Gent Named Osceola's 2003 Distinguished Leader

The distinguished leader award is presented annually to an individual that best exemplifies the spirit, goals and achievements of the leadership program through significant civic and community accomplishments.

     KISSIMMEE, Fla., June 23, 9:30 am -- Chris Gent, corporate communications manager for Kissimmee Utility Authority, has received Osceola County's distinguished leader award for 2003.
     The award was presented during graduation ceremonies for Leadership Osceola County on June 20 at Walt Disney World. The distinguished leader award is presented annually to an individual that best exemplifies the spirit, goals and achievements of the leadership program through significant civic and community accomplishments.
     "Chris is a quiet, contemplative community trustee whose creativity and commitment can always be counted on," said Community Vision Executive Director Donna Sines. "It is our pleasure to honor him with the distinguished leader award."
     As this year's award recipient, Gent will represent Osceola County at the Community Leadership Association's 2004 conference in Tucson, Arizona. The CLA annual conference brings together leadership development professionals, graduates and other civic-minded individuals from across the United States and beyond to exchange innovative ideas, viewpoints and resources to help strengthen and transform communities.
     Gent is a Florida native and holds his bachelor's degree from the University of Central Florida. Gent received the 2002 Community Service Award from the UCF Alumni Association and the Orlando Business Journal's "Up & Comers Award" in 2001. In addition, Gent currently serves as president of the Orlando Area Chapter of the Florida Public Relations Association and member of the NBA's All-Star Reading Team.
     Founded in 1901, KUA is Florida's sixth largest municipally-owned utility serving 58,000 electric, water and Internet customers in five Central Florida counties.

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