The man referred to as the “father of the modern Oklahoma Boys State” was recognized recently for his significant contributions to the program.

Kingfisher’s Judd Kopp was presented a trio of honors by one of the very people he helped mold in the program.

“We were presenting him with several items honoring his many years of service to not only the Oklahoma American Legion Boys State Program, but also to helping grow the next generation of leaders,” said Jared Harrison.

A local attorney, including serving as attorney for the City of Kingfisher, Harrison is not only an alumnus of Boys State, but is currently its deputy director for education.

Harrison’s first presentation to Kopp was a wooden engraving of the Oklahoma Boys State Logo to recognize his leadership of the program and its staff.

On the back was a citation referencing his years of leadership within the program and his willingness to constantly enable those around him to take charge of areas of the program.

“I remember he referred to his leadership philosophy as macromanagement as opposed to micromanagement,” Harrison said.

The citation read, “Good Leaders Lead. Great Leaders Inspire. Thank You for the Inspiration.”

It also named him as the “Father of the Modern Oklahoma Boys State Program.”

The next presentation was a gold watch recognizing his many years of selfless service to the program. The watch was designed to include the Oklahoma Boys’ State Logo on its face.

This is one of three such watches made.

One was presented to Assistant Director Emeritus Dr. Aj. Johnson, also of Kingfisher.

The third is to be presented in the coming weeks, Harrison said.

The last award presented to Kopp was the Director’s Distinguished Service Medal, the highest award given outby the Boys’ State program.

“It is to be presented to a staff member whose longterm service and inspirational behavior has contributed significantly to the success of Oklahoma Boys State,” Harrison said.

The current Oklahoma Boys’ State director said Kopp’s influence on the program is widespread.

“The contribution of Director Emeritus Judd Kopp to the youth of Oklahoma cannot be overstated. As a veteran, a teacher, a coach and the leader of Oklahoma’s preeminent youth leadership program for so many years, few in our state have had such an iconic and positive influence on the leaders of tomorrow,” said Corey Brooks.

“This recognition is well deserved, and comes with the deep affection and admiration of the entire Oklahoma American Legion Boys State staff, past and present.”

Kopp said he cherishes his time serving Oklahoma Boys State.

“I had a great time being director,” he said. “It was an honor to serve when I did and it’s an honor to receive the award. I’m very grateful.”