By definition, a High Spirited Citizen eagerly offers time and service to the city of Irving, adding character and shaping the quality of life in the community. As Irving residents for more than 35 years, the Sutherlins devote much of their lives to the Irving community and continue to prove their dedication and loyalty to the city though event leadership and volunteer work.
Yet, more than a volunteer, Sutherlin led as vice president, president and chairman for the Heritage Festival committee, and president for Irving Special Activities Advisory Council. As Heritage Festival chairman, Sutherlin owned the responsibility of fundraising, sponsorship recruitment and encouraging community support for the event. In conjunction, he helped create and implement ideas with the Irving Special Activities Advisory Council for special city events, such as the Independence Day Parade, Main Street Event and the annual Christmas Parade.
Wherever you see Sutherlin, his wife Vicky is alongside.
Vicky currently serves as treasurer for the Irving Downtown Association. She also serves on the Heritage Crossing Design Guide Committee, led as former co-chair and treasurer for the Heritage Festival Committee and is the current president of the Irving Special Activity Advisory Committee. In addition, for more than 19 years, Vicky has volunteered for the Irving Healthcare Foundation’s TexasFest. She currently serves as event treasurer.
The Sutherlins are actively involved in local government. They sit side-by-side at every city council meeting – in between Main Street festival event planning and fundraising for other special city events. Whatever might be happening in Irving, no matter how small or significant an event, they are quick to step in and offer their whole-hearted support.
In 2004, Sutherlin received the Irving Volunteer Award for his efforts. That same year, both he and Vicky received the Irving Parks and Recreation Superstar Award. Sutherlin has also given his time to the Irving Preservation and Redevelopment Board, Irving Downtown Association, and Irving Healthcare Foundation’s TexasFest.
“Vicky and Timothy are a pair totally committed to Irving, the Heritage District, local government and community service,” said Roland Medina, who nominated the couple as High Spirited Citizens. “You will always see them at every Irving event, and that’s the way it’s been for a long time.”
The High Spirited Citizen program was initiated in 1988 by the Irving Convention and Visitors Bureau. Its purpose is to encourage the spirit of volunteerism. To date, more than 400 of Irving’s “unsung” heroes have been honored with the award. To nominate an Irving resident for the award, contact Jane Kilburn at 972-252-7476 or download an application form at www.irvingtexas.com/Media/HighSpiritCitiz.
