Anyone who has worked with teenagers knows how saintly educators are. Teachers dedicate themselves to impacting the lives of their students. But one teacher in particular has earned special recognition for going above and beyond as a role model and servant leader in 2012.
Cody Lee, a business and accounting teacher at Great Bend High School, was named as the first-ever NextGen Leader of the Year Saturday night.
Lee was honored during the 91st Annual Great Bend Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Banquet at the Great Bend Convention Center.
Lee has served for the past six years at Great Bend High School. Since joining the staff at GBHS, she has created and implemented a new class called Business Leadership, which teaches students what it takes to become leaders in the workplace. But Lee’s impact on the student body at Great Bend High School extends far past her classroom.
It’s no secret that Lee has made an impact on her students and her coworkers. In 2011, Great Bend USD 428 recognized her as the Secondary Teacher of the Year.
“Cody is a wonderful role model for teenagers and for her fellow teachers,” said Jennifer Schartz, USD 428’s public information director.
Schartz nominated Lee for the Chamber’s leadership award.
“She has made great strides with the Business Department and with the FBLA club, shaping her students to become well-rounded, engaged leaders.” Schartz said.
After school is out, Lee is active as a coach for the volleyball team and as a sponsor for the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Club. For the past four years, the FBLA club has qualified for state and national competitions — a feat that none of her predecessors were able to accomplish.
And for the last two years, her FBLA students have claimed a championship title for their work with the MyTown Project, the Panther Paw Craft Festival, and the GBHS “Dancing with the Staff” charity event benefiting the March of Dimes.
Lee is active at First Christian Church, where she has served as a deacon and a children’s church leader. Lee lives in Great Bend with her husband, Josh, and their three children Kaylee, 7; Brandon, 5; and Ambria, 5 months.
NextGen Leader of the Year Criteria
The “NextGen Leader of the Year” award is presented by the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce & Economic Development to recognize an individual for their volunteer service. The winner must be creating a meaningful impact as a role model for others, and be seen as a rising leader in their workplace and in the community.