College of Education and Human Sciences named seven students as 2026 Outstanding Seniors
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Media Contact: Kirsi McDowell | Communications Coordinator | 405-744-8320 | kirsi@okstate.edu
Seven College of Education and Human Sciences students were selected as 2026 Outstanding Seniors.
These students embody both the college and OSU’s land-grant mission through academic achievement, leadership, campus involvement and professional development related to career goals.
The Outstanding Seniors were honored at a reception on May 1.
Erin Barnard
Edmond, Oklahoma
Human development and family science, child and family services
The third generation OSU student has a passion for helping others, for which she credits her diligence during her undergraduate degree. Her hard work not only set her apart as an Outstanding Senior, but it also earned her a pre-professional C.O.R.D on the pre-health track. This achievement represents Barnard’s drive as the cord's core eligibility requirements include achieving a cumulative GPA greater than 3.0, completing at least 100 hours of field related community service and advocacy, connecting with OSU’s Pre-Professional Office at least twice as an undergraduate student and earning 100 points in various pre-professional programs.
“‘We dream as big as the sky’ is the part of the Cowboy Code that I have lived by because I never ever imagined I would be where I am now when I was a freshman. I dreamt as big as the sky when I made it my mission to foster worthwhile relationships during my time here, as well as when I applied for this award.”
Regan Dewbre
Ringling, Oklahoma
Secondary education, English
Coming from a rural community herself, Dewbre feels it is only natural she serve small communities in the future. Although it wasn’t in her plan when she came to OSU, she is applying to the master’s of science in teaching, learning and leadership: K-12 education with a focus on English. After obtaining her master’s degree, Dewbre plans to bring the knowledge from OSU to underserved school communities. Notably, Dewbre will soon receive her first scholarly publication as an undergraduate student. Her upcoming publication on Holocaust and genocide education in ELA classrooms represents her research into trauma-informed teaching approaches.
“Living by the Code means showing up with integrity in the classroom, in relationships and in the work that no one is watching. It means being loyal to the people and communities I serve, keeping my word and doing the right thing even when it is difficult. I try to carry that into daily life by being consistent.”
Allie Dreyer
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Nutritional sciences, allied health
Dreyer, as a third generation OSU student, has always had a passion to pursue a career in healthcare. As an honors student, she developed a course focused on communication and patient-centered care to support OSU students beyond her time in Stillwater. Not only did her time at OSU help her achieve academic success, but it also introduced her to the professional options she has with a degree in nutritional sciences. After graduating in May, Dreyer will continue her education this summer at OSU’s Center for Health Sciences.
“Living by the Code means showing up each day with integrity, resilience, and a commitment to others. I try to reflect these values by giving my best effort in academics, leadership and service while supporting and encouraging those around me.”
Kilyn Fredrickson
Cannon Falls, Minnesota
Applied exercise science, strength and conditioning
Finding a community is one of the driving forces behind Fredrickson’s diligence, and that was exactly what she did at OSU. Her proudest accomplishment has been serving as the president for the CEHS Ambassadors. During this time, she rebuilt a program that was struggling with engagement and direction. Fredickson was also a member of the Pre-PT club and actively contributed to research in Dr. Shane Hammer’s lab. Hammer’s lab focuses on muscle oxygenation and microvascular function during exercise. After graduating in May, she will begin her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in Des Moines, Iowa.
“Living by the Code means striving to be dependable, authentic and generous in all I do. It’s about showing up for others, honoring commitments, and treating every challenge as an opportunity to grow. I bring it into my daily life by leading with integrity in my roles on campus, supporting peers as a mentor, and approaching both successes and setbacks with humility and determination. I will always aim to leave a positive impact on the people and community around me.”
Heidi Moore
Bixby, Oklahoma
Public health, community health
For more than three years, Moore has worked as an undergraduate researcher under Dr. DJ McMaughan. Moore spent most of her time in the lab analyzing the financial trade-offs college students are faced with. Moore’s plans shifted from when she first arrived, intending to pursue healthcare administration, but being drawn to occupational therapy. After graduating in May, Moore will attend the University of Oklahoma to earn her doctorate degree in occupational therapy.
“Living by the Code means doing the right thing, working hard, and treating people with kindness every single day. I implement these values by serving the Stillwater community, working at the hospital, and showing the love of Jesus to others.”
Olivia Napier*
Antlers, Oklahoma
Apparel design and technology
Napier’s diligence and determination come naturally, and she has worked hard since high school, maintaining a 3.9 GPA. Napier represents the top students of both the university and college. As a long-time designer, little changed for her upon her arrival at OSU, but the design and merchandising program reassured her that she made the right decision for her career path.
*Napier will also be honored as the college's Orange Gown graduate.
"Living by the Code means to work hard and end the day knowing you gave it everything you had. I have implemented this into my life by completing projects and assignments with great care and attention to detail. This has given me the greatest sense of pride in my work. When I look back through my projects, many years from now, they will remind me of the optimistic college student who thrived with hands-on creative activities."
Abby Yates
Sapulpa, Oklahoma
Aerospace administration and operations, aviation management
Her hard work in the classroom paid off as Yates is finishing her degree with a 4.0 in all of her aviation education courses. Yates earned her private pilot’s license while balancing a full course load. In addition to holding herself accountable when it came to academics, Yates was an active member of both the OSU community and the aviation program. Yates represented OSU’s Women in Aviation club and the Flying Aggies flight team as a member and ground event team lead.
“Living the Cowboy Code means trying your best and getting back up when you fail. It means making the most of every situation, even if it’s not what you originally planned for or wanted. You do the right thing when no one else is, show up for people, and do the things you said you would do. And try to have fun doing them."
Story By: Annie Ross | annie.ross@okstate.edu