Billy J. (B.J.) Blankenship, from Lafayette, Tennessee, USA was elected to serve as international director of Lions Clubs International at the association’s 101st International Convention, held in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, June 29 through July 3, 2018. 

Director Blankenship is currently a member of the Macon County Board of Education – Transportation Department. He is a retired Tennessee Army National Guardsman having last held the position of Maintenance Control Sergeant. 

He has been a part of the Lafayette Lions Club since 1994 and has held many positions within the association including district governor and district GLT coordinator. He has also served as LCIF multiple district coordinator, district leadership development chairperson and multiple district GMT coordinator. Director Blankenship has also served as Sergeant-at-Arms at International convention from 2015-2017. 

In recognition of his service he has been awarded three International President’s Awards, an International President’s Leadership Award and nine International President’s Certificates of Achievement. He is also a recipient of the association’s highest recognition, the Ambassador of Good Will award. 

Director Blankenship is a Progressive Melvin Jones Fellow. His wife, Carolyn G. Blankenship, is Melvin Jones Fellow and longtime Lion.