At the April 22 Rocklin City Council meeting, the City proudly recognized the 2025 Ruhkala Community Service Award recipients with a heartfelt presentation and reception. These awards honor individuals and organizations who embody the spirit of service and enrich the Rocklin community through volunteerism, leadership, and legacy-building contributions.

Honorees Include:

• Debra Leonard – Individual Honoree
• Rula Khatib – Individual Honoree
• Maddie McCright & Finley Phelps – Youth Honorees
• Kathy Magnuson & Kent and Anne Dazey – Pioneer Honorees

Read on to learn more about each of these incredible honorees and the lasting impact they’ve made on Rocklin.

Debra Leonard – Individual Honoree

A third-generation Rocklin resident, Debra (Debi) Leonard has dedicated over 5,000 hours in volunteer service, embodying compassion, integrity, and tireless commitment to the safety and wellbeing of our city. Since graduating from the Rocklin Police & Fire Volunteer Academy in 2008, Debi has been a cornerstone of numerous public safety efforts. From patrolling neighborhoods and enforcing parking regulations to leading child safety initiatives like the Buckle Up Baby program, Debi’s contributions span over 16 years of selfless service.

She’s an active member of the Volunteer Emergency Response Team (VERT), a past board member of the Rocklin Public Safety Foundation, and a recognizable face at nearly every major city event. Her Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and Rocklin Police Unit Award in 2024 are testaments to her profound impact on our city.

Rula Khatib – Individual Honoree

A pillar of generosity and community spirit, Rula Khatib is known for turning compassion into action. As a longtime supporter and board member of the Rocklin Public Safety Foundation and contributor to the Rocklin Police Activities League, Rula exemplifies what it means to uplift others—often behind the scenes, without seeking recognition.

Beyond her philanthropic support, she’s also made her restaurant a community hub, hosting fundraisers for local schools and sports teams, and providing food for ceremonies honoring law enforcement. From coaching youth soccer to quietly helping families in need, Rula’s impact radiates throughout Rocklin.

Maddie McCright – Youth Honoree

An 8th grader at Spring View Middle School, Maddie McCright has already built a service legacy to inspire a generation. In 2024 alone, she contributed over 65 hours of community service through the National Charity League and CJSF. From assisting foster youth at Compassion Planet, to crafting blankets for vulnerable children, to helping distribute food with the Harvest Food Bank, Maddie’s commitment to serving others is extraordinary.

She also devoted time to seniors in assisted living facilities and helped those in need through Shine with a Purpose. Her leadership extends into the classroom, cross country team, and beyond.

Finley Phelps – Youth Honoree

At just 10 years old, Finley Phelps is making waves with her mission to spread kindness across Rocklin schools. After spearheading a successful fundraiser to bring a Buddy Bench to Valley View Elementary, Finley expanded her efforts, launching a website and pitching her campaign to school principals across the district.

Her initiative has sparked a wave of kindness movements, and she continues to advocate for inclusive spaces for kids to find friendship and support. From visiting fire stations and hospitals to collecting supplies for fire victims, Finley’s heart for helping others shines brightly.

Kathy Magnuson – Pioneer Honoree

A volunteer since 2003, Kathy Magnuson has made decades-long contributions to Rocklin’s safety and youth outreach efforts. As the lead on the Child ID program and the Lunchtime with the Law initiative, Kathy has built trust and joy between law enforcement and students. She’s also played key roles in starting Neighborhood Watch programs, managing volunteer stats, and staffing dozens of city events.

Outside of her volunteer uniform, Kathy’s legacy includes her decades of charitable work, from launching community Thanksgiving dinners in the ’80s to advocating for firefighter welfare during emergencies. Her Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and recognition by Placer Law Enforcement Agencies are just small acknowledgments of her tremendous legacy.

Kent and Anne Dazey – Pioneer Honorees

Over two decades ago, Kent and Anne Dazey took a bold stand to protect Rocklin’s historical core. When PG&E proposed installing high-voltage towers through downtown, the Dazey’s legally challenged the utility, risking personal assets to preserve the future of Old Town Rocklin. Their successful advocacy forced power lines underground, preserving both safety and historical integrity.

Longtime members of the Rocklin Historical Society, Kent and Anne’s efforts laid a foundation for revitalizing Rocklin’s historic downtown and maintaining its charm for future generations.

Congratulations to all the 2025 Ruhkala Community Service Award recipients. Their stories are a powerful reminder that community is built by the hands—and hearts—of those who serve.