Dr. Oscar Battle, family present student scholarships to nursing, physical therapy students

by Ellie Melero

Nursing student Yazmeen Sarkissian and Physical Therapy student Parker Avendano each received a $1,000 scholarship from Dr. Oscar Battle, Jr. and Family Scholarships during a scholarship presentation program on Thursday morning.

Dr. Battle, a Langston University alumnus, has long been an avid supporter of Langston University’s Physical Therapy and Nursing programs. He believes students seeking to enter these essential fields should abide by what he calls “The 5 C’s,” and he knows LU’s programs instill these values in their students. That’s why he feels called to support these students.

“This scholarship was established to help build a better world,” Dr. Battle said. “At my graduation in 1968, the president (William H. Hale) said, ‘Don’t spend a lot of time on things you know. Go out and spend time learning things you don’t know.’ That has stayed with me. As a graduate, I owe Langston (University). It’s important that I contribute and contribute considerably more than I’ve ever gotten from the world.”

The 5 C’s stand for Commitment, Communication, Care, Continue and Community. Medical practitioners, such as nurses and physical therapists, need to be committed to helping people. They need to know how to communicate clearly, both with patients and one another, especially in times of stress. They need to care about what they’re doing, and they need to be lifelong learners who continue to perfect their craft. Finally, they need to help build community and find ways to give back to their communities.

Sarkissian and Avendano were chosen because they exhibited these qualities.

“I appreciate everybody that came out and supported us, and I appreciate the family of Dr. Oscar Battle so much,” Sarkissian said. “(This scholarship) is really just going to propel me forward, and it’s just a really big support for me in my situation right now.”

Sarkissian is from Arlington, Texas, and she plans to return to Texas after completing her degree to work as a nurse.

Avendano is from El Reno, Oklahoma, and he plans to return to El Reno to open a physical therapy practice with a friend after he graduates.

“(This scholarship) means a lot because it just shows how much Dr. Oscar Battle cares about the programs here at Langston University,” Avendano said. “And not just us being good students, but is also just preparing to serve people once we leave here. Just like he said, sending people out into the world to make a difference on behalf of Langston (University).”