2023-24 President and the Optimist of the Year Awards

President Award

This award goes to a person who is the most incredible, hardworking, and compassionate person I have had the pleasure of serving with.  Over the years, she has developed our club with social media presence.  She is passionate about keeping the club in the know recognized within our community.  I feel that she has kept our club grounded and vital.  I admire her determination when she strongly believes in something and don’t give up.  You may have seen her at events making sure photos are taken to show and tell our fellowship, activities and events.  She is proud to share what we are doing in the community. She has also served as a board member and chairs the Marketing Team.  I love the passion she has for our club, and I am pleased to present the President’s Award to Kelly Kluesner. ~Past President, Melissa Eckert

Melissa Eckert and Kelly Kluesner

Optimist of the Year

This award goes to a person who has shown great leadership and has had truly outstanding impact in the lives of many.  She has developed and improved the lives of students and future leaders.  She has spent countless hours developing and growing the Octagon Club.  The Octagon club currently has over 200+ members.  With her perseverance, she has led the presence of these students in mentoring the youth in our grade schools.  She created the Jasper Mental Attitude Award that is given out to young softball athletes in our community, participates in other Optimist projects such as a board member, chair for Tri-Star Basketball, presents our scholarships to the winners during the Jasper High School awards ceremony and Strassenfest parade committee member.  I know that I am just skimming the surface for all she has done over the years.  I am pleased to present the Optimist of the Year award to Jessica Mehringer. ~ Past President, Melissa Eckert

Jessica Mehringer