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PAULS VALLEY, Okla. — Pauls Valley High School alumnus Diego Cifuentes has been named a 2026 NextGen Under 30 Oklahoma honoree in the Policy & Public Service category, recognizing his commitment to leadership, civic engagement and service across Oklahoma.
Cifuentes, who graduated from Pauls Valley High School before continuing his education at East Central University, said his years in Garvin County helped shape his early interest in public service, leadership and community involvement.
He graduated from East Central University in May 2025 with a bachelor’s degree in political science and a minor in communication. During college, he served in student leadership and became involved with the ECU Glass Recycling Program, where he continues supporting communications, outreach and environmental education efforts.
Cifuentes currently serves as chair of the City of Ada Multiculturalism Committee, helping lead initiatives that celebrate diverse communities and strengthen partnerships among local organizations, businesses and residents.
Earlier this year, Cifuentes represented Oklahoma in Washington, D.C., through the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute Global Leaders Program. During the program, he served in the office of U.S. Rep. Young Kim and with Ferox Strategies. He also volunteered with the National Park Service during the 2026 White House Easter Egg Roll.
His public service work has also included encouraging young Oklahomans to pursue civic engagement and leadership opportunities, including participation in the inaugural Oklahoma Latino Youth Summit at the State Capitol.
“Growing up and attending school in Pauls Valley gave me a foundation that I still carry with me today,” Cifuentes said. “I’m grateful for the teachers, mentors and community members who encouraged me along the way. This recognition is a reminder of how important it is for young people from communities like ours to know that their voices and their service matter.”
Cifuentes will join fellow 2026 NextGen Under 30 Oklahoma honorees at the Oklahoma State Capitol later this month as part of this year’s recognition activities. The annual NextGen Under 30 Award Ceremony is scheduled for Nov. 6 in Norman.
Cifuentes said the recognition has strengthened his commitment to serving Oklahoma and encouraging the next generation of leaders, particularly young people from rural communities.
