OBF Chapman-Rogers Scholarship Recipient

Name: Samantha Oard

Hometown: Tulsa, Oklahoma

Law School: Oklahoma City University School of Law

Grad Year: May 2019

What field of law are you studying: Homeland/National Security Law & American Indian Law

Where did you attend undergrad: Oklahoma State University (Go Pokes!)

What was your Major/Minor: Major in Sports Media/Strategic Communications with a Minor in Political Science

What year did you Graduate: May 2016

What are your short-term and long-term goals, professionally & personally?

In the short-term, my professional and personal goal is to graduate law school with Honors and pass the Oklahoma Bar Exam. In the long-term, my goal is to work in federal law enforcement and help advocate for the advancement of ethical leaders who value the dignity of all human life.

What made you decide to attend law school?

I have wanted to attend law school since my sophomore year in high school. I always valued the rule of law and the way that the law interacts with our daily lives. My family has sacrificed many years in public service as both lawyers and law enforcement officers and I wanted to gain a better understanding of the law.

Are there any laws or social rules that completely baffle you?

I have always found it hilarious to look up wacky laws that are still on the books in my hometown of Tulsa. The most interesting one I have found is that in Tulsa, you may not open a soda bottle without the supervision of a licensed engineer.

What historical figure inspires you and why?

It would be hard to pick just one so I will pick a group, the Founding Fathers. Specifically, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington. The system of government that they postulated and created from scratch has endured as a beacon of hope to millions of people around the world. I hope that one day I can continue to serve the system of government that they helped create and to assist in upholding their highest ideal of treating all men as being created equal.

What is the most important thing you have learned in law school or undergrad?

The most important thing I have learned in my years attending both OSU and OCU Law is that civil discourse is the most crucial feature of our democratic republic. Being able to disagree civilly with someone who holds opposing views is something that is vital to the continuance of our system of government. I have learned that there are merits to both sides of every issue and that relationships are built on mutual respect. People are more important than politics and being right should never talk you out of being kind.