Meet two individuals who were recognized at the National Convention.

Fraternalist of the Year
Modern Woodmen recognized Fraternalist of the Year Lara Thorn, Bloomfield, Mo., at the session. The award is given annually to the member who, throughout the past year, exhibited extraordinary acts of fraternalism, provided outstanding volunteer service in the community, and uncommon leadership in her or his local chapter.


School Speech Contest regional winner
School Speech Contest award winner Valerie, an eighth-grade student in Missouri, represented students nationwide who took part in Modern Woodmen's annual School Speech Contest between 2006 and 2009.

Valerie presented her award-winning speech based on the theme "A person who has touched many lives" to the convention.