Leadership Ponca City is a long-time program of Ponca City whose objective is developing a group of committed and well-informed leaders in the community. The members of these classes are people who are dedicated to actively participating in growing the community through their roles in civic, charitable, or governmental organizations.

On Thu., May 4, The 36th Leadership class held their graduation at the Ponca City Country Club. Here they were able to mingle with their classmates and others in attendance, have dinner, and be recognized for their year spent in the program. They have dedicated time, energy, and effort over the past year to make connections, work on their group project, and take time to learn about everything that Ponca City has to offer.

One student, Brittany Atauvich, was given a special recognition and was named the newest recipient of the Larry Hughes Leadership Award. The Larry Hughes Leadership Award is given in memory of Larry Hughes who was a very active community member who passed away in 1997. “Hughes was widely known for his positive attitude, his love of Ponca City, and his willingness to volunteer his very capable efforts toward most any project that would benefit our community. Larry was the person you went to for help if you had a project that had to be done… and done right.”

Since Larry’s passing, his family created an award in his name and honor that would be given annually to a member of Leadership Ponca who shined through as someone who exemplified the character of Larry Hughes. Brittany Atauvich showed excellent leadership abilities, skills, and knowledge gained through her participation in the Leadership Ponca City Class. It was clear to the former Larry Hughes Leadership Award recipients that she would use what she gained through this class to truly make an impact to the community.

This year the Ponca City Leadership Class has focused on helping Attucks with a few projects. They will soon be holding a raffle to raise funds for these projects, so keep an eye out for when a date and time is released.