Debbie Hagan-Hogan
Founder & Front Line Director
Jeff Sykes
Front Line Director
With loving hearts, we remember the life and legacy of Jeff Sykes, one of the dedicated directors of the Sooner Sensations.
Jeff served as chorus director for five years, leading with passion, creativity, and an unwavering love of music. During his time, the chorus celebrated meaningful achievements, including competing in 2017 and earning the Audience Favorite Award for their show package, returning to the regional stage in 2018, and in 2019 being named Most Improved with an impressive 40-point increase in score.
His love of music began early, singing with his family—where a father and two brothers naturally became a quartet. A university graduate, Jeff continued his musical journey with the Oklahoma City Men’s Barbershop Chapter, where he was an active member for 35 years. He also directed the OK Chorale for 14 years and was nominated for Barbershopper of the Year on three occasions.
Jeff sang in numerous quartets and performed in The Music Man six times. In 2015, he became director of the Sooner Sensations Show Chorus, making an immediate impact with an Audience Favorite win in his first year. The following year, he was elected president of VSO.
Jeff will be remembered for his leadership, encouragement, and the joy he brought to those around him. His legacy continues in the music he shared and the many lives he touched.
Jeff served as chorus director for five years, leading with passion, creativity, and an unwavering love of music. During his time, the chorus celebrated meaningful achievements, including competing in 2017 and earning the Audience Favorite Award for their show package, returning to the regional stage in 2018, and in 2019 being named Most Improved with an impressive 40-point increase in score.
His love of music began early, singing with his family—where a father and two brothers naturally became a quartet. A university graduate, Jeff continued his musical journey with the Oklahoma City Men’s Barbershop Chapter, where he was an active member for 35 years. He also directed the OK Chorale for 14 years and was nominated for Barbershopper of the Year on three occasions.
Jeff sang in numerous quartets and performed in The Music Man six times. In 2015, he became director of the Sooner Sensations Show Chorus, making an immediate impact with an Audience Favorite win in his first year. The following year, he was elected president of VSO.
Jeff will be remembered for his leadership, encouragement, and the joy he brought to those around him. His legacy continues in the music he shared and the many lives he touched.
Marilyn Turner
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The Director’s Award is proudly named in honor of Marilyn Turner. A dedicated member of Sweet Adelines International for more than fifty years, Marilyn was a charter member of the Houston Horizon Chorus and served as Events Coordinator for Great Coast Region 10. Throughout her time in the organization, she took on numerous leadership and support roles at both the chorus and regional levels. In recognition of her remarkable commitment, she received her 50-year membership pin in 2017. Marilyn was a cherished member of the Houston Horizon Chorus for over thirty-eight years. In 2019, she returned to her home state of Oklahoma, where she continued her involvement as an active member of Sooner Sensations in Moore, contributing her talents to the Costume and Makeup team. Over the years, Marilyn was also a valued mentor, sharing her experience and passion with countless chorus members. |