2020 Oklahoma Foundation For Excellence Awards

2020 Oklahoma Foundation FOR Excellence Awards May 10, 2020

Honoring EXCELLENCE Educators, high school seniors across the state recognized for outstanding academic achievements

2 Sunday, May 10, 2020

TULSA WORLD

Foundation promotes academic excellence Thirty-four years ago, while serving Oklahoma as a U.S. senator, David L. Boren brought together a group of Oklahoma business and community leaders with the common goal of improving public education in the state.

All agreed that private investment was crucial to the success of public schools in Oklahoma.

They also wanted to celebrate the successes of Oklahoma’s public school system by giving statewide public attention to outstanding students and innovative educators. The result was the formation of the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence, established with the mission of recognizing and encouraging academic excellence in Oklahoma’s public schools.

Today, the foundation is a nonprofit, charitable organization supported by private contributions and led by a 180-member board of trustees composed of leaders in business, education and public service from throughout Oklahoma. To carry out its mission, the foundation focuses on five key programs.

Through its Academic Awards Program, the foundation has provided more than $4.8 million in scholarships and cash awards since 1987 to honor outstanding graduating seniors as Academic All-Staters and exceptional educators as

Connect on social media Connect with the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence on social media via Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.

Include #OFEAwards in posts about the Academic Awards Program.

Medal for Excellence winners.

Through its Oklahoma School Foundations Network, the foundation provides free training and resources to school foundations across the state and sponsors the Fall Forum for Oklahoma School Foundations and other training and networking events for school foundation volunteers and staff. The program has helped build one of the nation’s largest networks of school foundations, with more than 200 established to date.

Working to strengthen Early American History Education, the Foundation for Excellence administers fellowships each summer for Oklahoma fifthand eighth-grade teachers to attend the Colonial Williamsburg Teacher Institute in Williamsburg, Virginia. The organization also co-sponsors the annual Colonial Day at the Capitol.

Katy Leffel (front row, right), director of the Oklahoma School Foundations Network, gathers with members of the Miami Public School Foundation after facilitating a free board retreat for strategic planning. Through its Oklahoma School Foundations Network, the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence helps build grassroots support for local schools through training and networking for school foundation leaders. Courtesy/Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence

Benjamin Franklin, portrayed by historical interpreter Stephen Smith of Tulsa, interacts with Edmond fifth-graders Alliyah Bodden (left), Kennedy Johnson, Aaron Adams and William Maib during the 2019 Colonial Day at the Capitol.

Nearly 500 students dressed in colonial costumes participate in the annual hands-on history day, co-sponsored by the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence. Courtesy/Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence

Sunday, May 10, 2020 3

TULSA WORLD

Susan Kay Watkins (left), shown with mentee Chloe, was among more than 30 outstanding mentors who were recognized by the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence during National Mentoring Month in January. Watkins was selected as the outstanding mentor for Reading Partners of Tulsa. Courtesy/Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence

The Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence began awarding Teacher Grants for Professional Development in 2003 to help teachers attend national conferences and institutes in their chosen fields. In 2006, the foundation partnered with the national Fund for Teachers and the Tulsa Community Foundation to award grants of up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for teams of teachers for self-designed summer professional development opportunities in locations throughout the world.

Funding for the program has increased to its highest level in five years, thanks to the growing support of an Oklahoma Tribal Alliance comprised of eight tribes. Since 2006, some 915 Oklahoma teachers have received Fund for Teachers grants totaling more than $3.1 million.

This school year, the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence launched a new project to strengthen learning and improve retention rates of Oklahoma’s 55,000 students who do not speak English as their native language. The new Teachers of English Learners Pilot Project is an online learn-

ing and networking platform to support classroom teachers at schools with a high enrollment of English Learners.

Recognizing the proven impact of mentoring on student success, the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence established its Mentoring Initiative in 2006. The initiative promotes the growth and development of quality youth mentoring programs statewide, providing free consulting, program models and resources. The foundation also celebrates the impact of mentoring by honoring outstanding volunteers at the annual Oklahoma Mentor Day. “The Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence is truly one of Oklahoma’s treasures,” said President Cathryn Render of Tulsa. “For 34 years, the foundation has recognized and supported Oklahoma public school educators, honored its best and brightest students and — through its programs — has made a significant impact in public schools throughout the state.”

For more information on the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence, visit ofe.org or call 405-236-0006.

Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence executive committee of the board of trustees •David • L. Boren, chairman •Cathryn • Render, president •Jami • Rhoades Antonisse, president-elect •Ken • Miller, secretarytreasurer •Teresa • B. Adwan •Randy • Baker

•Leah • M. Barby •Claudia • Holdridge Bartlett •Steve • Burrage •Ken • Busby •J. • Bridger Cox •Leslie • Daugherty •Kim • Brock Downing •Anil • V. Gollahalli

•John • R. Hargrave •Deanne • Dutton Hughes •Paige • L. Johnson •Farooq • S. Karim •Vicki • Miles-LaGrange •Andrew • J. Morris •Leslie • B. Paris •M. • Susan Savage

•Neil • P. Schemmer •Joe • Siano •D. • Craig Story •Scott • Thompson •Susan • I. Thurmond •Laurie • Tilley •Sandy • Werner

STAFF

•Emily • Stratton, executive director •Rachel • Webber, executive assistant •Brenda • Wheelock, director, development and communications •Sara • Wilson, communications and program outreach specialist •Katy • Leffel, director, Oklahoma School Foundations Network

4 Sunday, May 10, 2020

TULSA WORLD

Major donors

Honoring Oklahoma’s academic leaders in a season of social distancing

T

Andrew J. Morris Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence

he end of high school is a rite of passage. But like many such traditions, this year’s high school seniors will experience it differently than any group before them — and hopefully differently than any group that follows. For those public high school seniors who have distinguished themselves academically, in extracurricular activities, and by demonstrating leadership abilities and a commitment to community service, an additional rite of passage is the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence’s annual Academic Awards Banquet.

Honoring 100 of Oklahoma’s top public high school seniors, the banquet includes a prominent keynote speaker with whom the students interact, visits with Academic All-State alumni who have distinguished themselves in their professions and recognition in front of friends, family, teachers and school administrators at what has been nicknamed the “Academy Awards of public education in Oklahoma.” The gala also celebrates five Medal for Excellencewinning educators — from elementary through research university teaching — who are recognized for their innovation, impact and service.

This year’s banquet will not occur. It is the first time in our 34-year history that the foundation has canceled the gala event. But the lack of a formal gala does not diminish the exceptional achievements of the 100 students recognized as Academic All-Staters this year.

All honorees scored exceptionally high on the ACT, SAT or PSAT and distinguished themselves in their respective academic environments. And all will be important leaders in the next generation of Oklahoma citizens.

I was recognized as an Academic All-Stater in 2004. For me, the award represented the culmination of my high school experience because it was based not only on test-taking ability or my GPA, but also on my commitment to school organizations, to community service and to balancing academics, sports and community involvement for a well-rounded educational experience. And the resumés of this year’s honorees far exceed what mine looked like all those years ago. Truly, this year’s class of Academic All-State awardees represents the best of the best in Oklahoma’s public schools.

One highlight of the Academic Awards

Banquet is when each All-Stater recognizes, on stage and during the televised portion of the event, a special teacher whom he or she has invited as an honored guest. More than a decade ago, I invited Tiffany Pittser, the adviser to Union Intermediate High School’s National Honor Society, for which I served as president.

Ms. Pittser was one of my primary influences in learning how to lead a group to accomplish an objective. Although she was not one of my academic instructors, she helped me understand different ways to lead, when to let others lead and why true leadership often means acting instead of just talking the loudest. I applied her lessons about time management and dedication in my academic courses as well — not just in high school, but also in college and beyond.

Seeing students honor their chosen teacher guests is — year in and year out — my favorite part of the Academic Awards Banquet experience. It is one of the reasons I volunteer to assist in the planning and execution of the banquet each year. This year, without the chance to do so in person, All-State honorees still can reach out to their special teachers and thank them for the many ways they have impacted their lives. Further, I encourage all readers to pick a teacher — someone who taught you or is currently teaching a family member — to let them know how they affected your life and why you are thankful for their dedication to our students. In these challenging days, honoring and encouraging educators is more important than ever. And we all have a role to play in doing so.

In addition, in lieu of a banquet, this year’s Academic All-Staters and Medal for Excellence honorees will be recognized in a special 30-minute tribute on OETA Public Television scheduled at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, May 16, and 3:30 p.m. Sunday, May 17. Although this year’s celebration will look different from those in years past, the excellence demonstrated by our honorees has not changed. May all of Oklahoma join us in congratulating them for their successes.

Andrew J. Morris is a lawyer in Oklahoma City and a trustee of the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence. He was chairman of the 2020 Academic Awards Banquet.

The Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence is grateful to its patrons and special friends for their exceptional commitment to our mission of recognizing and encouraging academic excellence in Oklahoma’s public schools. We thank the following major donors for their generous support.

•Patrons • of the Foundation •BancFirst • •Edward • E. and Helen Turner Bartlett Foundation •The • Burrage Family •The • Chickasaw Nation – Bill Anoatubby, governor •The • James C. and Teresa K. Day Foundation •E. • L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation •Home • Creations •McCasland • Foundation •MidFirst • Bank •The • Osage Nation •Frank • C. and Ludmila Robson •Charles • and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation •David • and Ann Sutherland Family Foundation •The • Anne and Henry Zarrow Foundation •Special • Friends of the Foundation •Bank • of Oklahoma •Molly • and David Boren •The • John and Donnie Brock Foundation •Bob • Burke •H. • A. and Mary K. Chapman Charitable Trust •Cherokee • Nation Businesses •Citizen • Potawatomi Nation •ConocoPhillips • •Crawley • Family Foundation •First • United Bank •Google • Inc. •Jeff • (AAS ‘89) and Inga Harris •Bill • and Joffa Kerr •Mabrey • Bank •The • Meshri Family •Oklahoma • Natural Gas, A Division of ONE Gas Inc. •ONEOK • Inc. •Phillips • 66 •Red • Rock Video Services •SONIC, • America’s Drive-In •Stuart • Family Foundation •David • E. and Cassie L. Temple Foundation •T. • D. Williamson Inc. •Zarrow • Families Foundation

Sunday, May 10, 2020 5

TULSA WORLD

OETA to broadcast tribute to award winners With the cancellation of its May 16 Academic Awards Banquet due to COVID-19, the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence is partnering with OETA Public Television to broadcast a 30-minute tribute to the award-winning students and educators at 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, May 16, and 3:30 p.m.

Sunday, May 17. The program will also be shown on OETA World Channel at 8:30 p.m.

May 23 and 7:30 p.m. May 30.

The program, featuring videos submitted by the 2020 Academic All-Staters and other special guests, will be hosted by longtime Tulsa television anchor Scott Thompson, a trustee of the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence. The program is produced in partnership with Red Rock Video Services of Edmond.

“When we learned that our Academic Awards Banquet would need to be canceled, we immediately began seeking creative ways to give our honorees the statewide recognition and honor they deserve,” said Emily Stratton, executive director of the foundation. “OETA has been a loyal supporter of our Academic Awards Program, broadcasting our banquet for many years. We are so grateful they agreed to help us pay special tribute to our award winners through a broadcast to premiere May 16 — the same evening we would have held our banquet.”

The televised program will honor 100 of the state’s top public high school seniors as Academic All-Staters. Selected from 495 nominations statewide, the student honorees hail from 75 schools in 69 Oklahoma school districts. The 2020 Academic All-State class is the 34th to be selected by the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence in what has been described as “Oklahoma’s most rigorous academic competition.”

Since the award program’s

Award-winning teacher and education activist Erin Gruwell, who was slated to be the keynote speaker for the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence Academic Awards Banquet on May 16, has been rescheduled to speak at the 2021 banquet. Although this year’s banquet is canceled due to COVID-19 precautions, this year’s honorees will be invited to attend next year’s banquet as guests of the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence.

A program honoring this year’s winners, featuring videos submitted by the 2020 Academic All-Staters and other special guests, will be hosted by longtime Tulsa television anchor Scott Thompson, a trustee of the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence. CourtesY photos/Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence TV Celebrate Oklahoma’s Champions in Public Education The Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence Salute to Academic Award Winners 5:30 p.m. May 16 and 3:30 p.m.

May 17 on OETA Public Television 8:30 p.m. May 23 and 7:30 p.m.

May 30 on OETA WORLD, available through COX Cable or antenna Learn more: ofe.org

inception in 1987, some 3,400 high school seniors from 326 school districts have been named Academic All-State scholars. Each of this year’s

All-Staters will receive a $1,000 merit-based scholarship and a medallion. This year’s All-Staters scored an average of 33.9 on the ACT, with 15 recipients scoring a perfect 36.

The students’ average GPA was 4.20. In addition, 40 of this year’s All-Staters are National Merit semifinalists, and two are National Hispanic Scholar semifinalists.

The program will also recognize five innovative public school educators as recipients of its $5,000 Oklahoma Medal for Excellence Awards. This year’s honorees are elementary teaching winner Michelle Rahn, a sixth-grade STEM

(Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) teacher at Will Rogers Junior High in Claremore; secondary recipient Shelley Self, an art teacher at Coweta High School; elementary/secondary administration winner Chuck McCauley, superintendent of Bartlesville Public Schools; regional university/ community college teaching winner Dr. David Bass, professor of biology at the University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond; and research university teaching recipient Dr. Edralin Lucas, professor of nutritional sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater.

Educator and author Erin

Gruwell, who was scheduled to be the keynote speaker for this year’s Academic Awards Banquet, plans to deliver the address at the 2021 banquet. All 2020 honorees will be invited to attend next year’s banquet as guests of the foundation.

The annual gala event, which is attended by nearly 1,000 people, has been described as the “Academy Awards of public education in Oklahoma.”

The Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence is a nonprofit, charitable organization founded in 1985 to recognize and encourage academic excellence in Oklahoma’s public schools.

Through its Academic Awards Program, the foundation has awarded more than $4.8 million in merit-based scholarships and cash awards to outstanding students and educators.

Following the OETA broadcast, the tribute will also be available on the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence website at ofe.org.

6 Sunday, May 10, 2020

TULSA WORLD

‘Exceptional educators’ Educators to receive Medal for Excellence Awards

T

he Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence will honor five innovative public school educators as recipients of its 2020 Oklahoma Medal for Excellence Awards.

The educator awards, which were to be presented at the foundation’s Academic Awards Banquet on May 16, will be presented at a later date to protect honorees and their families and to prevent spread of COVID-19. Award winners will also be recognized through an online tribute this spring. Each of the five winners will receive a $5,000 cash prize and a glass “Roots and Wings” sculpture, designed by late Oklahoma artist Ron Roberts and produced by Artistic Glass Studio of Edmond.

This year’s Medal for Excellence winners and their award categories are Michelle Rahn, a sixth-grade STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) teacher at Will Rogers Junior High in Claremore, elementary

teaching; Shelley Self, an art teacher at Coweta High School, secondary teaching; Chuck McCauley, superintendent of Bartlesville Public Schools, elementary/secondary school administration; Dr. David Bass, professor of biology at the University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, regional university/community college teaching; and Dr. Edralin Lucas, professor of nutritional sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, research university teaching.

“Oklahomans know that education is the best investment we can make for our future,” said Cathryn Render, president of the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence, a nonprofit organization that recognizes and encourages academic excellence in the state’s public schools.

“By honoring these exceptional educators, we are sending a message that we value excellence in public schools and the professionals who have given so much of themselves to enrich the lives of our children.”

Sunday, May 10, 2020 7

TULSA WORLD

Michelle Rahn, winner of the Oklahoma Medal for Excellence in Elementary Teaching Rahn teaches sixth-grade STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) at Will Rogers Junior High in Claremore. Rahn began her career as a small business owner, but discovered her true calling when she volunteered at a camp teaching children about nutrition and diabetes management. The experience prompted her to pursue a degree in elementary education.

Now a 12-year teaching veteran, Rahn has led the charge for her district to focus on STEM education, first by receiving a $23,000 grant to start Claremore’s first elementary STEM program at Westside Elementary School and now to expand STEM education at Will Rogers Junior High.

“Michelle encompasses all the qualities that make a great STEM teacher,” said colleague Ranetta Eidson. “She creates a classroom environment that allows students to problem-solve, work collaboratively in groups, construct with their hands, and think critically and creatively.”

As a former businesswoman, Rahn is mindful to incorporate higher-level thinking skills and strategies such as cooperative learning and inquiry-based investigations to help students prepare for the future workforce.

In Rahn’s classroom, students have worked in

Congratulations Daniel Ripp

We are very proud of your many accomplishments.

We know you will be successful in everything you do.

Best wishes from everyone at Inola public Schools.

teams to design a Mars Rover and lander that is tested by dropping it from a height of 20 feet to see if its precious cargo – a raw egg – will survive the fall. In a cross-curricular unit, her students have read the memoir “Rocket Boys” and designed and built their own rockets. Through inquiry-based investigations, students become young scientists, observing natural phenomena, collecting data to develop their own hypotheses and conducting peer reviews as teams. Rahn volunteers after school to host an all-girls STEM Club, which is currently re-engineering old toys to accommodate students with cognitive disabilities.

“Mrs. Rahn connects with students through interactive learning and inspires them to love science and science concepts,” said Alicia Doonkeen, who credits Rahn with inspiring her daughters’ fascination with science. “The students not only learn the subject, but they learn to love the subject!”

Committed to lifelong learning, Rahn invests her summers attending some of the nation’s top STEM teaching institutes and will soon earn her master’s degree in Teaching, Learning and Leadership with a focus on math and science from Oklahoma State University. Among her many honors, Rahn is a 2020 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year finalist and recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching.

Congratulations Larin!

“There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.”

-C.S. Lewis Love You-

Debra Lester, Aunt.

8 Sunday, May 10, 2020

Shelley Self, winner of the Medal for Excellence in Secondary Teaching Self is a National Board Certified teacher who has taught art at Coweta High School for 28 years. Her impact in arts education reaches far beyond the students in her classroom, said Kathleen Blake, an Oklahoma City arts educator. “She is an over-the-top secondary teacher … committed to advancing the arts in her school, community and our state.”

Whether she is teaching a first-time art student or helping an Advanced Placement student develop a portfolio for college credits, Self seeks to be a catalyst, “nudging students to question, to take risks and to rise to a higher level of artistic development.” She challenges students to discover creativity through researching, expanding their experiences, sharpening their synthesizing skills and discovering more about themselves. “In Shelley’s classroom, there is a written component to every project,” says colleague Jennifer Deal.

“She believes students need to think … about what decisions they made and why, analyzing the work based on things like materials, processes, ideation and their application of the elements and principles of design.”

Self seeks out opportunities for

TULSA WORLD

students to showcase their talents and serve the community through their art. Her students have participated in UnSung Heroes, a national initiative that honors lesser known heroes who changed history. Her Art Club students paint the windows of local businesses each Christmas, provide face painting for carnivals and sporting events, and host an annual Family Glaze Night for the community to glaze ceramics. Last Christmas, her Art Club was honored to represent Oklahoma by creating Christmas ornaments for the National Tree Lighting Ceremony in Washington, D.C. As a state leader in arts education, Self has been a mentor to countless art teachers and has served several years on the committee for Young Talent in Oklahoma, a juried high school art exhibition and senior portfolio competition. Self is the recipient of numerous teaching honors, including Oklahoma Art Educator of the Year and the Milken National Educator Award. Many of her former students have gone on to become artists, art educators and arts advocates.

“I have seen former students come back to visit her and share the impact her instruction has made on them and now, through them, is making on individuals she may never meet,” said colleague Kathleen Sanders.

Chuck McCauley, winner of the Medal for Excellence in Elementary/Secondary Administration McCaulay is superintendent of Bartlesville Public Schools. When he assumed the post in 2016, the district was facing a dire budget situation and low morale. In just three years, McCauley has led the passage of two historic bond issues, engaged stakeholders to develop and execute a strategic plan, and expanded opportunities for students.

“McCauley earned his way to the district’s top post through a soft-spoken leadership style combining humility with intelligence and drive — a combination that naturally attracts others toward a shared vision of a better future for all children,” said Dan Droege, a founder of Bartlesville’s Public Education Advocates for Kids.

In his first 100 days as superintendent, McCauley engaged key stakeholders, from students and parents to district employees and community members, to help create a three-year strategic plan. Inspired by their input, the district has implemented several new programs, including a 1:1 Student Computing Initiative providing Chromebook computers for all students in grades 6-12, Project Lead the Way

STEM curriculum for all K-5 classes and a new agriculture program for secondary students. In addition, the district established an Alternative Therapeutic Learning Academic Setting for elementary students who struggle in school due to trauma.

Many of those projects, as well as facility improvements, were made possible through the passage of a $19.4 million bond issue in 2016 and a $17.9 million bond issue in 2019. The first bond issue was also critical in saving teaching positions and protecting class sizes.

McCauley has also sought to improve school culture by engaging more with teachers through school site visits and community events.

During the education funding crisis in 2018, McCauley encouraged many fellow superintendents across the state to suspend school so teachers and parents could make their case at the state Capitol. He and his school board even worked with local Rep. Earl Sears to develop a bipartisan funding plan that would eventually provide for $6,000 teacher pay raises and other critical needs.

“Chuck McCauley’s commitment to public education has been etched in stone,” Sears said. “Chuck’s action for students and teachers has moved Oklahoma forward.”

Sunday, May 10, 2020 9

TULSA WORLD

Dr. David Bass, winner of the Oklahoma Medal for Excellence in Teaching at a Regional University/Community College Bass is a professor of biology and curator of invertebrates at the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond. A leading expert in aquatic invertebrates, Bass teaches courses ranging from beginning biology and ecology to invertebrate zoology and aquatic entomology. He also coaches UCO’s competitive sailing team.

“Even though Bass has been a professor at UCO for 35 years, he still works as if he were a green Ph.D. starting his first semester of teaching,” said Dr. Wei Chen, dean of the UCO College of Mathematics and Science. “He treats each class as a new adventure, constantly revising lecture notes, adding new contents and experimenting with new delivery approaches.”

Bass’ courses combine dynamic, well-organized lectures with lab work. He utilizes numerous strategies to accommodate different learning styles, including discussion, data analysis, writing, drawing, field work and problem-solving. “As I prepare for class, I imagine myself as a student in the course to better understand their situation,” Bass said. “I focus on the most important con-

cepts and how they apply to the real world or use examples to which students relate.”

Most courses Bass teaches involve field studies where students make observations in nature. Bass instructs students to “get out of their human skin” and imagine they are the organisms being studied to gain a greater understanding of organisms and their environment.

Colleague Gloria Caddell has accompanied Bass and his students on weekend field trips to explore Oklahoma field biology. “David patiently gives each student individual attention and when they find an invertebrate, his excitement makes it seem like he is seeing it for the first time,” Caddell said.

“He has never lost that joy of discovery, and his passion and curiosity are contagious.”

Because of Bass’ engaging teaching style and love for his subject, many students have changed their major to become biologists. He mentors and encourages students to become involved in research and curation activities.

“David taught me what is necessary to take a scientific project from idea generation to the final published project,” said Kinsey Tedford, a former nursing major turned biology grad who is now a coastal ecologist and doctoral student at the University of Virginia.

Congratulations, Larin!

We are so proud of you!

You are an inspiration and a joy to us!

We are so proud oud of y you,

Connor!

We know God has great plans for you, and we can’t wait to see it unfold as you trust Him to guide you!

We love you so much!

Love, Your Family “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”

Colossians 2:6-7

Love you, Nana & Papa, Mom & Dad, Jacob,Travis, Brad & Annie, Hadon, Brandon & Amy, Brice, Kye, Knox Colossians 3:17

10 Sunday, May 10, 2020

TULSA WORLD

Selection Criteria for Academic All-State Scholars • Participants must be Oklahoma public high school seniors.

• To be eligible for Academic All-State, students must meet one of the following criteria: an American College Test (ACT) composite score of at least 30; a Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) combined evidence-based reading and writing and math score of at least 1370; or be selected as a

Dr. Edralin Lucas, winner of the Medal for Excellence in Teaching at a Research University Lucas is the Jim and Lynne Williams Endowed Professor of Nutritional Sciences at Oklahoma State University.

Lucas’ research focuses on the role of nutrition in promoting cardiovascular health and preventing chronic disease.

A 30-year teaching veteran, Lucas has been recognized at OSU as an educator and mentor who sets high standards for academic success and goes the extra mile to help students succeed.

“She is understanding, yet holds students accountable,” said colleague Brenda Smith. “She communicates the importance of values, including hard work, striving for excellence, compassion, as well as personal and professional integrity.”

Lucas teaches courses ranging from introductory Principles of Human Nutrition to graduate courses in Macronutrients and Nutrition and Evidence-Based Practice. She promotes student-centered learning by incorporating student-led discussion, in-class group assignments, hands-on activities and case studies. Lucas encourages students to apply lessons to their own lives to assess their dietary habits and physical activity, which she hopes will impact their health long after they leave her class.

“I am convinced that true learning is not simply a matter of memorizing facts, but understanding fundamental principles and being able to use these principles in everyday situations,” Lucas said.

Department Director Stephen Clarke said Lucas has a unique ability to take complex topics involving nutrient metabolism and make them applicable to students’ lives. Lucas played a critical role in reorganization of the department’s capstone nutrition course, which has dramatically improved students’ capacity to read and critically evaluate nutritionrelated research.

“What I love most about Dr. Lucas is she always pushes us to reach higher, learn more, understand more and be more,” said undergraduate student Cole Dillman. “She does this in a way that is completely personalized to each student.

She has the innate ability to push you just outside your comfort zone to promote expanded knowledge, yet ensuring to never push too hard as to cause regression.”

Lucas was also praised for her role as a research mentor to graduate students. She takes a hands-on approach to developing their skills related to scientific inquiry, communication and laboratory techniques. Lucas has been honored six times as her college’s outstanding graduate faculty mentor and has twice been honored with an OSU Regents Distinguished Teaching Award.

semifinalist for a National Merit, National Achievement (African American) or National Hispanic Scholarship.

• Recipients are selected on the basis of academic achievement, leadership experience, extracurricular activities and community involvement, as well as an essay submitted by each nominee.

• The selection com-

mittee, chaired by retired Tulsa attorney Teresa B. Adwan, works independently of all other foundation activities.

The committee members are a diverse group of business, education and civic leaders, as well as Academic All-State alumni and former Medal for Excellence-winning educators.

Katie Bomhoff of Okarche participates in the Academic All-State procession at the 2019 Academic Awards Banquet.

Since 1987, the awards program has honored 3,300 exceptional students and presented 168 Medal for Excellence Awards to recognize outstanding educators and educational programs.

Courtesy/ Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence

TULSA WORLD

2020 Oklahoma Academic All-State Scholars

Aadesh Bajaj

Bradleigh Baker

Jenks High School

El Reno High School

A National Merit finalist, Bajaj is a class valedictorian candidate, Distinguished Service graduate, Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction and vice president of Jenks National Honor Society. He is president of the Drug Free Youth Club, a Chinese Club member, a volunteer with the Indian Association of Greater Tulsa and a member of the Youth Philanthropy Initiative. Bajaj is a two-year state runner-up with the Jenks varsity tennis team and a guitar player. He participated in a summer internship at Francis Solar Energy and plans to study computer science in college. Scholarship sponsor: ONEOK Inc.

Baker received the Billy Michael Student Leadership Award from the WWII Museum in New Orleans for her leadership as founder and president of the Canadian County Historical Society teen board. She is a class valedictorian and president of her senior class and of El Reno Family Career and Community Leaders of America. Through her Fellowship of Christ church, Baker works to feed homeless Oklahomans. She loves audio drama podcasts and musicals and enjoys working with Beautiful Day to provide birthday parties for children in need. Baker plans to attend the University of Chicago. Scholarship sponsor: Mr. and Mrs. Thomas A. Thompson

An Oklahoma Regents Scholar, Baysinger is class co-valedictorian, National Honor Society president and an Oklahoma Girls State delegate. She is a varsity tennis team member and was a 2019 state qualifier, as well as a varsity soccer captain and Junior Player of the Year for her volleyball team.

Baysinger enjoys volunteering with Anthem, a nonprofit service dog training organization, and with Collinsville Beautification. Baysinger received her Foundations of Engineering Certificate from Tulsa Technology Center.

She plans to study chemical engineering . Scholarship sponsor: RCB Bank

Will Bouchard

Dimitri Bradford

Carson Buller

Charles Page High School

Classen School of Advanced Studies at Northeast High School

Turpin High School

A resident of Sand Springs, Bouchard is a National Merit finalist, Oklahoma Regents Scholarship recipient and co-president of National Honor Society. He is co-president of Thespian Troupe 8250, Youth and Government Club secretary, and a founding member of the Philosophy Club.

Bouchard is an International Thespian Festival Qualifier and a Five Star thespian with superior and excellent ratings. He was recognized with the Sandite Spirit Award and enjoys playing Dungeons and Dragons in his free time.

Bouchard, whose father was an Academic All-Stater in 1992, plans to major in political science at the University of Oklahoma. Scholarship sponsor: Sand Springs Education Foundation, Inc.

A bouldering state champion, Bradford is a member of Team Threshold, the Spartan Climbing Team, Builders Club and the American Alpine Association. The Jones resident is a National Merit finalist, cellist in his school orchestra and member of his school Earth Club. Bradford won an award for Excellence in Cinematography and enjoys spending his free time doing creative writing. He also enjoys coding with Codeacademy and on personal projects. An animal lover, Bradford volunteers with Pet Friends Veterinary Hospital and plans to study chemistry at the University of Oklahoma. Scholarship sponsor: BancFirst

Margaret Grace Baysinger Collinsville High School

An Oklahoma Boys State delegate, Buller is a class valedictorian and historian and media director for Student Council.

He is a team captain and multi-year starter in basketball, baseball and track. Buller is vice president of the board for the Cooperative Youth Leadership Program, as well as a teen advisory board member for Family Destiny Youth Hangout. He plays drums for a local worship team and is a Fellowship of Christian Athletes member.

Buller, whose father was an Academic All-Stater in 1993, plans to major in business marketing at Oklahoma State University. Scholarship sponsor: ConocoPhillips

Sunday, May 10, 2020 11

Calder Blackman

Lindsay Bolino

Landon Bolyard

Norman North High School

Norman North High School

Midwest City High School

A Troop 217 Eagle Scout and Order of the Arrow Brotherhood member, Blackman is an avid fly-fisherman and has been awarded the Boy Scouts of America Triple Crown of National High Adventure Award.

He is a National Merit finalist, an Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction and treasurer of Mu Alpha Theta math honor society. Blackman is the founder of the Norman North Entrepreneurship Club, was recognized with the city of Norman Mayor’s Citizenship Award . Blackman plans to study economics at Dartmouth College. Scholarship sponsor: The James C. and Teresa K. Day Foundation

A competitive figure skater, Bolino also runs cross country and is an accomplished pianist. She is a National Merit finalist, National Advanced Placement Scholar and Norman Youth Council Member. Bolino serves as president of Science Olympiad Club and Young Democrats, is the Academic Team secretary and the art director for the Oklahoma City chapter of March for Our Lives. She serves on the Student Superintendent Advisory Committee for Norman Public Schools. Bolino plans to study biomedical engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Scholarship sponsor: David and Ann Sutherland Family Foundation

An accomplished trumpet player, Bolyard is section leader for the band and advanced jazz band and plays with his school basketball band and symphonic orchestra.

He has been recognized as an Outstanding Soloist at the Southwestern Oklahoma State University Jazz Festival and as an Outstanding Musician at the Oklahoma Baptist University Jazz Festival. A member of National Honor Society, Bolyard also participates in Student Council and Leadership. He likes playing Speedrunning video games in his spare time. Bolyard plans to attend Oklahoma State University, majoring in computer science. Scholarship sponsor: Dr. Bobby and Jayne Christensen

Congrats Larin!

“To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream, not only plan, but also believe.”

- Anatole France We Love You – Larry and Jeanetta Lester

12 Sunday, May 10, 2020

2020 Oklahoma Academic All-State Scholars

TULSA WORLD

Zile Cao

Vanessa Cassidy

Bryant Chitsey

Emily Cornforth

Jared Cox

Hope Cunningham

Norman North High School

Duncan High School

Choctaw High School

Washington High School

Canton High School

Elgin High School

Founder and president of the nonprofit Norman Chess Club, Cao received the Best Delegate Award from Model United Nations and was a National Qualifier Alternate in the International Extemporaneous Speaking and Congressional Debate. He is a National Finalist for the Chemistry Olympiad and a participant in Youth Leadership Oklahoma.

Cao serves as the senior class president and Student Council publicity committee chair, in addition to being Speech and Debate Club public forum captain. He is a National Merit semifinalist and a National Advanced Placement Scholar.

Cao plans to study political science and economics at the University of Pennsylvania.

Scholarship sponsor: Molly and David Boren

A three-time All-State flutist, Cassidy is Band Council president and a member of the jazz band and percussion ensemble. She is a National Merit finalist and member of National Honor Society and Oklahoma Honor Society. Cassidy is a singles state semifinalist with her varsity tennis team and a three-time Academic State Champion. She enjoys volunteering at the Duncan Public Library and with Assumption Catholic Church.

Cassidy, whose brother was an Academic All-Stater in 2010, plans to attend the University of North Texas, majoring in music performance and music education.

Scholarship sponsor: McCasland Foundation

A veterinary assistant at Amber Oaks Veterinary Hospital, Chitsey also serves as a youth ambassador and member of the Tourette Association of America.

He is an Oklahoma Regents Scholar and member of the National Technical Honor Society, National Honor Society and Senior Board. Chitsey is a graphic design enthusiast, winning design competition awards at the Oklahoma State Fair, Oklahoma Student Art Exhibition and Skills USA competition. He worked to coordinate a fundraiser with National Honor Society to benefit the Tourette Association of America . Chitsey plans to major in graphic design at Oklahoma State University. Scholarship sponsor: Kerr-McGee Corporation

A drum major for her school marching band, Cornforth also plays in jazz band and has been part of the All-State Band, Shortgrass Honor Band and Oklahoma Youth Winds.

She is a class valedictorian and member of National Honor Society. Recognized as the 2019 Top Calculus and Physics Student at the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics Wayne Regional Center, Cornforth is also a Master of Integration.

She leads her church worship band and has been on church mission trips to Nicaragua and Haiti. Cornforth plans to attend the University of Oklahoma, majoring in engineering. Scholarship sponsor: Donald W. Reynolds Foundation, Linda Lambert, Trustee

Starting point guard and team captain of his varsity basketball and school academic teams, Cox is also an Academic Bowl AllStater and academic team conference and regional champion.

He is a National Merit finalist, president of National Honor Society, a class valedictorian and Senior class president. Cox serves as an Eagle City Christian Church junior deacon, works as a library aide volunteer and volunteers as an after-school tutor. He enjoys playing video games in his free time. Cox plans to major in chemistry at Southwestern Oklahoma State University. Scholarship sponsor: Academic All-State Alumni

Cunningham is vice president of Elgin Future Farmers of America and has won many awards, including second place in the Team Oklahoma Future Farmers of America State Food Science and Technology Contest. She is a National Honor Society and Student Council member. A member of the Elgin High School Freshmen Orientation Committee, Cunningham was chair of this year’s Freshman Orientation. She volunteers with the Oklahoma Blood Institute and Elgin High School Feed the Future program. Cunningham plans to study food science at Oklahoma State University. Scholarship sponsor: Oklahoma State University

Helen F. Dai

Julie Dawkins

Reanna DeLozier

Danielle Dick

Christine Do

Michael Draper

Oklahoma School of Science & Mathematics

Deer Creek High School

Battiest High School

Chisholm High School

Ada High School

National Student Poet of the Southwest Region for this year, Dawkins is also a Silver Medalist for the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. She loves creative writing and doing poetry workshops as a national student poet. Dawkins is a National Merit finalist, class valedictorian and served as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court at Girls State. A percussionist, Dawkins plays in marching band, concert band and was a member of the Central Oklahoma Directors’ Association Regional Honor Band. She is active in YMCA Youth and Government, as well as her school Speech and Debate team. Dawkins plans to study English or political science in college.

Scholarship sponsor: Bill and Joffa Kerr

President of Battiest Future Farmers of America, DeLozier shows cattle and swine as part of the FFA Show Team.

She is class valedictorian, a member of National Honor Society and National Technical Honor Society and was 2019 pre-engineering Student of the Year. DeLozier leads the FIRST Robotics team and is captain of the SKILLS USA quiz bowl team.

She serves on the Youth Advisory Board and is a Bypass Church of Christ youth group member. In her free time, DeLozier enjoys scuba diving.

She plans to attend Colorado State University, majoring in environmental engineering. Scholarship sponsor: Anonymous

An All-State track runner in the 3200-meter relay, Dick also plays softball, runs cross country and participates in trap shooting. She is Student Council president, co-president of Chisholm Community Outreach Team and a member of the Chisholm Student Section Club. Dick is an Advanced Placement Scholar and National Merit Commended Scholar. She is a Girls State delegate and Hugh O’Brian Leadership Camp delegate. Dick volunteers at a local food kitchen, the public library and group homes for disadvantaged youth. She plans to major in biomedical engineering and pre-medicine at the University of Central Oklahoma.

Scholarship sponsor: Bert and Janice Mackie

Booker T. Washington High School

Dai is an accomplished violinist, playing in school orchestras and attending the Oklahoma Arts Institute Orchestra Violin program the past two summers.

A National Merit finalist, she is also an Advanced Placement Scholar. Dai is a member of her school’s Mathematics Club and Computer Science Club and enjoys mathematics competitions and puzzles. She loves drawing and painting . Dai enjoys creative writing and volunteering with the Oklahoma Humane Society and Stillwater Public Library.

Dai, whose brother was a 2010 Academic All-Stater, plans to study mathematics and visual arts in college.

Scholarship sponsor: Bank of Oklahoma

A Tulsa resident, Do is vice president of the Booker T. robotics team and enjoys computer programming and participating in robotics competitions. She is co-editor of her school’s student newspaper, the Taliaferro Times, and enjoys writing and reading in her free time. Do is a senior member of the Booker T. Washington Teen Advisory Board, a participant in the rigorous International Baccalaureate diploma program and a National Honor Society member.

She enjoys volunteering at her church, cooking, baking and listening to music. Do plans to study pre-medicine or education at Oral Roberts University. Scholarship sponsor: The Anne and Henry Zarrow Foundation

Chapter president of the Future Health Professionals of America, Draper participates in the Environmental Biotechnology program at Pontotoc Technology Center. He is Biotechnician Assistant Credentialing Exam certified and has pursued an independent research course on protein forms and functions. Draper participates in Student Council, National Honor Society and Mock Trial, as well as his school academic team and Science Club. He is an Oklahoma Academic Scholar and participates in a seminary class at his church.

Draper, whose brother was a 2015 Academic All-Stater, plans to attend East Central University, majoring in biology. Scholarship sponsor: Helmerich & Payne, Inc.

TULSA WORLD

2020 Oklahoma Academic All-State Scholars

Kristen Duong

Tara Eldridge

Lydia England

Moore High School

Bixby High School

A participant in the MooreNorman Technology Center Biotechnology program, Duong serves as president of Health Occupations Students of America Club, receiving a second-place award in epidemiology at the HOSA state conference. She is an Oklahoma State Regents Academic Scholar and member of National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society and Key Club. Duong is a volunteer and Teen Program developer at Oklahoma University Medical Center. A Student Council senator, she earned a National Superior Distinction in Speech and Debate. Duong plans to attend the University of Oklahoma, majoring in chemical biosciences. Scholarship sponsor: Bill and Joffa Kerr

Eldridge is a National Merit finalist, class salutatorian and National Honor Society member. She is the Bixby Bands percussion captain and center snare.

Eldridge is a member of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s Junior Board of Directors, Faith United Methodist Youth Leadership team and enjoys taking mission trips with her church youth group. She is a founding member of her school Physics Club and Mario Kart Club and won the 2018 Tulsa Children’s Museum Exhibit Design Challenge. Eldridge plans to major in physics at the University of Oklahoma.

Scholarship sponsor: Teresa and Alex Adwan

Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy

Charis Forbes Norman High School Forbes is the editor of her school yearbook and enjoys playing piano, oil painting, photography, drawing and digital art.

She is the winner of two Oklahoma Scholastic Media Photography awards and serves as the administrator and moderator of the All Christian Music online community. Forbes is a member of the Mu Alpha Theta math honor society and National Honor Society. She is cofounder and co-president of the Forensics Club and enjoys researching criminal psychology and Meyers Briggs cognitive functions. Forbes plans to study psychology at the University of Oklahoma. Scholarship sponsor: Crawley Family Foundation

Madison Grace Eulberg

Sunday, May 10, 2020 13

W. Travis Fink

Kegan Firey

Westmoore High School

Berryhill High School Vice president and speaker of the house for the Technology Student Association, Firey is also a member of National Honor Society, Technical Student Association and National Technical Honor Society. He participates in the Project Lead the Way Pre/Advanced Engineering program at Tulsa Technology Center and has been featured as an Outstanding Student. Firey is ranked first in his class and is a member of Student Leadership and Drama Club. In his free time, he participates in Stella Xplorers. Firey plans to attend the United States Naval Academy to study nuclear propulsion. Scholarship sponsor: American Heritage Bank

A drum major, England won the Oklahoma Youth Wind Conducting competition.

She plays bassoon in a wind ensemble and the Oklahoma Youth Orchestra, as well as the alto saxophone in jazz band. England is a member of National Honor Society and ranks first in her graduating class. An active member of Children of the American Revolution, England attended the Freedoms Foundation of Valley Forge Leadership conference. She enjoys fencing and rock climbing, placing in local bouldering competitions. England plans to study aerospace engineering at the University of Oklahoma.

Scholarship sponsor: Anonymous

A licensed commercial drone pilot, Eulberg was selected for the chairman’s team of the FIRST Robotics Competition. She is president of Meeker National Honor Society, a class valedictorian, the top pre-engineering student at Gordon Cooper Technology Center and was recognized as an Oklahoma State University College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology Scholar. Eulberg serves as senior class treasurer and captain of her academic team. She enjoys juggling and teaching STEM and robotics camps. Eulberg plans to study electrical engineering at Oklahoma State University.

Scholarship sponsor: Jasmine and Melvin Moran

A member of the Southlakes Cosmos competitive club soccer team and his varsity soccer team, Fink also runs cross country. He is a Student Council senator, active in Class Council activities and a member of National Honor Society. Fink is an Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction and the Academic/Character Excellence Athlete of the Year award winner for Westmoore Soccer. He is a member of Sons of the American Revolution and Sons of the Republic of Texas. Fink has worked as a YMCA summer camp counselor and volunteers as a Moore Public Schools tutor.

He plans to study mechanical engineering at Southern Methodist University.

Scholarship sponsor: Postic & Bates, Attorneys at Law

Sophie Fosmire

Xena Gehring

Ava Gladwell

Madison Gordon

Cale Greenroyd

Kremlin-Hillsdale High School

Thomas A. Edison Preparatory High School

Cache High School

Silo High School

Newcastle High School

The flute section leader of her band, Fosmire is winner of the Instrumentalist Magazine National Merit Award.

She serves as varsity cheer captain, Student Council secretary, National Honor Society vice president and was a Girls State Senator. Fosmire is captain of her varsity Academic Bowl team and a Northern Oklahoma College Invitational Academic Bowl All-Star. She enjoys volunteering with Dillon Adoption Agency’s China Heritage Camp, Integris Bass Hospital and St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church activities.

Fosmire plans to study mathematics and pre-medicine at Oklahoma State University.

Scholarship sponsor: Stephen and Sherrel Jones

A varsity track and crosscountry runner, Gehring also plays lacrosse with the Tulsa Raptors. She was recognized with the crosscountry team Coaches Award and as the female Academic Athlete for the season. Gehring is covaledictorian of her class, an Advanced Placement Scholar and Student Council vice president. A member of the National Charity League, she volunteers with many Tulsaarea charities and serves as a middle school tutor. In her free time, Gehring baby-sits, dog-sits and participates in her school mentoring program, Link Crew. She plans to study zoology at Colorado State University. Scholarship sponsor: The Meshri Family

Clarinet section leader in the marching band and concert band, Gladwell received four years of recognition for her participation in the Southwestern Oklahoma honor band. She is a class valedictorian and a member of the National Honor Society and Oklahoma Honor Society. Gladwell participates in Beta Club and Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America.

She is active in her church as president of her youth Bible Study and youth group and volunteers preparing meals for the homeless. Gladwell plans to study biochemistry at Brigham Young University.

Scholarship sponsor: Kenneth & Juliette Woodward Scholarship Endowment Fund

Gordon is captain of the Silo academic team, placing in the state tournament. She was elected the Blue River Conference MVP and participated on the Blue River AllConference team. Gordon is a National Merit finalist and served as a page in the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

A member of the Beta Club, Gordon participates in service opportunities including volunteering as a junior member of the Hospital Auxiliary for Alliance Health Durant. She is an active member of First United Methodist Church of Durant, helping with Vacation Bible School and singing in the girls’ choir. Gordon plans to study aerospace engineering at the University of Oklahoma.

Scholarship sponsor: Virginia Kopelman, M.D.

An Oklahoma Regents Scholar and National Honor Society member, Greenroyd is also a Newcastle High School valedictorian. He is an Oklahoma Boys State delegate, participates in student government and volunteers weekly at a local food pantry, the Tri-City Hope Center. In addition, Greenroyd serves as a teacher’s aide in a second-grade classroom, helping to tutor, read to and mentor young students.

Greenroyd is an avid golfer and enjoys college football, reading and fishkeeping. He plans to study accounting, finance and economics at the University of Oklahoma.

Scholarship sponsor: The First National Bank & Trust Co., Chickasha

Meeker High School

14 Sunday, May 10, 2020

2020 Oklahoma Academic All-State Scholars

TULSA WORLD

Austin Haddock

Luke Hamilton

Hudson Haskins

Noah Hightower

Kylie Hix

Emily Hurst

Claremore High School

Pauls Valley High School

Bethel High School

Watonga High School

Tahlequah High School

Broken Bow High School

Varsity dance team captain and volunteer coordinator, Haddock is also a member of her school’s track team. She is senior class president, a National Honor Society member and winner of the Claremore Elks Lodge Mathematics Award. Haddock participated in American Legion Auxiliary Girls State, was a Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership delegate and competes with her school academic team. In her free time, she volunteers for the Claremore Chamber of Commerce and Salvation Army.

Haddock plans to study economics and pre-law at Oklahoma State University.

Scholarship sponsor: Frank C. and Ludmila Robson

Hamilton is an Eagle Scout and varsity basketball, tennis and cross-country team member. A National Merit finalist, he is also a Business Professionals of America Merit Scholar and an Advanced Placement Scholar. Hamilton has served as secretary, vice president and president of the Oklahoma chapter of Business Professionals of America. He is a Youth Leadership Oklahoma attendee, Academic Bowl competitor and participant with Rotary Interact. Hamilton has done extensive volunteer work with Samaritan’s Food Bank, Valley Rally Bike Tour and Boy Scouts.

He plans to study economics and political science in college.

Scholarship sponsor: Kenneth & Juliette Woodward Scholarship Endowment Fund

President of National Honor Society, Haskins is also a member of National Technical Honor Society and has been awarded the Superintendent’s Honor Roll and the Shawnee News-Star Student of the Month award.

He is a Boys State delegate and attendee of the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Program. Haskins participates in school theater, the Gordon Cooper Technology Center Leadership Academy and Skills USA Quiz Bowl team.

He is a Teen Board advocate for the Stephenson Cancer Institute and serves on the BancFirst Student Board of Directors. Haskins plans to study biology at the University of Oklahoma. Scholarship sponsor: Woodrow Richard Stubbs Charitable Remainder Trust

Hightower is active in Watonga Community Liberty Theater and Watonga Christian Church, volunteering as a light and sound technician.

He runs track and cross country and enjoys modifying video games in his free time.

Hightower is an Oklahoma Regents Scholar, Boys State delegate and Youth Leadership of Oklahoma participant. He is president of Student Council, senior class vice president and secretary of the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America. Hightower is a band section leader and jazz band participant. He plans to study computer science at Oklahoma State University. Scholarship sponsor: Anonymous

Health Occupation Students of America president, Hix has completed certifications through the Indian Capital Technology Center for Certified Nursing Assistant, CPR and First Aid, and Phlebotomy. She is a National Award Scholar and a National Finalist in Health Occupation Students of America for CPR and First Aid. Hix volunteers extensively, raising more than $1,000 for Christmas gifts for residents at Grace Living Center, and with Tahlequah Save-a-Senior.

She participated in a Global Leadership Adventures trip to the Thailand Elephant Sanctuary. She plans to study pre-nursing at the University of Oklahoma. Scholarship sponsor: Heyman Evergreen Foundation

Hurst is a Ben Carson Scholar and Academic State Champion in cheer. Ranked first in her class, she is chapter president of National Honor Society and captain of the academic team. She is a four-year member and captain of the basketball, track and varsity cheer teams. The secretary of Student Council, Hurst is also active in Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the Oak Grove Missionary Baptist youth group. She enjoys powerlifting, running, hiking and volunteering with Student Council and Special Olympics. Hurst plans to major in biomedical engineering at Oklahoma State University. Scholarship sponsor: The Burrage Family

Kirk Huseman

Michael Hwang

Nathaniel Ijams

Jackson Jeffries

Tobias Johnson

Zahmiria Johnson

Cushing High School

Jenks High School

Jenks High School

Piedmont High School

Stillwater High School

Huseman is football team captain and participates in cross country, track, soccer and powerlifting. National Honor Society president, he is a member of the Cushing High School Academic Society and is a class valedictorian. Huseman serves as a team leader in Fellowship of Christian Athletes and was selected as a Cushing Chamber of Commerce Tomorrow’s Leaders delegate. He volunteers extensively with Eden Chapel United Methodist Church through youth group and as an usher and worship leader.

In his free time, Huseman enjoys playing piano and guitar.

He plans to study biology at the University of Oklahoma.

Scholarship sponsor: Richard James Family Foundation

Hwang is an Intel International Science and Engineering Fair finalist for his work in breast cancer research through the University of Tulsa. He earned a first-place medal in Medical Health Sciences in the Oklahoma State Science and Engineering Fair and is a National Merit finalist and Advanced Placement Scholar. Hwang plays tennis and is co-president and cofounder of the Jenks Computer Science Club. In the summers, he has apprenticed as a chef at Michelin-starred restaurants in San Francisco.

Hwang, whose brother was an All-Stater in 2014, plans to attend Yale University.

Scholarship sponsor: The Oxley Foundation Fund, Tulsa Community Foundation

Booker T. Washington High School

Jeffries is an Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction, received a National Merit Commendation and is a valedictorian candidate. He is co-founder of the Advanced Placement Club, historian of the Table Tennis Club and a Superfans Club officer. Jeffries completed a chemical engineering internship with Yale Cleaners and won a Best Team Award at the Purdue Seminar for Top Engineering Projects. He provides private tutoring to five kids twice a week and enjoys playing baseball in his free time. Jeffries plans to study chemical engineering at Oklahoma State University.

Scholarship sponsor: Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation

President of the Oklahoma Association of Student Councils and Piedmont Student Council president, Johnson is also a Youth Leadership Oklahoma delegate. He is a United States Senate Youth Program delegate, Advanced Placement Scholar, Oklahoma Honor Society Scholar and American Legion Boys Nation senator. Johnson is the public address announcer for his school’s football and basketball teams. Co-chair of the Doing Unselfish Charities for Kids Week, he is chairman of the Oklahoma Hall of Fame Teen Board and served as a page in the Oklahoma State Senate. Johnson plans to study government, economics and philosophy at Dartmouth College. Scholarship sponsor: Bob Burke

Winner of the Barry Sanders Supercenter Pioneer Spirit Award, Johnson is also a National Merit finalist and Advanced Placement Scholar. She is captain of her club soccer team and plays varsity soccer at her school. Johnson is drumline section leader for marching band and was recognized as a member of the All-Region Senior High Honor Band. She is Student Council president and head of the Stillwater Makes a Change Dance-athon. Johnson enjoys working with Tiny Paws kitten rescue and volunteering with Our Daily Bread. She plans to study chemical engineering at University of CaliforniaBerkeley. Scholarship sponsor: Anonymous

A Tulsa resident, Ijams is a National Merit finalist and Coolidge Senator and serves as president of National Honor Society and Model United Nations. He is a winner of the Princeton Book Award and is a National Spanish Exam Gold Medalist. Ijams serves as editor-in-chief of the Taliaferro Times and is first chair violist in the school orchestra. He is an intern at Tulsa Global Alliance and co-facilitator of the Youth Philanthropy Initiative. He enjoys running, programming and machine learning, and studying languages. Ijams, whose sister was a 2017 Academic All-Stater, plans to attend Columbia University.

Scholarship sponsor: T. D. Williamson, Inc.

2020 Oklahoma Academic All-State Scholars

TULSA WORLD

Sunday, May 10, 2020 15

Shelby Jones

Keegan Knouse

Sam Kolar

Caleb Lawson

Claire Levesque

Xinyi (Cindy) Li

Shawnee High School

Union High School

Norman North High School

Moore High School

Wagoner High School

The Oklahoma Regional Chairman’s award winner for the FIRST Robotic Competition, Jones is the preengineering president at Gordon Cooper Technology Leadership Academy and was recognized as the Pre-Engineering Academy Outstanding Student.

She is a World Championship Inspire Finalist in the FIRST Tech Challenge and is a FIRST Robotics Dean’s List Finalist. Jones serves as a creative arts and media intern at Immanuel Baptist Church, where she also mentors middle school girls.

She enjoys rock climbing and hiking in her free time. Jones plans to study creative media production at the University of Oklahoma. Scholarship sponsor: Donald Wilson (AAS ‘05)

Knouse serves as a luthier’s apprentice at the Tulsa Strings Violin Shop.

He is principal violist for the Tulsa Youth Symphony and Asbury Methodist Church New Covenant Orchestra, as well as section leader for his school symphony orchestra.

A National Merit finalist, Knouse is co-founder and co-president of the Union Chemistry Club and active in Mu Alpha Theta math honor society. He enjoys working on the costume crew with the school theater department. Knouse was a Mr. Union 2018 nominee and winner of Senior Mr. Highstepper 2019. He plans to major in biochemistry at the University of Denver.

Scholarship sponsor: Kirk and Sue Morris

A member of the varsity soccer team and Oklahoma Celtic Club soccer team, Kolar is also the kicker for the Norman North football team. He is a National Merit finalist, recognized as Rotary Club Student of the Month and a member of National Honor Society.

Kolar is a four-year committee member of the Students Performing Unselfish Deeds organization and received the Norman North Freshman Academic Achievement Award. He enjoys playing piano and received a superior rating at the State Merit Division Piano competition. Kolar plans to study civil engineering in college. Scholarship sponsor: Sarkeys Foundation

Winner of an Academic All-American Award from the National Speech and Debate Association, Lawson was recognized as 2019-20 Student of the Year for the Speech and Debate Association of the Western District of Oklahoma. He is also 6A State Champion in extemporaneous speaking and captain of his debate team.

Lawson is a National Merit finalist and Advanced Placement Scholar. He is an active participant in the Oklahoma Innocence Project and a volunteer at the Oklahoma Food Bank. Lawson works as an office assistant at Foshee & Yaffe law firm. He plans to study international relations at Northwestern University.

Scholarship sponsor: Home Creations

A flutist and drum major of her school band, Levesque is National Honor Society president, Rotary Volunteer Club president and a member of Business Professionals of America member and Mu Alpha Theta math honor society. She is an Oklahoma Girls State Senator, Oklahoma Youth Tour delegate and winner of the American Legion SAMSUNG Scholarship. Levesque is a member of her school academic team and enjoys pottery and dancing with KE Dance Studio. She volunteers as an instructor at Brighter Futures Learning Center and has volunteered more than 250 hours with various organizations. Levesque plans to study neuroscience at Columbia University. Scholarship sponsor: Polly and Larry Nichols

Oklahoma School of Science & Mathematics A Stillwater resident, Li conducts research for the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation and is a volunteer tutor for El Sistema music program and OSSM. She is a National Merit finalist and recipient of an Oklahoma Governor’s Scholar Award and Westheimer Leadership Award. Li is chapter president of HOSA Future Health Professionals, captain of her National Science Bowl team and a member of the OSSM Foundation Student Board.

She enjoys playing violin and rowing. She plans to attend the University of Pennsylvania, studying the biological basis of behavior. Scholarship sponsor: William M. Cameron, American Fidelity Foundation

Piper Lloyd

Ronan Locker

Keaton Lollis

Jaedyn Magness

Ian McEntire

Bethany High School

Owasso High School

Henryetta High School

Shattuck High School

Duncan High School

Lloyd is the 2020 Oklahoma Poetry Out Loud State Champion and 2019 Class 4A State Champion in Original Oratory. She was selected for 2020 AllState Mixed Chorus and attended the 2019 Oklahoma Arts Institute in creative writing. She is chapter president of Young Democrats, Art Club, Masque & Gavel and the International Thespian Society. Among her many creative endeavors, Lloyd participates in speech and debate, musical theater, creative writing, drawing and painting. She is also active in Girl Scouts. Lloyd plans to major in English in college.

Scholarship sponsor: E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation

Locker is a National Merit Scholar finalist and National Advanced Placement Scholar and a member of the Oklahoma Indian Student Honor Society. He participates in the Owasso Mock Trial team and was named Top Attorney at the Oklahoma Mock Trial State Finals. He is chapter president of National Honor Society and active in academic team and Owasso Native American Student Association. He is a member of the worship band at First Church of Owasso. Locker plans to study bioengineering at Stanford University. Scholarship sponsor: The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation

A class valedictorian, Lollis is chapter president of National Honor Society and vice president of Student Council.

He was selected to take several advanced math and science courses through the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics located at the OSU Institute of Technology. An accomplished athlete, Lollis has qualified for state four times in cross country and three times in tennis, earning two state medals in tennis.

During his free time, he helps his father at the local print shop. Lollis plans to major in engineering at the University of Tulsa. Scholarship sponsor: Woodrow Richard Stubbs Charitable Remainder Trust

An Oklahoma Future Farmers of America Degree recipient, Magness is chapter sentinel and reporter for FFA. She is a class valedictorian and state champion in slow-pitch softball.

Magness is also active in National Beta Club; Family, Career and Community Leaders of America; the Fellowship of Christian Athletes; and National Honor Society. She was selected to participate in the Oklahoma State University-FFA Medical Immersion Camp. Magness enjoys showing sheep through FFA, singing in the chorus and volunteering at Shattuck Elementary School.

She plans to major in prepharmacy at Southwestern Oklahoma State University.

Scholarship sponsor: SNB Bank, Shattuck

McEntire is a U.S. Senate Youth Program delegate and Advanced Placement Scholar and was selected for AllState Band and Choir. He was a 2019 Boys State delegate and received the 2019 Rotary International Youth Leadership “I Care” Award. McEntire is a student adviser for the Oklahoma State Department of Education Social Studies Advisory Team and Duncan High Student Council president.

A three-year medalist as an All-State tenor, he enjoys singing, playing trumpet, acting and dancing. McEntire plans to major in economics at Oklahoma City University.

Scholarship sponsor: Mary Frances Michaelis

2020 Oklahoma Academic All-State Scholars

16 Sunday, May 10, 2020

Gabrielle McMahonCsaki

Anna Claire McMullen

Claudia MerchanBreuer

Vanoss High School

Union High School

Norman North High School

A National Merit finalist, McMahon-Csaki is an Academic Bowl AllStater and an Oklahoma Association of Electric Cooperatives Youth Tour Delegate. A 2019 Girls State participant, she is varsity captain of the Academic Bowl, chapter president of National Honor Society, and active in Student Council, Business Professionals of America and the Ada Library Book Club. Her interests include goat herding, film editing, creative writing and volunteering for Pontotoc Animal Welfare Society of Ada. McMahon-Csaki plans to major in English in college. Scholarship sponsor: Anonymous

A Tulsa resident, McMullen is co-president of Health Occupational Students of America and placed second in state in HOSA’s 2019 pathophysiology competition.

She is a National Merit finalist. She is co-founder and copresident of the chemistry club and yoga club. McMullen is vice president of Writers, Readers, Audiences & Performers and active in Fuse Bible Club. She has volunteered more than 800 hours as a Tulsa Zoo Teen and works in children’s ministry at Asbury United Methodist Church. McMullen plans to study biochemistry at the University of Tulsa. Scholarship sponsor: The Anne and Henry Zarrow Foundation

Merchan-Breuer is a National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholar and Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction.

She recently conducted research with a University of Oklahoma professor, resulting in a scientific poster on radiative heat transfer. MerchanBreuer is vice president of Key Club and HispanicLatino Students United. She is a three-time state qualifier in tennis and recipient of the Student Athlete Award for girls’ tennis from the Norman Athletics Association. Merchan-Breuer plans to major in mechanical engineering at the University of Oklahoma.

Scholarship sponsor: Janet and Frank H. Seay

TULSA WORLD

Mark Mills

Pace Mittelstaedt

Michael Musa

Jenks High School

Amber-Pocasset High School

Broken Arrow High School

Mills is an Eagle Scout and senior patrol leader for Boy Scout Troop 26. A National Merit finalist, he is a twotime varsity letterman in cross country. Mills is captain of the Jenks academic team, secretary of the Key Club and a violinist in the Jenks High School Chamber Orchestra.

He participates in the varsity mock trial team and is a National Honor Society tutor.

Mills, whose father was an Academic All-Stater in 1988, plans to major in biology and medical humanities at Baylor University. Scholarship sponsor: Academic All-State Alumni

An Oklahoma State Regents Scholar, Mittelstaedt is president of his Future Farmers of America chapter and active in livestock judging and showing. He is a member of the Oklahoma Agriculture Youth Council and the National Junior Swine Association. Mittelstaedt is FFA Public Speaking Champion and was the 2019 Grand Champion Market Barrow at the Tulsa State Fair. Mittelstaedt has been a volunteer for the State Fair Agtropolis and the Chickasha Festival of Light. He plans to major in agriculture business at Redlands Community College. Scholarship sponsor: Redlands Community College Foundation

Musa is a National Merit finalist, an Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction and a Broken Arrow Scholar. He is an officer in National Honor Society and is active in the Broken Arrow Advanced Placement Club.

Musa participates in concert band and track and field.

He has also been a tutor for Mathnasium and has completed more than 60 volunteer community service hours through National Honor Society. Musa plans to major in chemistry or chemical engineering in college. Scholarship sponsor: H. A. and Mary K. Chapman Charitable Trust

Colton Daniel Peery

Peyton Pierson

Kaylyn Raper

Ethan Ratzlaff

Michaella Reed

Plainview High School

Blanchard High School

Morrison High School

Ringwood High School

Altus High School

Peery is captain of Plainview’s varsity academic team, president of the robotics team and a member of the scholastic team. He is a three-time Oklahoma Association of Academic Competitions Tournament of Champions Top Scholar and was selected for Academic Team All-State.

Among his community activities, Peery is a tutor, Oklahoma Blood Institute Honor Cord Donor, and volunteer for Food and Resource Center of South Central Oklahoma. He plans to major in industrial engineering at Oklahoma State University, where he has been named a College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology (CEAT) Scholar. Scholarship sponsor: Anonymous

A class valedictorian, Pierson is an Oklahoma State Regents Scholar and was a 2019 Boys State delegate. He is president of his senior class, the robotics team and National Honor Society, and vice president of Student Council. He is also active in varsity golf, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the Blanchard Methodist Youth Council.

He enjoys working out and hiking with friends. Pierson plans to major in mechanical and aerospace engineering at Oklahoma State University, where he has been selected as a College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology (CEAT) Scholar. Scholarship sponsor: Pioneer Telephone Cooperative

Raper is a National History Day state winner and two-time national qualifier.

A Girls State delegate, she is recipient of the Billy Michal Student Leadership Award from the National World War II Museum.

She is captain of the varsity softball team and the 2019 Class A Fast Pitch State Champion, All-State selection and All-Area Player of the Year. Raper is senior class president for Student Council, co-captain and four-year starter for varsity basketball, co-captain of Academic Quiz Bowl and chapter secretary for Future Farmers of America. Raper plans to study accounting at Oklahoma State University.

Scholarship sponsor: Donald W. Reynolds Foundation, Linda Lambert, Trustee

Ratzlaff is drum major for the Ringwood High band, president of National Honor Society and vice president of Beta Club.

An active member of the academic team, he was named Cherokee Strip Conference Academic Champion and to the Oklahoma Northwest Academic AllConference team. Ratzlaff plays baseball and basketball and was selected for the 2018-19 Cherokee Strip All-Conference team. A 2019 Boys State delegate, he is active in the New Hopedale Mennonite Church. Ratzlaff plans to major in management information systems at Oklahoma State University.

Scholarship sponsor: Christa Hughes

A National Merit finalist, Reed is a Junior ROTC Flight Commander and Deputy Logistics Squadron Commander. She is a 4-H County Ambassador and officer and has been named to the 4-H County Hall of Fame.

She serves on the Leadership Council for the Altus Band, where she was recognized as Outstanding Woodwind player. Reed also participates in Ethics Bowl, National Honor Society and is a volunteer for the Southwest Oklahoma Community Action Group. She plans to major in chemical engineering at the University of Oklahoma.

Scholarship sponsor: Koch Industries, Inc.

2020 Oklahoma Academic All-State Scholars

TULSA WORLD

Sunday, May 10, 2020 17

Desiree Rickett

Bradey Riopelle

Daniel Ripp

Bo Robbins

Nicholas Sayegh

Fiza Sheikh

Mustang High School

Norman North High School

Inola High School

Guthrie High School

Western Heights High School

A National Merit finalist and Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction, Rickett was one of 15 students nationwide selected to participate in the 2019 Not Safe for Wheels Hackathon, a driving safety conference in Detroit.

She is chapter president for National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society, co-chair of Student Council, and lieutenant governor for Key Club. She serves on the city of Oklahoma City’s Youth Council and the principal’s Leadership Chamber. An active community volunteer, Rickett enjoys dancing, painting and playing Mahjong. She plans to major in statistics and economics at Harvard University. Scholarship sponsor: The First National Bank & Trust Co., Chickasha

Riopelle is a National Merit finalist, a U.S. Presidential Scholar candidate and an Advanced Placement Scholar with Honor.

He is active in Students Performing Unselfish Deeds (SPUD), Skills USA, Technology Student Association, National Technical Honor Society and National Honor Society. He placed first in state and 13th nationwide in Skills USA Related Technical Math competition. Riopelle enjoys playing guitar and piano. He is on the student leadership team at Wildwood Community Church and volunteers with Community Action Ministries. Riopelle plans to attend the University of Oklahoma, majoring in aerospace engineering. Scholarship sponsor: Armstong Bank

A dedicated musician, Ripp plays French horn, trumpet and piano and is drum major for the Inola Band. He is first horn for the Green Country Honor Band, fifth horn for All-State Band and a three-year member of the North Central Directors Association Honor Choir. Ripp is president of the Inola Choir, captain of his academic team and a senior patrol leader for Boy Scout Troop 301. He enjoys learning foreign languages, especially Spanish, and will soon complete his Eagle Scout project.

Ripp plans to study physics and nuclear engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology. Scholarship sponsor: RCB Bank

Robbins is a class valedictorian, a three-time Albert Pike Award winner and 2019 Boys State delegate. He is a Student Council representative and member of Mu Alpha Theta math honor society and the Executive Council Honor Society. Robbins is golf team captain and two-time state champion in golf. He served as a legislative page and enjoys serving as an elementary school tutor and Brunch on Noble soup kitchen volunteer. Robbins plans to attend the United States Air Force Academy with a focus on pre-law. Scholarship sponsor: Jami Rhoades Antonisse (AAS ‘87)

Sayegh is a national Horatio Alger Scholar and an All-State percussionist.

He is the founder of the food and clothing pantry at Western Heights and was a 201819 intern for the Regional Food Bank.

He has also volunteered for the Metropolitan Library Summer Reading Program and Smart Start OKC Early Birds Program. Sayegh is a junior Rotarian for Oklahoma City Rotary Club 29 and a member of the Youth Council of Oklahoma City and the Oklahoma Contemporary Teen Arts Council. Active in Key Club, he plans to major in marketing and finance at Oklahoma City University.

Scholarship sponsor: The Meinders Foundation

Edmond Santa Fe High School Sheikh is an Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction and a member of Youth Leadership Edmond and Youth Leadership Oklahoma.

She is a Ward 7 representative for Youth Council of Oklahoma City. A 2019 Girls State delegate, she is president of the Environmental Club, vice president of the Technology Student Association and the National Honor Society, and senior senator for Student Council. She is also active in speech and debate, DECA, Key Club and participates in Teen Leaders in Philanthropy for the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation.

Sheikh plans to major in political science at the University of California at Los Angeles.

Scholarship sponsor: Mustang Fuel Corporation

Christopher Sipols

Lauren E. Smith

Alaina Jaye Spencer

Mason Stalder

Madison Stephens

Edmond North High School

Edmond Santa Fe High School

Fort Gibson High School

Hooker High School

Weatherford High School

Spencer has studied vocal music with Barbara McCalester at the Zomac School of Music. She is active in school and community theater companies and enjoys painting and collecting antiques. She is active in the National Art Honor Society, Oklahoma High School Honor Society, National Honor Society and History Club.

Spencer has been honored as a 2018 Art II Student of the Year and is a 2020 Fort Gibson High School Red Scholar and 2020 Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen Award recipient. She plans to major in biochemistry at Northeastern State University. Scholarship sponsor: Ruth Nelson

Stalder is a state qualifier in basketball and cross country and was a member of the 2017 State Champion Cross Country team. He is president of Student Council, band and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and is active in the Hispanic American Leadership Organization. Stalder plays guitar and trombone and is active in the First Baptist Church Youth Group.

Among his many volunteer activities, Stalder has participated in Operation Christmas Child, Red Ribbon Week and the Veteran’s Day Program Committee. Stalder plans to major in education at Southwestern Oklahoma State University. Scholarship sponsor: Anonymous

Stephens is state president of 4-H and has served as state secretary. Under her leadership as state chair of the 4-H service committee, the organization raised more than $22,000 for Oklahoma Children’s Hospital.

She is a 2019 4-H Oklahoma Hall of Fame Scholar and is a Future Farmers of America Gold Medalist and third highest scorer in the National Veterinary Medicine Competition. She has held many offices in her FFA chapter and is a member of the National 4-H Design Team. She is vice president of the Center for Family Love Teen Board and serves on the Oklahoma Youth Council. Stephens plans to major in biology pre-medicine at Oklahoma Christian University. Scholarship sponsor: Anonymous

An accomplished bassoonist, Sipols is a four-year participant in the Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute at Quartz Mountain.

He is vice president and freshman mentor for his school band and has been named to Oklahoma Music Educators Association All-State Band. Sipols is a National Merit finalist, an Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction and two-year Student of the Year finalist. He is president of Mu Alpha Theta math honor society and active in National Honor Society and Spanish Club. Sipols plans to major in mathematics at the University of Oklahoma. Scholarship sponsor: Oklahoma Natural Gas, A Division of ONE Gas, Inc.

Smith is a competitive dancer and captain of her school’s varsity pom squad.

She enjoys writing poetry and has won second place and honorable mention in the Edmond Santa Fe Poetry Contest.

She is a freshman mentor and active in National Honor Society. Smith enjoys sewing, playing guitar and is a worship leader for the Christian Teen Club. She plans to major in pre-physical therapy at the University of Oklahoma, where she is the recipient of a Distinguished Scholar Award. Scholarship sponsor: AT&T Oklahoma

2020 Oklahoma Academic All-State Scholars

18 Sunday, May 10, 2020

Aidan Sudler

Ava Swanson

Bixby High School

Cache High School

Sudler is the founder and president of Mario Kart Club, a video game club. He is vice president of Tri-M music honor society and Rotary Interact Club and is active in the academic team and the University of Tulsa Physics Journal Club.

He is a National Advanced Placement Scholar, a National Merit finalist and a U.S. Presidential Award qualifier. He serves on the Junior Board of the Tulsa Walk to End Alzheimer’s. He also plays piano and participates in school and community theater. He plans to major in physics and piano at the University of Oklahoma.

Scholarship sponsor: Mabrey Bank

An Oklahoma Hall of Fame History Contest winner, Swanson is an Oklahoma State Scholars Society Scholar and a Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Foundation delegate. She is chapter president of Beta Club and Student Council and secretary of Oklahoma Student Council District Three. A Youth Leadership Oklahoma delegate, Swanson served as a capitol page for Rep. Trey Caldwell. She is captain of her varsity basketball and volleyball teams and is a classically trained piano student and teacher.

Swanson plans to major in government at Harvard University. Scholarship sponsor: Linda and Larry Neal

Vivian Cathleen Taylor Durant High School Drum Major for the Pride of Durant, Taylor is also varsity soccer co-captain and executive vice president of Student Council. She is a National Merit finalist, a four-year Oklahoma Honor Society member and member of National Honor Society.

Taylor enjoys volunteering at health-related events like Remote Area Medical and Oklahoma Mission of Mercy and she is chapter officer of Future Health Professionals of America. She is an American Legion Auxiliary Girls Nation Senator and enjoys playing bassoon and running. Taylor plans to study statistics at Oklahoma State University.

Scholarship sponsor: First United Bank

TULSA WORLD

Harrison Themer

Daniel Tikalsky

Catherine Tramel

Kingfisher High School

Stillwater High School

Verdigris High School

A 2019 4A State Basketball Champion, Themer serves as Student Council president. He is a National Merit finalist and vice president of National Honor Society. Themer is a two-time National Future Farmers of America Career Development Event Champion and serves as Kingfisher FFA chapter reporter. He plays guitar, is an active member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and enjoys volunteering with Kingfisher Winter Nights, Food for America, Stinger Athlete Day and Super Kids Day. Themer plans to study mechanical engineering and pre-medicine at Oklahoma State University. Scholarship sponsor: NBC Oklahoma

An Eagle Scout with Bronze Palm from Boy Scout Troop 802, Tikalsky is president of National Honor Society, a National Merit finalist and an Advanced Placement Scholar with Honor. He is band staff manager, saxophone section leader and was first chair All-State tenor saxophone. Tikalsky is varsity captain of his swim team and a three-time state qualifier in the 100m backstroke and 4x100 freestyle relay.

He is captain of his school Academic Team and enjoys volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, Our Daily Bread and Stillwater Public Library.

Tikalsky plans to study mechanical engineering in college. Scholarship sponsor: Anonymous

A two-time Oklahoma Bandmasters Association jazz keyboardist and three-time 4A Jazz State Champion, Tramel is also section leader in the Verdigris Marching Band. She is captain of the Verdigris Academic Bowl team and president of National Honor Society and Young Democrats Club. Tramel participates in Verdigris Speech and Debate, Recycling Club, Youth Leadership Alliance and Student Council. She has shadowed three surgeons, taken part in campaigning for local elections, and volunteers with St. Cecilia Catholic Church, Catholic Charities and the Community Food Bank. Tramel plans to study human health and biology at the University of Oklahoma.

Scholarship sponsor: Williams Foundation

Katheryn Turner

Tyson M. Vernon

Aaron Villanueva

Larin Wade

Jonah Wagner

Owasso High School

Altus High School

Ringling High School

Bixby High School

A Mock Trial team captain, Turner won the Marian P. Opala Best Attorney Award at State Finals and served as an intern at the Tulsa Municipal Courts Prosecution Office. She is an Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction, Tulsa Community College Presidential Honor Society member and vice president of National Honor Society.

Turner is a Spirit Crew officer, member of Student Council and is Senior Board reporter.

She enjoys volunteering through Owasso First Assembly, Puppy Haven Rescue, and as a calculus and chemistry tutor. She plans to study biomedical engineering at Duke University. Scholarship sponsor: Mr. and Mrs. James M. Sturdivant

A member of the Southwest Oklahoma All-Regional Choir, Vernon is also active in BluHarmonix Acapella Choir and Varsity Chorale. He is a varsity football and baseball team member. Vernon is an Altus Rotary Club Junior Rotarian and Link Crew Leader. He was awarded the Oklahoma State Regents Institutional Nominee Scholarship for Oklahoma State University.

Vernon is a member of the Tamarack Road Church of Christ youth group and volunteered at the A League of Our Own sporting event for children with disabilities and special needs. He plans to study business at Oklahoma State University. Scholarship sponsor: The Leverett Family, In Honor of Janelle Leverett

Santa Fe South Pathways Middle College

Wade is captain of the Ringling Color Guard, varsity cheerleader and Senior Class president. She is Academic Team captain and a member of the Ethics Bowl team and Speech team.

A reporter for the Future Farmers of America, Wade was the July 2019 Spotlight FFA member in Oklahoma Vype Magazine. She is a National Honor Society member and was recognized as the Ringling Chamber of Commerce Student of the Month.

Wade is a volunteer tutor for middle school students at Ringling’s Blue Devils Achieving Together program.

She plans to study secondary education with an emphasis in English at Oklahoma State University. Scholarship sponsor: Jari Askins

Brass captain and trumpet lieutenant with the Pride of Bixby marching band, Wagner also plays in the Bixby Wind Ensemble and is an All-State Jazz Band member. He is a member of the Tulsa Youth Symphony Orchestra and a four-time State Champion Lead Male Soloist.

Wagner is an Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction. He is a third-degree Black Belt in American Tangsoodo Taekwando and is an instructor at Combat Zone Karate School. Wagner enjoys volunteering with Tri-M Honor Society. He plans to study chemistry in college. Scholarship sponsor: The John and Donnie Brock Foundation

Winner of the Creative Writer Award and Mathematical Mind Award, Villanueva serves as STEAM Club president and EcolNO PHOTO AVAILABLE ogy Club vice president. He is captain of the basketball club and a member of the junior varsity basketball team.

Villanueva volunteers in the Light and Salvation food drive and works as an accountant for his parent’s business. He is passionate about physics, pursuing independent study of quantum physics and relativity. Villanueva has taken concurrent courses and will graduate from college with an Associate’s degree at the same time he earns his high school diploma. He plans to study physics at Stanford University. Scholarship sponsor: Mary M. Jenkins

2020 Oklahoma Academic All-State Scholars

TULSA WORLD

Sunday, May 10, 2020 19

Connor Walker

Corbin M. Walls

Eric Wang

Nicco Wang

Aiyana Washington

Sarah Kate Willhoite

Lomega High School

Miami High School

MacArthur High School

Stillwater High School

Choctaw High School

Claremore High School

Walker is an American Legion Oklahoma Boys State Samsung Scholarship recipient and national finalist. The president of his senior class and Student Council, he is a Chickasaw Nation Honor Student, Academic Quiz Bowl AllConference Team member and member of Oklahoma and National Honor Societies. Walker is a leader in the Lomega Community Youth Group, participating in many volunteer activities. He is the captain of the varsity basketball team and a State Champion cross-country runner. Walker plans to major in management information systems at Oklahoma State University. Scholarship sponsor: The Chickasaw Nation — Bill Anoatubby, Governor

Walls serves as state vice president of the Oklahoma Association of Student Councils and is president of Miami Student Council and his Senior Class. He was a Youth Leadership Oklahoma class of 2019 member, Miami Youth Leadership class of 2019 member and served on the Student Advisory Council for State Superintendent of Education Joy Hoffmeister.

Walls is National Honor Society parliamentarian and president of the Key Club.

He is a Regional Champion and State Finalist in speech and debate. The brother of a 2018 Academic All-Stater, he plans to study public and nonprofit administration at the University of Oklahoma.

Scholarship sponsor: Google Inc.

A National Merit finalist and Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction, Wang is a class valedictorian and secretary of National Honor Society. He is president of the Future Health Professionals of America, founder and president of ACS ChemClub and co-captian of his Academic Team. Wang is a Key Club board member, receiving the President’s Volunteer Service Award. He plays violin and is a state qualifier for his varsity swim team. Wang enjoys volunteering with the Royal Rangers through his church and at Comanche County Memorial hospital.

He plans to study biomedical engineering at Texas A&M University. Scholarship sponsor: Beth and Carey Johnson

Concertmaster for the Stillwater High School Symphony Orchestra and the Oklahoma State University Youth Orchestra, Wang is also a violinist for St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church music ministry. He is a National Merit finalist, Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction and Senior Class president. Wang is Beta Club secretary, a Quiz Bowl team member and a five-year member of the VEX robotics team. He is an American Red Cross youth volunteer. Wang, whose sister was a 2016 Academic All-Stater, plans to study mechanical engineering at Columbia University. Scholarship sponsor: Academic All-State Alumni

Washington is class valedictorian, an Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction and a National Hispanic Scholar. She is co-founder and president of the Environmental Club and president of the Key Club. A two-time National Speech and Debate Tournament qualifier, Washington also serves on the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation Teen Leaders in Philanthropy Board and the OKC Beautiful Teen Service Board. She works as a receptionist at Amber Oaks Veterinary Hospital and plays acoustic guitar in her church worship band. Washington enjoys hiking and nature photography and plans to study earth systems at Stanford University. Scholarship sponsor: MidFirst Bank

The president of Rogers County Rotary Interact Club, Willhoite is also vice president of service for National Honor Society and is a National Merit finalist.

She plays in the marching band and participated in cheer, track and cross country. Willhoite is active in First United Methodist Church’s NextGen, volunteering for Youth Force and helping gather and package medical supplies for shipping abroad. She is a mentor for incoming Claremore High School students through the Zebra Experience. Willhoite plans to study pre-medicine at the University of Oklahoma or University of Texas at Dallas. Scholarship sponsor: Frank C. and Ludmila Robson

Hailey Williams

Stone Yang

Kevin Zhang

Lauran Zheng

Shengran Zhou

Strother High School

Bartlesville High School

Deer Creek High School

Norman High School

Williams is reporter and president of Gordon Cooper Technology Center’s PreEngineering Academy. She is a SKILLS USA national runner-up and American Spirit State Champion.

Winner of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Patriotic Youth Award, Williams is chaplain of the Business Professionals of America.

She is a fast-pitch softball State Champion and is active in Fellowship of Christian Athletes; Positive Peers; and Family, Career and Community Leaders of America.

Williams volunteers with Special Olympics, Stamp Out Starvation and Oklahoma Regional Food Bank. She plans to study business law at the University of Central Oklahoma. Scholarship sponsor: Anonymous

Winner of the Intel Excellence in Computer Science Award and the Yale Science and Engineering Association Award, Yang is also a two-time Bartlesville High School Student of the Year. He is District 6 President and State Elections Chairman for the Oklahoma Association of Student Councils and serves as Bartlesville’s Student Council president. Yang is first chair cello for his school Symphonic Orchestra and participates in state competitions for piano, musical theater and vocal music. He is editor of the school yearbook and served on a committee to help pass a $17.9 million bond issue for Bartlesville Public Schools.

Yang plans to study electrical engineering in college. Scholarship sponsor: Phillips 66

Edmond Memorial High School

Winner of the Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership for Service Presidential Service Award, Zheng served as a HOBY ambassador and junior facilitator.

She is a National Merit finalist and an Advanced Placement Scholar with Honors. Zheng is Key Club president, Piano Club president and the layout editor of her school newspaper. She participates in Gay Straight Alliance, Environmental Club, Art Club and Pep Club.

Zheng has played piano for 10 years and enjoys writing and editing articles for her school newspaper, and volunteering in her community. She plans to attend the University of Oklahoma, majoring in psychology. Scholarship sponsor: The Oklahoma Publishing Company

A teen docent at the Sam Noble Natural History Museum, Zhou is senior class vice president. He serves as president of the Mu Alpha Theta mathematics honor society and captain of Norman High’s academic team. Zhou was an Academic Team State Runner-Up and a state qualifier in speech and debate.

He is a Questbridge National College Match Recipient to Yale University. Zhou enjoys reading science fiction classics, investing, bird watching and playing pub trivia. He plans to study economics at Yale University. Scholarship sponsor: Jeff (AAS ‘89) and Inga Harris

Zhang is a National Merit finalist, Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction and a Presidential Scholar Candidate.

He is a state semifinalist and national qualifier with the VEX Robotics team and participates in StellarXplorers. He was a member of a Lemelson-MIT Foundation InvenTeams group, which received $10,000 for research to create solutions to a current problem. Zhang plays trombone and baritone in the marching and symphonic bands. He volunteers as a summer school algebra and geometry teacher and with HOPE Center. Zhang plans to study aerospace engineering at Texas A&M University.

Scholarship sponsor: OGE Energy Corp.

20 Sunday, May 10, 2020

TULSA WORLD

RECOGNIZING ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE FOUR PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS HAVE BEEN AWARDED TO OSU STUDENTS THIS YEAR.

ADRIENNE BLAKEY

COLE REPLOGLE

JOSHUA ANADU

BLAKE BARTLETT

Oklahoma’s sole 2020 Truman Scholarship recipient, she is from Stillwater, Oklahoma, pursuing dual degrees in plant and soil science with a concentration in agronomic business and another in agricultural communications.

From Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, he is majoring in mechanical and aerospace engineering, and is one of just 25 U.S. students to be selected for the eminent scholarship. He plans to pursue a master’s degree in research in future propulsion and power at the University of Cambridge.

Majoring in environmental science with a concentration in water resources and minors in chemistry and geology, the Katy, TX native plans to pursue a doctorate in astrobiology or geobiology and work in nutrientlimited geobiology, biomarkers and the origins of life.

A chemical engineering major from Greenwood, Arkansas, his current research focuses on modeling the mucus that coats the lungs and experimental lung drug delivery.

Truman Scholar

Gates Cambridge Scholarship

Goldwater Scholar

Goldwater Scholar

ACHIEVE YOUR DREAMS AT OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY.