Sheppard civilian named to 2013 Wichita Falls "20 Under 40" leadership class

  • Published
  • By Dan Hawkins
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  A civilian employee here was among 20 leaders from across the local area honored Jan. 28 as part of the "20 Under 40" Class of 2013 during a formal ceremony at the Wellington Banquet Center.

Kimberly Dagdag-Parker, an 82nd Training Wing public affairs specialist, was recognized as one of the area's best and brightest leaders of tomorrow during the ceremony sponsored by the Times-Record News.

"It really is an honor," Dagdag-Parker said. "I was humbled just by my nomination...but then finding out I had been chosen as a person who gives back to the community in a unique way is very gratifying."

As the only selection from Sheppard, Dagdag-Parker stood out even amongst the various leaders from the area, including those from various banking institutions, television stations and teachers amongst others. 

The idea behind the program is to formally recognize community leaders who each are trying to shape the future of the Wichita Falls area.

Parker was nominated for the award by her supervisor, 82nd TRW Public Affairs director George Woodward.

"Kim epitomizes leadership...both at work and out in the community," Woodward said. "(Dagdag-Parker) is a go-to person here at the base and in her off-duty efforts in Wichita Falls."

Being involved in events such as the city's annual Hotter 'N Hell bicycle race, not to mention working with local children as a youth basketball coach at Sheppard and as a peer mentor at Sheppard Elementary School, has made Parker realize it's not the children who always benefit the most from the collaboration.

"I think if most people realized how rewarding it is to spend time with kids in need, there would be a whole lot more people volunteering to do it," said Dagdag-Parker.

Helping children is not just limited to part of the Dagdag-Parker family. Husband Thomas, a special-education teacher at Cunningham Elementary School and part of the Rose Street Spectrum program helping children with autism, along with her parents Luis and Teresa, have all played a huge role in shaping Dagdag-Parker's viewpoint.

"Thomas is truly an inspiration...seeing him be able to relate and really help his students is incredible," said Dagdag-Parker. "I also saw how my parents gave back to the community when my father was in the military and knew it was the right thing to do."