From staff reports DUNCAN – The Duncan Area Economic Development Foundation (DAEDF) recently celebrated 70 years of organized economic development in the region and honored the Mc-Casland family for their enduring commitment to community growth.
The DAEDF’s Feb. 27 annual banquet was a tribute to the past, present, and future of economic prosperity in Duncan and Stephens County.
DAEDF President and CEO Lyle Roggow presented a comprehensive overview of the organization’s history, highlighting the pivotal role of the Duncan Industrial Foundation (DIF) and its evolution into DAEDF. He detailed the strategic initiatives and collaborative efforts that have shaped the area's economic landscape since 1954.
“The McCasland family’s dedication to Duncan is unparalleled,” Roggow said. “For seven decades they have consistently invested their time, resources, and vision to build a strong foundation for our community. Their contributions span generations, from securing land for major industries to supporting vital community projects.”
The banquet highlighted the family’s extensive involvement, including their support for the Halliburton manufacturing plant, the Duncan Public Library, the Cow Creek water project, the Duncan Senior Citizens Center, the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center, the DRH Cancer Center, and their recent donation of 290 acres for future economic development. Marilyn Hugon, with her mother Mary Francis (Maurer) Michaelis, and family members accepted the honor on behalf of the McCasland family, expressing their ongoing commitment to the region's prosperity.
In addition to honoring the McCasland family, DAEDF recognized outgoing board members Hal Labyer and Rick Braught for their commitment and contributions.
The organization also took a moment to remember and honor the late Greg Shepherd, a former board member and chair. His significant contributions to DAEDF and the community were acknowledged, and a paver was presented to his family for the Friends of the Capitol, a lasting tribute to his legacy.
“This banquet was a celebration of our community’s resilience and progress,” said Roggow. “We are grateful for the leadership of the McCasland family, the dedication of our board members, and the unwavering support of our community partners. As we look to the future, we are committed to building upon this strong foundation and creating new opportunities for growth and prosperity.”
DAEDF also outlined its strategic vision for the coming years, which includes expanding its countywide reach, enhancing public communication, supporting workforce development initiatives, and focusing on core industries such as manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and finance.
The Duncan Area Economic Development Foundation is a nonprofit corporation dedicated to promoting economic growth and development in the Duncan area.