AGE Celebrates 2025 Class of Senior Citizens Hall of Famers at Statehouse Ceremony

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Ten older Ohioans who have been pillars of their communities for decades were honored by the Ohio Department of Aging (AGE) at the 2025 Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. The event was held at the Ohio Statehouse on Wednesday afternoon.

The 10 members of the Class of 2025 come from seven different regions of the state and ranged in age from 61 to 103. In their professional and volunteer lives, members of the class include doctors, firefighters, advocates for older adults, community leaders, and many more.

2025 Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame inductees:

• Connie Blum, 94, Dayton
• May Juan Chen, 78, Akron
• Joseph D. Fouss, 88, Whipple
• Mary Ann Freedman, 74, Akron
• Margaretha CJ Grootjes, 61, The Plains
• Ernest Matthew Hight Sr., posthumous, Youngstown
• Denise C. Niese, posthumous, Northwood
• Fran Ryan, 91, Columbus
• Jean E. Thompson, 75, Columbus
• Dr. Howard J. Tucker, 103, Cleveland Heights

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 524 older Ohioans have now been inducted since the Hall of Fame's inception in 1977.

Governor Mike DeWine attended the event, delivering opening remarks that highlighted the occasion and recognized the achievements of the new Hall of Famers.

"Today, we're honoring 10 incredible Ohioans who have gone above and beyond in their professions or vocations," said Gov. Mike DeWine. "These people stand out. Over the years, they've proven that they truly care about others. They represent the voices of older Ohioans, and they use their positions to create real change."

AGE Director Ursel J. McElroy and Chief Counsel Matt Lampke were the co-hosts for the induction ceremony who introduced the Hall of Famers and handed them their awards.

"The Senior Citizens Hall of Fame recognizes not only the accomplishments of our inductees, but also the ways they have supported others, strengthened their communities, and shown us how to live full and purposeful lives," Director McElroy said. "This year's inductees demonstrate a deep dedication to serving the people of Ohio. They are already respected leaders within their communities, and today I had the privilege of sharing their stories with the entire state."

Also in attendance on Wednesday were members of Gov. DeWine's Cabinet, members of the Ohio General Assembly, and 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.

Detailed biographies of each honoree and their accomplishments are available on AGE's website in the full event program.

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 2025 Hall of Famers" | "Hall of Fame Personalities"

The OhioChannel streamed the event, and a recording of the ceremony will be archived on their website.

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, as well as across the 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 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://http://www.aging.ohio.gov.