Good morning, Stillwater.

Forbes released its best employer list for Oklahoma based on survey responses from more than 160,000 workers and a three-year scoring system—naming 35 companies as top employers, including nationally recognized firms and those headquartered locally.

The ranking also identifies the top 10 best employers based in Oklahoma, such as the Choctaw Nation, MidFirst Bank, and Oklahoma State University Main Campus in Stillwater.

On Saturday, Aug. 23, Facilities Management removed the 115-year-old Shumard Oak from in front of Gundersen Hall due to safety concerns—Landscape Services plans to mill its wood for future projects and replant trees later this fall.

Oklahoma State launched a new postdoctoral affairs office to support fellows and mentors by providing resources, coaching, and networking events—responding to a survey where many postdoctoral researchers reported feeling isolated.

The office will design programs to boost the postdoctoral community’s visibility and strengthen mentoring bonds.

The Oklahoma State University College of Education and Human Sciences broke enrollment records this fall—welcoming over 5,100 students with 1,107 new freshmen—and set a record with 4,125 undergraduate students.

The college also saw transfer students rise by 8.7%, showing strong local interest.

On Tuesday, September 9th, the Oklahoma State University Nursing Leadership Program awarded scholarships to three nursing students through a partnership with the Oklahoma Nurses Association and Upskill Oklahoma grant funding — Courtney Parks, Lauren Green, and Staci Winder were recognized for their leadership in nursing. The program offers advanced business and leadership education in two tracks and will enroll new students until Sept 20.

OSU students joined first responders over the weekend at Boone Pickens Stadium to climb 110 stories—equal to the height of the World Trade Center towers—in a memorial event commemorating the 24th anniversary of the Sept.

11 attacks. More than 300 participants took part as the Fire Protection Society hosted the climb to honor those lost on that day.

A team from OSU Center for Health Sciences began a grant-funded project on Tuesday using nearly $200,000 to improve care for rural patients with venous thromboembolism.

They are now developing educational programs, a mobile app, and virtual discussions to help emergency departments treat VTE more effectively.

Hugh Jackman Live

6-7:30 p.m. — McKnight Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience an enchanting evening with Hugh Jackman performing hit songs from his most beloved roles.

Celebration of Education Annual Fundraiser

6:00-8:30 p.m. — Sparrow Beginnings — Individual Ticket $100 — Celebrate local educators with dinner and auctions.

Town & Gown Theatre Presents 'Legally Blonde'

7:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m. — Town & Gown Community Theatre — $18 adults, $16 students/military/seniors — Celebrate 75 years with the vibrant tale of Elle Woods who defies stereotypes in pursuit of love and success.

Pumpkin and Mum Sale

8 a.m. — The Botanic Garden at Oklahoma State University — Free entry — Explore the popular Pumpkin and Mum Sale for your seasonal favorites.

Youth Art Sale

All Day — Downtown Stillwater Association — $15 entry fee — Celebrate local young talent at a juried showcase of original youth artwork during Octoberfest.

Kansas State Wildcats at Oklahoma State Cowgirls Women's Soccer

6:00 PM — Neal Patterson Stadium — Free entry — Cheer on the Cowgirls as they take on Kansas State in a thrilling Big 12 matchup.