By Staff Reports | Community Updates
Scottsdale Leadership has announced the recipients of its 2025 Spirit of Community Leadership Awards, honoring individuals who exemplify outstanding leadership and service in the community.
The four awards include the Drinkwater Leadership Award, Hodges Alumni Achievement Award, Bill Jenkins Youth Leadership Award, and Frances Young Trailblazer Award. This year’s honorees are:
- Kathy Wills, managing director at MidFirst Bank, recipient of the Drinkwater Leadership Award;
- Denny Brown, sponsorship consultant with Scottsdale Community Partners, recipient of the Hodges Alumni Achievement Award;
- Pastor Jackie Parks, lead pastor of South Scottsdale Presbyterian Church, recipient of the Frances Young Trailblazer Award; and
- Karina Koppikar, student at Chaparral High School, recipient of the Bill Jenkins Youth Leadership Award
Drinkwater Leadership Award – Kathy Wills
A Scottsdale native, Ms. Wills has more than 30 years of professional and civic leadership. Her volunteer work includes serving in leadership roles with Scottsdale Arts, where she helped guide the organization through a CEO transition, and her current role as president-elect and governance chair of the Coronado Foundation for the Future. She also teaches financial literacy workshops through Live and Learn and mentors students in the Coronado Promise program.
The award is sponsored by A1 Garage Door Service.
Hodges Alumni Achievement Award – Denny Brown
Mr. Brown is recognized for his dedication to service, mentorship and community collaboration. His work with Scottsdale Community Partners has helped provide essential resources to residents in need. Known for his humility and ability to bring people together, he continues to inspire others through his leadership.
The award is sponsored by Prestige Cleaners.
Bill Jenkins Youth Leadership Award – Karina Koppikar
Ms. Koppikar, a student at Chaparral High School, is honored for her leadership in youth empowerment, education and mental health advocacy. She has developed programs that connect students with mentors, promote inclusivity and foster personal growth.
The award is sponsored by Vitalant.
Frances Young Trailblazer Award – Pastor Jackie Parks
Pastor Parks is recognized for her work as the founder of Community House, a day relief center serving individuals experiencing homelessness. Through partnerships with the City of Scottsdale and local nonprofits, she has created a network of services offering meals, showers, workforce development and healthcare.
The award is sponsored by The Women’s Collective.
“Herb Drinkwater, Frank Hodges, Bill Jenkins and Frances Young would be proud to see their legacy continued by honoring these community members for their passion, commitment and leadership,” said Lee Ann Witt, executive director of Scottsdale Leadership. “It is our privilege to honor these elite leaders, both past and present.”
All four award recipients will be recognized at the Spirit of Community Awards Luncheon, presented by Scottsdale Leadership on Dec. 12, 2025.
