The Lake Whitney Chamber of Commerce held its 71st annual awards banquet Saturday, April 18, recognizing individuals and organizations for their contributions to the community.
Eliya Hughes
Young Person of the Year
Eliya Hughes was recognized as Young Person of the Year for her leadership, character and commitment to her school and community.
Described as kind, compassionate and rarely without a smile, Hughes was praised for championing others and working to ensure those around her feel welcome and valued. She leads by example through her involvement in Whitney High School’s marching band, Student Council and National Honor Society.
Hughes is also actively engaged in her community, participating in Student Council volunteer initiatives and regularly attending school board and city council meetings to better understand local government and civic responsibility.
Her service includes volunteering for the Whitney Veterans Day ceremony over several years and contributing as a member of the Wildcat Strong Leadership Group, where she helps welcome new students and advocates for their success. She also serves on the school’s anti-bullying committee.
It was noted that Hughes’ character, integrity and compassion set her apart, and she is a leader who makes a lasting impact while remaining true to herself.
Kevin Threadgill
Citizen of the Year
Kevin Threadgill was named Citizen of the Year for his service, leadership and ongoing commitment to the Whitney community.
Chamber Director Janice Sanders said that Threadgill embodies the spirit of Whitney through his tireless service, business leadership and willingness to invest in its future leaders. Sanders noted that he not only operates a business in Whitney, but consistently gives back by supporting local initiatives and helping others.
His dedication to the community’s infrastructure and quality of life is reflected in his work on the City of Whitney Parks Board, where he has helped ensure local parks remain a source of pride and a place where families can gather and create lasting memories.
Threadgill has also made a significant impact as president of the Whitney Wildcat Future Leaders (WWFL). Under his leadership, presenters said that the organization has grown not only in numbers, but in spirit. He spends countless hours working behind the scenes at the city park, preparing fields and equipment, supporting coaches and making sure every child has the opportunity to participate.
For Threadgill, Sanders said, youth sports are about more than the game; they are a way to help develop the community’s future leaders.
Lynnsey Bonner
Educator of the Year
Lynnsey Bonner was named Educator of the Year, with Whitney Intermediate School Principal Amber Seely presenting the award, describing her as a phenomenal teacher who exemplifies what it means to be an educator.
Bonner’s passion for teaching extends beyond the classroom, as she inspires, motivates and uplifts both her students and colleagues. She creates a positive and engaging environment where students feel valued, supported and challenged to reach their full potential.
She is known for building strong relationships with her students, taking time to get to know them while maintaining high expectations in the classroom. Students are encouraged to do their best and treat others with kindness and dignity. Bonner greets her students at the door each period and works to instill confidence in them, something Seely said is evident in the way students seek her out to share their “good things.”
Beyond the classroom, Bonner is active in the community, volunteering alongside her husband in the Towash Baptist Church youth ministry. On campus, she is known for stepping in to comfort both students and fellow teachers, reflecting what Seely described as a servant’s heart.
WWFL
Chamber Member of the Year
The Whitney Wildcat Future Leaders (WWFL) was named Chamber Member of the Year in recognition of its impact on local youth and the broader community.
Sanders described the organization as more than a sports league, calling it a foundation where young people are shaped, guided and inspired. Through participation, athletes learn lessons that extend beyond the field, building teamwork, forming friendships and understanding the value of working together toward a common goal.
WWFL leaders were also credited with instilling deeper values, including a foundation of faith, while helping participants grow both on and off the field. Sanders said the organization’s influence reaches far beyond touchdowns and scoreboards, playing a role in shaping the future of the Whitney community.
Kwail Baskett, a 17-year board member, accepted the award on behalf of the organization.
Amy Leech
Hall of Fame
Amy Leech was inducted into the Hall of Fame, with the award presented earlier in the week at a Whitney ISD school board meeting by Connie Terry and Janice Sanders, as she was unable to attend the banquet.
Leech was recognized for her long-standing dedication to education and the Whitney community. A graduate of Whitney schools, she has spent the majority of her 25-year career serving Whitney ISD. She currently serves as assistant superintendent and has held a variety of roles throughout her career, including elementary and middle school teacher, high school assistant principal, high school principal and instructional technologist.
Presenters described Leech as a leader who balances strength with genuine compassion. Her work has included counseling students facing disciplinary challenges, supporting staff members during personal difficulties and conducting home visits to check on students.
One of the most notable moments of her career came during the 2020 school year, when she coordinated virtual learning during the pandemic, dedicating countless hours to ensure students remained connected and supported.
Leech has also been a consistent presence at extracurricular events, demonstrating her commitment to students both inside and outside the classroom. Presenters said her career reflects a deep and lasting dedication to Whitney.
The Lakelander 