Association of Leadership Programs
Celebrating a Legacy: ALP Honors Five Distinguished Leaders with 2025 Lifetime Legacy Awards
August 1, 2025On Tuesday, July 22, as we reflected on the bold ideas and dedicated people that brought ALP to life, we honored five remarkable leaders whose vision, service, and impact have helped shape the future of Community Leadership. The Lifetime Legacy Award is one of ALP’s highest honors. It recognizes individuals whose lasting contributions have advanced our profession, inspired generations, and strengthened communities nationwide.
2025 Lifetime Legacy Honorees
Michael Bennett | Former Chief Advancement Officer, Cleveland Leadership Center (OH)
Michael Bennett brought strategic vision and fundraising expertise to one of the country’s most dynamic leadership organizations. At ALP, he served as Affinity Group Champion for Development, presented at numerous conferences, and facilitated the Fundraising and Finance Mastery Course, helping community leadership professionals build confidence and capacity. Michael’s enduring legacy is one of generosity, excellence, and a commitment to serving others. Award accepted on Michael’s behalf by Becky Ruppert McMahon, President & CEO, Cleveland Leadership Center.
Ruth Ellen Whitt | Former Executive Director, Leadership Texarkana (TX)
With roots in ALP’s predecessor, the Community Leadership Association, Ruth Ellen Whitt has been a tireless champion of innovation and connection. Her advocacy brought the Strategic Doing framework to ALP members, and her involvement in the Pacesetters Affinity Group helped spark dialogue and collaboration across the network. Ruth Ellen’s thoughtful leadership and generous mentorship have shaped both her community and our field. Award accepted on Ruth Ellen’s behalf by Jenny Walker, Executive Director, Leadership Texarkana.
Myra Goodman Smith | Former President & CEO, Leadership Metro Richmond (VA)
Myra Goodman Smith has long been a trusted voice and champion for Community Leadership. Over her years of service, she presented at national conferences, mentored peers across the country, and played a critical role in ALP’s Executive Director transition process. She also served on the ALP Board of Directors and helped lead the Fundraising and Finance Mastery Course. Myra’s impact is wide-reaching and deeply felt. Myra accepted her award in person during the 2025 National Conference.
Denise King | Former Director, Leadership Denver (CO)
With contagious energy and unwavering commitment, Denise King elevated both her local program and the broader ALP network. She served on the ALP Board of Directors, helped host the 2012 ALP regional conference in partnership with the International Leadership Association, and remained engaged even after retirement, returning to support Leadership Denver through a time of transition. Denise’s mentorship, enthusiasm, and lasting influence made her Lifetime Legacy Award truly overdue. Denise accepted her award in person during the 2025 National Conference.
Lura J. Hammond | Founding Executive Director, Association of Leadership Programs
No legacy has been more foundational to ALP than that of Lura Hammond. As ALP’s first and only Executive Director, Lura guided the organization from a grassroots idea to a thriving national network representing nearly 300 leadership programs. Her thoughtful leadership, steady presence, and deep care for people have positively impacted every aspect of ALP, fostering a culture rooted in trust, generosity, and meaningful impact.
During the 2025 conference, we marked Lura’s upcoming retirement and celebrated her 15 years of extraordinary service. In her honor, ALP announced the creation of the Lura J. Hammond Sustainability Fund, a lasting investment in ALP’s future and a reflection of Lura’s enduring vision. Lura accepted her special edition Lifetime Legacy Award wind chimes, created in place of the traditional plaque, in person during an emotional surprise session in Fort Worth.
Honoring the Past, Investing in the Future
These five leaders exemplify the best of what ALP stands for: courage, generosity, innovation, and a deep-rooted commitment to service. We thank them for the seeds they’ve planted, the leaders they’ve lifted, and the legacies they’ve created.
To support the Lura J. Hammond Sustainability Fund and carry forward the vision that has shaped our field, we invite you to make a gift at alpleaders.org.
Together, we honor their past and invest in our shared future.