Eight Oklahoma Lawmakers Receive Awards for Supporting Public TV

Five Oklahoma legislators accepted OETA Champion awards at a luncheon held on Oct. 27. The Friends of OETA presented the honors to recognize legislative support for the state's public television network.

Three additional lawmakers received the awards but did not attend the event. The total number of recipients for this year's cycle is eight. The group includes members from both chambers of the Oklahoma Legislature.

The attendees included Sen. Julia Kirt of Oklahoma City, who serves as Senate minority leader. Sen. Adam Pugh of Edmond, chair of the Senate Education Committee, was also present. Sen. Kristen Thompson of Edmond, chair of the Senate Economic Development, Workforce and Tourism Committee, received her award in person.

Rep. Mike Osburn of Edmond, chair of the House Rules Committee, and Rep. Mark Lawson of Sapulpa, House majority leader, joined the others at the table. Lawson also chairs the Select Committee to Review Mental Health Finances. The three absent honorees are Sen. Micheal Bergstrom of Big Cabin, Rep. Gerrid Kendrix of Altus, and Rep. John Kane of Bartlesville.

Seth Paxton, president of the Friends of OETA Board of Directors, presented the awards. He stated that the group wanted to personally thank the legislators for their advocacy. Paxton noted that these officials understand the role of public television in Oklahoma and have shown that commitment through their actions.

The award recognizes individuals who help advance OETA's mission to educate, inform, and connect Oklahomans. OETA operates a statewide network that serves all 77 counties. The station provides educational programming, news, and public safety resources.

Shawn Black, executive director of OETA, said the organization sees the impact of its work daily. He cited examples such as children learning with PBS KIDS and families using the network for trusted news. Black expressed gratitude for the legislators who recognize the importance of that work.