The GOAT Hub

03/16/2026

BUILT THE GOAT WAY: Ashtyn’s Aspirations

After graduating from Eufaula High School in 2015, Ashtyn Nicole Rea began pursuing a career in healthcare. She attended the University of Oklahoma for two years before completing nursing school at Oklahoma City Community College, where her education was fully paid for through the Oklahoma Workforce program. 👏🏽

After earning her RN license, she stepped into a profession that would offer countless opportunities to grow, serve, and make a difference in people’s lives. 🎓✨

Ashtyn always knew she wanted to help people. As a child she imagined becoming a pediatrician or a radiologist, but as she moved through college she realized she didn’t want to spend that many years in school. Nursing offered a path where she could enter the workforce sooner while still making a meaningful impact. What she later discovered is that nursing offers far more possibilities than most people realize. 💡

Her career has taken her through many areas of healthcare. She began working in postpartum care in a mother/baby unit, then moved to a plastic surgeon’s office and later to an outpatient surgery center. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she stepped into the COVID ICU to care for critically ill patients before later transitioning into hospice care.

Eventually, she sought a different type of nursing and earned a certification in utilization review, which led her into remote healthcare work reviewing prior authorizations for chemotherapy and radiation treatments. After two promotions in three years, she now serves as a Senior Nurse Reviewer. 💪🏽⚕️

One of Ashtyn’s proudest accomplishments has been helping develop a program that reduces the cost of necessary medical care for patients. Equally meaningful to her is finding a career path that allows her to continue helping people while also maintaining a healthy work-life balance. 🤝

Like many young professionals, one of her biggest challenges was adjusting to life in a new city without the familiarity of home and friends. Through determination, continuing education, and persistence in applying for opportunities, she continued to grow in her field. 🌱

Ashtyn’s advice to GOATs in training:
“Look for nursing schools that have high NCLEX pass rates. Go to the school that is more affordable or the one that is paid for. Do not rack up more student loans than you will make in your first year working. Employers don’t care where you went to school—they care that you passed the NCLEX.” 💬📚

During Women’s History Month, we celebrate women like Ashtyn who are using their skills, compassion, and dedication to improve the lives of others. 🌸👑

From Eufaula to leadership in healthcare, Ashtyn Nicole Rea’s journey shows exactly what it means to Get Out and Thrive. 🐐✨

— Ashtyn Nicole Rea, Eufaula High School Class of 2015 | Senior Nurse Reviewer

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03/13/2026

Shout-out to Jasmyne Hutton, Owner & Founder of High Class Goods .

Jasmyne has been making a name for herself in the catering world by delivering creativity, quality, and an experience her clients won’t forget. And have you seen her charcuteries? Pictures don’t do them justice!

When you book High Class Goods, you’re not just getting food — you’re getting dedication, passion, and service that truly lives up to the name.

Another woman out here building her own lane and doing it her way. 👑💎

03/09/2026

BUILT THE GOAT WAY: Brooke’s Breakthrough 🩺

After graduating from Checotah High School in 2015, Brooke Butler began building a career rooted in science, service, and healing. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in General Science from the University of Central Oklahoma and an Associate of Science through Connors State College/ICTC to become a Physical Therapist Assistant. 🎓

Continuing to pursue her passion for helping others, Brooke later earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Tufts University. 👩‍⚕️

Brooke’s interest in physical therapy grew from her love for science and the influence of mentors she met along the way. Throughout her journey, she encountered physical therapists who inspired her and helped guide her toward a profession where science and service intersect. That encouragement helped shape the path she ultimately chose. 💡

One of Brooke’s proudest accomplishments since entering the field has been the meaningful relationships she has built with both patients and colleagues. She credits those connections as some of the most rewarding parts of her career. 🤝

In her first year as a physical therapist, she also became dry needling certified, allowing her to help many patients relieve muscle tension and reduce pain as they work toward recovery and better quality of life. 💪

Like many professionals entering healthcare, one of Brooke’s biggest challenges was learning to trust herself. Moving from a highly mentored learning environment into a role where her clinical decisions directly impact patient care required confidence, patience, and growth. 🌱

Over time, that experience helped her develop the trust and judgment needed to guide others through their healing journeys. ⚕️

Brooke’s advice to GOATs in training:
“Keep an open mind about career paths. You never really know which position or setting will click with you until you’ve experienced it firsthand.” ✨

During Women’s History Month, we celebrate women like Brooke who are using knowledge, compassion, and determination to help others heal and thrive. 👑

From Checotah to Tufts University and into the world of physical therapy, Brooke Butler’s journey shows exactly what it means to Get Out and Thrive. 🐐✨

— Brooke Butler, Checotah High School Class of 2015 | Doctor of Physical Therapy

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03/05/2026

For Women’s History Month, we’re giving flowers to one of the Legacy GOATs in Eufaula, Ok!

Lesa King, M.Ed., LPC
Owner of Leap of Faith Counseling Service

A woman whose work, presence, and dedication to helping others continues to make a powerful difference. ✨

Love and respect to the Legacy GOATs who paved the way and continue to inspire the next generation. 💎

03/03/2026

BUILT THE GOAT WAY: Sakinah’s Strength ⚖️

After graduating from Del City High School in 2018, Sakinah B. Smith set her sights on becoming an advocate for justice. She attended the University of Central Oklahoma, earning her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 2023. 🎓

Today, she is studying for the Law School Admission Test with plans to obtain her Juris Doctor, continuing to build a future rooted in service and leadership. ✨

Sakinah’s passion for law began early. At just seven years old, after the passing of her Aunt Anita, she remembers hearing her family discuss the need for legal representation during a malpractice lawsuit.

As she grew older, witnessing racial injustice and experiencing public scrutiny firsthand strengthened her resolve to defend and uplift those who feel unheard. Growing up in Del City shaped her resilience and solidified her determination to fight for people who look like her and those navigating injustice. ⚖️

Her journey extended beyond the classroom. She became involved in activism, spreading awareness about issues impacting her generation and participating in the Justice for Julius Jones movement. She attended the March on Washington in D.C., helped lead marches in the Oklahoma City metro area, worked on a United States campaign, and now serves as the Administrative & Communications Assistant for Oklahoma County Commissioner Jason Lowe. 🔥

As a first-generation college student, she navigated college largely on her own, finding guidance through campus community and support systems along the way. 🤞🏾

Sakinah’s advice to GOATs in training:
“Work your way up and learn from everyone you can. Have integrity and never let anyone make you feel intimidated because you are young. Hard work outweighs talent. Stay in your own lane, do your research, always show up prepared, and never take no for an answer.
Do not be scared of good trouble, but be strategic about what you choose to do. Have a plan when protesting or advocating—plans give you a more successful chance at reaching your goal.” 🧠

During Women’s History Month, we honor women like Sakinah who are building legacy through courage, conviction, and commitment to justice. 🌸👑

From Del City to law school and public service, Sakinah B. Smith’s journey shows young women exactly what it means to Get Out and Thrive. 🐐✨

— Sakinah B. Smith, Del City High School Class of 2018 | Political Science Graduate & Future Attorney

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03/01/2026

Today marks the beginning of Women’s History Month & I am going to use the month of March to highlight some phenomenal women who have got out and thrived! 🌸

I have some incredible women who I plan to highlight and I hope you all join in on celebrating them & all of their accomplishments! 👏🏽

Once upon time, women were stagnated due to the limitations placed upon them. Today, they are breaking ceilings & proving that a woman’s success is limitless! ✨

Let’s celebrate women who are rewriting history. 👑

02/27/2026

Tell yourself these 8 things every morning & watch how your life transforms ✨

The power of “positive affirmations” is unmatched! The more you tell yourself something- the more you begin to truly believe it.

If you have a child who finds themselves stressing out about things out of their control- introduce them to this list!

My favorites are number 5 & 7! Reminds me to give myself grace during uncertain times! 💯

02/24/2026

BUILT THE GOAT WAY: Christopher’s Climb ⚖️🧠

After graduating from Eufaula High School in 2016, Christopher Oulds began a journey that would eventually blend law, neuroscience, and advocacy. He earned his Bachelor of Science in International Business, along with a Certificate in Neuroscience, a Graduate Certificate in Community Development, and Spanish Interpreting Certification. ✨

Today, he is at Georgetown University pursuing both a Juris Doctor and a Master’s in Neuroscience while working part-time as an LSAT tutor.

Christopher’s path was anything but linear. He originally started college in Engineering but quickly realized the traditional desk-bound structure wasn’t the right fit. After switching to International Business and graduating, he struggled to find international work and moved to Philadelphia, where he worked in youth outreach programs aimed at providing constructive hobbies and reducing gun violence. 💯

That experience led him into local public schools as a substitute teacher and assistant math teacher.

While working with students, he saw firsthand the passion of educators and the resilience of young people navigating serious trauma. He realized his impact might be stronger as a legal advocate, particularly in communities where that support was lacking. Wanting to better understand the neurological impact of trauma, he enrolled at the University of Pennsylvania to earn a Certificate in Neuroscience. There, he discovered a passion for the emerging field of Neurolaw, which applies discoveries in neuroscience and psychology within legal systems. That realization ultimately led him to Georgetown. 🏫

One of his proudest accomplishments came after three months of intense LSAT preparation, earning a score in the 99th percentile—the median score at Harvard—which resulted in acceptances to Columbia and Vanderbilt and a full tuition waiver at Georgetown. 🙌🏾

Throughout his journey, financial pressure meant constantly working while studying, relying on grit, discipline, organization, and asking for help when needed.

Christopher’s advice to GOATs in training:
“Start studying for your LSAT as soon as possible.”

From Eufaula to Georgetown, Christopher Oulds’ journey shows exactly what it means to Get Out and Thrive.

— Christopher Oulds, Eufaula High School Class of 2016 | Law & Neuroscience Student

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02/19/2026

One of the most important conversations we can have with young people is about body autonomy, boundaries, and respect. Research consistently shows that age-appropriate discussions about consent and personal boundaries increase confidence, safety awareness, and healthy relationship skills.

Here are evidence-based ways to approach the conversation:

1. Use correct, neutral language.
Teach children the proper anatomical names for all body parts, including private parts. Avoid relying on “cute” nicknames or substitute words. Using accurate terminology reduces shame, increases body awareness, and is critically important for safety. If a child ever needs to report inappropriate touch or harm, being able to clearly and accurately describe what happened helps adults, medical professionals, and, if necessary, legal authorities understand and respond appropriately (American Academy of Pediatrics).

2. Teach body autonomy early.
Children should understand that their body belongs to them and they have the right to say “no” to unwanted touch- even from adults or family members (ZERO TO THREE).

3. Model consent in everyday life.
Ask before hugs or physical affection and respect their answer. Modeling consent teaches them how healthy boundaries work (End Sexual Violence Connecticut).

4. Keep the conversation ongoing.
This is not a one-time talk. As children grow, discussions should evolve with their developmental level. Ongoing conversations build trust and increase the likelihood they will speak up if something feels unsafe (University of Michigan).

5. Empower them to speak up.
Remind youth that they can always tell a trusted adult if someone crosses a boundary or makes them uncomfortable (Military OneSource).

Teaching boundaries is not about fear- it is about empowerment, respect, and safety.

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References 📰:

https://www.healthychildren.org
https://www.zerotothree.org
https://endsexualviolencect.org
https://hr.umich.edu
https://www.militaryonesource.mil

02/17/2026

BUILT THE GOAT WAY: Curtis’ Calculated Climb ⚙️

After graduating from Eufaula High School in 2014, Curtis Erickson chose a path that was direct, strategic, and built for impact. He attended Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology, completing a 15-month nondestructive testing program.

By the end, he walked away with a new trade, a diploma, and an associate’s degree in Quality Control Management. While that specific program is no longer offered, the industry itself remains wide open to those with a strong work ethic, clean background, and the drive to earn certifications.

Today, nondestructive testing technicians use non-invasive inspection methods like ultrasound and radiography to evaluate welds, aircraft, wind turbines, submarines, and more- ensuring they are safe, sound, and insurable.

Curtis made his decision based on practicality. Traditional college wasn’t the right fit, so he studied demand, entry-level pay, tuition costs, and time to completion. It was a numbers game- and he played it smart.

Personally, his proudest accomplishment has been experiencing the world through his work- 18 countries and 47 states so far. Professionally, he takes pride in being part of the team that builds the world’s most advanced nuclear submarine fleet at General Dynamics, watching each vessel move from blueprint to completion.

The journey hasn’t been without challenges. He has navigated toxic supervisors with patience and composure, faced isolation from constant travel, and endured extreme working conditions ranging from 115 degrees with high humidity to -50 in the wind. Each obstacle strengthened his resilience and reinforced the value of relationships built along the way.

Curtis’s advice to GOATs in training:
“Make a serious plan for what you want out of life and work hard. But if money is the only thing you chase, you’ll be poor in so many other ways. You get one life- prioritize your health and happiness, because money comes and goes.”

From Eufaula to leading quality control on nuclear submarines, Curtis Erickson’s journey shows exactly what it means to Get Out and Thrive.

— Curtis Erickson, Eufaula High School Class of 2014 | Quality Control Supervisor, General Dynamics

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01/20/2026

BUILT THE GOAT WAY: Jazzyln’s Balance 🩺

After graduating from Checotah High School in 2016, Jazzlyn Mills continued working as a waitress while attending college for a couple of years. Her path shifted when she became a mother, and with that change came clarity.

Wanting to build a future that allowed her to help others while also providing for her family, she decided to attend Community Care to pursue Surgical Technology. 🩺

Jazzlyn was drawn to healthcare because she wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. Surgery stood out to her as a field that offered variety, purpose, and the chance to help someone every single day. Returning to school was not easy.

Her first college experience lacked focus, costing her time and money- & starting over meant rebuilding discipline from the ground up. Early mornings starting at 5:30 a.m., long days of class, studying, and still coming home to care for her household and her son tested her endurance- but she stayed committed. 🤞🏽

Her proudest accomplishment is, of course, her son, but being named a 2025 Student of the Month was also a powerful moment as well. The recognition came unexpectedly and affirmed that her hard work, dedication, and perseverance were seen and valued. That moment reinforced that choosing herself and her future was worth the effort. ✨

Jazzlyn’s advice to GOATs in training:
“You don’t have to know exactly what you want to do after school, but make sure you’re certain when you decide. Do something you’re passionate about. Go after what makes you happy and don’t second guess yourself. Limiting yourself will only keep you from your dreams, so be bold and intentional. Life is already hard- don’t make it harder by not setting yourself up for success for your future.”

From Checotah to healthcare, Jazzlyn Mills’ journey shows exactly what it means to Get Out and Thrive.

- Jazzlyn Mills (Dandridge), Checotah High School Class of 2016 | Stay-at-Home Mom & Surgical Tech Student

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01/17/2026

Oklahoma tribal citizens ‼️

‼️ MESSAGE FROM THE MUSCOGEE NATION DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY ‼️

We have confirmed that officials from the federal immigration agency ICE are now in Oklahoma. Please be advised that the Muscogee Nation is monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of our citizens both on and off the Reservation. Citizens are encouraged to keep their tribal identification with them as accessible as possible. Should you be contacted by ICE remain calm, respectful, and know your rights. The Muscogee Nation Lighthorse Police Department dispatch has direct access to verify citizenship for any citizen, no matter where they are, and can be reached at (918) 732-7800.