The list of accomplishments earned by Anna Ritter is worthy of recognition. She was one of the Valedictorians of the 2022 senior class at Atoka High School by achieving a 4.06 grade point average including National Honor Society membership, president of the student council and Fellowship of Christian Athletes along with Homecoming Queen. These are just part of the influence of the Atoka native.  A member of the Lady Cats basketball and soccer teams, Ritter had good cause to give up after battling medical problems. 

“I believe that no matter where we’re at in life, whatever it is, that’s exactly where God wants us to be,” explained Ritter. “I’ve played basketball all my life but since I was in middle school I’ve had three surgeries that kept me off the court forcing me to sit out of playing time. Knowing that’s what God wants for me, I had to do my best to help my teams through encouragement from the bench, leading our team in prayer, just trying to be the team’s number one supporter and serve Him at the same time.”

Helping others is how Ritter explains her determination and focus including what she ranks at the top of her high school memories and victories.

“My most cherished memory has to be the opportunity to lead Rush Week, a week full of activities to raise money for two girls at our school in their fight against cancer,” Ritter confirmed. “All the games and movies, the pie in the face of our teachers and a powder-puff football game against our rival (Coalgate) raised over $9,000. The impact of helping the two girls and seeing how our school and community came together was my most rewarding moment.”

Ritter’s future includes going to college at Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant pursuing a career in pharmacy and the opportunity to continue helping others.

“My approach to everything everyday is the same,” replied Ritter noting her favorite quote of Bob Goff as the advice she follows. “Here’s our job as believers, love everybody ALWAYS!”