Ohio Department of Aging Seeking Nominations for Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame

COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Ohio Department of Aging (AGE) is inviting nominations of exceptional older adults for induction into the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame, Class of 2026.

The Hall of Fame honors current or long-time Ohio residents age 60 and older who have made and continue to make a lasting impact on their communities, their professions, or their vocations.

Nominations must be received by Tuesday, March 31, 2026, to be considered for induction during a September ceremony.

"Every year, the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame shines a spotlight on the incredible achievements of older Ohioans," said AGE Director Ursel J. McElroy. "We are thrilled to welcome a new class of honorees this fall. If you know someone whose contributions have made a real difference, we invite you to nominate them and help us share their story."

Since 1977, just 524 outstanding older Ohioans have been inducted into the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame. Past inductees have included business and industry leaders, advocates, community planners, educators, scientists, health care professionals, volunteers, artists, entertainers, athletes, and more.

Inductees are selected from public nominations. Nominees are evaluated on the scope and impact of their contributions before and after age 60. Nominees must be native-born Ohioans or have been residents of the state for at least 10 years. Posthumous nominations are accepted, provided the date of death is within the last five years and the nominee was age 60 or older at the time of death.

Only nominations submitted since the close of the previous nomination period (March 31, 2025) will be accepted. Repeat nominations of Ohioans who were not selected in the past are welcome, provided the candidate still meets the eligibility criteria.

Learn more, access the nomination form, and view past inductees at: Aging.Ohio.gov/HallofFame.

About AGE - 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 https://www.aging.ohio.gov.