Trish McBeath, Eastern Oklahoma State College vice president for student and external affairs, has been selected to participate in the 36^th annual Leadership Oklahoma Class.

Leadership Oklahoma is a statewide organization committed to creating a network of carefully selected leaders to gain a comprehensive understanding of the critical issues facing the state and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Oklahoma.

"I am honored to join Class 36 and share the perspective of citizens from rural, southeastern Oklahoma during interactions with other leaders from across the state,” McBeath said. “I believe that by coming together with other leaders from various fields, we can make meaningful connections and work collaboratively to create positive change that will benefit all communities."

Each year, Leadership Oklahoma carefully selects a diverse group of 50 individuals representing various backgrounds and regions across the state. Throughout the next 10 months, Class 36 will participate in a series of monthly meetings, visiting nine diverse communities throughout the state, including Seminole, Lawton/Fort Sill, McAlester, Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Duncan, Tahlequah, Guymon, and Norman. These gatherings will facilitate in-depth discussions focusing on complex social, environmental, and economic challenges that impact Oklahoma. Leadership Oklahoma aims to foster thoughtful inquiry, rigorous analysis, and innovative solutions for the betterment of all Oklahomans.

Marion Paden, President and CEO of Leadership Oklahoma, expressed great pride in the selection process, stating, "Leadership Oklahoma is thrilled to welcome the 50 individuals chosen for Class 36. This diverse group of outstanding leaders brings a wealth of experience and a broad range of interests, which will contribute to a deeper understanding of the critical issues affecting our great state."

A native of southeast Oklahoma, McBeath has accumulated more than 19 years of experience in higher education. She is particularly dedicated to assisting first-generation college students and individuals from underserved, rural areas in achieving their academic goals. McBeath earned a bachelor's degree in journalism and broadcasting and a master's degree in mass communication from Oklahoma State University.

Before her career in higher education, McBeath gained valuable insights from the private sector while working at a nationally recognized advertising agency in Oklahoma City. Currently, she serves on the Board of Directors for the Health and Wellness Center, which offers comprehensive medical services, behavioral health services, and substance use disorder treatment to patients in underserved areas. Additionally, McBeath serves as the board chair for the HWC Seeds of Change Foundation and actively participates in several other community-focused organizations.