2024 Lisa Murrell Award Winner - James Evanson
Sometimes in life, you meet people who leave you with a lasting impression of light, compassion, and heart. The Leadership Kentucky Class of 2008 was blessed to have such a person among them – Dr. Lisa Murrell.
Lisa’s classmates described her as having a joyful spirit. She was dedicated, compassionate, faithful, and kind to those around her. In the spring of 2008, Lisa was diagnosed with lung cancer. She fought a courageous battle, some of which during her time with Leadership Kentucky, until she passed away in 2011. In honor of Lisa’s vibrant spirit, the Lisa Murrell Award was established. It is voted on by each Leadership Kentucky class and awarded to the participant who embodies the qualities that made Lisa so special.
The 2024 recipient is James Evanson. We might have known that James was meant for the Lisa Murrell Award early on by looking at his bio in the class directory. It says, “You may know James for his positive attitude and motivational quotes. He aspires to incorporate as many of these qualities into his servant leadership style.”
James’s bright and compassionate personality is a true testament to his life experience. Originally from South Sudan, he came to Louisville in 2003 with his wife and two young daughters after being nearly killed by his own people. When they arrived, he was emotionally and physically bruised, disoriented, and angry about being forced to start over.
James ultimately found inspiration for a new outlook through community. He is committed to service and is involved with and volunteers for numerous nonprofit organizations to give back to the community that empowered his bright perspective. He serves through the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) Louisville Chapter, Mid-Kentucky Presbyterian Finance Committee, See Forward Ministries (SFM), and Kentuckiana Africans United (KAU), and serves as the board chair of United Sudanese Christian Fellowship Inc (USCF).
His LKY 2024 classmates said of James in their nomination for the Lisa Murrell Award:
“James goes around speaking to everyone each month and is constantly smiling.”
“He is always positive, displays enthusiasm, and pays it forward.”
“James has connected with everyone and their passion for the community is unmatched.”
“He has overcome so many obstacles to not only become a citizen, but a leader in his community. His positivity and endurance are inspiring. May we all be a little more like James – kind, helpful, respectful and intentional.”
