Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits (OKCNP) is celebrating 11 years of Visions Awards (Visions) on November 30, 2021, at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City. Visions honors those who act as agents of change in the community, providing leadership to enrich and enliven those whom they serve.

Dr. Bob Blackburn, executive director, Oklahoma Historical Society (OHS), will be honored with the Pat Potts Visionary Award. The award is named in honor of the founder of the Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits. This award goes to an individual executive leader who, through focus, tenacity and leadership, has inspired the success of a singular organization in carrying out its charitable mission.

“What I admire most is his ethical leadership and grasp of complex issues facing our state,” said Deena Fisher, vice president, board of directors, OHS. “He is a visionary, always planning ahead on the growth and progress of the OHS to promote Oklahoma culture, history, people and ideas.”

Bob, a native Oklahoman, grew up in Edmond and graduated from Putnam City High School. He went on to receive his bachelor’s degree from Southwestern Oklahoma State University, prior to attending Oklahoma State University, where he earned his M.A. and Ph.D.

Bob published his first book in graduate school and has since written and co-authored over 20 books, has had his works published in journals, written screen plays and has appeared as a historical expert across various media, including the History Channel.

Bob’s career at OHS began in 1980 as the editor of the Chronicles of Oklahoma. In 1990 he became the deputy director, and then executive director in 1999. In addition to his work at OHS, Bob has been a member of the National Park Service Planning Team, consultant to the Chickasaw Nation, and has served on numerous nonprofit boards and commissions.

He has been honored with a special award from Governor Henry Bellmon (1998) for Outstanding Service to the State and as Newsmaker of the Year (2006) from the Oklahoma City Gridiron Club.

“In addition, his vision is beyond just the Oklahoma Historical Society,” said Deena. “His vision includes the growth, progress and success of the state he loves – the state of Oklahoma. Therefore, I believe it is the right time that this great servant leader, with his great knowledge and ability to communicate, is included among the great leaders recognized and honored proudly through the OKCNP Visions Awards honoring executive leadership in Oklahoma.”

To learn more about the 2021 Visions Awards, visit the OKCNP Visions Award Page: https://okcnp.org/Visions.