The Honorable Christopher Kelly
Chamber President Brooke Gatlin presents Judge Kelly with the Cordell Beacon Person of the Year award.
Judge Christopher Kelly was selected as Person of the Year due to his longtime dedication to Washita County and the impact he has made on many people with whom he has interacted through the judicial system. Of particular note is the success of the Treatment Court program, which helps change the lives of its participants.
“When I got into the [Treatment Court] program, [Judge Kelly] knew there was a need for change in my life. He really pushed for me to get back into the program. He’s really more in touch with people than you realize,” stated Curtis Christian, Treatment Court Participant.
“He cares. He cares about you as a human being, your well-being and about you in general. He’s stern when he needs to be. Judge Kelly has really been a lifesaver to many people. He was the judge that allowed me to adopt my son and that was a big milestone in my life. Having him as the Judge has been a positive thing for this town and those are some big shoes to fill.” PHOTO BY SARAH LAU