Reps Remember George Nigh
OKLAHOMA CITY – Reps. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond, Mike Osburn, R-Edmond, Jim Grego, R-Wilburton and David Smith, R-Arpelar, issued the following statement today following the death of former Oklahoma Governor George Nigh. Nigh was born in McAlester and graduated from McAlester High School. He later graduated from what is now Eastern Oklahoma State College in Wilburton. He later taught social studies at McAlester High School. "George Nigh is absolutely legendary and beloved in our area of the state," said Grego and Smith who share representation of McAlester. "No one cared a bit about his political party. All they knew was he was a fierce advocate for Oklahomans and Oklahoma. He had our best interests at heart and spent a lifetime showing us how to accomplish much through hard work, determination and love of others." Nigh’s decades of service to the state included time in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, multiple terms as lieutenant governor and governor. Nigh served as president of the University of Central Oklahoma, located in Edmond, and was a constituent of Miller's. "Oklahoma has lost a legend. George Nigh was the very epitome of what it means to be a public servant. He was a relentless champion for our state and had a unique talent for bringing together people from all walks of life. He innately understood that what makes Oklahoma special is the people who call this state home. During his time in public office and as president of the University of Central Oklahoma, he fiercely told Oklahoma's story. He built UCO into the powerhouse institution it is today, and the university and surrounding Edmond community blossomed during his time at the helm. His mentorship will be greatly missed, and we will keep his family in our prayers."