Since 2003, Devon has partnered with Oklahoma City University to play an integral role in the university’s Clara Luper Scholarship program. Named in honor of renowned civil rights activist Clara Luper, this outstanding scholarship program gives minority students from low- income families in the Oklahoma City area the opportunity to attend college free of charge. These students all have strong academic backgrounds and often times have worked more than one job during their high school years to assist their families with living expenses. These outstanding students most likely would not have the resources to attend college if it was not for the Clara Luper scholarship, and many are the first in their families to attend college.
The Clara Luper Scholarship Program demonstrates that access and opportunity are the critical components necessary for underserved students to realize the goal of a private college education. Clara Luper/Devon Scholars’ retention rates exceed national averages, and barriers presented by socioeconomic status are greatly reduced because of this program.
Each year, Devon selects five freshman students from the Clara Luper Scholarship program to become Devon Scholars. There are currently 20 Devon scholars in the program, and as five graduate each year another five join this elite group. Students are selected based on their academic performance, test scores and projected major. The students are then matched with a Devon mentor and provided opportunities to interact professionally and socially with Devon personnel, enhance their leadership skills and compete for internships.
Mentors regularly meet with their scholar, offer insight, encouragement and professional development. Most importantly, they become friends and these scholars truly become part of the Devon family. Scholars attend lunches and dinners with senior management and participate in volunteer initiatives sponsored by Devon. They participate in an orientation at Devon where they learn about oil and gas business and career opportunities.