As Leadership Ponca City Class 39 comes to a close, it's a reminder that something meaningful has taken place. Individuals who began this journey as strangers now leave as family, connected by shared experiences, a deeper understanding of their community, and a commitment to lead it forward.
For nearly four decades, Leadership Ponca City has developed leaders who shape this community. What began as full-day sessions in the basement of the library has grown into an immersive experience filled with interactive tours, reenactors, and hands-on opportunities that bring Ponca City to life.
That growth began with a vision. Charlie Hollar, an insurance executive known for advancing innovative opportunities in Ponca City and across Oklahoma, recognized a gap in leadership development. At the time, only Oklahoma City and Tulsa offered similar programs. Hollar's vision was to identify, educate, and empower future leaders, and with a strong team in place, Leadership Ponca City was born. Today, it stands as the third-longest-running leadership program in the state, a reflection of its strength and lasting impact.
Participants experience Ponca City from every angle, from history and culture to education and government at the city, county, and state levels. The program culminates in a forward-looking conversation led by the Ponca City Development Authority, centered on a simple but important question. Where do we go from here?
That mindset comes to life through the class project. This year's Pack the Pantry Talent Showcase supported snack pantries in Ponca City Public Schools, easing the burden on staff who quietly keep them stocked. Entirely self-led, the class planned, organized, and executed the effort, gaining real-world experience in teamwork, problem solving, and fundraising. The result was nearly $29,000.00 raised to support local students. Leadership is not just taught. It is practiced.
Leadership Ponca City creates a ripple effect. Graduates leave more informed, more connected, and more committed to serving their community and strengthening the future of Ponca City.
This year's class was guided by Chairs Sean Grigsba, Molly Kyler, and Erica Fetters, who worked alongside the Chamber CEO and engaged community leaders to ensure each class is challenged and prepared to lead.
Graduation for Class 39 will be held on Thursday, May 7, with tickets available for $40.00 through the Chamber at 765-4400. The evening will include the announcement of the Larry Hughes Leadership Award, selected by past recipients and currently held by Don Nuzum, whose continued service reflects the spirit of the honor. The next class chair, who will begin with Class 40 and serve a 3-year term, will also be announced, as Sean Grigsba rolls off.
We proudly congratulate Leadership Ponca City Class 39: Ashley Adams, Bethany Avila, Cortney Burns, Dalton Cloud, Blake Connelly, Katilynn Cowan, Larin Davis, Jimmy Farmer, Ian Freeman, Spencer Grace, Seth Hammock, Aletha Kearney, Alexis Kirk, Sarah Martin, Justin Mathews, Kisha Oakes, Jerome Orange, Scott Richardson, Edward Shultz, Andrew Simmons, Edgar Tafolla, Hunter Vap, Manuel Vazquez, Tim Williams, and Abigail Wilton.
Nominations and applications for Class 40 will open in early June. Take the time to nominate someone who stands out or consider stepping forward to apply. Leadership Ponca City continues to shape the future one class at a time.