. Each year, the mayors of Eastern Jackson County and surrounding communities nominate individuals whose actions reflect the very best of their cities: commitment, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to others.

These individuals are the 2025 Citizens of the Year, honored by the Truman Heartland Community Foundation for their exceptional service and community impact. Whether advancing education, revitalizing neighborhoods, supporting youth, or uplifting the arts, this year’s honorees embody what it means to lead with purpose.

Each will be formally recognized at the Toast to Our Towns Gala on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Westin Crown Center Hotel, where their stories will be celebrated alongside other changemakers from across the region. To purchase tickets or sponsor a table, go to www.thcf.org/gala.

Introducing the 2025 Citizens of the Year: 

Blue Springs: Brad Batz 

Nominated by Mayor Chris Lievsay

Brad Batz is the CEO of Fike Corporation, a global leader in industrial safety solutions. A third-generation leader in the family business, Brad became president in 2014 and CEO in 2017, driving a strategic shift toward a market-served model that improved efficiency and customer focus. His leadership has revitalized sales, empowered employees, and prioritized stakeholder value. A University of Florida graduate, Brad was named the 2024 Ernst & Young Heartland Entrepreneur of the Year for his industry impact and people-centered approach to business.

Grain Valley: Jerry Vaughan 

Nominated by Mayor Mike Todd

Jerry Vaughan has spent nearly 50 years shaping the heart of his community through service, leadership, and generosity. From his early days managing businesses to leading the Grain Valley Education Foundation, Jerry’s impact spans education, local media, and civic engagement. Under his guidance, the Foundation grew from awarding a few scholarships to over $121,000 in 2025 alone. He’s served on numerous boards, championed youth programs, and uplifted countless lives through his volunteerism. A true community builder, Jerry credits his success to strong relationships and inspiring mentors. Grain Valley proudly honors his legacy of compassion, commitment, and connection.

Independence: Gerry Winship 

Nominated by Mayor Rory Rowland

Gerry Winship serves as the Executive Director of the Noland Road Community Improvement District (CID), where he leads strategic redevelopment efforts across one of Independence’s most vital commercial corridors. Under his leadership, the district has secured over $38 million in funding for infrastructure improvements and matching grants that incentivize private investment. Gerry has also prioritized public safety, partnering with the Independence Police Foundation to install license plate readers along Noland Road. His collaborative approach has helped revitalize a long-neglected area while promoting business development, civic pride, and safer neighborhoods for all who live, work, and shop there.

Lee’s Summit: Michael VanBuskirk

Nominated by Mayor Bill Baird

Michael VanBuskirk has spent more than three decades helping shape the future of Lee’s Summit through consistent civic leadership and generous community involvement. As Vice Chairman of Newmark Zimmer, he’s guided transformative development projects, but it’s his steady hand behind the scenes—supporting schools, nonprofits, and economic development efforts—that truly sets him apart. He has played a transformative role in supporting the Lee’s Summit Economic Development Council as it reorganized this year with a new leadership structure, promoting growth and stability in Lee’s Summit. Known for his humility and collaborative spirit, Michael has been a vital force in advancing public-private partnerships, rebuilding key institutions, and uplifting the community he proudly calls home.

Oak Grove: Michelle Alexander 

Nominated by Mayor Dana Webb

In recognizing Michelle as 2025 Citizen of the Year for Oak Grove, the city celebrates her tireless advocacy for early childhood education, her mentorship of staff, and her role in building a thriving, supportive learning environment. Her influence is felt every day—through improved student outcomes, strengthened faculty morale, and deeper connections with parents and community stakeholders.

Raytown: Dave Thurman 

Nominated by Mayor Mike McDonough

A lifelong Raytown resident, Dave Thurman has spent more than 60 years building connections and giving back to his community. From serving on the Raytown Parks Board and Chamber of Commerce to leading the Raytown Live Concert Series and coaching youth sports, Dave’s commitment spans generations. Whether promoting the city through his photography or preparing for future events like the 2026 World Cup, he leads with heart, humility, and hometown pride. Raytown is proud to honor Dave as its 2025 Citizen of the Year.

Sugar Creek: Krystal Thompson 

Mayor Mike Larson

Krystal Thompson has been a steadfast presence in Sugar Creek for nearly two decades, serving as a 911 dispatcher, city volunteer, and active member of the Parks and Recreation Committee. Known for her calm under pressure and passion for community events, she’s been recognized as both a Crimestoppers Call Taker of the Year and an Everyday Hero. Whether performing at city celebrations or mentoring new dispatchers, Krystal brings energy, compassion, and a deep love for her hometown—making her a fitting choice as Sugar Creek’s 2025 Citizen of the Year.

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Truman Heartland Community Foundation is a public charity committed to improving area communities by promoting and serving private giving for the public good. Founded in 1982, THCF serves individuals who, through their private giving, wish to support the public good in the most tax-wise and effective manner. Through THCF, donors can set up their own family foundations, scholarship funds, field of interest funds, endowment funds, charitable gift annuities, and many other charitable vehicles that utilize the foundation’s shared resources to maximize the impact of their philanthropic dollars. In addition to donor services, THCF provides asset development for nonprofit organizations, offers competitive grant opportunities to nonprofits, assists organizations in planned giving, and serves as a change leader in addressing community issues. For more information, visit www.thcf.org or call 816-836-8189.

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