Jim Oblander

As a first generation student, Panhandle State attracted Oblander by the reasonable cost to get an education. With the dream of owning his own farm someday, Jim took the opportunity to work for the school farm and pursue his degree. He graduated with a degree in Agronomy in 1967.

During his time at Panhandle State, Jim was involved in ROTC classes and the rifle team. Jim commented, “Since it was during the draft, I got involved in the ROTC classes so that after graduating I could enter the army as an officer.” Oblander said that one of his favorite memories being a student was every Thursday afternoon ROTC went to the drill field and ran drills.

Since Oblander was commissioned as an officer once graduating, he was eligible to apply for flight school with the army. Once he was accepted, Oblander became a helicopter pilot serving four years in Vietnam. After leaving the army, Jim returned to Panhandle State where he received his teaching certificate. He went on to teach in Guymon for several years working to gradually obtain the land to fulfill his dream of farming full time. This dream became a reality in the late seventies where Jim enjoyed farming and raising a family. He retired a few years ago to enjoy his time spent flying, playing golf, attending bridge games, and staying involved with Panhandle State.

Jim has been an essential member of the community and Panhandle State University with his love of the college as a whole. Oblander has served on the board of the Alumni Association for over a decade, and is always willing to lend a hand wherever is needed.

Jim believes that the college experience shapes students for who they become in life. When asked his favorite part of Panhandle State Jim gently stated, “The character that is all around us with students, alumni, staff and community. It is because of this trait I have a deep appreciation for the impact made by this college, my life was formed here on this campus.”