Marti Miller, LSW Class of 1999 2005 Award Recipient Keynote Speaker, Trainer, Consultant Website: www.praiseleadership.com
Marti Miller lives a life of leadership. As a leadership skills trainer, her techniques center on leadership development, integrity-driven success, and her favorite aspect of leadership - praise. Her trademark energy and enthusiasm for life shines through her interactive training sessions which encourages refocused expectations and how to become empowered by personal authentic energy. Marti's approach as a leader is helping others learn how to say YES to possibilities and to discover ways to boost morale and improve performance.
Dr. Larry Lewis, LSW Class of 1994 2006 Award Recipient as former Superintendent of Lancaster ISD
Dr. Larry Lewis, as superintendent of the Lancaster ISD from 2003 through 2008, was instrumental in improving the district's financial rating from below standard to a rating of superior and the passage of a $110 million dollar bond package which provided new facilities, existing facilities' renovations and technology upgrades. He served on various civic organizations included the Lancaster Chamber of Commerce and the Best Southwest Leadership Institute.
Frank Bentley is known for leadership development and communication. He formed the Leadership Southwest Alumni Association which includes over 800 graduates and he created the program's website as a clearing house for current class information, alumni contact information, community chamber calendars, and resource of the program. He has also created a local magazine specifically for Southern Dallas using local writers and contributors. He also served as Co-Chairman of the LSW Board of Directors from 2004-2006 and his involvement with the local chambers has earned him "Volunteer of the Year" and "Member of the Year."
Dan Eddy, LSW Class of 1990 2007 Award Co-Recipient
Dan Eddy, aka "Mr. Southwest Dallas County," has focused his community service in Southwest Dallas Community on education. As co-founder of the Best Southwest's Scholar's Program, he has helped thousands of students go to college. He was involved in securing a four-year, state-supported university within the Dallas city limits - the University of North Texas Dallas. His chairmanship of "Where Eagles Dare" raised $250,000 for that new Dallas campus. He has been recognized on numerous occasions of the Texas House and Senate floors for his dedicated service to southern Dallas County.
As Mayor of DeSoto, the title of "The Honorable" sums up Bobby Waddle, followed by distinguished gentleman. Born and raised in DeSoto, an All America City for 2006, he was elected as its mayor in 2007. A farmer and rancher, living on land his family has owned since the 1890s, active with area soil and water conservation efforts, a DeSoto ISD mentor with Big Brothers/Big Sisters, he is respected in his community and Southwest Dallas County, and will, in 2009, serve as Chair for the North Central Texas Council of Governments.
Jana Barker, LSW Class of 2004 2009 Award Recipient Executive Director Dallas Rape Crisis Center
Jana Barner, who was a founding member of Brighter Tomorrows, serves as a tireless advocate for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault and as former Executive Director, led one of the largest domestic violence agencies in Dallas County which includes 3 emergency shelters, counseling & community outreach centers, 2 thrift stores and a transitional housing program.
Distinguished Leadership Award Recipients
