The Tullis Family (Brandon, Megan, Slade, Harlyn) was honored for 2023 Farm Family of the Year. After Lauren Brown presented the award, Brandon Tullis shared in his speech appreciation for having a great deal of support. He also said, “It was an honor to serve this community… we thank the good Lord for our blessings.”
Farmers Bank & Trust (FB&T) was honored with the 2024 Business Leadership Award. The bank known for its motto, serving with HEART (Honor, Excellence, Adaptability, Respect, and Teamwork) was presented the award by Master of Ceremonies Lynn Vanderveer who said in his speech that the 13 employees at the Prescott branch had a combined 223 years of experience. He also said this team went “above and beyond providing the best customer care.”
Crystal Haley was named the Nevada School District Educator of the Year. Nevada Principal Carol Foster said of Haley “she consistently goes above and beyond for the students of Nevada.” Foster also said Haley demonstrates a willingness to lend a helping hand and that she is “the embodiment of what it means to be an outstanding educator.”
Kenzie McMullan was named Nevada School District Student of the Year. Foster said Crystal Haley was the teacher who nominated her and described her as a student who “exhibits great qualities of a school leader.” McMullan was also said to be one who “other students look up to.”
Janet Banister was named Prescott Educator of the Year. Prescott Principal Tommy Poole presented the award and said of Banister that in his entire career he had “never seen a teacher have this much impact on students.” When accepting the award, Banister, who is retiring this year, spoke of her time in Prescott and said, “God leads you to places and you never know what He's going to do… I've been so blessed to be here in Prescott.” Banister praised the students, staff, and administrators, saying that her years in Prescott were the best years of her 33-year educator's journey.
Jayquan Dickerson was named Prescott School District Student of the Year. Poole said of Dickerson, “I’ve never seen him have a bad day … he shows up every day with a smile on his face.” Poole said Dickerson’s character “is second to none.”
OYEA (Organization for Youth Education in Agriculture) was awarded Organization of the Year. This nonprofit charitable foundation, established in 2018, was created to provide education for students in animal science and caring for livestock. OYEA President Fred Harris accepted on behalf of the organization and praised the students, parents, school staff, school administrators, and the community for their support. “From the beginning, the community has been behind us 100 percent,” Harris said. “Through the generosity of everyone, this program was built into something unique.”
Jane Purtle was awarded Treasure of Gold for her service. Presented by Vanderveer, Purtle was described as one with great love for her community who has supported or volunteered for numerous clubs, organizations, and businesses over the years. When accepting the award, Purtle said she enjoyed working and volunteering. “I love this community … as long as my legs keep going, I’ll keep working,” Purtle said.
Tommy Glass was named the Hometown Hero for 2024. In addition to his service with the Arkansas Army National Guard, Glass was said to have worn many hats in the community; work with Lanebrug Volunteer Fire Department, Nevada County Rescue Unit, and Nevada County Quorum Court are just a few. When accepting the award, showing appreciation for his family and God, Glass also said, “No way am I a hero; I’ve just done my best to honor God and my country.”
Brenda Williams was presented with the Gold Star Award. Vanderveer said this honor was awarded as “a mark of excellence and recognition in noble achievement.” He said Williams “strives every single day for excellence, and after completing one achievement, strives to accomplish another.” He also described Williams as having a great commitment and dedication to the community and helping others.
Patricia Roberts was awarded Citizen of the Year. Vanderveer said this award “is not given so much for achievement as it is for helping others achieve” and that it represents “a continuing commitment to the community.” He described Roberts as a “can-do individual” who served both McRae and Prescott schools for a combined 50 years, as well as numerous other organizations in Prescott, including but not limited to Prescott Rotary, the chamber, Ila Upchurch Community Corporation, and Prescott City Council. When accepting the accolade, Roberts thanked the Prescott community and said, “I am so proud, and I am so honored to receive this award tonight. Thank you so much.”
