Class 38 McAlester

Class 38 Reflections

Dusty Darr
Director, Government Relations
ONEOK, Inc.

Leading up to the McAlester session, the word “heavy” was one I heard often from numerous Leadership Oklahoma alumni. Most would agree that criminal justice is indeed a heavy topic — complicated, deeply human, and fraught with imperfection. It involves victims, perpetrators, and the wrongfully convicted. While the system is far from perfect, it remains the one we must work within.

The morning sessions at the Pittsburg County Courthouse underscored the system’s complexity — from courtroom proceedings to incarceration. Each presenter did an excellent job explaining their role, but I was particularly struck by McAlester attorney Blake Lynch’s overview of a recent local homicide case. His presentation revealed just how challenging it can be for judges and juries to discern truth — and how, at times, the system fails to get it right. That reality is unsettling for us all.

The experience culminated with a visit to the Oklahoma State Penitentiary. Many of those incarcerated there are hardened criminals, yet the visit inevitably stirs an emotional response. It leaves visitors with more questions than answers about mental health, the ripple effects on victims and families, and the broader societal failures that contribute to the cycle.

Despite the heaviness of the session, there were moments of light and inspiration. It was uplifting to witness the courage of corrections officers working on the front lines at OSP, as well as the dedication of the many professionals striving to improve the system. Judge Stoner’s presentation on the effectiveness of drug courts and innovative approaches to addiction was particularly insightful and refreshing. And few in the auditorium were left unmoved by the testimonies of women participating in post-incarceration programs such as ReMerge, TEEM, and McAlester’s Shared Blessings.



The determination of these women — and the success of these homegrown programs — left me with a renewed sense of hope. As former Oklahoma Supreme Court Justice Steven Taylor so eloquently stated at dinner, Oklahoma’s history is filled with challenges, but Oklahomans have always shown the ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds when they come together.

Rachel Snider
Director of Student Services
Autry Technology Center

My Leadership Oklahoma session in McAlester was one of the most impactful experiences of the program so far. The visit to the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant offered a fascinating look at a major state employer and reminded me of the pride and precision behind Oklahoma’s military. A fun highlight of the session was touring Krebs Brewing Company, which offered a refreshing contrast by showcasing small-business innovation and the strong sense of community that defines rural Oklahoma.

The heart of the session, though, centered on hearing from leaders who provided an overview of the criminal justice system, the Department of Corrections, and the Office of Juvenile Affairs. Information provided was both informative and eye-opening. Our conversation with minimum-security inmates provided valuable insight, fostering a deeper sense of empathy and understanding. Their stories served as a powerful reminder that every individual has a past, yet also the potential to shape a better future.

The tour of the Oklahoma State Penitentiary (OSP) was deeply sobering. Seeing the conditions and hearing the history behind the facility brought to life the realities that statistics can’t capture. The OSPs staff debrief reinforced how complex the system truly is, balancing safety, accountability, and the difficult path toward rehabilitation. I was encouraged to learn about post-incarceration programs and drug courts that aim to break the cycle of reoffending.



I left McAlester with a renewed appreciation for the people working toward justice reform and a personal commitment to look beyond judgment, to see humanity, hope, and potential for redemption in every story.

All Class Reunion & Distinguished Leadership Award Reception
&
Fall Forum: The Oklahoma Tourism Experience

Forum Planning Committee- Photo from Left to Right: Ken Busby (Class XVII), Jim Cowan (Class 36), Tammy Townley (Class 37), Shauna Williams (Class 37),
Michelle Finch-Walker (Class XV, Lifetime Member), Brenda Walters (Class XXII) & John Redman (Class X)

Leadership Oklahoma members gathered November 6–7 at Choctaw Landing in Hochatown for two memorable events celebrating leadership and Oklahoma’s vibrant tourism industry.

On November 6, alumni from across the state came together for the All Class Reunion & Distinguished Leadership Award Reception, honoring Dr. Stephen E. Smith  (Class XXIII) as this year’s Distinguished Leadership Award recipient.

The following morning, November 7, the Fall Forum: The Oklahoma Tourism Experience brought together industry experts and leaders for insightful discussions on the growth and future of tourism in our state.

We had a fantastic turnout and engaging conversations—thank you to all who joined us, and a special thanks to our Title Sponsor, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, for hosting us at their beautiful new Choctaw Landing Resort!

Photos from the Reception will be in the December E-News.

Who Will Be the Next "Best Class Ever"?

It’s time for Leadership Oklahoma’s End-of-Year Giving Campaign, and the friendly competition is heating up! Each class has the chance to prove once again why you are the Best Class Ever by giving back to support LOK’s mission of creating, inspiring, and supporting Oklahoma’s leaders.

The class that raises the most by December 31st will take home bragging rights and have their name engraved on the “Best Class Ever” perpetual trophy, presented live at the Excellence in Leadership Gala on April 25th at Southern Hills in Tulsa.

Last year’s winner? Class 10!

Will your class claim vistory this year? Let’s find out!

Make your gift today and help your class claim the title:

Call for Nominations: Helping Oklahoma Award

Do you know someone making a big difference in their community? Leadership Oklahoma is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Helping Oklahoma Award!

Each year, this award recognizes one outstanding volunteer who gives generously of their time, talent, and energy through service with a charitable organization or community project. The recipient will receive a $2,500 donation to benefit the charity named in their nomination.

You do not have to be a Leadership Oklahoma member to nominate—or to be nominated!

Nomination Deadline: Friday, December 1, 2025
Award Presentation: February 17, 2026

Help us honor those who make Oklahoma a better place to live.

Youth Leadership Oklahoma is currently accepting applications for Class 26. YLOK is seeking applicants who are current high school juniors and passionate about advocating for their community and state.

During the program, 52 selected students from across the state will travel throughout Oklahoma from May 31-June 5, 2026 and learn about critical issues that impact Oklahomans. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with peers and develop their leadership, communication and interpersonal skills. This program is provided at no cost to the participants. Applications are due December 13th, 2025.   

Feel free to share this information to family and friends!

Upcoming Events

Winter Party

December 12, 2025 | 5:30 pm-8:30 pm

Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Our Annual Winter Party will be held at the beautiful Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center in Oklahoma City! LOK members and their plus one, please join us for hor d'oeuvres, cocktails and connect as 2025 comes to a close.

Festive Holiday Attire.

To register, please log-in or email events@leadershipoklahoma

We have a courtesy block of rooms at the Sheraton Downtown OKC for $139.  Book your stay by December 8th!