For immediate release: Monday, December 8, 2022
Darrell Strong Jr. Named New OETA Vice President of Education
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – “Darrell Strong Jr. has been integral in building the educational framework at OETA over the last seven years as a Program Manager. His propensity to create impactful educational programs and initiatives for parents, educators, and students have inspired many across Oklahoma to amplify their often-unheard voices with unique and creative outlets.” said Polly Anderson, executive director, OETA. “When it came time to begin our search for a new Vice President of Education, Darrell was undoubtedly the standout candidate. We’re confident in his leadership and are thrilled about the direction he has planned.”
In his new position, Strong Jr. will oversee all OETA’s educational efforts, including early childhood curriculum, youth educational programs, and adult learning opportunities.
Strong attended Langston University where he earned an undergraduate degree in Broadcast Journalism and a Master’s in Urban Education. He is currently on-track to complete his PhD in Learning Design and Technology at Oklahoma State University. Strong Jr. also holds a certificate for Public Administration (Municipalities) that he received from Oklahoma City University.
His career began at OETA in 2015 as a Program Coordinator in the Education department assisting with multiple learning and curriculum-based programs. His outstanding efforts in coordinating the Ready to Learn initiative earned him a promotion to Program Manager shortly after. Strong Jr. was essential in launching the nationally successful “Art Club” initiative and helped bring the Ready to Learn program to new heights during the pandemic.
Strong Jr. was named a NextGen Under 30 winner for Oklahoma in 2018 and was most recently awarded the “Volunteer of the Year” award from the Urban League of Greater Oklahoma City.
“I’m looking forward to furthering OETA’s mission to educate and inspire Oklahomans through engaging content that allows everyone an equitable opportunity to learn and grow, regardless of their current situation.” said Strong Jr..
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About OETA
OETA provides essential educational content and services that inform, inspire, and connect Oklahomans to ideas and information that enrich our quality of life. We do this by consistently engaging Oklahomans with educational and public television programming, providing educational training and curriculum, outreach initiatives and online features that collectively encourage lifelong learning. For more information about education curriculum and programs, local productions, digital television, community resources and show schedules explore OETA.tv.