Kathy Pinson to be recognized as ECU Distinguished Alumni
ADA, Okla. – East Central University alumna, Kathy Pinson, is set to be honored at ECU’s Evening of Honors and Recognition May 16 at 6 p.m. in the ECU Foundation Hall, located inside the Chickasaw Business & Conference Center.
A 1976 graduate of ECU, Pinson receive her bachelor’s degree in Accounting.
“ECU was a major contributor to any successes in my career,” said Pinson. “Not only was the education excellent but the support and guidance of faculty and staff was exceptional. That support didn’t end once I graduated either—it continued long after my graduation.”
In 1979, Pinson would begin her journey with Pre-Paid Legal, now known as LegalShield. A career that would span more than 45 years.
When she first joined the Pre-Paid Legal family, there were only 18 other employees operating across six states. During her years of service, Pinson would not only play a significant role in the company’s evolution to LegalShield but would also see it expand to approximately 700 employees with operations in all 50 states and portions of Canada.
During the company’s growth into new states, Pinson played a pivotal role by traveling to many of those states to meet with local regulators to champion the cause and determine what was necessary to gain admission into those states. She worked with numerous local lobbyists to reshape state statutes, even testifying before congressional bodies. Thanks to her efforts, the company was able to continue its growth into new areas where such services had never been provided.
In 2017, Pinson was recognized by the Journal Record as one of “50 Women Making A Difference” in the state of Oklahoma and in 2023 she was recognized by the Business Intelligence Group’s BIG awards as “Woman of the Year”.
Pinson’s daughter, granddaughter and grandson also attended ECU, as well as her son-in-law and two sisters-in-law.
Pinson serves on the board of directors for McCall’s Chapel. She also serves on her local water board and is continually active in her church.
“I am very thankful for my time at ECU and the impact it has had on my life,” concluded Pinson.
To purchase tickets for ECU Evening of Honors and Recognition, visit ecok.edu/2025EOH or contact the Office of Alumni Relations at alumni@ecok.edu or call 580-559-5651.
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