Each year, the Ohio Department of Aging inducts deserving older Ohioans into the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame to honor the roles they play in their communities, state and nation, while promoting the benefits of active and purposeful living throughout life. Individuals and organizations interested in nominating a neighbor, colleague, family member or friend can visit www.aging.ohio.gov/news/halloffame/ for more information, to submit a nomination or download the nomination form.

“Respected gerontologist Barry Barkan defines an elder as someone ‘who is still growing, still a learner, still with potential and whose life continues to have within it promise for and connection to the future,’” said Bonnie K. Burman, Sc.D., director of the department.

Past inductees have included business and industry leaders, advocates, community planners, educators, scientists, health care professionals, volunteers, artists, athletes and others. Nominees are evaluated on the scope and impact of their contributions begun or continued after age 60. In addition to being age 60 and older, nominees must be native-born Ohioans or residents of the state at least 10 years. Posthumous nominations are accepted.

Induction is held each May as the state and nation celebrate Older Americans Month. Those selected will join more than 400 Ohioans inducted into the hall since its inception in 1978. While nominations are accepted year-round, deadline to submit a nomination for the Class of 2016 is Feb. 15.