investment Co., and was employed by Norick Brothers for more than 30 years serving as president of that company from 1981 to 1992.

Inductee Bob Mills received the Entrepreneurial Spirit Award. Mills has been chief executive and president of Bob Mills Furniture since 1971. Mills has stores in Oklahoma City, Amarillo, Texas, and Lubbock, Texas.

Jackie Cooper received the Outstanding Achievement Award. Cooper serves as owner and manager of Cooper Automotive Group. He began his career in the car business at his father's repair shop at the age of 10 and was the youngest Oldsmobile dealer when he purchased his dealership at the age of 21.

And Ann Simmons Alspaugh received the Paul Strasbaugh Lifetime Achievement Award on her induction. Alspaugh is a member of the board of directors of several family owned entities and is active in the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence, Junior League and Oklahoma Arts Institute.