From every corner of The University of Tulsa, our impressive students, faculty, staff and alumni shared with us their explorations and accomplishments throughout 2025. In this end-of-year issue of Headlines & Happenings, we are highlighting a few of the stories that our readers let us know were among their favorites. We hope you enjoy revisiting – or encountering for the first time – these pieces and that they inspire you to look forward to 2026 with the excitement and optimism that are the hallmarks of the UTulsa community.

As Seen on TV

How does a scholar researching criminal justice end up teaching in the School of Cyber Studies? For Yi Ting Chua, it involves a passion for catching the bad guys, an encouraging career offer and a love for a popular television show.

Sovereignty and Democracy

UTulsa was one of 30 universities in the country to receive a Mellon Foundation grant this year. The funds launched a research project that re-examines the relationship between the United States and Native nations in Oklahoma.

A Trailblazer Returns

College of Law alumna Stacy Leeds recently returned to campus for the 2025 Tulsa Law Review Symposium. Her timely talk focused on tribal trust and free, prior and informed consent.

Mental Boost

Nearly 1 billion people globally suffer from mental disorders, and most go undiagnosed. Recent research on a promising scan tool by Professor Kazim Topuz aims to do something about it.

Riding the Waves

Motivated by a love of the ocean, Alex Kingston knew she wanted to be a marine biologist at age 5. But a frank conversation with her father and a chance encounter with a future mentor led her to choose academia.

King of Theatre

The TU Theatre Union successfully opened its second show, “Oedipus The King" in November. The production, which featured students from a variety of majors, brought in a full house on opening night. 

UTulsa jumps 47 spots in Military Times 'Best for Vets' 2025 college rankings
Yahoo Finance

Paul and Kara Coury give $1.5M to UTulsa innovation hub, scholarship fund
The Journal Record

UTulsa doctoral student uses training to help high school students manage mental health
FOX23 News

Wellness influencers are waging war against almonds. Could the nut really be 'toxic?'
Men's Health

Oklahoma gas prices hit four-year low ahead of holiday travel
News On 6

Keep TU in Mind During this Season of Giving!

Your support helps bridge the gap between tuition and the resources our students need most—scholarships, academic support, and career-building opportunities. Together, we can empower every Golden Hurricane to thrive. Launch TU into a bright 2026 with your tax-deductible gift by Wednesday, Dec. 31. Thank you for your generosity.