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West Alabama Honors The Young Leaders In Our Community
Hank Poore, 25, stood out among the award recipients for his work with the Hank Poore Foundation
Published on Feb. 23, 2026
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This morning, a well-attended ceremony honoring young leaders in West Alabama was held at the River Market Tuscaloosa. Each award recipient presented a check to a local nonprofit or organization of their choice. Among the honorees was 25-year-old Hank Poore, the youngest person ever to receive one of these awards, for his work with the Hank Poore Foundation.
Why it matters
The West Alabama Young Leaders Awards ceremony celebrates the next generation of community leaders and their commitment to making a positive impact in the region. Highlighting young people like Hank Poore who are already giving back through their own foundations and initiatives helps inspire others and showcases the vibrant future of West Alabama.
The details
The award ceremony featured several young leaders from local organizations including Alabama Power Company, the Tuscaloosa Association of Realtors, Bryant Bank, and Alabama Credit Union. In addition to receiving the awards, each honoree presented a check to a local nonprofit or community group of their choice. The event was close to capacity, with many local business and community leaders in attendance. Alabama Crimson Tide gymnastics coach Ashley Johnston served as the honorary emcee.
- The West Alabama Young Leaders Awards ceremony was held this morning, February 23, 2026.
- This was the tenth annual edition of the awards.
The players
Hank Poore
A 25-year-old recipient of the West Alabama Young Leaders Award for his work with the Hank Poore Foundation.
Ashley Johnston
The honorary emcee for the West Alabama Young Leaders Awards ceremony, and the head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide gymnastics team.
Leah Banks
One of the young leaders featured and honored at the West Alabama Young Leaders Awards ceremony, representing Alabama Power Company.
Daniel Bradshaw
One of the young leaders featured and honored at the West Alabama Young Leaders Awards ceremony, representing the Tuscaloosa Association of Realtors.
Chelsey Henthorn
One of the young leaders featured and honored at the West Alabama Young Leaders Awards ceremony, representing Bryant Bank.
The takeaway
The West Alabama Young Leaders Awards highlight the next generation of community leaders in the region and their commitment to making a positive impact through their work and philanthropic efforts. Events like this help inspire others and showcase the bright future of West Alabama.
