For someone who prefers to let her actions speak louder than her words, Abigail Smart has quietly built an extraordinary legacy at Morris High School. As the Class of 2025 prepares to graduate this Friday at 7 p.m. at the Mvskoke Dome, Abigail will cross the stage with the same humble grace that has defined her high school journey – a journey filled with leadership, service and a steadfast passion for politics and policy-making.

“She doesn’t like to toot her own horn, but if she won’t, I will,” said her father, Benjamin Smart, with a chuckle that barely hid the immense pride in his voice. “She’s done more than most kids her age, and she never asks for the recognition.”

Abigail’s resume is impressive by any standard. A dedicated member of the Morris FFA chapter, she has earned her State FFA Degree, served as chapter secretary and participated in floriculture, rabbit showing and public speaking. Her commitment also extended to the academic team and countless extracurricular activities where she always seemed to take on the behind-the-scenes work that keeps things running.

But where Abigail’s true passion lies is in the world of government, law and policy- making. She has served not once, but three times as a page at the State Capitol – twice for the Oklahoma House of Representatives and once for the Senate. It was during these experiences that she immersed herself in the legislative process, assisting representatives, running messages on the chamber floor and participating in mock sessions where she crafted and debated legislation alongside her peers.

Her classmate and friend, Braden Ramirez, also paged for Rep. Scott Fetgatter, sharing in the hands-on learning experience that few high school students get to enjoy.

“She’s all in,” Benjamin Smart said proudly. “She’s been at the Capitol working with legislators, learning how the system works from the inside. That’s where her heart is. She’s going to make a difference.”

Her future plans reflect that determination. Abigail plans to attend Oklahoma State University this fall, where she will pursue degrees in business and political science, with the ultimate goal of working in government and shaping policy.

Despite an ACT score of 23 – lower than the average for some universities – Abigail didn’t let that stand in her way. With the support of 12 glowing letters of recommendation from state leaders, including Rep. Fetgatter and others, she earned scholarship offers, including a $39,000 per year package from the University of Tulsa. However, OSU is calling her name, and she is ready to step into the next chapter of her educational journey.

“She worked harder than anyone I know,” Benjamin said. “Some kids won’t even fill out the scholarship applications. Abigail filled out every one she could find. She’s not one to sit back and wait for things to happen – she makes them happen.”

Abigail also brought history to life for her school. When her grandmother passed, she inherited a rare and historically significant charcoal rubbing of Angkor Wat, a family heirloom originally given to her great-grandfather, a CIA agent, by a Cambodian family he helped escape conflict. Recognizing its value as an educational artifact, Abigail partnered with her AP World History teacher to ensure its preservation and future display at Morris Schools.

“This has always been in our family, but I never understood its significance until recently,” Abigail shared. “I wanted it to have a place where its history could be appreciated.”

For now, the artifact is carefully stored as preservation efforts continue – a fitting symbol of Abigail herself: quietly impactful, patiently waiting for the right moment to let the world see the depth of her work.

“She’s the type that’s going to help her community, help people and probably still tell you it’s no big deal,” Benjamin said. “But to us (her mother and sibling) it is a big deal.”

When Abigail Smart takes her place on the graduation stage this Friday night, she may do so quietly, blending in with her classmates. But her impact, both seen and unseen, will continue to ripple through her community and beyond for years to come.