Lori Williams, executive director for the Junior Livestock Show of Spokane, has received the first Impact Award from the Washington State Fairs Association.

“This was a big surprise,” Williams told the Capital Press. “I’m usually not one to like the spotlight, but it is a good feeling to be recognized by the board of directors and for the direction we’re headed as a show — something we can work on together.”

The Impact Award recognizes an individual within a fair who is making a positive impact by creative solutions, pioneering approaches, or advancements to improve their fair or the fair industry.

“This award honors those who challenge the status quo, drive progress, and set new benchmarks for excellence and innovation in event production,” according to the junior show newsletter.

The junior livestock show board nominated Williams for the award.

“In 2022, we were looking to hire someone with vision, passion, and drive — Lori exhibits all three of these characteristics,” board vice president Lisa Baser stated on the nomination form. “As a former exhibitor herself, Lori understands how steeped in tradition the show is. However, she also realizes the importance of expanding and modernizing to reach a new generation of showmen. We can’t wait to see what the future holds!”

This will be the 90th Junior Livestock Show of Spokane. The show is April 30 through May 3 at the Spokane Fair and Expo Center.

“We hope to continue to add opportunities for youth to grow through their livestock projects,” Williams said.

Williams said the biggest need she sees for fairs is to continue to fulfill their mission to connect the general public with agriculture.

“It allows our agricultural youth to showcase their projects that they learn from throughout the year,” she said. “But also to welcome the general public to learn where their food comes from.”