At the FORD WYOMING CENTER in Casper
Breakfast Begins at 6:30 a.m.
Program begins promptly at 7 a.m.
Honoring Bob & Celia Kirkwood
Bob and Celia Kirkwood have been married nearly 47 years and have built a life centered on family, work, and steady support of their community. They have two sons, Tom and Michael, a daughter-in-law, Cassie, and one granddaughter who is a special part of their lives. Wyoming has always been home, and they are grateful for the good and kind people who make it such a special place to live and raise a family.
Bob carried on the family legacy of Kirkwood Oil & Gas after his father and continues to lead the company today, alongside the next generation. “We would not be where we are today without our employees,” he said. “Their loyalty and dedication have meant everything to our family and our business.”
Celia focused her time raising their family and supporting their children’s schools. “I have always preferred to work quietly behind the scenes, helping where I can make a real difference,” she said, reflecting her approach to family, work, and community service.
Together, the Kirkwoods have devoted themselves to strengthening their community, giving generously and leading by example. They offer this advice to young people: “Think about the end goal. Every choice you make, your studies, your hobbies, your opportunities, shapes where you will end up. Make sure the path you are on leads to the life you truly want and do not be afraid to adjust along the way.”
Featuring Coach Ken Carter
Known for his unwavering principles and discipline, Coach Ken Carter gained recognition for coaching the Richmond High School basketball team in California. In 1999, he made headlines by locking out his undefeated team due to poor academic performance. Faced with opposition and controversy, Carter prioritized education, implementing strict rules and academic improvement contracts. His unwavering dedication resulted in a remarkable academic and athletic transformation for his team. His story and the impact he had on his players were immortalized in the film Coach Carter starring Samuel L. Jackson.
Carter is the Founder and Chairman of the Coach Ken Carter Foundation, a non-profit that promotes and provides education, training and mentoring programs for minority youths. He also founded the Coach Carter Impact Academy, designed to enable disadvantaged youth to reach their full academic and life potential.
A successful author and speaker, Coach Carter is an esteemed author and the founder and chairman of the Coach Ken Carter Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the development, promotion, and provision of education, training, and mentoring programs for minority youths. Carter’s influence and dedication have garnered widespread recognition. In 2002, he was selected to carry the Olympic torch in the San Francisco Bay area.