OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Carri Hicks, D-Oklahoma City, has been honored as a 2025 Oklahoma Legislator of the Year for her efforts in the Senate to support the mission of the Oklahoma National Guard. Hicks received her award from the National Guard Association of Oklahoma during their 67^th Annual Military Ball and President’s Reception.

Hicks was honored for her work as principal author of Senate Bill 31, creating the “Oklahoma National Guard CareerTech Assistance Act,” providing resources for Oklahoma Guard members pursing licensure or certification through Oklahoma’s CareerTech system.

“I’m so grateful for the opportunity to support our Guard members. They defend our nation, and help our towns and cities throughout Oklahoma during natural disasters,” Hicks said. “This is a way to thank them for that service, by helping provide the resources and education to achieve their potential, both in uniform and in civilian life. I’m humbled and honored to receive this award.”

House principal author, Rep. Judd Strom, R-Copan, and Hicks were each nominated for the award in their respective chambers by Scott Irwin, with the National Guard Association of Oklahoma.

“The National Guard Association of Oklahoma is grateful for the leadership behind Senate Bill 31. By expanding access to CareerTech education, this legislation opens doors to opportunity, strengthens our workforce, and invests in Oklahoma’s future,” Irwin said. “We commend the authors for their hard work.”