Fall 2025 Alumni on the Move: Danny Valverde

Born and raised in Vernon, Texas, Danny Valverde brought his passion and drive to  Oklahoma Panhandle State University, where he earned a scholarship to continue playing football while pursuing no one, but two degrees. He graduated in 2021 with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration and a Bachelor’s in Health and Physical Education.

At OPSU, he fully immersed himself in the program, which Valverde says became a second family. The teamwork, discipline, and leadership he learned on the field would later guide him in unexpected ways.

After graduation, Danny began working at Stay Sharp Barbershop in Guymon, Oklahoma. When the shop’s location was purchased by Domino’s, he decided to take a bold step and open his own business. Bladez&Fades is now located at 520 N. Main St. and has grown into a welcoming, family-oriented space. The shop features a talented team, including hairstylists Abby Ortega and Lupita Duarte, who combine precision and barbering with creative hairstyling to serve clients of all ages.

“OPSU gave me more than a degree. It gave me the mindset and skills to succeed,” Danny says. “My time at OPSU taught me teamwork, clear communication, budgeting, and leadership. All of that helped me turn an opportunity into something real.”

From the football field to entrepreneurship, Danny’s journey reflects the power of hard work, community, and the education received at OPSU. What started as a scholarship to play the sport he loves has grown into a thriving business built on skill, trust, and community relationships that continue to grow every day.