The Natchitoches Kiwanis Club held its annual banquet, celebrating the Terrific Kids program and recognizing outstanding community members, first responders, and educators for their service.
The Terrific Kids program, supported by the Kiwanis Club and local businesses, continues to make an impact on young students across the parish. The initiative provides certificates and recognition for students who demonstrate positive behavior, kindness, and leadership. For many, it is their first major award in school.
L.P. Vaughn Elementary Principal Carissa Davis highlighted the impact, noting that the school serves 608 students from Pre-K through second grade. She explained that the Terrific Kids program introduces children to the value of hard work, positive behavior, and community support.
In addition to celebrating the Terrific Kids program, the banquet recognized sponsors and volunteers whose time and dedication keep the program successful. The evening also included awards honoring Kiwanis members and community leaders:
Volunteer of the Year: Greg Burke, a longtime member who joined in 1996 and served as club president in 2000–2001, was recognized for his efforts in membership growth and ongoing support.
Distinguished Service Award: Craig Caskey was honored for his years of service and leadership within Kiwanis at both local and district levels.
Rising Star Award: Tiffany Woods was recognized for her leadership in the Terrific Kids program and sponsorship outreach.
Kiwanian of the Year: Don Barker received the highest honor for his dedication, energy, and support across multiple projects.
Community heroes and award-winning performances were also honored during the banquet. Firefighters, law enforcement officers, and first responders from across Natchitoches Parish were recognized for their service:
Firefighter of the Year: Vincent Mitchell, recognized for his dedication, certifications, and leadership within the fire department.
District 6 Firefighter of the Year: Corey Roberson, commended for his training and advancement in service.
City Lawman of the Year: Lieutenant Robert Williams, honored for his leadership, work with the narcotics division, and commitment to training younger officers.
Deputy of the Year: Captain Shane Lacaze, recognized for his years of service, leadership, and dedication to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.
State Trooper of the Year: Trooper Zachary Antee, commended for his investigative work, professionalism, and dedication.
Gabrielle Danos was named Teacher of the Year in recognition of her student-first approach and steady support of fellow educators. School leaders highlighted her commitment to student learning, daily encouragement of excellence, and role as a mentor to colleagues. Danos has advanced from career teacher to mentor teacher and master teacher at Lakeview, where her work has earned consistent praise.
The Kiwanis Club also awarded two $500 scholarships to local students. This year’s recipient, College of Nursing student Cailah Bush, was recognized for academic performance, leadership, and commitment to service.
Retiring Club officer and director Craig George and Russell Meissner were recognized. The banquet concluded with the swearing in of new officers and directors for the 2025–2026 Kiwanis year.
President – Tiffany Woods
President-Elect – Crystal Conway
Immediate Past President – Brittany Barton
Treasurer – Dr. Nabin Sapkota
Secretary – Craig Caskey
Club Directors for the 2025-26 year include Greg Burke (1 Year Term), Tiffanie Mitchell (2 Year Term), and Word Lindsey (3 Year Term).
Division 11 Lieutenant Governor Danny Wilburn praised the Natchitoches club for its service to children and the community, noting that Kiwanis members are leaders who give their time, talent, and heart to improve lives “one child, one community at a time.”
