Freel, Smith, and Culver head to 2025 Girls State

Three Blackwell High School students have been selected to attend the 2025 Oklahoma Girls State, an educational program focusing on government, leadership, and patriotism. Sponsored by Blackwell’s Russell-Litchfield Unit #7 and the Blackwell Elks Lodge, the delegates will travel to the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond from May 25-30 to represent BHS and the Blackwell community.

The chosen delegates are Kaleah Freel, Jordyn Smith, and Paige Culver. Freel, an active member of cheerleading, pep club, Student Council, and the National Honor Society, also serves as a football and baseball manager. She is on the Principal’s Honor Roll and a member of the National Society of High School Scholars while taking concurrent college courses at NOC. She attends Immanuel Baptist Church and plans to study at Rogers State University to become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.

Smith, the daughter of Ben and Amy Smith, is involved in softball, Pep Club, NHS, FFA, Student Council, and SkillsUSA. She also serves as a football manager and has earned a spot on the Superintendent’s Honor Roll and the National Society of High School Scholars. She plans to complete her studies in cosmetology and business.

Culver, the daughter of Joey and Carrie Culver, is a dedicated member of Student Council, FCCLA, Pep Club, GATS, and the Academic Team. She is on the Superintendent’s Honor Roll and the National Honor Roll and participates in the IBC Youth and Cavett Kids Foundation. She plans to attend Oklahoma State University to pursue a degree in Civil Engineering.

Azaily Gonzalez has been selected as the alternate delegate. The daughter of Nancy Gonzalez, she is a cheerleader and basketball player who attends IBC on Sundays and participates in youth activities at St. Joseph in Tonkawa.

Oklahoma Girls State is open to high school juniors who have never been married and exhibit strong moral character, leadership skills, teamwork abilities, and an interest in government. Throughout the week, participants will engage in activities that educate them on city, county, and state government operations. Delegates must also show proper respect for the American flag.