CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman Lions Club member Riley Smith has received an International Leadership Medal recognizing his leadership and service within the Lions organization.
Smith was presented the medal during the 2025-2026 Lions of Alabama Leadership Conference. Past International President Frank Moore III made the presentation on behalf of Lions Clubs International.
The International Leadership Medal is presented at the direction of the organization’s international president.
Lions awards records describe it as recognition for members who distinguish themselves through disaster relief, lifesaving work or another significant service activity selected by the international president.
Alabama Lions said Smith was selected by the state organization’s International Family based on his leadership and continued commitment to service.
“Riley’s leadership and commitment to serving others exemplify the values of Lions Clubs International,” Moore said.
Smith’s involvement extends beyond the Cullman Lions Club. The Alabama Lions Sight Board of Directors listed Smith as its second vice president for the 2025-2026 Lions year.
Alabama Lions Sight supports vision screenings and other efforts intended to expand access to eye care across the state.
Smith has also held leadership positions within the Cullman club for at least a decade. He was installed as a club director for the 2016-2017 Lions year and continued serving as a director the following year.
Several other Alabama Lions members and clubs were recognized during the leadership conference.
Past District Governor Charlie Wigglesworth received the Henry Sweet Award, while Immediate Past District Governor Rindy Vaughan was recognized for leadership connected to Mission 1.5.
Mission 1.5 is Lions Clubs International’s campaign to reach 1.5 million members worldwide by July 1, 2027.
The organization says expanding membership will allow its clubs to serve more people and respond to additional community needs.
The Geneva Lions Club received the Roderick Beddow Sr. Outstanding Club of the Year Award. William C. Chandler Membership Growth Awards were presented to the Opelika, Owens Cross Roads and Fort Payne Lions Clubs.
Lions Clubs International reports having approximately 1.4 million members working through about 50,000 clubs worldwide. Its members support community service projects involving vision, hunger, diabetes, childhood cancer, disaster relief and other humanitarian needs.
