Hannah Brake of Sallisaw High School and Snowy Rich of Gore High School have made it to the final round of voting for the 2024-25 state officer team of the Oklahoma CareerTech Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) student organization.

Brake and Rich both are two of 19 contenders vying for a position on the State Executive Council. Hannah Brake is the daughter of Jackie Wright and Mark Brake. Rich is the daughter of Patricia Rich.

Family and Consumer Sciences Education, and its affiliated student organization, FCCLA, are integral components in the CareerTech system. This national student organization helps young men and women become leaders and address important personal, family, work and societal issues. More than 19,000 students in Oklahoma high school and technology center campuses are members of FCCLA.

The interview process began Jan. 17 to determine the final slate for state FCCLA officer elections to be held April 11 at the state convention in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

“Students were interviewed, tested over FCCLA facts, and presented a one-minute speech within their region,” Brittani Phillips, state FCCLA advisor, said. “Nineteen students were chosen from the second round of interviews and will have their names on the final ballot. We have a wonderful ballot and look forward to these future leaders taking office and helping move Oklahoma FCCLA forward.”

State officer team members are responsible for duties such as planning and conducting workshops, installing district officers, and leading chapter officer training. The officer team also plans and presides over state convention, works with members to increase membership, and helps to raise awareness of FCCLA in the state.

“Throughout the year, FCCLA members tackle issues such as teen violence prevention, traffic safety, family issues, career exploration and much more,” Phillips said. “FCCLA programs enrich student learning, improve self-esteem, and serve students with a range of ability levels, economic situations, and cultural influences.”