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Tramel: Misunderstood Mike Holder strived for excellence in 55 years at Oklahoma State

To most of us, Mike Holder is one strange ranger.

Stoic. Guarded. Off-putting. But smart. Impactful. Successful.

The solicitor of donations reaching $10 million or more. The hall monitor who roams Gallagher-Iba Arena’s offices, turning off lights so the electric bill stays in check.

It’s all by design. And in some ways, all a facade.

“I have long said I think he’s the most misunderstood guy on the planet,” said Chris Batchelder, former president of the OSU Alumni Association and now a Bartlesville banker. “A lot of people have a hard time getting to know him.