Ohio Department of Aging Press Release

COLUMBUS - May is Older Americans Month, a time to celebrate the many ways our elders are vital members of society who continue to grow, thrive and contribute. On Tuesday, May 22, 2012, the Ohio Department of Aging will induct 12 older Ohioans into the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame during an awards ceremony at the Ohio Statehouse Atrium. The inductees have lived lives full of accomplishments and service, and exemplify the state's theme for Older Americans Month: "never too old to..."

"The individuals we are recognizing each have made a significant impact and lasting difference in the lives of their communities," said Bonnie Kantor-Burman, director of the department. "We honor them for both their civic engagement and the many contributions they have made to promoting quality of life for others throughout our great state."

2012 Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame Inductees:
Detailed biographies and photos

• Darlene Baney, 72, Findlay - Mrs. Baney is a nurse, educator, minister and missionary. With compassion and expertise, she has helped others around the world cope with disasters through her service with the American Red Cross, her church and other organizations.
• Norman Bell, Sr., 79, Toledo - Mr. Bell is a servant of his community who has worked more than 30 years to ensure the dignity, safety and economic security for the people of Toledo and Lucas County. He also has represented his community and nation around the globe.
• Anna Blackwell, 83, Springfield - Mrs. Blackwell is an accomplished musician and scholar who has instilled in thousands of people a deep appreciation of music. She helps children all over the world to lead a positive life not defined by barriers.
• Werner Coppel, 87, Cincinnati - Mr. Coppel rose from adversity as a Jewish youth in Nazi Germany to become a revered educator and an outspoken leader in the fight against hate and prejudice worldwide.
• Eugene D'Angelo, Jr., 83, Upper Arlington - Mr. D'Angelo has a distinguished career in local broadcasting and brought about several local and national broadcasting firsts. He has contributed to the arts and celebrates his Italian-American heritage with others in his community.
• Germaine Hahnel, M.D., 80, Olmsted Township - Dr. Hahnel changed the face of family medicine in Ohio and the nation. She was one of the first board-certified family physicians, and remains an active advocate for the health and wellness of her community.
• M. C. Hokenstad, Ph.D., 75, Shaker Heights - Dr. Hokenstad is a worldwide leader in social work education and research. He has contributed significantly to the literature and practice of social welfare and the care of older people.
• Patricia Irwin, 75, Fairfield - Mrs. Irwin has a mission to heal, educate and serve the members of her community. Through private practice as a registered nurse, as well as community activities, she helps others, particularly women, live healthier lives both physically and mentally.
• Julian Marcus, posthumous, Bexley - Mr. Marcus paved the way for thousands of Ohioans to live healthy, active lives contributing to their communities. As founder of what is now known as Employment for Seniors, he was a pioneer in the civic engagement movement for older adults.
• Glenn Maxwell, 77, Bellaire - Mr. Maxwell uses his faith and a keen sense of community service to rebuild lives all over the world. As a member and leader of Habitat for Humanity, he has helped countless others escape adversity and realize better lives.
• Jane Scott, posthumous, Lakewood - Ms. Scott was a society writer for the Plain Dealer, but is perhaps best known for the influence she had on the rock music scene in Cleveland and around the world. Her progressive and open-minded reviews of up-and-coming acts earned her the respect of a global music industry.
• Alberta Shurelds, posthumous, Lima - Mrs. Shurelds was a teacher who found a calling as an advocate for truth and fairness. She was active with many causes and counseled policy makers and others about civil rights and opportunities for all, regardless of age, race or situation.

About the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame - Since 1978, more than 350 individuals have been inducted into the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame. The hall honors individuals age 60 and older who are native-born Ohioans or who have resided in the state for at least 10 years. Each year, the Ohio Department of Aging solicits nominations from partner organizations, community leaders and the general public. Nominations are evaluated on the impact of current contributions or a continuation of work and accomplishments begun before age 60. Honorees were evaluated by a selection committee using a formal rating system.

About ODA - The Ohio Department of Aging works to ensure that our elders are respected as vital members of society who continue to grow, thrive and contribute. We work with state agencies and community partners, including area agencies on aging, to help integrate aging needs into local plans and ensure that aging Ohioans have access to a wide array of high-quality services and supports that are person-centered in policy and practice. Our programs include the PASSPORT Medicaid waiver, caregiver support, the long-term care ombudsman program, the Golden Buckeye Card and more. Visit www.aging.ohio.gov.

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