Midlothian Lions Club Installs New Officers and Honors Outstanding Servant Leaders
The Midlothian Lions Club hosted its annual awards banquet and officer installation ceremony on June 5, celebrating nearly eight decades of community service and recognizing members who exemplify servant leadership and dedication to others.
Founded in 1946 by L.A. Mills, the Midlothian Lions Club has spent the last 79 years addressing critical local needs through service and donations. From providing vision screenings for children and distributing food to seniors, to supporting youth scholarships and first responder initiatives, the club continues to be a cornerstone of compassion and civic engagement in the Midlothian community.
During the ceremony, several local Lions were recognized for their outstanding contributions:
Grassroots Lion Award – Karen Cox
Karen Cox, who joined the Midlothian Lions Club in July 2021, received the Grassroots Lion Award—an honor reserved for a member with fewer than five years of service who has made a significant impact. Since joining the club, Karen has been an engaged and enthusiastic Lion, serving on the board of directors and holding the position of treasurer. Her dedication has also been instrumental in organizing meaningful service projects, including food distributions at Section 8 housing communities and the Midlothian Senior Center. Her servant heart and positive spirit embody the values of Lionism.
Lion of the Year – Kasey Cheshier
Kasey Cheshier, who became a Lion in 2007 and transferred to the Midlothian Lions Club in 2018, was named Lion of the Year in recognition of his outstanding leadership during his three-year term as club president. Under his guidance, the club implemented lasting systems for sustainability, strengthened internal communication, and enhanced operational efficiency.
His focus on structure, service, and strategic growth helped drive strong fundraising outcomes and consistent membership gains—ensuring the club remains active, energized, and mission-driven. Kasey’s long-standing commitment to the Lions’ ideals and his drive to serve the Midlothian community continue to inspire fellow members and shape the club’s future.
Melvin Jones Fellowship – Diane Cooper & Kasey Cheshier
The evening also featured the presentation of the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellowship (MJF) to Diane Cooper and Kasey Cheshier—making them only the fifth and sixth members in club history to receive this elite recognition.
Established in 1973 and named in honor of Lions Clubs International founder Melvin Jones, the Melvin Jones Fellowship (MJF) is the highest form of recognition presented by the Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF). This prestigious honor is reserved for individuals who exemplify the spirit of humanitarianism and service above self. It honors those whose dedication and generosity reflect outstanding service to humanity, going far beyond the expectations of typical Lion membership.
Diane Cooper, who joined the club in 2006 and served as president in 2014, is known for her humble, consistent, and selfless service.
“Whether mentoring new members, quietly volunteering behind the scenes, prepping for the biannual pancake breakfast, or stepping in to meet needs before they’re even spoken, Diane’s leadership is quiet but powerful—humble, steady, and deeply compassionate,” said outgoing president Kasey Cheshier.
Incoming president Jim Brunson, in announcing Kasey’s selection as a Melvin Jones Fellow, stressed Kasey’s remarkable devotion to the Lions mission and serving the community for nearly two decades. In addition to serving three terms as club president, Kasey has also held roles as marketing chair, program chair, and zone chair for Ellis County.
“Kasey has made an incredible impact on the Midlothian Lions Club,” said Brunson. “His dedication and leadership have lifted the entire club to new heights of service and have helped grow our membership through purpose-driven engagement.”
This dual recognition of Diane and Kasey as Melvin Jones Fellows underscores their lasting impact on the Midlothian Lions and the broader community they serve.
2025–2026 Officer Installation
The banquet concluded with the formal installation of the 2025–2026 officers, led by Past District Governor Darla Wisdom of the Grand Prairie Host Lions Club. Terms begin July 1, 2025, and end June 30, 2026.
- President: Jim Brunson
- Immediate Past President: Kasy Cheshier
- First Vice President: Freda Hardaway
- Second Vice President: Marissa Stephens
- Secretary: Carol Smith
- Treasurer: Thomas Hawbaker
- Lion Tamer: Kevin O’Teter
- Tail Twister: Kasey Cheshier
Committee Chairs and Board Members:
- Membership Chair: Amy Vineyard
- Service Chair: Fred Smith
- Marketing Chair: Kasey Cheshier
- Board of Directors: Joe Jessing, Richard Reno, John O’Polka, Kevin O’Teter, and Lori Ballard
Incoming President Jim Brunson, who has been a Lion since 2004 with the Mission Lions Club before transferring to Midlothian in 2021, expressed his excitement for the year ahead.
“It’s a true honor to serve as president of this club. The Midlothian Lions have a powerful legacy of selfless service, and I look forward to continuing that tradition. This isn’t just a leadership role—it’s a chance to give back to a community I love, surrounded by people who lead with purpose and heart. Together, we’re going to make a meaningful difference this year,” Brunson said.
