Chamber ‘Man of the Year' committed to community service

A distinguished figure in the realms of education, community service and community leadership, Gary Ingraham’s prolific service to Porterville has catapulted him to be recognized as the Porterville Chamber of Commerce’s “Man of the Year.”

Ingraham, better known to people by his various titles, not only manages the bulk of how and what is taught in Porterville schools, but spends himself in other voluntary arenas within the community.

Ingraham is director of curriculum for Porterville Unified School District — and much more.

Apart from his active membership in the Church of Christ, he has been chairman of several projects through the Optimist Club of Porterville, an organization that focuses on youth development.

In addition, he is a 4-H leader, Canterbells president, member of the Leadership of Porterville Steering Committee, Education for a Day program and Business Education Committee.

A resident of Porterville for 30 years, Ingraham’s list of achievements can only be measured, according to him, by their results.  

“When I can get a chance to go to a classroom and see kids doing what [the district] planned, that is what makes my job worthwhile,” he said. “What are students doing and what are they learning? If you can see them making good progress, that is one of the most fulfilling things you can do as an educator.”

Having worked with Ingraham for more than 20 years, John Snavely said he has found in the “Man of the Year” several qualities owing to his professional venerability.

Snavely, PUSD superintendent, credited Ingraham with a willingness to work thoroughly on the job, as opposed to simply getting it done.

“What I probably appreciate most about Gary,” Snavely said, “is his very cooperative attitude and his willingness to just step out and meet the needs of, not only the students in our district, but the community.”

Ingraham’s job includes handling the educational aspects of material selection, in-service, standardized testing, music and physical education programs, teacher training, after school programs, summer school and Gifted And Talented Education, a program for academically advanced students.

His work outside of his profession — heading projects for youth development — falls in close proximity with the his job.

What better explanation for the zeal he puts forth, self-described as having “an interest in children and family.”

Snavely attributed to Ingraham a key role in helping to “interface the district with the community.”

“He has a good understanding of the big picture and he has a good idea of what the best interest is,” Snavely said, “and not just what needs to be done.”

That, Snavely said, sets Ingraham apart, professionally.

“It’s that stepping out and not only taking care of the technical things that need to be addressed,” Snavely said. “He seeks out solutions. He seeks out what is truly best, even though it may take more of his time.”

In addition to his professional contributions, Ingraham’s realm of service includes a couple of major voluntary community leadership roles.

A member of the Porterville Church of Christ for about 30 years, Ingraham serves as a deacon and elder. His involvement in the church, according to the Rev. Marshall Brookie, reveals a strong devotion.

“I’ve known Gary for probably 30 years, since he’s been here,” Brookie said. “He’s been very influential in our congregation. He’s a good example of what I believe a Christian should be. I can’t say enough good things about him. He’s just an outstanding man.”

As an elder, Ingraham is one who oversees the congregation. His other responsibilities within the church include speaking to the congregation, to classes and giving devotionals.

Brookie describes him as “a very talented man.”

In addition, as a 25-year member of the Porterville Optimist Club, Ingraham’s commitment has earned him every chairmanship position available.

During his time as president of the local chapter of the nonprofit organization, Ingraham played a “minor role” in the conception of the Cancer Camp Jamboree.

Some of the projects he has spearheaded are oratorical and essay contests for the high schools, bicycle rodeos, Respect For Law — where youth take part in honoring a member of law enforcement — and providing a treasure chest of prizes for the patients at Children’s Hospital Central California in Madera. He is also chairman of events where the club, during the Christmas and Thanksgiving holidays, selects a needy family within the community and provides them with the accoutrements for the holiday, whether it’s food, presents or a Christmas tree.

Having plenty of praise to give the town he lives in, Ingraham said, in doing any of his various jobs, he asks himself, “What makes Porterville a good place to work together and raise a family and go to school?”

His answer?: “Commitment to serving the town the best I can.”

-- Contact The Recorder newsroom at 784-5000, Ext. 1043.