Ana was raised in a family deeply rooted in both ranching and education by her single mother, who was also an educator. Ana attended Bristow Public schools throughout her K-12 education.

PROUD OKLAHOMA NATIVE

INVESTING IN OKLAHOMA'S CLASSROOMS

As Assistant Director of the ACE Institute at Northeastern State University, Ana is transforming education by providing aspiring educators with scholarships, resources, and mentorship opportunities. She oversees a $2.4 million budget and leads a dedicated team to advance the institute’s mission. Under her leadership, the ACE Institute was awarded a $550,000 GEER grant from Governor Stitt, making it one of only two schools in Oklahoma to utilize the funds efficiently and on time. Through strategic planning, Ana directed the grant to provide over 260 scholarships to emergency and alternatively certified teachers, equipping them with essential classroom management skills and pedagogy training. Helping ensure we retain teachers!

Ana’s innovative approach and dedication to empowering educators reflect her unwavering commitment to strengthening communities and shaping the future of education in Oklahoma.

BUILDING EXPERTISE, SHAPING FUTURES

Raised by a single mother who was also an educator, Ana was inspired early on to pursue a career in education. Her passion for teaching and commitment to educational reform began as a member of the State Superintendent Student Advisory Council, where she developed a deep interest in education policy and community-driven change.

Ana went on to teach 9th-grade English at Tahlequah High School for four years, where she also served as Boys & Girls Club Director, FCA Sponsor, Leadership Teacher, English Club Sponsor, National Honor Society Co-Sponsor, and cheer coach for both middle and high school teams.

Ana is now the Assistant Director of the ACE Institute. She leads courses on classroom management and pedagogy, where she prepares future educators to create effective learning environments and support student success.

Ana’s true passion lies in teaching and educating communities about how they can contribute to meaningful changes in Oklahoma education. She is dedicated to empowering students, supporting educators, equipping parents, and advocating for reforms that strengthen schools and improve outcomes for all Oklahomans.

NORTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY

Ana earned her Bachelor's degree in Marketing and Communications from Northeastern State University (NSU), followed by a Master's in Communication and a Master's in Education from NSU. Her Master's thesis focused on "Assessing the K-12 Impact of Inquiry-Based Learning on Student Efficacy: Curriculum, Research, and Development." She is currently pursuing a PhD in Education at the University of Arkansas.

Northeastern State University, recognized as the top education program in Oklahoma for decades, provided Ana with a strong foundation in teaching and leadership. During her time at NSU, she was an active member of several clubs and professional organizations, further enriching her educational experience and leadership skills.

BUILDING COMMUNITIES THROUGH ACTION

Ana is deeply committed to giving back to her community, believing that service is key to building meaningful relationships and fostering growth. Inspired by a vision she had early in her teaching career, Ana spearheaded a mentorship program that connected high school students with elementary students as “buddies,” fostering bonds across age groups and encouraging participation in community and school events. The program, supported by high school Leadership and NHS students along with elementary school principals, became a vibrant example of how service can unite and inspire.

This kind of initiative reflects Ana’s aspiration to bring a renewed focus on community-driven programs to the State Department of Education, following in the footsteps of leaders like State Superintendent Sandy Garrett, who emphasized the power of relationships and service in education.

Throughout her life, Ana has actively participated in community service. She has volunteered for many different community events and served on the Habitat for Humanity Board. Ana has consistently encouraged her students to engage in service, modeling the importance of giving back. Her efforts reflect a belief that strong communities are built through compassion, connection, and a shared commitment to making a difference.