Excellence In Administration

Each year, OYE recognizes administrators who provide outstanding support of junior agricultural programs within their school districts across the state of Oklahoma. Administrators are nominated through an essay application by student and teacher representatives. It is of the utmost importance to the future of agriculture, to the Oklahoma Youth Expo, and to the young people of our state’s agricultural programs to have the support of administrators and their school as a whole. The Oklahoma Youth Expo is proud to present this year’s recipients of the Chairman’s Award.

MR. MICHAEL BLACKBURN STRATFORD HIGH SCHOOL

In Stratford, you’d be hard pressed to find to a school official more supportive of the local agricultural education program and students than Stratford High School Superintendent, Mr. Michael Blackburn. From livestock shows, to FFA competitions, local fundraisers and more, Mr. Blackburn goes above and beyond to provide support to the Stratford FFA chapter. His most recent act of service included securing and providing funds to renovate, expand and upgrade local chapter facilities. This includes the classroom, the show barn, a new chapter truck and trailer, and more. Mr. Blackburn has seen firsthand the importance of programs like FFA and 4-H, and he continues to support local students so they may reap the benefits of involvement and leadership. The Stratford FFA chapter would not be where it is today without Mr. Blackburn, and he continues to prove his passion for students through his service to the school and community.

MR. MARTY CURRY, STERLING HIGH SCHOOL

Sterling High School Principal, Mr. Marty Curry, is a genuine example of a supportive and involved administrator. Growing up on a farm himself, Mr. Curry was active in the Sterling 4-H and FFA programs, and he continues to invest himself now. Rarely will you walk into the Sterling High School and not find him visiting with or helping out the local FFA students with everything from their livestock projects to FFA competitions. As an administrator, Mr. Curry is the first person in line to support the youth of Sterling FFA in whatever way needed. Whether it’s offering advice, attending events, or driving vehicles to transport students, Mr. Curry truly cares about the next generation and their understanding of the importance of agriculture. Mr. Curry has served as an excellent supporter of agricultural education programs across Oklahoma, and his dedication to his job and the students of Sterling Public Schools is second to none.

DR. STACEY BUTTERFIELD JENKS HIGH SCHOOL

Dr. Stacey Butterfield, Jenks Public Schools’ Superintendent, has proven to be one of the greatest supporters members of the local agricultural education program could ask to have in their corner. Dr. Butterfield values providing students with opportunities to excel in their education and take part in hands-on learning, inside and outside of the classroom. An avid supporter of the Jenks Agricultural Education program and FFA Chapter, she has never wavered in her support and was instrumental in the recent creation of a million-dollar state-of-the-art agricultural science facility for students. It goes without saying that Jenks agricultural education students are better for knowing and being under the leadership of Dr. Butterfield, and she will continue to serve as a phenomenal ambassador for the importance of Oklahoma agriculture, youth leadership development, and the future of Oklahoma.

MR. KEVIN HIME LAWTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

On the forefront of agricultural education and outstanding student support you will find Mr. Kevin Hime, Superintendent of Lawton Public Schools. In the last two years alone, he has worked earnestly to create the Life Ready Center, a site where students from all three local high schools have access to career-ready classes such as agricultural education, and he’s helped secure funds and grants for a $2 million agricultural mechanics shop that is set to be completed by August 2023. Within the classroom, Mr. Hime offers steadfast support for any kind of instructional materials needed to enrich students’ education. He goes above and beyond the call of duty to show his support for the Lawton FFA program, attending every event, fundraiser, and local livestock show. Mr. Hime has worked hard to develop relationships with the students and is an instrumental part of the Lawton FFA program. We are proud to recognize him as a true champion of agricultural education and the next generation.