Neil Hann Leadership Award
OTPC is pleased to announce a Call for Nominations for the Neil Hann Leadership Award. This award was established in 2017 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the OTPC, while honoring one of the founding members of Oklahoma Turning Point, Neil Hann.
The Neil Hann Leadership Award annually honors an individual who displays innovation, inspiration, and leadership by fostering a culture of health in Oklahoma. This annual award winner makes outstanding contributions to protecting and promoting the health of Oklahomans well beyond their normal work duties.
Award recipients will be selected based on demonstrated achievements in the following areas:
- Provide local and organizational leadership to advance positive health practices;
- Demonstrating a degree of innovation and creativity to positively influence the advancement of public and community health;
- Inspiring diverse collaboration through strategic partnerships or communities of practice to promote a culture of health in Oklahoma
The 2024 Neil Hann award recipient is Fahad Khan, Oklahoma Complete Health.
Fahad Khan is a transformative leader in Oklahoma’s public health landscape, known for his innovative, data-driven approach and dedication to collaboration. His visionary leadership has not only enhanced health outcomes but also fostered strategic partnerships that amplify community impact. From securing a transformative $30 million CDC grant to developing vital tools like the “inequity hotspot” map, Fahad consistently goes above and beyond his responsibilities. Currently serving as Senior Manager of Health Equity at Oklahoma Complete Health, his commitment to health and social support for all Oklahomans exemplifies the spirit of true leadership.
Community Health Champion Awards
OTPC is pleased to announce a Call for Nominations for the Community Health Champion Awards.
The Community Health Champion Award recognizes the service and dedication of individuals and groups who work to improve the health and wellness of their communities through community-centered efforts.
The OTPC encourages nominations of initiatives, projects, or local events across Oklahoma that serve through strategic partnerships, coalitions, faith communities, and more. Community Health Champions should be committed to supporting community-voice, promoting health equity, and removing barriers for local participation in initiatives, projects, or local events.
Award recipients will be selected based on demonstrated achievements in the following areas:
- Impact on target population/s
- Established goals and objectives
- Demonstrated systemic, policy or behavior change
- Sustainability of efforts
- Cross-sector partnerships
- Barrier removal for participation
- Application of health equity principles
- Community-voice utilization
There were 6 Community Champion Awards for 2024. Each is listed below with a brief description of their accomplishments.
Gladys “Marie” Butemeyer, OK State Department of Health, District 5
Marie Butemeyer is a true Community Health Champion, dedicated to dismantling barriers that hinder vulnerable populations from accessing essential health services. Her focus on helping low-income and unhoused individuals has led her to identify the critical challenge of obtaining birth certificates, which is essential for enrolling in state benefits programs. Marie undertook extensive research and engaged community members and organizations to develop a comprehensive plan aimed at streamlining the process for acquiring birth certificates. Her proposal, which included partnerships and advocacy for policy changes, has resulted in significant systemic improvements, facilitating easier access to health benefits. By fostering cross-sector collaborations, Marie has transformed lives and set a powerful example for other communities.
Cyndi Crook, Duncan Regional Hospital
As the director of the foundation, she consistently exceeds her role by identifying care gaps and uniting organizations to establish and maintain support programs. Her initiatives include a produce prescription program, a food pantry, blood drive coordination, and the creation of support programs for at-risk individuals, such as Cancer Care Coordination and Family Resource Centers. She tirelessly works to improve rural health access, promotes fun community health activities, supports mental health with initiatives such as the mental health hotline in Duncan, and is a remarkable champion for the community as a whole.
Sabina Garrett, Altus Public Schools
Sabina Garrett, the Child Nutrition Program (CNP) Director for Altus Public Schools, is nominated for the 2024 Community Health Champion Award. A retired Lt. Colonel in the Air Force, Sabina returned to Altus with a mission to enhance the nutritional quality of meals for students. Over her 16-year tenure, she has implemented numerous initiatives, including the innovative “breakfast in the classroom” program and the “High Performance Bulldog Meals” for athletes, significantly improving student nutrition and health. Sabina has forged partnerships with local organizations, expanded summer meal programs, and shared resources with surrounding rural schools, ensuring that all children in Jackson County benefit from her work. Her commitment to fostering healthy lifestyles and promoting wellness within the community exemplifies the spirit of this award.
Nancy Griffin, Payne County LiveWell Coalition, Yale City Commissioner
Her commitment to community health is evident in her efforts to secure funding for vital projects, such as an ADA chairlift for the Yale pool and the installation of a disc golf course. Nancy has also spearheaded initiatives like the Yale Trade Days market and the Jim Thorpe 5K, while fostering local business growth, including the opening of Little Pope’s Market. Additionally, she has successfully passed several health-oriented policies, including tobacco regulations and a Safe Routes to School policy. Nancy’s dedication to improving health outcomes in Yale demonstrates her exceptional ability to connect community resources and drive meaningful change.
Joe Kendrick and JB Rowe, YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City
Joe Kendrick and JB Rowe lead the GETTING AHEAD initiative at the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City, a transformative 16-week program designed to support individuals facing financial instability. This program offers a welcoming environment where participants can set personal goals, build supportive networks, and access essential resources to improve their financial situation. Each week includes a dinner, free childcare, and culminates in a graduation ceremony, along with a one-year free YMCA membership. Under Joe and JB’s leadership, GETTING AHEAD has partnered with RestoreOKC to enhance its impact through workforce development and community restoration projects. Their commitment to collaboration and empowerment reflects a dedication to breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering resilience within the east Oklahoma City community.
Misty Russell and the Salina CATS Youth Coalition
The Salina CATS (Community Against Toxic Substances) Youth Coalition, guided by Misty Russell, is a pioneering student-led initiative at Salina Middle and High School that fosters camaraderie and open dialogue about substance abuse and mental health. By creating a safe space for conversations on topics often left unaddressed, the coalition has transformed the school culture, promoting unity and understanding among students. The diverse membership of Salina CATS empowers students from all backgrounds to have a voice, reinforcing the importance of community and collaboration in effecting positive change. Through this invaluable experience, these young leaders are learning essential lessons in unity and advocacy that will prepare them to make a difference in the future.
Turning Point Trailblazer Award
Launched in 2022, during the 25th Anniversary Celebration of Turning Point, 25 individuals and entities were identified as “Turning Point Trailblazers.” The honorees were identified through the OTPC Executive Council as those who were and continue to be instrumental in the formation and sustainment of OTPC.
Beginning in 2023, “Turning Point Trailblazers” can be nominated by the broader community. Turning Point Trailblazers are individuals or entities paving the way for improvements in health and social care across Oklahoma. One new Trailblazer will be honored annually.
Nominees for the “Turning Point Trailblazer” award will embody:
- Grit, a fierce determination and willingness to do the tough stuff;
- Fire, a passion for public health and the community
- Curiosity, a drive to learn more from individuals in the communities we serve
- Balance, a commitment to ensuring we plan and act with equity-driven purpose
The 2024 Trailblazer award recipient is Gracie Pearcy, Oklahoma State Department of Health.
Gracie Pearcy is a dedicated advocate for community health, driven by a commitment to equity and addressing systemic disparities. Over the past eight years, her work in public health has been marked by resilience and a deep passion for health justice. She developed and evaluated health education plans that catered to diverse needs, showcasing her adaptability and dedication. Currently, Gracie leads an innovative statewide program, fostering communication and collaboration among CHWs. She creates accessible health education materials, organizes regular training sessions, and hosts community listening sessions, all aimed at unifying efforts and enhancing the health of Oklahomans. Her inspiring leadership and commitment to improving health outcomes reflect her unwavering drive to create a healthier future for the state.
OTPC Young Community Health Professional of the Year (40 and younger)
A new award started in 2023, the OTPC would like to recognize the deep impacts young professionals, 40 years old and younger, are making in community health across Oklahoma. Through honoring our young professionals, we hope to encourage their innovative spirits and provide them with a platform for elevating their work state-wide. OTPC looks forward to recognizing the talent of our young professionals in the health and social care sectors across Oklahoma.
Young Community Health Professionals of the Year demonstrate the following characteristics through their work:
- Innovative, solution-oriented, strategic
- Collaborative, inclusive, partner
- Motivator, encourager, supporter
- Dedication, commitment, determination
The 2024 Young Community Health Professional is McKenzie Cowlbeck, Oklahoma Public Health Association.
McKenzie is a dedicated member of the Oklahoma Public Health Association (OPHA) who actively seeks opportunities for organizational growth and member engagement. As policy co-chair and board member, she has implemented changes such as moving meetings to lunchtime to accommodate more participants, thereby enhancing attendance and learning. Her efforts in organizing Advocacy and Policy Days have fostered collaboration with other organizations, allowing for broader dissemination of public health information and resources. McKenzie’s commitment to educating members about legislative processes has inspired many to become more involved in advocacy and public health issues, ultimately strengthening the community’s understanding and support for these critical topics.
Health Innovator Award
The OTPC Policy Committee works tirelessly to promote positive health policy within the Oklahoma Legislature. Based on the policy priorities identified and adopted annually, members of the Policy Committee work alongside staffers and elected officials to move forward positive health and social care legislation. To acknowledge the work of our elected officials leaders in health and public health, the Policy Committee identifies the Health Innovator of the Year Award. The award is presented during the OTPC Awards Ceremony annually.
The 2024 Health Innovator Award is Rep. Daniel Pae. District 62, Oklahoma House of Representatives.
Daniel Pae is a dedicated advocate for community support at both the state and local levels, tirelessly promoting programs that enhance the well-being of Oklahomans. Whether he’s at the Capitol championing legislation or celebrating student achievements in Lawton schools, Daniel consistently demonstrates his commitment to fostering positive change. A true servant leader, he readily engages with local organizations and initiatives, as seen when he enthusiastically supported an interim study on School-based Medicaid reimbursement. With a focus on improving healthcare access, even in rural areas outside his district, Daniel exemplifies the spirit of community leadership and advocacy.
Submission Instructions and Award Information
- Please have all nomination information, narratives and supplemental documents prepared prior to completing application. Applications cannot be saved while in progress. All applications must be submitted online.
- Incomplete applications will not be evaluated.
- All letters of support and supplemental documentation must be submitted with the application. Any supplemental documentation received after application submission will not be evaluated.
Awards will be given at the Rural Health Conference. You do not have to attend the conference to attend the awards ceremony.
