PRESS RELEASE: Devon Energy, Thunder host Mark Twain Elementary Court dedication


Devon Energy and the Oklahoma City Thunder send this information as posted below:


OKLAHOMA CITY (September 5, 2024) — Devon Energy and Mark Twain Elementary commemorated its 20-year partnership with a fun-filled celebration at the school, including the dedication of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s 31st community court within the state. 

Devon first partnered with Mark Twain in 2004 when the company adopted the school and encouraged employees to tutor students. Since then, the partnership has grown to include various educational initiatives like providing teacher grants, STEM Camp scholarships, family STEM nights and more. 

Laying the Foundation 

In 2019, Devon installed the state’s first Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation STEM Center at Mark Twain Elementary. 

To help families understand what students were learning in the new STEM Center, Devon partnered with Engage Learning to host Family STEM Nights, where students and parents participate in hands-on STEM activities together. These nights provide more than educational enrichment—families were also provided access to social services. 

“Progress happens when the community comes together,” said Tana Cashion, Executive VP of Human Resources & Administration at Devon Energy. “We’re grateful for all our partners, including Engage Learning, Sunbeam, Oklahoma City Public Schools, the Oklahoma City Public Schools Foundation and the Thunder, for making this incredible impact on the lives of students and families.” 

Reaching New Heights 

In 2023, Mark Twain students experienced over 14,256 hours of STEM programming, contributing to their academic achievements. The school earned the highest grade in the Oklahoma City Public Schools district from the Oklahoma State Department of Education, a testament to the commitment of its teachers, students and partners. 

Dr. Jamie Polk, Superintendent of Oklahoma City Public Schools, expressed her appreciation for Devon’s continued support. “The longstanding partnership between Devon and Mark Twain Elementary goes beyond what words can fully express. It is a model of how community support and collaboration can enhance educational outcomes. The impact on our students’ academic success and personal growth has been inspiring, and OKCPS is grateful to both Devon Energy and the OKC Thunder for their continued investment in our students’ futures.” 

In recognition of the partnership’s milestone anniversary, Devon gifted the school with a brand-new Thunder community court. Following the court dedication, students participated in Devon SportsLab, STEM-based basketball drills led by Thunder Youth Basketball coaches.  

“We’re thrilled to dedicate a community court at Mark Twain Elementary where students can grow both physically and academically,” Erin Oldfield, Director of Community Engagement for the Thunder “The Thunder believes in the power of sports to transform lives, and with the integration of STEM education, students can learn valuable skills while having fun on the court.” 

Including the Mark Twain location, the Thunder and Devon have now partnered on four Thunder community courts.  

About Devon  
Devon Energy is a leading oil and gas producer in the U.S. with a premier multi-basin portfolio headlined by a world-class acreage position in the Delaware Basin. Devon’s disciplined cash-return business model is designed to achieve strong returns, generate free cash flow and return capital to shareholders, while focusing on safe and sustainable operations. Headquartered in Oklahoma City, Devon is a Fortune 500 company and is included in the S&P 500 Index. Its common shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol DVN. For more information, please visit www.devonenergy.com.    

About Thunder 

Founded in 2008, the Oklahoma City Thunder is Oklahoma’s NBA franchise with strong fan, corporate and community support throughout its home state and around the globe. Driven by a philosophy of teamwork and humility, the team stands at the pinnacle of a regional cultural renaissance and seeks to impact the state through its commitment to community engagement and involvement. On the court, the Thunder makes its home in Paycom Center in downtown Oklahoma City and prides itself on creating an environment that is fan-focused, family-friendly and community-oriented. For more information, visit www.okcthunder.com 


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