POTEAU, OKLA. – Carl Albert State College (CASC) proudly recognizes two outstanding members of the Viking family who were honored for their dedication and service at the recent Oklahoma Association of Community Colleges (OACC) Conference.
Kristi McConnell was presented with the Outstanding Faculty Award; Paul Pulley, Athletic Director and Head Baseball Coach, received the Outstanding Professional Award; and Regina Risley, Student Service Specialist at the CASC Sallisaw Campus, received the Outstanding Support Staff Award. All three individuals exemplify the commitment to student success, leadership, and service that defines the CASC community.
Kristi McConnell serves as the Division Chair of Social and Behavioral Sciences and Director of Occupational Safety and Health at CASC, where she has dedicated 15 years to higher education and student success. In addition to her leadership responsibilities, she teaches courses in Occupational Safety and Health, Psychology, and Sociology, helping prepare students for success in a variety of academic and professional fields. She also serves as the college’s Safety Coordinator and Suicide Prevention Liaison, supporting campus safety initiatives and promoting the well-being of students, faculty, and staff.
Kristi holds a Master’s degree in Counseling from East Central University and a Master’s degree in Occupational Safety and Health from Southeastern Oklahoma State University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Oklahoma and brings a diverse professional background spanning higher education, mental health, and occupational safety. She is passionate about student achievement, workforce development, mental health awareness, and creating a safe, supportive learning environment. Through her teaching and leadership, Kristi is committed to helping students reach their educational goals while developing the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in their chosen careers.
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Kristi enjoys spending time with her husband, Rickey McConnell, and their two wonderful children. Family is an important part of her life, and she enjoys supporting her children’s activities and being involved in the interests they love.
Paul Pulley is in his eighth year at Carl Albert State College, where he serves as Athletic Director and Head Baseball Coach. Originally hired to lead the Vikings baseball program, Pulley’s dedication, leadership, and commitment to the College led to expanded responsibilities as Assistant Athletic Director before his eventual promotion to Athletic Director.
Under Pulley’s leadership, the Vikings baseball program has compiled an impressive 103–67 record over the past three seasons. His influence extends beyond the baseball field, as he serves on several campus committees and remains actively engaged in initiatives supporting the College’s mission and student success.
Pulley earned his master’s degree in Sports Administration from Southwestern Oklahoma State University. He and his wife, Briley, reside in Wister, Oklahoma, with their two children, Ammon and Austin.
Regina Risley has dedicated the past 13 years to serving students at the College’s Sallisaw Campus. As a Student Service Specialist, she plays an important role in helping students navigate their educational journeys, offering guidance, encouragement, and support along the way.
For Risley, her work is about more than assisting students with their academic needs. It is about building meaningful relationships and making a lasting difference in the lives of others.
“To me, Carl Albert is more than just a workplace; it’s family,” Risley shared. “I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve our students, work alongside wonderful coworkers, and be a part of such a special college family and community. Receiving the Outstanding Support Staff Award is an honor and a reminder of why I love what I do.”
A proud resident of Vian, Oklahoma, Risley is also actively involved in her community through volunteerism and service. Her passion for helping others extends beyond the College, reflecting her belief that kindness, encouragement, and meaningful connections can have a lasting impact.
“We are immensely proud of Kristi, Paul, and Gina for their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to our students and institution,” said CASC President Dr. Jay Falkner. “Both represent the very best of Carl Albert State College. Regina’s compassion and genuine care for students, combined with Paul’s leadership and dedication to excellence, demonstrate the tremendous impact our employees make every day. We are fortunate to have them as part of the Viking family.”
The OACC awards recognize exceptional faculty, professional, and support staff members from community colleges across Oklahoma who demonstrate outstanding service, leadership, and commitment to higher education.
Through their contributions to student services, athletics, and campus life, McConnell, Pulley, and Risley continue to make a meaningful difference at Carl Albert State College. Their recognition reflects the College’s ongoing commitment to fostering an exceptional educational environment where students, employees, and communities can thrive.
Be exceptional. Be a Viking.
Pictured L to R: Paul Pulley, Kristi McConnell, Gina Risley, and President Jay Falkner
###
