Honoring 75 Years of Vision and Leadership: A Legacy of Pioneers
A letter from NewView President and CEO, Lauren Branch.
This year, NewView Oklahoma proudly celebrates its 75th anniversary—a remarkable milestone made possible by decades of bold vision, tireless advocacy, and unwavering commitment to empowering individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Founded in 1949 by six blind Oklahomans, NewView was built on the belief that people who are blind deserve not only opportunity but also the chance to lead and shape their communities. One of those six trailblazers was Durward K. McDaniel, whose legacy continues to inspire us to this day.
Durward K. McDaniel was far more than a founding member of our organization—he was a national force in the fight for disability rights. A practicing attorney, he used his keen legal mind and deep personal conviction to challenge barriers and advocate for equality at a time when opportunities for blind Americans were few and far between. McDaniel’s influence reached far beyond Oklahoma. In 1961, he became a key founder of what is now the American Council of the Blind (ACB), an organization that continues to champion the rights of people who are blind nationwide. His work helped shift public perception, break down systemic discrimination, and lay the foundation for future legislation, including the Americans with Disabilities Act.
In recognition of his enduring legacy, NewView Oklahoma created the Durward K. McDaniel Award to honor individuals who demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to advancing the rights of people with disabilities. At our 75th anniversary celebration, we were honored to present this award to Donna Nigh, former First Lady of Oklahoma and a lifelong advocate for individuals with disabilities.
Donna Nigh’s impact on the lives of Oklahomans with disabilities cannot be overstated. During her tenure as First Lady and in the decades that followed, she championed efforts to expand services, housing, and opportunities for people with developmental disabilities. Through the Donna Nigh Foundation and her persistent advocacy, she helped secure funding and support for group homes, vocational training, and inclusive policies. Her compassionate leadership has transformed countless lives—not only by improving services but by changing the narrative around disability in our state and beyond. Like Durward McDaniel, Donna Nigh recognized the humanity, dignity, and potential of every person, and she devoted her life to helping others see it too.
Oklahoma has always been home to pioneers—people who saw what could be and dared to make it real. From prairie settlers to policy shapers, our state’s history is rich with transformational leaders like Durward K. McDaniel and Donna Nigh. Their stories remind us that leadership is not about power, but about purpose—and that real change often begins in the hearts of individuals who refuse to accept the status quo.
As we look to the future, NewView Oklahoma remains grounded in the pioneering spirit that sparked our founding 75 years ago. Today, we continue to provide employment opportunities, specialized services, and innovative programs that empower people who are blind to thrive in every aspect of life. But more than that, we strive to honor the legacy of those who came before us—by advocating fiercely, leading boldly, and believing deeply in a more inclusive world.
To everyone who has walked with us on this journey—from our founders to our partners, staff, clients, and community—thank you. The next 75 years begin with the same vision that started it all: a belief in possibility, and the courage to pursue it.
