Johnny Leftwich Scholarship

On Tuesday, October 2nd, the Gainesville Kiwanis Club honored Johnny Leftwich with an endowed scholarship for students who will be attending NCTC in partnership with Debbie Sharp and the North Central Texas College Foundation during the annual officer’s banquet. Johnny has been an integral part of Cooke County for many years. Johnny began working at the early age of 12 shining shoes and developing relationships within the community. Johnny acquired part ownership of Dustin’s Office Machines in 1962, eventually becoming the sole owner in 1984. After being invited to join the Gainesville Kiwanis Club by Greaver Ross on March 1, 1961 at the young age of 24, Johnny quickly joined and has been a Gainesville Kiwanis Club member for 62 years! Because of Johnny’s passion and advocacy for the betterment of the community, in 2012, the Gainesville Kiwanis Club created an award in honor of him; The Johnny Leftwich Kiwanian of the Year award. Although most awards of this stature are named as a legacy posthumously, it was important to show him that the recipients receiving an award on his behalf will carry out his commitment to the community. The club wanted him to see that they valued his impact so that he knew just how much it meant to everyone. The Gainesville Kiwanis Club also started The Johnny Leftwich Scholarship for students who are looking to attend the local community college, North Central Texas College, and give to it annually. On Tuesday, the Gainesville Kiwanis Club endowed this scholarship with North Central Texas College and presented Johnny with an award and recognition to show him that his legacy will live on indefinitely.