Ohio Department of Aging
09/19/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/19/2024 15:11
Five newest members of Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame inducted in Ohio Statehouse ceremony
COLUMBUS, Ohio - An exceptional group of five outstanding older Ohioans who have made immense contributions to their communities were honored on Thursday by the Ohio Department of Aging (ODA) when they were inducted into the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame at a ceremony in the Ohio Statehouse Atrium.
This year's inductees hail from cities and towns across the state. They range in age from 68 to 90 and possess a variety of backgrounds. The 2024 class includes a police chaplain, a pastor, a medical doctor, a professor, and a retired engineer-turned home builder.
2024 Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame inductees:
- George D. Beelen, PhD, Canfield
- Chaplain Minister Marcia L. Harmon-Walker, Girard
- Ronald E. Kear, Avon
- Beatrice C. Lampkin, MD, Cincinnati
- Pastor Anthony L. Small, Sr., Cleveland
The Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame honors older Ohioans who represent a positive image of aging and have significant accomplishments in their professions, vocations, and communities. A total of 514 older Ohioans have now been inducted since the Hall of Fame's inception in 1977.
"Our seniors make our lives better and stronger," said Gov. Mike DeWine. "In every village, township, city, and county of Ohio, they have so much to offer - experience, wisdom, volunteer hours, advocacy, passion, and perspective. Today we're honoring five incredible Ohioans who have gone above and beyond in their professions and vocations. These people truly stand out."
ODA Director Ursel J. McElroy and John Corlett, Chairperson of the Ohio Advisory Council for Aging, were the co-hosts for Thursday's induction ceremony.
"Whether they have innovated treatments for children with cancer, nourished their community physically or spiritually, built homes for the people in their area, or brought the world to their hometowns through cultural enrichment, I think you'll agree that our honorees deserve today's recognition and more," Director McElroy said. "But while their backgrounds may be different, they are united by a shared desire to help others."
"[The Ohio Advisory Council has] a lot of responsibilities to Ohio's seniors, but it's a role that we are very passionate about," Corlett said. "Our seniors have given and continue to give so much to our communities. … I'm excited to commemorate what these great Ohioans have brought to our state through their lives by welcoming them into the Hall of Fame today."
Inductees' family and friends were on hand for the ceremony, as were members of Gov. DeWine's Cabinet and members of the Ohio General Assembly as well as leaders with the Ohio Advisory Council for Aging, the state's 12 Area Agencies on Aging, partner organizations, and associations within the state's aging network.
To commemorate the induction, honorees were each invited on stage and presented with an award as the event hosts read biographies of their accomplishments to the assembled crowd.
Detailed biographies of each of the honorees and their accomplishments are available on ODA's website in the full event program.
Also as part of the ceremony, a pair of videos were played introducing the crowd to the Hall of Famers, and providing a glimpse into their personalities.
WATCH VIDEOS:"Meet the 2024 Hall of Famers" | "Hall of Fame Personalities"
The Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame was established in 1977 to honor Ohioans age 60 and older for achievements and contributions to others, the roles they play in their communities, state and nation, and for what they do to promote productive and enjoyable lives. Their stories are compelling and represent lifetimes of dedication, ingenuity, perseverance, kindness, and compassion.
About ODA - The Ohio Department of Aging serves and advocates for the needs of Ohioans age 60 and older, as well as their families, caregivers and communities. Programs include home and community based long-term supports and services, as well as initiatives to promote health and wellness throughout the lifespan. Visit www.aging.ohio.gov.