Barbara Halsted “Barb” Adkins was a deeply respected and admired employee of the Office of Admission at The University of Tulsa for 29 years, serving from 1986 until her retirement in 2015. She was a talented recruiter, supportive advisor, and inspiring mentor in her duties in the Office of Admission, from her earliest role as Faculty Liaison to her final appointment as Associate Vice President and Dean of Admission.

Barb touched the lives of countless prospective students, who ultimately enjoyed remarkable experiences at The University of Tulsa due to Barb’s efforts to listen to their stories, learn about their strengths, and launch them on pathways to success. Adkins received awards and honors in recognition of her efforts at TU, including the 2013 Great Plains Distinguished Service Award from the Great Plains Association for College Admission Counseling. She was an active member of this organization for many years, including serving as president (2008-2009), as a delegate to the national assembly, and as a committee chair.

Barb helped guide her own son, Theodore H. “Teddy” Adkins, into the geosciences program at TU, from which he graduated in 2004 with a bachelor of science degree.

Mary Napier (MA ’96) and Matthew “Matt” Summer were colleagues of Barb Adkins in the Office of Admission, and they continue to deeply value their professional and personal associations with her. They joined with several other TU alumni, friends, faculty, and staff to recognize and celebrate Barb Adkins and the remarkable legacy she has left at The University of Tulsa by funding a scholarship in her name: The Barbara Halsted Adkins Endowed Scholarship for Deserving Students.

The University of Tulsa is grateful for this effort to recognize a loyal and dedicated TU employee in a way that will assist deserving students for generations to come.