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Excellence in Administration
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. CURTIS SHELTON | BRISTOW HIGH SCHOOL
Mr. Curtis Shelton, Superintendent of Bristow Public Schools, plays a critical role in all of Bristow’s educational programs, and this is especially true for the school’s agricultural education program. Each and every day, Mr. Shelton works diligently to provide funding and resources to help the program grow and succeed. This includes everything from purchasing new equipment and supplies to funding field trips and other educational opportunities for students. He has also worked closely with agricultural education staff to develop and implement new programs and initiatives that help students learn about agriculture in a fun and engaging way. As a strong advocate of agricultural education himself, Mr. Shelton actively promotes the Bristow agricultural program to the community. By doing this, he has helped raise awareness about the program and its importance, which has, in turn, helped to attract new students and supporters to the Bristow program. From forming encouraging relationships to supporting students as they pursue opportunities, Mr. Shelton goes the extra mile to help students succeed.
MR. CHRIS WHELAN WEBBERS FALLS | HIGH SCHOOL
Mr. Chris Whelan is more than a supportive school administrator, he is a true friend of the Webbers Falls 4-H and FFA programs. As both the school superintendent and an agriculturalist at heart, Mr. Whelan shows his passion for the junior livestock show and agricultural education programs in countless ways. From working at locally hosted shows, checking livestock, cooking at meal functions and more, Mr. Whelan truly sees the importance of these programs in the Webbers Falls school system. He sees how they change students’ lives, and he makes sure they have the necessary resources to be successful. And, he does it all not because he has to, but because he loves it. You’ll see him in the background, clapping, smiling, giving the kids a high five and a hug after every event, regardless of the outcome. The true definition of a supporter, Mr. Whelan is a staple figure when it comes to providing opportunities to students. He is dedicated to making the Webbers Falls agricultural education program, school and community the best he can.
MR. JASON LINDLEY | HARTSHORNE HIGH SCHOOL
An outstanding leader, example, mentor and supporter to Hartshorne schools and the agricultural education program is superintendent, Jason Lindley. A native to the town, Mr. Lindley has deep roots and appreciation for Hartshorne schools and its community. He is truly a selfless leader that always puts the students first. It is not uncommon to see Mr. Lindley at shows holding a clipboard to make sure all the exhibitors are ready to hit the ring or setting up cameras to live stream the show so those who can’t attend can watch from home. Mr. Lindley is the type of man that leads by example and is always there to practice what he preaches. Mr. Lindley was also very instrumental in acquiring funding for and creating Hartshorne’s new agricultural education building that includes an agricultural mechanics shop and meats lab. He understands the complexity of a strong agriculture program and strives to provide opportunity for the teachers and students involved with Hartshorne FFA. There are many examples of his thoughtfulness and labor that he has put into the local program and students. The school system is fortunate to have a friend in Mr. Jason Lindley.
