Northwestern Computer Science Major Selected as Brad Henry International Scholar
March 12, 2025
Northwestern Oklahoma State University Computer Science major John Cloud has been selected as a Brad Henry International Scholar by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education.
The Enid senior is currently spending the spring 2025 semester studying at Swansea University in Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom.
“I have loved Swansea so far!” Cloud said. “Getting to experience a new community and learning about the culture and identity of Swansea has been so much fun, and the school itself here has also been accommodating and fantastic. I've gotten to travel across Wales to St. David's, Cardiff, Oxwich and Port Eynon while seeing so many great sights and places.”
John Cloud, a senior Northwestern Oklahoma State University Computer Science major from Enid, visits St. David’s Cathedral in Haverfordwest, United Kingdom. Cloud was selected as a Brad Henry International Scholar and is currently spending the Spring 2025 semester abroad at Swansea University in Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom.
Cloud was nominated by Dr. Timothy Maharry, Northwestern Mathematics and Computer Department chair and professor of mathematics. Maharry served as Cloud’s academic adviser from 2021-2024.
“I think John will be an excellent representative of Northwestern as our Brad Henry International Scholar,” Maharry said. “John is an excellent student and was also our department’s student worker for several years. He was very helpful in 2021-2022 when we renovated Shockley Hall 125 as the new esports arena on campus and has been a valuable assistant for several of the esports competitions we have hosted on the Northwestern campus.”
Cloud was also nominated by Ethan Sacket, Northwestern Student Success coordinator.
“As a student, John has made such a positive impact on so many here at Northwestern, and we're grateful he's been awarded the Brad Henry International Scholar opportunity,” Sacket said. “I know he is stewarding this unique time well to learn and experience as much as possible.”
Cloud received funding for tuition and lodging for a full semester of study at Swansea University, as well as a stipend to help with other expenses such as airfare and passport fees to and from the UK.
Northwestern senior John Cloud looks over Three Cliffs Bay in Swansea, United Kingdom.
“It was terrifying to come here at first,” Cloud said, “but thanks to Christ, I was able to find the strength to make this my temporary home.”
Sacket believed Cloud was up to the task.
“Living in an entirely new country without knowing anyone prior would be outside the comfort zones of many,” Sacket said. “However, beyond the comfort zone is where great growth is discovered, so I am beyond excited for the development John is currently experiencing this semester in the UK.”
The Brad Henry International Scholarship program was established by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education in June 2008. The Regents provide a stipend for students selected to participate in the semester-long study or research programs affiliated with Swansea University. Recipients are selected by a committee of State Regents’ staff based on their excellent academic performance, outstanding communication skills, exemplary character, and exceptional leadership, maturity and judgment.
“John is there for a special purpose, and the Ranger Family is excited to hear about his adventures and how those experiences prepare him for what is next in his life's journey when he’s back in Oklahoma,” Sacket said.
Northwestern senior John Cloud walks on the beach near Three Cliffs Bay in Swansea, United Kingdom.
Cloud encouraged his fellow students to learn more about the opportunity.
“I'd highly recommend it to anyone who wants to experience new places, cultures and ideas,” Cloud said.
For more information on the Brad Henry Scholarship program visit www.nwosu.edu/study-abroad/brad-henryscholarship-program.
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CONTACT FOR RELEASE:
Sean J. Doherty, University Relations Specialist
sjdoherty@nwosu.edu | (580) 327-8480