Neshoba Democrat
Vowell receives CDP Lifetime Achievement Award
David Vowell, longtime president of the Community Development Partnership, received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the CDP’s annual banquet Monday night.
By Jace Henderson
David Vowell, longtime president of the Community Development Partnership, received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the CDP’s annual banquet Monday night.
The new award honors Vowell for more than 25 years of service to the organization.
In a special video presentation, several community leaders spoke about Vowell’s dedication to Philadelphia and Neshoba County, his work in economic development, and his willingness to help others.
Vowell was described as “relentless and fearless” in pursuing what he believed was best for the community and as a man who “walks the talk and talks the talk.”
David Alexander, who is succeeding Vowell as CDP president, said in the video that Vowell’s involvement in the community was difficult to miss.
“Every time we’d go somewhere or anytime somebody would call, they’d ask for Big Dave or Coach,” Alexander said. “He knew everybody and knew everything.”
Vowell took the stage and thanked his wife, Brenda, and their family for being there every step of the way.
“God has been so good to me and my family,” Vowell said.
He then turned the attention away from himself and toward the community leaders in the crowd who have helped make Philadelphia and Neshoba County what they are today.
“We can talk about this leader and that leader, but this community is where it is because of these folks that are sitting right out here,” Vowell said.
“I think some of our best days are coming pretty soon,” he added.
State Sen. Lane Taylor and State Rep. C. Scott Bounds read a letter from Gov. Tate Reeves congratulating Vowell on his retirement.
Reeves thanked Vowell for his work to advance economic development opportunities, improve road and bridge infrastructure, expand broadband access, and champion initiatives to strengthen the community.
Reeves also recognized Vowell’s impact as an educator and coach and the investments he has made in the lives of young people.
Representatives for U.S. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith and U.S. Rep. Michael Guest also read letters congratulating Vowell.
Tribal Chief Cyrus Ben said Vowell’s work has always been driven by his care for the community.
Ben, speaking about Vowell and his wife, Brenda, said, “You can never measure a heart, and with you two, the heart of this community is genuine.”
Ben said Vowell’s love and passion for the community would continue even after retirement. He also gave Vowell a pair of stickball sticks as a parting gift.
Mayor Jim Fulton presented Vowell with a key to the city, thanking him for his contributions to the city and the Philadelphia-Neshoba County Park Commission.
“As part of the economic development team, you’ve been very instrumental in the progression and growth of the city of Philadelphia,” Fulton said.
Fulton called Vowell a good friend and wished him well in the next stage of his life.
County Administrator Jeff Mayo also presented a resolution from the Board of Supervisors honoring Vowell for the foundation he has laid in the county.
Mayo said late District 5 Supervisor Obbie Riley had planned to make the motion and present the resolution, but his passing last week prevented him from doing so, leaving his signature blank on the resolution.
“The board wanted to memorialize him and also celebrate you tonight,” Mayo said.
He said the county will honor Vowell by continuing the work he helped build.
“We honor you for that tonight, and tomorrow we honor you by continuing that path and building on that foundation that you’ve created,” Mayo said.