The American Red Cross Northern Oklahoma Chapter has announced its exceptional volunteer award recipients for 2026.

Volunteer Services Department Exceptional Volunteer: Kassidy Gilmore

Kassidy displays compassion, initiative and focus in her volunteer service. Beginning as a volunteer screener, she quickly recognized an opportunity to expand engagement by establishing a Red Cross Club at Oklahoma State University. She organized the club, recruited members and ensured it met all requirements, leading the group in meaningful service events.

Beyond her club responsibilities, Kassidy serves in an advisory capacity to the Northern Oklahoma Chapter Board of Directors by representing youth voices and supports regional efforts through strong collaboration and communication with chapter leadership.

Kassidy continues to demonstrate commitment to growth and service excellence. By seeking new opportunities, including participation in fundraising events and pursuing a future role as a Regional Coordinator for Red Cross Clubs, she is positioning herself to make an even greater impact on the organization and the communities we serve.

Disaster Services Department Exceptional Volunteer: Sheannah Luey

Shay Luey exemplifies commitment, loyalty and strong leadership in her service to the Northern Oklahoma Chapter. As a dedicated Disaster Action Team responder and shelter worker, she consistently goes wherever she is needed, often extending beyond her local community to ensure timely and effective support during emergencies.

In her role as a team captain, Shay organizes, prepares and inspires fellow volunteers. She has also played a vital role in strengthening the chapter by recruiting new volunteers in Osage County, expanding both capacity and readiness across the region.

Shay’s selflessness is evident in her actions, from responding to a late-night, multi-family fire 45 minutes away to traveling two hours during a January winter storm to open and sustain a shelter in Miami, Oklahoma. Her dedication, initiative and compassion have made a lasting impact.

Board of Directors Exceptional Volunteer: Suzanne Shiflet

Suzanne is an exceptionally engaged board member who consistently goes above and beyond, both within her official responsibilities and well outside the expected scope of board service. As a dedicated local advocate for the mission, she works tirelessly to ensure that communities know the Red Cross is here to help when it matters most. She also brings our message to life in a meaningful way, especially when sharing Prepare with Pedro with elementary students, inspiring the next generation to value safety and service.

“Over the past three years, Suzanne has been not only a committed leader, but also a trusted mentor and friend,” said Mathew Hitchcock, Executive Director of the Red Cross Northern Oklahoma Chapter. “She has encouraged me to grow as a leader while generously sharing her wealth of ideas and insight on how to better connect our community to the Red Cross mission. Her energy is truly contagious, and her passion is both genuine and unwavering.”

Clara Barton Award for Meritorious Volunteer Leadership: Kate Collins

Kate exemplifies dedication, enthusiasm and exceptional intelligence in everything she does. She consistently goes above and beyond the expectations of a volunteer, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to our mission.

In addition to her outstanding service as a volunteer Duty Officer — on its own, a role that speaks volumes about her capability and commitment — Kate has also stepped forward to serve as the chapter Shelter Coordinator with remarkable effectiveness.

She is a true leader and has brought a renewed sense of energy and positivity to Northern Oklahoma. Kate’s willingness to embrace new challenges, step into critical roles and fill gaps wherever needed has made a lasting and meaningful impact on our organization.

Inspired by these volunteers? Put on a red vest and join us. Visit redcross.org/volunteer to find out how you can support your community.

Awards were announced at the chapter annual meeting on June 8 in Stillwater. See more event photos on our Flickr page.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.