Six Pottawatomie County Health Champions Celebrated at CHIP Semi-Annual Meeting

On Tuesday, June 23, community partners and health advocates gathered at Oklahoma Baptist University for a halftime celebration of Pottawatomie County’s Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP), taking stock of six months of community-driven work and looking ahead to a strong second half of 2026.

The event featured a progress report on six months of collaborative work across the county’s health coalitions — including approval of Shawnee’s Safe Streets for All action plan, partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, lien reduction work that led to the passage of State Senate Bill 1198, and more. Dr. AJ Griffin, CEO of the Potts Family Foundation, served as the convening speaker and challenged CHIP partners to protect the momentum that has been built through trust, alignment, and shared action. 

The meeting culminated in the presentation of the inaugural CHIP Awards Presented by Pogo, recognizing individuals whose exceptional leadership and dedication are helping build a healthier, more connected Pottawatomie County. In keeping with the meeting's basketball halftime theme, the awards carried names familiar to any sports fan.

"After six months of collaboration, action, and community-driven work, we're proud to celebrate the teammates making this plan more than just a document,” John Bobb-Semple, executive director of Pogo, said. “These are the people making things happen for Pottawatomie County."

2026 CHIP Award Recipients

Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award

Cindy Bartley, Shawnee Public Schools

Cindy was honored for the extraordinary breadth of leadership she brings to the Mental Wellbeing Coalition. Balancing roles as educator, counselor, caregiver, and community leader, she shows up to every meeting with optimism, innovation, and a can-do attitude. A steady source of support through every iteration of the committee, Cindy's commitment extends well beyond the meeting room, as she lives the mission of community health out loud every day in her role as Coordinator of Prevention Services for Shawnee Public Schools. Her wisdom, encouragement, and unwavering belief in the importance of mental wellbeing have been an inspiration to her committee and to the broader CHIP effort.

Rookie of the Year Award

Julie Gibbs, SSM Health

Julie was recognized for the immediate and lasting impact she made in her very first year with Pogo, SSM Health, and the Veggie Rx program. From day one, she arrived ready to work, embracing every challenge with a positive attitude, professionalism, and a genuine willingness to learn. In a short time, she became an invaluable contributor to the Nutrition & Food Access Coalition, helping drive the committee's work forward and supporting key projects. Her dedication, enthusiasm, and heart for serving others made her the clear choice for this year's Rookie of the Year.

Sixth Man of the Year Award

Amy Moon, Stride Mortgage

Amy Moon was recognized as the 2026 CHIP Sixth Man of the Year for her outstanding leadership and service through the Shawnee Housing Alliance. Whether connecting first-time homebuyers to resources through Stride Mortgage’s HSP+ program or stepping in to support Alliance projects, Amy consistently brings energy, adaptability, and reliability to the work. Her commitment to making homeownership more attainable for local families and her willingness to help wherever needed have made her an invaluable partner in advancing housing opportunities and community well-being.

Teammate of the Year Award

Susan Morris, Community Leader and Volunteer

Susan was recognized for her exceptional collaboration and initiative within the Built Environment Committee. Over the past year, she developed a GIS tracking system for walk audits, actively recruited new members, volunteered at numerous events, and took ownership of key projects from start to finish. From leading the bike decorating station at Pedal Palooza to engaging youth in community health efforts, Susan consistently shows up, steps in, and delivers for her committee, making her an invaluable force behind the CHIP’s growing impact.

Clutch Player of the Year Award

Lynn Cowie, Shawnee Public Schools

Lynn was celebrated for her unwavering dedication and positive presence at community health events throughout the year as a member of the Nutrition & Food Access Coalition. Always eager to help and consistently reliable, she steps in wherever needed — from setup and greeting attendees to behind-the-scenes support — ensuring every event runs smoothly and every participant feels welcome. Her flexibility, genuine desire to serve, and enthusiasm make her an indispensable part of every effort she touches.

Co-Chair of the Year Award

Andrea Beck, Registered Dietitian

Andrea was honored for her extraordinary vision, dedication, and leadership in guiding the Nutrition & Food Access Coalition to success. A passionate advocate for healthy living both professionally and personally, she weaves nutrition education and wellness into nearly every conversation — and backs it up by walking the walk. Beyond her work with the Nutrition & Food Access Coalition, Andrea volunteers with youth at her church and continually invests in her own personal development. Her genuine enthusiasm for healthy living is contagious, and her leadership has been a driving force behind the CHIP’s success. 

For more information on the Community Health Improvement Plan and to download the full report, visit gopogo.org/chip.