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Show’s new director is a familiar face

By JAMI MATTOX
Herald Assistant Editor

Don Lawrence is excited about his return to Sapulpa, even though he never really left.

“I came back because of the people,” he said. “Sapulpa has such a high standard of giving.”

Lawrence was recently named the new executive director of Show, Inc. and will begin his new career today. The position was previously held by Sharon Bowen, who decided to leave after over 17 years of service to the organization.

Lawrence and his wife, Marlie, and their five children have been a fixture in Sapulpa since 1993, when they moved here from Tulsa and Lawrence became minister of Church of the Good Shepherd Episcopal Church.

He left the church two years ago and went to work at Merrill Lynch, utilizing his background in business.

But when he heard the executive director position at Show, Inc. would be available, he said he did not think twice about submitting his resume.

“Show is one of those agencies that is really a centerpiece of the community,” he said. “It’s helpful for such an agency to have so many close ties to different community leaders.”

Lawrence had worked closely for several years with Respite, Inc., a fellow United Way agency that provides caregiver services to children with developmental disabilities and their siblings.

He said this experience, coupled with his background in non-profit work, has prepared him to take over the reigns at Show, Inc.

“Sharon did a wonderful job for 17 years,” Lawrence said. “I want to build and improve on the good foundation that’s already been laid.”

Lawrence said one of his immediate goals with Show, Inc. is to increase the community volunteer core.

“We need to look to the community to find people who would like to help with Show,” he said.

He said he would also like to “bring Show to the next level in terms of business aspect,” and he plans to look to the talented pool of staff members and volunteers that Show, Inc. already has to accomplish that goal.

He hopes to develop more grant proposals and streamline business resources.

“Show needs to be put in the community’s mind more,” he said. “We have such talented volunteers and a remarkable board. Fifteen members from all walks of life.”

Lawrence said one his primary objectives is to keep the close relations that Show, Inc. has with its clients and still expand its services.

“Show is like an extended family to our clients,” he said. “It is part of their self-esteem.”

Jami Mattox 224-5185 Ext.200

assteditor@sapulpadailyherald.com