Northwestern-Enid Awarded TSET Built Environment Grant to Enhance Safety, Health

November 11, 2025

New lighting and a gazebo have been added along the walkway connecting the Northwestern Oklahoma State University and Northern Oklahoma College Enid campuses, thanks to a Built Environment Grant from the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET). The grant is also helping to fund 10 new disc golf pads for the existing nine-hole course.

ENID, Okla. – Northwestern Oklahoma State University’s Enid campus has been awarded a Built Environment Grant from the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) to fund the Enid Campus Recreation Area project. The $25,000 grant is matched by an additional $25,000 from Northwestern.

Awarded in June 2025, the grant is funding new lighting along the walkway connecting the Northwestern and Northern Oklahoma College Enid campuses to enhance safety. The public-access walkway is ADA-compliant and frequently used by students and community members.

The grant has also funded a new gazebo along the walkway and 10 new disc golf pads to expand the existing nine-hole course and practice area.

When completed at the end of 2025, the project will enhance outdoor recreation opportunities on campus and provide a safer, more accessible space for family-friendly activities.

“This TSET grant will help make our campus more accessible and increase opportunities to promote wellness,” said Dr. Wayne McMillin, dean of the Enid campus. “The pathway is both a symbolic and practical reminder of our Bridge program with NOC. It connects our campuses and supports our shared commitment to higher education in the Enid community.

“The gazebo will offer a resting spot and gathering place for students, staff and community members, while also serving as a shelter for disc golfers. The new lighting improves safety for those using the walkway in the evening. This was a much-needed project, and we are very thankful for TSET’s support.”

A grand opening ceremony is planned for early spring 2026 to celebrate the project’s completion.

The TSET Built Environment Grant program supports Oklahoma communities in creating healthier spaces that encourage physical activity and access to nutritious food. Funding is available for both planning and construction projects such as trails, parks, sidewalks and community gardens. All projects must be open to the public, based on local needs, and designed to improve long-term health outcomes for Oklahomans.

To learn more about TSET Built Environment Grants, visit TSET Built Environment Grants (https://oklahoma.gov/tset/funding-opportunities/tset-built-environment-grants.html).

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