The Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation is seeking applicants for its 2025-26 Teen Leaders class. Applications are due March 1.
OMRF’s Teen Leaders program provides group activities, panel discussions with OMRF scientists and state civic leaders and time in the foundation’s labs. Now in its 13th year, the program is open to high school students entering their sophomore, junior and senior years.
“Students who participate as Teen Leaders leave with the leadership skills, tools and connections to be change-makers in their communities,” said Katherine Jackson, who oversees the program. “Equally important, the program also helps expand OMRF’s reach to the next generation.”
Grayson McGuire, a senior at Community Christian School in Norman who is currently participating in the program, said his Teen Leader experience has opened his eyes about medical research.
“I’ve been amazed at how involved the research is – how smart you have to be to do it and how much technology is required – but also how much it can help people,” he said.
In addition to interacting with OMRF’s researchers, selected students learn the fundamentals of nonprofit fundraising and development, networking, and creating impactful social media content. Teens will also enjoy a graduation dinner to cap off program activities.
Group sessions will begin in September and continue through the 2025-26 school year, generally on the second Tuesday afternoon of each month. Applicants must demonstrate good academic standing and attend school in Oklahoma. There is no cost to participate.
For more information and to apply, visit www.omrf.org/teen.