Senator Coleman Comments on the Passing of Ponca City Banker Carl Renfro

PONCA CITY – Sen. Bill Coleman, R-Ponca City, issued the following statement on the passing of former Oklahoma State Regent and longtime local banker Carl Renfro.

“Carl Renfro was nothing short of a great man who leaves behind an even greater legacy. He wasn’t a Ponca City native, but Carl and his family made Ponca City their chosen home and played a significant role in contributing to the growth of this city by promoting economic development, quality education and the arts. As a former State Regent and Chairman of the Board of Regents, Carl was a tireless champion for public colleges and universities. He was also a firm believer that higher education could change the entire trajectory of a young person’s life. But he also had a hand in changing countless lives. Without him, the University Center at Ponca City never would have become a reality. After playing an instrumental role in creating the University Center, he also established a university foundation that provides scholarships for students in need. He also made significant investments in Northern Oklahoma College, including establishing the ‘Renfro Lectureship Program,’ which focused on education, history and the arts.

“Carl was also deeply passionate about telling the story of Chief Standing Bear, a former chief of the Ponca Tribe, and how he became the first Native American civil rights leader. In 1993, Carl co-founded the Standing Bear Native American Foundation and Standing Bear Native American Park in Ponca City to honor the chief’s legacy. Carl was, without a doubt, a pillar of this community and someone I know many of us looked up to. He consistently gave more to this community than he ever asked in return. While I mourn his passing, I’m grateful for the lasting mark he left on Ponca City and our state. My heart goes out to Carl’s family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time, but I hope they find some comfort in knowing his impact will be felt here for generations to come.”