Senior Hall of Fame applications
now available    

Deadline for nominations June 1

[FEB. 19, 2005]  SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois Department on Aging Director Charles D. Johnson announced on Thursday that the department is seeking nominations for the 2005 Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame.

"We have no shortage of older adults who have made remarkable accomplishments and who have enriched our state significantly," Johnson said. "The hall of fame is one way to honor these exceptional individuals for giving selflessly of their time and talents and serving as role models to younger generations."

The General Assembly established the Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame in 1994 to honor adults who excel in four categories: community service, education, performance or graphic arts, and the labor force. Since then, 60 people have been inducted.

The Department on Aging will accept nomination forms by fax and mail through June 1.

Candidates will be inducted into the 2005 Illinoisans Hall of Fame on Senior Day at the Illinois State Fair, on Aug. 15.

Eligibility is based on the nominee's past and present accomplishments in the category of choice. The candidate must be age 65 or older and a current Illinois resident or a former citizen who has lived in the state most of his or her life. Posthumous nominees will be considered.

Nomination forms are available at local Area Agencies on Aging and through the Senior HelpLine by calling [phone].

[Illinois Department on Aging news release]