About us
The Oklahoma Hall of Fame was created to honor extraordinary Oklahomans and to provide educational programming for students of all ages. Since our founding in 1927, the organization has grown to support education in a variety of ways including awarding scholarships, providing free statewide field trips, hosting Homeschool Days, offering free family fun days with interactive art activities, sending teachers and artists into rural classrooms for free educational programs, and donating our published books to schools and libraries across Oklahoma.
Mission
The Oklahoma Hall of Fame tells Oklahoma’s story through its people. From diverse programming to the historic Gaylord-Pickens Museum, we are creating an enhanced sense of pride for all Oklahomans.
Vision
We believe there are no limits to what is possible. Every day we celebrate the legacy of inspiring Oklahomans with all generations because Oklahomans are changing the world.
Core values
- Pride – Creating generations of proud Oklahomans in all we do.
- Integrity – Doing what we say and communicating clearly.
- Inclusiveness – Accepting everyone and letting the past guide our decisions for a better future.
- Excellence – Striving for greatness; always get caught trying.
Our team
If you would like to request a speaker for an upcoming event or program, please fill out our Speakers Bureau Request Form and an OHOF representative will contact you.
For general inquiries, call our front desk at 405.235.4458 or toll free at 888.501.2059.
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Our history
1927
Anna B. Korn founds the Oklahoma Heritage Association to officially celebrate Statehood Day, recognize Oklahomans dedicated to their communities and state, and provide educational programming for all ages.
1928
The first Oklahoma Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony is held, honoring Congressman Dennis T. Flynn of Oklahoma City and civic leader Elisabeth Fulton Hester of Muskogee.
1970
Robert A. Hefner, Sr. donates his home, the Hefner Mansion, to the organization as a facility to give the organization its first permanent home.
1972
The Oklahoma Heritage House (Hefner Mansion) opens to the public.
1975
The organization publishes its first book, The Judge: The Life of Robert A. Hefner, by Clifford Earl Trafzer.
1991
The organization expands the Oklahoma Scholarship Competition to include awarding tuition grants and scholarships to students in every county.
2001
The organization purchases the historic Mid-Continent Life Insurance Building in Oklahoma City with a gift from Edward L. Gaylord.
2005
T. Boone Pickens matches Edward L. Gaylord’s gift, allowing the organization to launch renovations and develop exhibits.
2007
The interactive Gaylord-Pickens Museum and new home to the Oklahoma Hall of Fame opens to the public.
2008
The Teen Board and Second Century Young Professional Board were established to raise funds for the Museum's Free Field Trip and Free Family Fun programs.
2015
The first Oklahoma Born & Brewed fundraising event was held, supporting the growing craft beer industry in Oklahoma and the Museum's cultural programming.
2020
OHOF holds its first (and only) virtual Induction Ceremony in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
2027
OHOF will celebrate its centennial birthday, marking 100 years of telling Oklahoma's story through its people.