RSU Technology and Justice Studies Department Head Dr. Curtis Sparling (center) was recently named the Claremore Chamber of Commerce’s Educator of the Year. Sparling is congratulated on this honor by RSU Interim President Dr. Mark Rasor (left) and Sparling’s wife, Dr. Cathy Sparling (right).
Rogers State University Technology and Justice Studies Department Head Dr. Curtis Sparling has been named the Claremore Chamber of Commerce’s Educator of the Year.
The honor was bestowed upon Sparling at the Claremore Chamber’s Annual Meeting and Awards Luncheon, held Jan. 29 in the Dr. Carolyn Taylor Center at RSU. During the event, the Chamber recognizes citizens of distinction for their contribution to and impact upon the Claremore community.
During her introduction of Sparling as the award recipient, Chamber President Barby Myers said the Educator of the Year Award is one which “celebrates the incredible impact of education and the transformative power of dedicated leadership.”
“The Educator of the Year Award is a tribute to an outstanding individual whose passion, innovation, and commitment to learning have left an indelible mark on their students, colleagues, and the community,” Myers said. “This prestigious honor recognizes a distinguished leader and educator who has devoted their career to advancing technology and justice studies. Through their tireless efforts, they not only cultivate knowledge but also inspire critical thinking, innovation, and a sense of purpose in their students.
“The recipient of this award exemplifies excellence in education, creating an environment where students are encouraged to dream big, push boundaries, and explore new horizons,” she continued. “They are a shining example of what it means to lead by example, combining subject-matter expertise with genuine care and mentorship to empower others to achieve their full potential. Their dedication goes beyond the classroom, as they work to bridge the gap between education and the broader community, ensuring that their contributions resonate far and wide.”
Claremore Chamber of Commerce outgoing Board Chairman Grant Gingerich (right) presents the Chamber’s Educator of the Year Award to Dr. Curtis Sparling (left). Sparling is head of the Technology and Justice Studies Department at Rogers State University.
Sparling was handed the award by outgoing Chamber Board Chairman Grant Gingerich.
“I am deeply honored to receive this award from the Claremore Area Chamber of Commerce,” Sparling said of the honor. “Truly, this recognition is simply a reflection of the incredible students, colleagues, and community I am privileged to serve every day.”
As a department head and professor at RSU, Sparling played a pivotal role in developing innovative degree programs in cybersecurity, unmanned aerial systems technologies, national and information security, and eSports. A true advocate for student success, he established nationally ranked competitive cybersecurity and robotics teams at RSU.
Sparling’s commitment to helping learners extends beyond the university, with the creation of the AeroCats STEM outreach program, which reaches about 4,500 K-12 students each semester, fostering interest in science and technology among young learners.
Prior to his academic career, he served for 22 years as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy, holding leadership roles such as Chief Information Officer, Chief Operating Officer, and Executive Officer, and concluding his service as a Commanding Officer at sea.