2023 Oklahoma Arts Conference

"Promise in the Road Ahead"

Trey Hays
Trey Hays grew up in Tishomingo, where he participated in school choir and band. He attended Murray State College (MSC) on a full scholarship for singing in the MSC Entertainers, and after gaining recognition for his singing, was encouraged to take part in theatrical productions at the MSC drama department. Hays later performed in lead roles throughout his time as a theater major at East Central University. He eventually switched majors to Elementary Education and got involved in community theater before graduating with a degree in Elementary Education with certification in PreK-12th Drama/Speech/Debate. In 2004, he became Tishomingo Elementary’s Fine Arts Teacher, a position in which he has since remained. In 2018, Hayes' book, “Little Loksi" was published by Chickasaw/White Dog Press. In addition to receiving recognition, the book was adapted by Oklahoma Children’s Theatre as a production written and directed by Mollie Reid. In recent years, Hayes has hosted 26 teaching artist residencies, secured nearly $80,000 in grants for his school, his community, and other area schools. He commissioned the Little Loksi Fine Arts Camp with funding from Carolyn Watson Rural Oklahoma Community Foundation for a total of $35,000 this past summer and is currently conducting the second annual “The Voice of Johnston County,” inspired by the show made famous by Tishomingo's Blake Shelton.

Trey Hays's Schedule

Arts Education in Rural Schools
Date: Wednesday – October, 18 2023 Time: 1:30pm - 2:45pm Room: Great Plains Ballroom C
Across Oklahoma, arts education programs in rural schools play an important role in equipping students with creative thinking skills and resilience. The positive impact of arts education programs plays out beyond the classroom, often providing opportunities for broader community engagement. Hear from local arts educators and school administrators on the how arts programs are creating positive outcomes for youth, preparing them to succeed in life.

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Questions?
For more information contact our Director of Rural and Creative Community Outreach.