Meet Dr. Kelly Forbes
Dr. Kelly Forbes is a lifelong Oklahoman, raised in Skiatook and Broken Arrow.
Dr. Kelly Forbes is a lifelong Oklahoman, raised in Skiatook and Broken Arrow. He now lives in Oklahoma City with his partner, Dr. Chris Culver. His roots in service run deep, both his parents and grandparents served in the Army, with his “Papa” dedicating 44 years to the Oklahoma National Guard. As a child, Kelly lived across the street from his grandparents’ cattle feed store in Skiatook. He watched his Papa and Keke build a small business, Kelly B’s Plastics, from the ground up. His grandparents, who helped raise him, instilled in him the Oklahoma values that continue to guide him today: hard work, strong community, and lending a hand to those in need. Their sacrifice and determination paved the way for Kelly to become the first in his family to graduate from college. He earned his degree in Spanish from Oklahoma City University, then a Master’s in Bilingual Education and Administrative Leadership from the University of Central Oklahoma. He continued his education with a Doctorate in Administration and Leadership from Southern Nazarene University.
A fluent Spanish speaker, Kelly has served as a classroom teacher, in school administration, as a federal programs director, director of dual language education, and an adjunct professor. He has worked in rural, suburban, and urban school districts, supporting students, parents, and teachers. Kelly’s longstanding involvement in the arts has taken him around the world and developed his creative perspective and broad understanding of how tourism, culture, and hospitality can drive Oklahoma’s economy. Kelly has followed his family’s entrepreneurial spirit, and is now the owner of Kelly B’s Consulting, where he helps schools and communities navigate the complexities of education and government bureaucracy. His wide range of experiences as a leader, small business owner, and in the arts provides him with opportunities to connect with diverse communities and gives him a strong understanding of how together we can help Oklahoma’s economy grow.
Kelly and his partner Chris are actively involved in their local communities volunteering at events, supporting charities, and mentoring new business owners. Kelly has also served on several boards including service as the former president of the Oklahoma Association for Bilingual Education. He currently serves on the board of directors of Palomar, Oklahoma City’s Family Justice Center, where he helps survivors of domestic violence and elder abuse get the support they need to rebuild their lives.
Dr. Kelly Forbes has the vision and experience to move Oklahoma forward. His background in education, public service, and community engagement has shaped his commitment to building bridges, not barriers. By focusing on collaboration and collective impact, he will create lasting change, ensuring every voice is heard and represented with every decision made in the best interests of Oklahomans. As Lieutenant Governor, Dr. Kelly Forbes will restore trust in state government by leading with integrity, transparency, and accountability.
Priorities:
BUILD A STRONGER ECONOMY
A strong economy is the backbone of thriving communities. Oklahomans deserve good jobs, fair wages, and the opportunity to build a secure future. As Lieutenant Governor, Dr. Forbes will invest in small businesses, strengthen Career-Tech, work with Oklahoma’s Native Nations, and expand workforce training. He will also address the need for affordable housing and food insecurity to ensure prosperity reaches every corner of our state.
INVEST IN OUR PUBLIC EDUCATION
Public education is the heartbeat of our communities. Currently ranked 50th in the nation for education, Oklahoma continues to lose opportunities because leaders ignore our underfunded schools. Dr. Kelly Forbes will act to build a strong, well-funded public education system that respects our teachers and staff, supports our students, and keeps public dollars in public schools - ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.
EXPAND ACCESS & AFFORDABILITY OF HEALTHCARE
Oklahomans face barriers getting the healthcare they need. Rural and smaller clinics often struggle to hire and retain qualified staff. As Lieutenant Governor, Dr. Forbes will build strong partnerships to expand access, incentivize healthcare professionals working in underserved areas, and ensure culturally responsive care. By using technology and working with local providers we can close gaps, lower costs, and ensure every Oklahoman can access quality care.
PROMOTE TOURISM TO OUR GREAT STATE
Tourism, Oklahoma's 3rd largest Industry is a vital driver of our economy. With the 100th anniversary of Route 66 and the upcoming 2028 Olympic events, the world will turn its attention to Oklahoma as we celebrate the state’s natural beauty, historical significance, and diverse cultures. Dr. Forbes is ready to promote Oklahoma, inviting people from all over the world to experience all that our great state has to offer.
FIGHT CORRUPTION & HOLD OKLAHOMA’S GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABLE
The government should work for the people, not behind closed doors. Oklahomans deserve leaders who are transparent, accountable, and dedicated to building a government that works for everyone. Dr. Forbes is not a career politician, he is committed to leading with integrity and restoring trust in our state government.
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