image of teen boy sitting outside

Shawnee High School junior Samuel Thomas has been selected to serve on the 2026-2027 OERB Student Board of Directors, an honor recognizing just 30 high school juniors and seniors from across Oklahoma.

Thomas was selected from 128 students who applied statewide for the opportunity, which is proudly sponsored by the People of Oklahoma Oil and Natural Gas.

As a member of the OERB Student Board, Thomas will connect with students from across Oklahoma, hear from professionals in the oil and natural gas industry, develop real-world leadership and professional skills through monthly meetings, and participate in a community service project.

Students who complete their board term will also receive a $2,000 scholarship to use toward a career technology center, college, or university of their choice.

“Samuel’s selection is a tremendous accomplishment and a reflection of the leadership, initiative, and potential we see in our students,” said Shawnee High School principal Bobby Cook.

Thomas will officially serve on the OERB Student Board throughout the 2026-2027 school year.

“Opportunities like this give our students the chance to step outside the classroom and gain experiences that can shape their future,” said Cook. “We are excited to see Samuel represent our school and the Wolf Pack on the statewide stage.”

The 2026-2027 OERB Student Board will be featured on the OERB Student Board of Directors website beginning in October.