2009 Academic All-Staters
Lauren Allen
Southmoore High School
A National Merit finalist, Advanced Placement Scholar and Oklahoma Academic Scholar, Allen is the treasurer of the National Honor Society and a member of the scholastic team. At Southmoore, she has been involved in a number of extracurricular activities including concert choir, Multicultural Club, Computer Club and Science Club. Allen has volunteered with the Moore Public Library and served as a tutor for Moore Public Schools. She plans to major in chemical engineering at the University of Oklahoma.
Jarrod Battles
Perkins-Tryon High School
A Regents Scholar and valedictorian, Battles is president of his class and captain of the academic team. He plays varsity golf and basketball and is a member of the International Club; Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America; and yearbook staff. Outside of school, Battles is involved in his church youth group and participates in Leadership Training for Christ. He plans to major in business administration at Oklahoma State University.
Michael Bishop
Edmond Memorial High School
A National Merit semi-finalist and an Advanced Placement Scholar, Bishop is a four-year band and jazz band member. At Edmond Memorial, he is involved in the academic team, National Honor Society, Science Club, Latin Club, and Computer Club. Bishop is a founding member of a student-run literary discussion group and has served as a private math and science tutor throughout high school. He plans to major in English at Princeton University.
Robert Grady Briggs
Tulsa Memorial High School
The recipient of an outstanding citizenship award from the Sons of the American Revolution, Briggs is also an Advanced Placement Scholar and ranked summa cum laude on the National Latin Exam. At Tulsa Memorial, he is president of the National Honor Society and captain of the Academic Bowl team. He is also the head drum major for the marching band and participates in the Tulsa Metro Honor Band and the Tulsa Youth Symphony. He helped implement Memorial’s peer tutoring program and organize the school’s St. Jude fundraiser. He plans to major in biomedical engineering at Oklahoma State University.
Samuel Briggs
Tulsa Memorial high School
An Advanced Placement Scholar, Briggs ranked summa cum laude on the National Latin Exam. At school, he is involved in National Honor Society, plays trumpet in the marching and concerts bands, and sings in the concert chorus. He is a volunteer peer tutor and received a certificate of merit for his outstanding contribution to the band room renovation project. He is vice president of the Future Educators of America and president of the student band board. He plans to major in music education at the University of Oklahoma.
James Lloyd Briscoe
Lexington High School
Receiving the prestigious Boy Scout ranking of Eagle Scout, Briscoe serves as the adult leader of a local Boy Scout Troup. At Lexington High School he is involved in National Honor Society, gifted and talented, the scholastic team, and Spanish club. He is the drum major for the school band and has performed in school plays. He plans to major in chemistry at the University of Oklahoma.
Rachel Britton
Durant High School
A National Merit Commended Student and an Oklahoma Academic Scholar, Britton is a section leader in the Pride of Durant Band. At school, she participates in the Literary and Chemistry clubs and was selected to be a member of the Peer Assistance and Leadership Skills Program. She has participated in the Red River Drum Camp, All-District Honor Band and numerous piano competitions. Outside of school she is active in her church youth group and serves as a tutor at the Indian Education After-School Program. She plans to major in speech pathology at the University of North Texas.
Alysia Anne Brooks
Durant High School
An Oklahoma Academic Scholar, Brooks is a member of the Oklahoma Indian Honor Society. At Durant High School, she is on the varsity tennis team, the academic team, and plays in the band. She is a member of the Business Professionals of America, the Chemistry Club, and the American Indian Science and Engineering Society. She volunteers with Families Feeding Families and is involved in her church. She plans to major in chemistry at the University of Oklahoma.
Ashley Brown
Laverne High School
A class salutatorian and American Legion Student of Today, Brown is a co-captain for both her basketball team and cheer leading squad. At Laverne High School, she is president of the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America and participates in choir, academic team, Future Farmers of America and band. She plans to major in economics at the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma.
Sara Brown
Pryor High School
A valedictorian and Advanced Placement Scholar, Brown is president of the Octagon Club, the student branch of Optimist Club. Among her leadership positions, Brown is co-captain of the academic team, secretary of Spanish Club, and communications officer for the Native American Heritage Club. She also participates in marching band, the Cherokee Culture Bowl and Language Bowl, Science Club and National Honor Society. She is a member of the Pleasant View Baptist church Youth Group. Brown plans to major in Spanish education at Oklahoma Baptist University.
Cody Alan Bryant
Idabel High School
Receiving the prestigious Boy Scout ranking of Eagle Scout, Bryant is a National Merit Commended Scholar and a member of the All-State Band. At Idabel High School, he is co-founder and captain of the Robotics Club, captain of the academic team, captain of the cross country team and vice president of the calculus team. He is trumpet section leader for the marching, jazz and concert bands. He plans to major in biology at Oklahoma Christian University.
Emily Buller
Ringwood High School
An AmeriCorps after-school tutor, Buller has also volunteered with Feed the Children, Relay for Life, and as a summer camp counselor for her church. She is a graduate of Youth Leadership Oklahoma and served as a senate page at the state capitol. At Ringwood, she is vice president of both the National Honor Society and Student Council, and captain of the Academic Bowl team. She plans to major in secondary science education at Oklahoma Baptist University.
David Rey Cabrera
Pauls Valley High School
A College Board National Hispanic Recognition Scholar, Cabrera is a Quest Bridge National College Match recipient to the Columbia University Engineering Experience program. He has also participated in the Oklahoma State University Aerospace Academy. At Pauls Valley High School, he is a member of the National Honor Society, Quest Scholars, Rotary Interact Club, and is president of the Key Club International. He plans to major in mechanical engineering at Columbia University.
Robert Cail
Edmond Santa Fe High School
A National Merit finalist and Advanced Placement Scholar, Cail is a three-time Oklahoma Renaissance Scholar. At Santa Fe, he is a four-year member of the track team, academic team and Latin club. He is president of the Junior Classical League and Mu Alpha Theta and is a member of the All-State Choir. He holds the Boy Scout ranking of Eagle Scout and has served on the Archdiocesan Youth Advisory Board, the Edmond Youth Council, the Oklahoma City Youth Council and Youth Leadership Edmond. He plans to major in chemistry at the University of Oklahoma.
Sarah Cappo
Shawnee High School
A valedictorian and Advanced Placement Scholar, Cappo was voted Shawnee High School’s “Most Musical” student. She is a member of the drama club and National Honor Society and serves on the Shawnee Youth Coalition. Outside of school, she participates in the Shawnee Sports and Arts Camp, the Earth Day Music Festival and volunteers for Habitat for Humanity. She plans to major in non-profit leadership at William Jewell College.
Nicole Carter
Booker T. Washington High School
A National Merit finalist and Advanced Placement Scholar, Carter is co-captain of the Academic Bowl team and is an elected member of the National Honor Society executive board. At Booker T. Washington, she also competes on the debate team and participates in the Model United Nations and Key Club. She is a member of the Tulsa Youth Court and is an intern for the Tulsa Global Alliance. Outside of the classroom she is an avid horseback rider. She plans to major in ethics, politics and economics at either Yale or Oxford University.
Melissa Nicole Carvell
Bartlesville High School
A five-time state science fair champion, Carvell is a 2009 Intel Science Talent Search finalist. She was featured in “Forbes Magazine” in 2007 and received awards from the U.S. Navy and Air Force for her work in creating composite materials that reinforce soldiers’ body armor. At Bartlesville High School, Carvell is the manager for the boy’s varsity soccer team and a member of the National Honor Society. She volunteers as a middle school math tutor and serves as a judge for the elementary division of the district science fair. She plans to major in human biology and Spanish.
Annie Chang
Norman North High School
A National Merit finalist, Chang is the 2008 Outstanding Chinese-American High
School Student and an Asia Society of Oklahoma High School Scholar. At Norman North, she is editor of the school newspaper, president of the Chinese Club and a member of the National Honor Society. She is a dancer in the Norman Ballet Company and teaches free Chinese dance lessons to young girls at the Norman Chinese Dance School. She plans to major in journalism at Northwestern University.
Edward “Trey” Cizek
Jenks High School
A National Merit finalist and Advanced Placement Scholar, Cizek is a two-time 6A academic team state champion. At Jenks High School, he is captain of the academic team and a member of the Young Democrats. Upon graduation, he will have already completed over 20 hours of college course work. He works part-time at Tulsa Community College assisting with intramural basketball. Cizek plans to continue his studies in economics.
Sara Jane Collins
Oologah High School
A Girls State delegate, Collins is president of Student Council and vice president of the Native American Club. As the first-place winner of the Verdigris Valley Electric Youth Tour Essay Contest, Collins won an all-expense-paid trip to Washington D.C. She was selected for the All-State Honor Choir and plays piano. In her community, Collins volunteers with the Susan G. Komen Foundation, the United Way and the Oologah Chamber of Commerce. She plans to major in pharmacy at the University of Oklahoma.
Andrew Connery
Norman High School
A National Merit finalist, Connery is the 2008 state debate champion and placed in the top 10 nationally for debate with the National Forensics League. Connery was one of two Oklahomans to participate in the U.S. Senate Youth Program in Washington, D.C., where he met President Barack Obama and other leaders. At Norman High School, Connery is vice-president of the Young Democrats, president of the National Forensics League and active in the academic team, mock trial team and Model United Nations. He has earned the prestigious Boy Scout ranking of Eagle Scout and was the 2008 Homecoming King. He plans to major in political science at Yale University.
Cash A. Cooper
Lindsay High School
A valedictorian and Boys State delegate, Cooper has earned the prestigious Boy Scout ranking of Eagle Scout. At Lindsay High School, he is president of his senior class, president of National Honor Society and captain of the varsity academic bowl team. He also participates in Student Council and Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America. Cooper plays the piano and guitar and is active in his church youth group. He plans to major in pharmacy at either the University of Oklahoma or Southwestern Oklahoma State University.
Brad Crofford
Bethany High School
A National Merit finalist, Crofford has been selected three times for All-State Choir. At school, he is a member of the Masque-n-Gavel speech, drama and debate club; National Honor Society; Student Council; Spanish club; and show choir. Outside of school Crofford spends time mentoring novice debaters and is active in his church youth group. He is the co-author of “Aunts and Uncles Everywhere” published in 2009 by the Beacon Hill Press. Crofford plans to major in politics and law and Southern Nazarene University.
Jonathan Davis
Putnam City High School
An Oklahoma State Regents Academic Scholar and an Advanced Placement Scholar, Davis is the recipient of the All-American Scholar Award from the U.S. Achievement Academy. At Putnam City, he is a member of the National Honor Society, Student Council and National Society of High School Scholars. He is a Crew Camp volunteer and plays on the school’s tennis team. He has volunteered for the Myriad Gardens, the Pauline Mayer Shelter and the Regional Food Bank. Davis plans to continue his studies in accounting.
Shawn Deines
Shattuck High School
An Oklahoma Regents Scholar, Deines was selected as the Oklahoma representative for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Youth Leadership Council and is the recipient of the Rotary Youth Leadership Award. At Shattuck High School, he is active in the varsity football team, the speech team, choir, the academic team, and BEST Robotics team. He is a member of the All-State Choir and has served as a page for the state legislature. He plans to major in management information systems at the University of Oklahoma.
Erin DeWalt
Bennington High School
DeWalt serves as president of her senior class and the Bennington chapter of the National Honor Society. She received the Daughters of the American Revolution Citizen’s Award and was recognized as Kiwanis’ Senior of the Month. A four-year member of the varsity basketball team, she was named senior co-captain and volunteers as a coach for the Little Dribblers program. DeWalt also participates in Families Feeding Families and serves on the Choctaw Nation Youth Advisory Board and Students Working Against Tobacco. She plans to major in pre-pharmacy at Southwestern Oklahoma State University.
Madison Donica
Dickson High School
An Oklahoma Academic Scholar and class valedictorian, Donica attended the Ardmore Regional Center of the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics. She is active in Student Council, Students Against Drunk Driving, basketball and track. Donica serves as a member of Young Women’s Leadership of Ardmore and volunteers in the local soup kitchen and blood drives. As a member of the First United Methodist Church, she is active on the servant team and participates in mission trips. She plans to pursue a degree in biochemistry at Oklahoma State University.
Carolyn Doyle
Elgin High School
As an active member of Future Farmers of America, Doyle has earned both state and national awards in livestock judging competitions. She is also a member of the American Quarter Horse Association and Oklahoma Chianina Association. A member of state and national honor societies, Doyle serves as president of her senior class and copy editor on the yearbook staff. She is a member of the regional champion academic team and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Doyle plans to major in animal science and agriculture communications at Oklahoma State University.
Steven Dragosljvich
MacArthur High School
A National Merit finalist, Dragosljvich is an avid swimmer and swim team captain who has won numerous conference awards and earned “high point” swimmer recognition. A four-year member of Key Club, he has participated in Relay for Life and other community events in Lawton. He was recognized as an outstanding employee at American Eagle Outfitters, where he has worked for nearly two years. Dragosljvich plans to major in biology at Saint Louis University.
Phillip Fischaber
Enid High School
Fischaber, a National Merit finalist and salutatorian of his senior class, was selected to attend the United States Military Academy Summer Leadership Seminar in 2008. Fischaber is a member of the German Club, Constitution team, Young Republicans and National Honor Society, and he serves as captain of the academic team. A band and jazz band member, he is also active in Enid’s Gaslight Theater. Fischaber intends to pursue a degree in history at the University of Tulsa.
Daryne Shay Foote
Guymon High School
A member of the basketball, softball and cheerleading teams, Foote received honorable mention in “The Oklahoman’s” 4A Girls Basketball All-State Team and was a state finalist for Wendy’s High School Heisman award. A National Merit finalist and senior class vice president, Foote is an active member of the National Honor Society, student council and yearbook staff. She participates in the youth group at Victory Memorial Methodist Church and serves as a Guymon basketball camp volunteer. She plans to pursue a degree in communications.
Rayford William Forest
Locust Grove High School
Forest is an Oklahoma State Regents Scholar and State Superintendent Academic Scholar. He serves as an officer for his senior class and is a member of the National Honor Society, academic team and Youth Council. A bass player in the worship band at Free Will Baptist Church in Locust Grove, he is also active in Fellowship of Christian Students. Forest plans to study mechanical engineering at the University of Tulsa.
Julie Fortuna
Edmond North High School
An accomplished musician, Fortuna was named an Oklahoma Music Educators Association all-state cellist and participated in the Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute. A pit orchestra cellist, she is also president of Edmond North’s orchestra, a member of Oklahoma Youth Orchestra and a volunteer for the Oklahoma City Philharmonic. Fortuna, a National Merit finalist and Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction, is president of Mu Alpha Theta math honor society and German Club. She also is active in National Honor Society.
Chase Funderburk
Edmond North High School
Funderburk, a National Merit finalist and Presidential Scholar nominee, has earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He is a member of the National Honor Society and Oklahoma Honor Society. Named to the Edmond All-City football team as a kicker, he is a member of the Edmond North football and soccer teams. He also participates in the Edmond Soccer Club and volunteers with Habitat for Humanity. Funderburk plans to attend Harvard or the University of Pennsylvania, majoring in finance and economics.
Matthew Gallant
Putnam City West High School
An Oklahoma State Regents Academic Scholar and valedictorian, Gallant was named Distinguished Freshman Scholar by the University of Oklahoma College of Engineering and received the Yale Club Award. He is a member of the National Honor Society and participates on the varsity tennis and bowling teams. Gallant plans to pursue a degree in engineering at the University of Oklahoma.
Bryce Geiger
Snyder High School
Geiger, a valedictorian and Oklahoma Scholar, serves as vice president of Student Council and leads his school’s chapter of FISH Club, a Christian organization. He has participated in football, baseball, basketball and track, and is a member of Future Farmers of America and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. A member of the Snyder First Baptist Church youth group, Geiger has organized See You at the Pole events for the past three years. He intends to major in chemistry at Cameron University in Lawton.
Wyatt Hartman Gutierrez
Jenks High School
Gutierrez is a National Merit Scholar finalist, a National Hispanic Scholar and an Advanced Placement Scholar with Honor. A member of the National Honor Society and Oklahoma High School Honor Society, he serves on the Student Council and plays in the high school orchestra. Gutierrez participated in a Chinese foreign exchange program and the Distinguished Service Graduate Volunteer Program. Active in his community, Gutierrez is a local blood bank volunteer and works with an after-school care program. He plans to pursue a degree in computer science.
John Wilbanks Harrison
McAlester High School
An Oklahoma Academic Scholar and State Regents Scholar, Harrison is active in his community as a member of Young Life, a program designed to reach out to children in the community. He serves as WyldLife leader, a Young Life program involving middle school students. Earning the title of Mr.Teenager, Harrison is a member of the Student Council, National Honor Society, Oklahoma Honor Society and the varsity tennis team. Harrison plans to attend the University of Oklahoma, majoring in mechanical engineering.
Benjamin Hay
Cheyenne High School
An Oklahoma Academic Scholar and valedictorian of his senior class, Hay is known as the “Voice of the Bears,” the announcer for high school athletic events. Selected for Youth Leadership Oklahoma, Hay is president of Student Council and the Physics Club as well as a member of the National Honor Society, Business Professionals of America, BEST Robotics team and the academic team. He participates in the gifted and talented program and plays on the varsity baseball team. Hay intends to pursue a degree in aerospace and mechanical engineering at Oklahoma State University.
Cody Dawn Hayes
Warner High School
Hayes, valedictorian of her class, was selected as a “Muskogee Phoenix” Academic All-Star. She serves as vice president of her school’s chapter of the National Honor Society and co-captain of the Academic Pursuit Team. A member of the Oklahoma High School Honor Society, she participates in the Warner gifted and talented program. An active member of Keefeton Free Will Baptist Church, she participates in the youth group and serves in the puppet ministry. She plans to attend Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, majoring in elementary education. Her brother, Robert Hayes, was a 2007 Academic All-Stater.
Ryan Heath
Meeker High School
Heath is National Merit Scholar finalist and an Oklahoma State Regents Scholar. Honored as Pre-Engineering Academy Outstanding Student, he is active in his local SkillsUSA chapter, serving as captain of the quiz bowl team and treasurer of the organization. He is a member of the FIRST Robotics Team, National Technical Honor Society and the National Honor Society. In his community, Heath volunteers at the local Halloween festival maze and attends Morning Star Baptist Church. He plans to attend Oklahoma State University, majoring in aerospace engineering.
Chester Alan Hendershot
Tecumseh High School
Class valedictorian and an academic letter jacket recipient, Hendershot was named an Advanced Placement Scholar and awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Outstanding Performance by the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology. He is a member of the Republican National Committee and the National and Oklahoma honor societies. Hendershot serves as captain of the academic team and vice president of the Science Club, and plays lead guitar in a Christian rock band. He plans to attend Oklahoma City University or the University of Oklahoma, majoring in biochemistry or cell and molecular biology.
Matthew Hollen
Charles Page High School
Hollen, an assistant instructor for Martial Arts America, earned a third-degree black belt and participates in a tae kwon do mentorship program. A National Merit finalist and member of the National Honor Society, Hollen is captain of the academic team and served as corporation commissioner at Oklahoma Boys’ State. Hollen is active in his school and community, participating in his school’s chapter of Youth and Government and the Sand Springs Church of Christ youth group’s volunteer efforts. His brother, Luke Hollen, was a 2007 Academic All-Stater. Hollen plans to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering at Oklahoma State University.
Jeff Hong
Jenks High School
An accomplished violinist and pianist, Hong serves as co-concertmaster of the Tulsa Youth Symphony. He serves as volunteer coordinator of the Jenks Pre-Med Society and is a member of the state championship academic team. A member of the Tulsa Chinese Christian Church, Hong has participated in several mission programs and volunteers at local hospitals. Hong, a National Merit finalist, also works as tutor for Kumon Math and Reading Center. He plans to major in biology and psychology.
Lily Hoot
Edmond Memorial High School
Hoot, a valedictorian and an Advanced Placement Scholar with Honors, is active in her community, volunteering during the Edmond Public Library’s summer reading program and weekly at the Edmond Hope Center assisting in clothing donations. A member of the National Honor Society, she also serves as secretary of the A.C.T. Club (Advocating Change Together) and participates on the championship academic team. For the past eight years, she has played volleyball on a local YMCA team.
Noelle Hurt
Stratford High School
A valedictorian and an Oklahoma Academic Scholar, Hurt is involved in several organizations. She serves as president of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America and the National Honor Society. Hurt, who was a page for state Sen. Susan Paddack, is president of the Upward Bound Math and Science organization and serves as captain of its academic team. An avid athlete, she participates in basketball, softball, track and pom squad. Hurt plans to major in political science at East Central University.
Mallory Irwinsky
Piedmont High School
A valedictorian and Oklahoma Academic Scholar, Irwinsky earned first place in the 2008 Kerr Center for Sustainable Agriculture essay contest. The former competitive Irish dancer and a drumline section leader for Piedmont’s state championship high school band participated in the Oklahoma All-Star Centennial Band. She is president of the National Honor Society and captain of the varsity tennis team. Irwinsky, a Model United Nations and Girls State delegate, has been a volunteer with Special Olympics and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and currently serves as a reading tutor. She plans to attend the University of Oklahoma, majoring in pre-law.
Aditi Jalla
Putnam City North High School
Jalla has spent nearly 300 hours volunteering with the Children’s Hospital at OU Medical Center. Vice president of her Key Club chapter, she has also volunteered with the Oklahoma Brain Tumor Foundation and served as chair of the packet committee at the 2007 Oklahoma Association of Student Councils state convention. Jalla, a class valedictorian, is a National Merit finalist and Advanced Placement Scholar with Honor. President of Mu Alpha Theta, she is also a member of the academic team and the National Honor Society. Jalla plans to study psychology at the University of Oklahoma.
Nitin M. Kamath
Stillwater High School
Kamath is a National Merit finalist and Advanced Placement Scholar. An active member of the National Honor Society, Beta Club and Robotics Club, he serves as treasurer of Mu Alpha Theta and as vice president of Young Democrats. A volunteer at the Stillwater Medical Center, Kamath was awarded a Rippy Fellowship by the medical center’s foundation. He is an accomplished violinist and pianist, participating in the high school orchestra.
Caleb King
Edmond Memorial High School
King, a valedictorian, is a National Merit finalist and Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction. He is active in his school community, participating in Young Republicans, the Creative Writing Club and National Honor Society. He is also a member of the football and wrestling teams. A member of Edmond Church of Christ, he serves on the youth leadership team and has participated in mission trips to Mexico and Nicaragua. King plans to attend Oklahoma Christian University in Edmond, majoring in pre-medicine.
Hannah Kirkhart
McAlester High School
A three-year member of the Oklahoma Music Educators Association’s All-State Band, Kirkhart participates in the woodwind choir, strings ensemble and musical pit orchestra. Kirkhart, a member of the French club, is an Oklahoma Academic Scholar and a United States Achievement Academy's All-American Scholar. Active in her community, she volunteers at a local food bank and nursing home, and she spends time tutoring fellow students and volunteering at the elementary school. Kirkhart intends to pursue a degree in English at Baylor University.
Jay Kumar
Oklahoma School of Science & Mathematics
Kumar, a National Merit Scholar finalist and Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction, was named a Samuel Roberts Noble Scholar. An Eagle Scout, Kumar is a member of the Order of the Arrow, the Boy Scouts of America’s national honor society. He is also a member of the North Central Honor Orchestra and the student division of the American College of Musicians. Kumar, a member of Junior Statesmen of America, volunteers as a reading coach with the Village branch of the Oklahoma City Metropolitan Library System and served as a laboratory technician at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation. He plans to attend the University of Oklahoma, majoring in microbiology.
Hannah Landreth
Jenks High School
A member of the state championship swimming team, Landreth was named a Wendy’s Heisman Award recipient and recognized as an A+ Student Athlete of the Week. She is a National Merit finalist who is active in the American Indian Science and Engineering Society, Pre-Med Society and Native American Honor Society. As a Student Council member, Landreth served as advisor’s committee chair for the Student Council State Convention. She is also active in the Tulsa Juniors Rowing Club and the youth group at Asbury United Methodist Church. Landreth plans to major in Spanish at the University of Oklahoma.
Erin M. Lee
Hugo High School
Lee, a senior class valedictorian and Girls State delegate, received the Rotary Youth Leadership Award. Active in school organizations and sports, she is a member of Student Council, the National Honor Society, Oklahoma Honor Society and honor show choir. Lee, who is a member of the cheerleading squad, also participates in softball and basketball. She serves on the Choctaw Nation Youth Advisory Board and tutors at the Boys and Girls Club. She plans to attend Oklahoma State University, majoring in engineering.
Sheridan Lindley
Deer Creek High School
Lindley is active in Link Crew, an advisory program designed to assist incoming freshman in making the transition to high school. A valedictorian, she was named a National Merit finalist and Oklahoma Academic Scholar. Lindley, a varsity cheerleader, is also a member of the National Honor Society and Spanish club. Active in her community, she volunteers with Hot Dogs for the Homeless, the Oklahoma Regional Food Bank and Christmas Connection. Lindley plans to attend the University of Oklahoma, majoring in English and pre-law.
Brian Livesay
Porter High School
Livesay is valedictorian and a National Merit Commended Student. The recipient of a Future Farmers of America state degree, Livesay is treasurer of his FFA chapter and a member of the Soil and Water Conservation Team. He has won numerous interscholastic and FFA contests in soil and water conservation. Livesay is Student Council reporter and a starter for his regional champion academic team. Outside of school, he is a youth council officer, choir member and Vacation Bible School volunteer for Porter First Baptist Church. He plans to major in plant and soil sciences at Oklahoma State University.
Chenoa Luther
Wyandotte High School
Luther is the co-captain of the academic team and clarinet section leader for her high school marching band. As a member of National Honor Society, she has volunteered for Special Olympics and a local nursing home. She volunteers weekly as a tutor for elementary and middle school students. Luther attended the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics regional center, where she studied physics and calculus.
Samuel Cody Martin
Bristow High School
An Oklahoma Academic Scholar and an Advanced Placement Scholar with Honor, Martin has been named a National Merit finalist. He attended advanced courses at the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics satellite school in Drumright. At Bristow High, Martin has served as captain of the football and power-lifting teams and is also on the wrestling team. He is active in the academic team, Leo Club, 2 Much 2 Lose, Bristow Leadership and Students Working Against Tobacco. Martin plans to major in biochemistry at the University of Tulsa.
Dillon Gregory McGill
Big Pasture High School
A class valedictorian and Oklahoma Academic Scholar, McGill is president of his senior class, National Honor Society and Student Council. He is captain of the academic team and active in Future Farmers of America, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the school newspaper and the yearbook staff. He is captain of the varsity basketball and baseball teams. He has earned numerous awards in FFA state speech competitions. McGill has been involved in community beautification and started a school recycling program. He plans to study political science in college.
Matt McKeever
Yukon High School
McKeever is an Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction and a National Merit Commended Student. He is assistant director of the Iraq Pac Program, a volunteer organization that has sent more than 2,000 care packages to American soldiers in Iraq since 2002. A Boys State delegate, McKeever serves as treasurer for National Honor Society and Spanish Club. He is also active in Physics Club, Statistics Club and Geography Club. A member of the South Yukon Church of Christ, McKeever works as a tutor for Indian Education. He plans to attend the University of Oklahoma.
Hope McLemore
Ringling High School
McLemore is president of Ringling’s Future Farmers of America chapter and vice president of Student Council, National Honor Society and her senior class. An All-State athlete in fast-pitch softball, she is co-captain of the basketball team and a member of the varsity cheerleading squad. McLemore, who also took advanced courses at the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics, is an Advanced Placement Scholar and an Oklahoma Academic Scholar. Among her volunteer activities, McLemore participates in the Great Steaks Race and a community food drive. She plans to major in biological engineering at the University of Arkansas.
Tristin Ehrling Metz
Perry High School
A class valedictorian, Metz is a National Merit Commended Scholar and an Advanced Placement Scholar. He has been head drum major for three years and is a section leader for his high school band, as well as lead alto saxophone player in the jazz band. He is captain of the academic team and president of National Honor Society. Metz attended the Summer Scholars Program at the University of Washington, St. Louis, and was a delegate to the National Young Leaders Conference in Washington, D.C. He is a peer math tutor and conducts the bell choir at Christ Lutheran Church. Metz plans to pursue advanced degrees in math and music.
Adam Mitchell
Bartlesville High School
Mitchell is a National Merit finalist and a high scorer in the Chemistry Olympiad. A Rotary Student of the Month, he is active in Student Council, National Honor Society, Senior Service League and the student newspaper staff. He is captain of the men’s varsity swim team and has earned the Bruin Coach’s Award. Mitchell attends First United Methodist Church, where he is studio director for television ministry. He plans to major in electrical engineering at the University of Oklahoma.
Kelsi Morgan
Owasso High School
A class valedictorian and Girls State delegate, Morgan has been named an Owasso High School Distinguished Graduate. She is president of National Honor Society, vice president of the senior class and active in the Political Science Club. She has participated in numerous speech and debate competitions, earning the National Forensics League Degree of Superior Distinction. In the community, Morgan is a reporter for the teen Satellite section of the “Tulsa World” and serves as a St. Francis Hospital volunteer and a volunteer tutor. She plans to major in political science.
Jonathan L. Oliver
Vian High School
Oliver is an Oklahoma State Regents Academic Scholar and the recipient of an Oklahoma Heritage Association Scholarship and a University of Oklahoma Regents Scholarship. He is president of the Technology Students Association and a member of the academic team. Oliver also has been active in the Oklahoma Highway Patrol Cadet Lawman Academy and the Learn and Serve Club. He also participates in football, track and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Oliver plans to major in aerospace engineering at the University of Oklahoma.
Kathleen Osborn
Miami High School
Osborn is president of National Honor Society and valedictorian of her senior class. She has lettered in varsity tennis and basketball and has played Powder Puff football for four years. She has attended dance classes for 14 years at That’s Dancing Studio and has performed in musicals at Miami Little Theater. A member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Osborn has volunteered with Hearts and Hammers and the Miami Free Clinic. She also went on a mission trip to Pitorreal, Mexico. Osborn plans to attend the University of Tulsa.
Kelly O’Sullivan
Guymon High School
A National Merit finalist, O’Sullivan was honored as a Rotary Club Student of the Month. She has been active in the academic team, speech and debate team, Student Council, Art Club and band. O’Sullivan is a member of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church youth group and serves as president of LIFE (Living in Fellowship Everyday) Breakfast Club. She is also a Relay for Life volunteer. O’Sullivan plans to major in education at the University of Oklahoma.
Michael Pilcher
Deer Creek High School
Pilcher is a National Merit finalist, a Boys State delegate and a University of Oklahoma Math Bowl Champion. A freshman adviser, he is president of his school’s Spanish Club and active in varsity baseball and tennis. He is a published author, with work featured in the Deer Creek Redline Anthology. He is active in his church youth group and volunteers for the Edmond Hope Center. Pilcher plans to continue his studies in international business.
David Postic
Westmoore High School
Postic is among 50 youths in Oklahoma selected for the Youth Leadership Oklahoma Class VIII and one of 18 Oklahoma City-metro youths selected for Youth City Council. An Eagle Scout, he coordinated a project to send 150 Christmas packages to U.S. troops in the Middle East. Postic is president of Westmoore’s Debate Club, a senator in Student Council, and a member of the Principal’s Advisory Committee and the tennis team. He is a National Merit Commended Scholar and an Advanced Placement Scholar. He also studies music, including guitar, piano and drums. Postic’s brother, John, was a 2006 Academic All-Stater. Postic plans to major in letters at the University of Oklahoma.
Kelsey Proctor
Hanna High School
A National Native American Youth Initiative delegate, Proctor directed a documentary film for the Mvskoke Language Institute. A valedictorian and Advanced Placement Scholar, Proctor is editor of the Hannah school newspaper and yearbook, president of 4-H Club and secretary of Student Council. She also is captain of the Muscogee Creek Nation Challenge Bowl Team and plays varsity basketball and softball. A student at the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics Regional Center and the Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology, Proctor received a full-tuition scholarship to attend Oklahoma Baptist University. She plans to major in premedicine.
Brandon P. Ranallo
Haileyville High School
Ranallo is a National Merit finalist and a winner in numerous academic competitions. He is captain of the Haileyville academic team, president of the French Club and active in the Science Club and the Technology Student Association. Ranallo has been active in the Holy Rosary Catholic Church Youth Group and serves as a special needs tutor. He plans to pursue studies in French and law at the University of Oklahoma.
Ben Romine Reed
Clinton High School
Reed is a valedictorian and National Merit Commended Scholar. He is founder of YES, Youth Empowering Seniors, a student group that supports nursing home residents. Reed is captain of the academic team and president of SAPS, an organization for advanced placement students. He is also active in the Science and Math Club, Literary Club, Advanced Chorus and the SCRUB Club. A longtime pianist, he has won superior ratings in state and district piano competitions. Last summer, Reed traveled to Uruguay on a mission trip. He plans to major in biochemistry at Oklahoma Baptist University.
Rachel Renbarger
Purcell High School
A valedictorian, Renbarger has been named to the Governor’s Honor Roll for four years. She is editor of school yearbook, vice president of Student Council, secretary for National Honor Society and secretary of Key Club. Active in Girl Scouts, she is a Silver Award recipient. Renbarger also has been active in Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, the student newspaper and Students Against Destructive Decisions. She is a student director for the McClain County Bank Board and volunteers for Students Out Serving and the Muscular Dystrophy Association Camp. She plans to major in English at the University of Oklahoma.
Megan Reynolds
Glencoe High School
Reynolds is a National Merit finalist and valedictorian of her senior class. She is captain of her academic bowl team, editor of the yearbook, secretary of the senior class and historian for National Honor Society. She has also been active in orchestra, tennis and Beta Club. Reynolds has been a Sunday school teacher for seven years and a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and the Stillwater Public Library Summer Reading Program. She plans to major in elementary education at Oklahoma State University.
Emily Saffell
Broken Arrow High School
A National Merit finalist, Saffell is a National Latin Exam gold medalist and Presidential Scholars Program finalist. She is president of National Honor Society, managing editor of “Tiger Life Magazine” and secretary of Young Republicans. She is also active in Student Council and Latin Club. An active member in the Broken Arrow Church of Christ youth group, Saffell is a junior volunteer for St. Francis Hospital-Broken Arrow and an intern in business computer technology for Broken Arrow Public Schools. She plans to major in chemical engineering at the University of Tulsa.
Fareeha Safir
Edmond Memorial High School
Safir is a National Merit finalist and recipient of the Randolph College Book Award and the Smith College Book Award, a leadership award presented by college alumni. Safir is senior president of Edmond Memorial’s National Honor Society and president of the service club ACT, Advocating Change Together. She is captain of the varsity academic team and secretary of the Math Club and Science Club. Among her service activities, Sarif is vice president of the Regional Food Bank Youth Leadership Board and has volunteered for Edmond’s HOPE Center. Safir plans to continue her studies in engineering.
Carl Schwager
Ponca City High School
A Boys State delegate, Schwager has been named a National Merit finalist and an Academic Letterman. He participates in Student Council, National Honor Society, Band Council and the Friendship Feast. He is a member of the marching band and was named three times as the NOC Honor Band Outstanding Percussionist. He also participates in the Panic Board, a group that coordinates the school talent show. He is an accompanist for First Christian Church and a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, where he plays drums and piano as part of Teen Mass. Schwager plans to study mechanical engineering, either at Oklahoma State University or the University of Tulsa.
Koby Seitter
Weatherford High School
Seitter is a valedictorian, a National Merit finalist and an Academic Letterman. She serves as president of Key Club, National Honor Society and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She is also treasurer of her Student Council and reporter for County 4-H Teen Leaders. As a 4-H leader, she has traveled to Denver for the Western Round-Up and to Washington, D.C., for a Citizenship Focus. Seitter is a volunteer for Early Bird Readers Mentoring Program, Meals on Wheels, Agape Health Clinic and the Angel Food program. She is also a small group leader and youth group member at First Baptist Church. Seitter plans to major in letters at the University of Oklahoma.
Dhara Sheth
Union High School
Sheth received first place in the region and is now a national finalist in the Executive Women International Scholarship Competition. A National Merit finalist, Sheth is president of Young Democrats, treasurer for Key Club and secretary of Drug Free Youth. A member of Student Council and Amnesty International, Sheth also writes for the “Tulsa World Satellite,” a publication for teens. She is president of Tulsa Jain Sangh Youth Group and performs Bharathnatym, classical south Indian dancing. She is active in humanitarian work and assisted with a research project on childhood obesity at the University of Oklahoma-Tulsa. She plans to study medicine.
Jessica Stangl
Lomega High School
Stangl is valedictorian and an Oklahoma Academic Scholar. Active in 4-H, she served as a poultry superintendent for the Lomega County Fair and the Kingfisher County Fair. She is secretary-treasurer of her senior class, secretary-reporter for Fellowship of Christian Athletes and a member of Student Council and the women’s basketball team. She is a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church. Among her volunteer activities, Stangl serves on the Kingfisher Regional Hospital Student Governing Board and is a Meals on Wheels volunteer and an elementary school mentor. She plans to attend St. Gregory’s University.
Rachel Elizabeth Stewart
Miami High School
A National Merit finalist, Stewart has been honored as the Business and Professional Women’s Student of the Month. She is vice president of National Honor Society and active in Spanish Club, Hearts and Hammers and varsity tennis. She has participated in All-District and All-State choirs for four years and has performed in school musicals and plays, including major roles in “Footloose” and “Little Women.” Stewart is a member of New Life Church of the Nazarene and participated in the Nazarene Youth Conference in St. Louis in 2008. She plans to attend Southern Nazarene University.
Allison Gail Stottlemyre
Kingston High School
Stottlemyre is valedictorian and vice president of her senior class. A drum major, she plays in the marching band and concert band. She is president of National Honor Society and a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Senior Leadership Committee. She also serves on Student Council and the Safe Schools Committee. Stottlemyre was 2008 Football Homecoming Queen and recently served as a page in the state House of Representatives. She has participated in numerous church missions and is preparing for a mission trip to Africa this summer. She plans to major in premedicine and business administration at Oklahoma Baptist University.
Samantha Street
Duncan High School
Street is the recipient of a Rotary Youth Leadership Award and a three-year member of All-State Orchestra. A Girls State delegate, she is president of Student Council and a member of Student Council, Youth Alive, Key Club and Reflections Show Choir. In the community, she serves on the board of the Chisholm Trail Arts Council and the Stephens County Youth Service Board. A varsity tennis player, she was an All-Conference and regional winner from 2006 through 2008 and placed 2nd in the 2008 state championship tournament. She also plays violin and performs in community theater. Street plans to study accounting and music at Ouachita Baptist University in Arkansas.
Richard R. Stutsman
Booker T. Washington High School
Stutsman is a National Merit finalist and an Advanced Placement Scholar who earned a perfect score on the National Latin Exam. He participates in Latin Club, Robotics Club and Martial Arts Club. He is founder of the math study group at the University of Tulsa and serves as a computer programming tutor for Monte Cassino School, as well as a Tech Club mentor. He was a research intern and participated in a cyber-security graduate program at the University of Tulsa. Stutsman is also private pilot and enjoys target shooting. He plans to continue his studies in neuroscience.
Michael Conrad Swartz
Grove High School
An Eagle Scout, Swartz served as a delegate to Boys State and was an Oklahoma Ambassador’s European Tour member. He is president of Student Council, president of his senior class and active in Key Club, Character Counts and football. He serves on the INTEGRIS Grove Hospital Student Governing Board and is a member of the First United Methodist Church Youth Group. He has volunteered to help with fundraising for the Delaware County Children Advocacy Group and the Grove Education Foundation for Excellence. He has been accepted to the U.S. Air Force Academy, where he plans to study aeronautical engineering.
Amy Tai
Oklahoma School of Science & Mathematics
A resident of Tulsa, Tai is a National Merit finalist, an Advanced Placement Scholar and the winner of numerous piano competitions. She performs in the OSSM community orchestra in Oklahoma City. At Jenks High School, she was active in Key Club, Latin Club, speech and debate, and the Hyechka Music Club. Tai was a finalist at the 2007 and 2008 Intel International Science and Engineering Fair and was a Silver Programmer in the USA Computing Olympiad. She is active in Sierra Club and the Youth Philanthropy Initiative. She plans to continue her studies in math or science.
Devyn Thompson
Carl Albert High School
Thompson is a National Merit finalist and class valedictorian. She is secretary of 4-H, a senior class representative and active in Show Choir, American Kids Little League of Entertainers and the Country Music Singers Association. She is a horse trainer and rides in English and Western-style horse riding competitions. As a singer, she performs and volunteers at a variety of community events and was even a Los Angeles finalist on “America’s Got Talent.” Thompson plans to major in animal science at Oklahoma State University.
Anish Tilak
Eisenhower High School
Tilak serves as president of Student Council, treasurer of Key Club and as a varsity starter on the Quiz Bowl team. A National Merit finalist, Tilak was selected to participate in the 2008 U.S. Senate Youth Leadership Program and the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards. He studied film at the Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute in 2007 and directed his school’s video yearbook. Tilak has been a volunteer for Relay for Life, Read and Lead, and the Lawton Food Bank. He plans to continue his studies in architecture.
Robin Thomas Tipps
Ardmore High School
A National Merit finalist, Tipps has been named Oklahoma Indian Education Student of the Year and an Oklahoma State Regents Academic Scholar. Tipps is president of National Honor Society; secretary of his senior class; and editor of the “Tiger Page,” a monthly section published in “The Daily Ardmoreite.” He also participates in yearbook, varsity track, Youth Leadership Oklahoma and the Ardmore City Thespians Speech and Debate Team. A member of the Quapaw Tribe, Tipps served as Carter County campaign coordinator for U.S. Senate candidate Andrew Rice and was a delegate to the National Young Leaders Conference. He plans to major in history at the University of Oklahoma.
Megan Treece
Comanche High School
Treece is a National Merit Commended Student and the recipient of the Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizenship Award. She is captain of the Academic Team, captain of the Comanche High-Steppers and a member of the Honor Choir. She studies and teaches ballet and jazz dance and played the leading role in her school’s first musical production. Treece leads a peer support group for girls and volunteers for Habitat for Humanity, Toys for Tots and the International Shoe Box Ministry. She plans to continue her studies in communication or education.
Ashley N. Valentas
Moore High School
Valentas is the recipient of numerous scholastic achievement awards, including first-place honors in newspaper fundamentals, advanced biology and brass instrumental solo from the Cameron University Interscholastic Contest. Valentas is a section leader in marching band and concert band and is a member of the scholastic team. She was recently named first chair in trombone in the Central Oklahoma Directors’ Association Wind Ensemble. Valentas plans to major in microbiology at the University of Oklahoma.
Robert Walter
Kingfisher High School
Walter is president of his senior class, captain of the football team and a member of the Kingfisher Regional Hospital Student Governing Board. He also participates in Student Council, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Honor Society and the Kingfisher Junior Civic Club. He has been a state qualifier in golf and powerlifting and was a state runner-up in Debate-Cross Examination. Walter is active in the Federated Church Youth Group and serves as a Habitat for Humanity volunteer and an elementary school tutor. He plans to major in biology at Oklahoma State University.
Kelsey Ward
Caney Valley High School
Ward, who served as a page in both the Oklahoma House and Senate, is a Natonal Merit Commended Student and an Oklahoma Academic Coaches Association All-Stater. She is vice president of Student Council, National Honor Society and her senior class. She is captain of the academic team and of the varsity basketball team. She is a member of the BancFirst Board of Student Directors and the Ramona First Baptist Church Youth Leadership Team. She also participates in History Club and Chemistry Club. Ward received a scholarship to attend Lyon College in Arkansas, where she plans to study biochemistry.
Terrick Lloyd Washington
Plainview High School
Washington is a National Achievement finalist, a National Merit Commended Student and a Blue Ribbon Scholar. He is the salutatorian of his senior class and a graduate of the Young Men’s Leadership Program of Ardmore. He is youth president of Corinth Baptist Church, drum section leader for the Plainview High School Band and active in National Honor Society, Beta Club and jazz band. A three-time winner of his school’s Outstanding Musician Award, Washington has won numerous music competitions. He is a guitar teacher at the Wilson Community Center, a college algebra tutor and a soup kitchen volunteer. He also has a second-degree black belt in tae kwon do. Washington plans to major in biology at the University of Oklahoma.
Alex Whiteway
Bixby High School
Whiteway is founder and captain of the Bixby FIRST Robotics Team and received the team’s Engineering Inspiration Award. He is a Rotary Youth Leadership Association participant and a Bixby Optimist Club Student Leader. Whiteway has served three years as drum major and participates in Bixby’s marching, jazz and concert bands. He has been active in the Superintendent’s Advisory Council, National Honor Society and the Tri M Music Honor Society. He is a sound technician and has served three years volunteering for the Computerized Christmas Light Show. Whiteway plans to major in electrical engineering at Oklahoma State University.
Mitchell Alan Williams
Hollis High School
Williams was a Boys State delegate and a national Hugh O’Brian Leadership Camp participant. The former Oklahoma Senate page also participated in 2008 Future Farmers of America Washington Leadership Conference and earned the local Lion’s Club Citizenship Excellence Award. Williams is president of his senior class, president of Future Farmers of America, vice president of Fellowship of Christian Athletes and a member of Student Council. He also participates in football, basketball, baseball and track. Williams is a member of the First Baptist Church Youth Group and a church media volunteer. He plans to major in political science at the University of Oklahoma.
Neilee Marie Wood
Harding Charter Preparatory High School
A State Regents Academic Scholar and Advanced Placement Scholar, Wood was selected in 2007 and 2008 to participate in the Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute in creative writing. The National Merit Commended Student is captain of her academic team and a member of the mock trial team and Central Oklahoma Mensa. She is president of her senior class, president of her service learning senior capstone class and a member of the National History Club. Wood is the author of the Internet fan-fiction novel “Stay With Me.” She is also a volunteer for the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. She plans to continue her studies in biology and history in college.
Tory Wooley
Classen School of Advanced Studies
Wooley is a National Merit finalist and an Advanced Placement Scholar. She was a finalist in the 2007 Ayn Rand National Anthem Essay Contest. Wooley is president of Key Club and Spanish Club and serves as community liaison for National Honor Society. She is a volunteer tutor for Putnam Heights Elementary School and Whiz Kids. An accomplished vocalist, she has performed in musical theater and served on the technical crew for Lyric and Sooner Theatres. Wooley participated in a study abroad and language immersion program in Nicaragua last summer.
Eugene Wu
Edmond North High School
Among his leadership roles, Wu is president of the Edmond North debate team, president of National Forensics League, vice president of National Honor Society, treasurer of Key Club and secretary of Spanish Club. He is a National Merit finalist, and Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction and recipient of numerous debate awards, including a National Forensics Leagues Superior Distinction ranking. Wu also participates in Chess Club, Mu Alpha Theta Math Club and the Multicultural Club. A pianist, he is a three-year recipient of superior ratings from the Oklahoma Music Teachers Association. Wu plans to attend Columbia University.
Zihao Xia
Oklahoma School of Science & Mathematics
A Norman resident, Xia is a National Merit finalist and Advanced Placement Scholar. He is participating in a mentorship at the University of Oklahoma Biomedical Research Center, where he is researching cancer genes. An accomplished violinist, Xia is concertmaster with the OSSM orchestra and has been selected for the Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute Orchestra, All-State Orchestra and Oklahoma Youth Orchestra. He is active in National Forensics League, Student Council, TEAM+S (Test of Engineering Aptitude in Math and Science) and Mu Alpha Theta Math Club.