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Roy Higgenbotham

Outstanding Mentor: Royden Heginbotham

January 21, 2021/Mentor Program, News

Roy HiggenbothamThunderbird Challenge Program
Mentee: Ashton
Years Matched: Two

Royden Heginbotham initially answered the call to mentor cadet Ashton during the residential phase of his time at Thunderbird Youth Academy. The match was a great success, and Heginbotham ended up staying on as Ashton’s mentor through the entire two-year program.

“Ashton was always so excited to see Mr. Heginbotham” said Thunderbird Challenge Program case manager Wendi Spurlock. “Though Royden lives in Big Cabin and Ashton lives in Enid, a long way to travel, the two built a trusting relationship.”

Heginbotham and Ashton went fishing and to see classic cars on some of their visits. Heginbotham was able to step in to buy Ashton a bicycle and help him get a job when he fell on hard times and needed extra support. Ashton grew to trust Mr. Heginbotham and to take his advice.

“Mr. Heginbotham showed that there are still people out there that want to help make a difference in the lives of youth” said Spurlock. “This is why we do what we do, stepping up to help our youth and showing we are there to support them. Royden is a shining example of that in action.”

Royden Heginbotham_mentor_cert

About the Program: Thunderbird Youth Academy’s mission is to intervene in the lives of Oklahoma high school dropouts to effect positive change in those youth. The program challenges students physically, emotionally and educationally; teaches respect for self, others and community; and helps students meet educational goals through GED, high school credits, life-skills training and college courses.

January 21, 2021/Mentor Program, News

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Thunderbird Challenge
2 days ago
Thunderbird Challenge

Thunderbird Challenge Cycle 64 Graduation

Congratulations to our graduates: You've proven that with dedication and the right support, any obstacle can be overcome. Your families, instructors, and entire community are incredibly proud of what you've accomplished.

Each graduate represents a success story of determination and personal growth. They entered as candidates seeking direction and leave as confident young leaders ready to make their mark on the world.

We are thankful that at this graduation, we were honored to have two outstanding leaders address our graduates:

Major General Thomas H. Mancino, Adjutant General for Oklahoma, shared his wisdom and experience with our cadets. As Oklahoma's top military advisor to the Governor and leader of the Oklahoma National Guard, General Mancino brought valuable insights about service, leadership, and commitment to our ceremony.

Senator Ally Seifried (R-Claremore) inspired our graduates with her message about civic engagement and making a positive impact in their communities. As a proud ninth-generation Oklahoman and advocate for Oklahoma's youth, Senator Seifried's words resonated deeply with our graduating class.

Congratulations once again to our graduates and thank you to General Mancino and Senator Seifried for their inspiring words and continued support of Oklahoma's youth!

#thunderbirdchallengeprogram #cycle64 #nationalguardyouthchallengeprogram #NGYCP #Leadershiptraining #Thunderbirdlife
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Thunderbird Challenge Cycle 64 Graduation

Congratulations to our graduates: Youve proven that with dedication and the right support, any obstacle can be overcome. Your families, instructors, and entire community are incredibly proud of what youve accomplished.

Each graduate represents a success story of determination and personal growth. They entered as candidates seeking direction and leave as confident young leaders ready to make their mark on the world.

We are thankful that at this graduation, we were honored to have two outstanding leaders address our graduates:

Major General Thomas H. Mancino, Adjutant General for Oklahoma, shared his wisdom and experience with our cadets. As Oklahomas top military advisor to the Governor and leader of the Oklahoma National Guard, General Mancino brought valuable insights about service, leadership, and commitment to our ceremony.

Senator Ally Seifried (R-Claremore) inspired our graduates with her message about civic engagement and making a positive impact in their communities. As a proud ninth-generation Oklahoman and advocate for Oklahomas youth, Senator Seifrieds words resonated deeply with our graduating class.

Congratulations once again to our graduates and thank you to General Mancino and Senator Seifried for their inspiring words and continued support of Oklahomas youth!

#thunderbirdchallengeprogram #cycle64 #nationalguardyouthchallengeprogram  #NGYCP #Leadershiptraining #Thunderbirdlife
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3 CommentsComment on Facebook

So proud of each and everyone of them. They gave it their all Sad to see them leave. They each have a piece of my heart.

It was a great ceremony!

Awesome ceremony

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