By Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune
Kay Goke, a volunteer firefighter and emergency medical technician (EMT) with the Town of Haughton Fire Department, has been named the 2025 recipient of the prestigious Lee Ann Petty Heart of Service Award from Regions Bank. This national honor, awarded annually to just one out of nearly 20,000 Regions employees, recognizes outstanding volunteerism and dedication to community service.
In celebration of Goke’s exceptional contributions, Regions Bank has also donated $2,500 to the Haughton Fire Department’s Firefighter Fund.
Beyond her role in emergency response, Goke is deeply involved in community engagement. She serves as an EMT test proctor at the Bossier Parish School for Technology and Innovative Learning and plays an active role in the Junior Firefighter Program, which introduces local youth to careers in the fire service.
As a 17-year military spouse, Goke is also devoted to supporting service members and their families. She is a member of the Shreveport-Bossier Military Affairs Council and recently launched the first Regions Military Support Community in the Shreveport area, creating a network for Regions associates who are passionate about assisting the airmen of Barksdale Air Force Base.
Her commitment to service also includes youth education. Goke holds a leadership role with Camp Spark, a local youth camp, and is helping to launch a Regions Next Step® financial wellness program for participating high school students.
The Lee Ann Petty Heart of Service Award is Regions Bank’s highest honor for community service. Named in memory of longtime Regions associate and volunteer services coordinator Lee Ann Petty, the award was first given in 2023. Goke is the third person to receive the accolade, chosen by a cross-functional committee that reviews hundreds of nominations each year.
Her tireless dedication to the betterment of both her local community and broader support networks exemplifies the very heart of the award’s mission.