09/25/2026

AGE Celebrates 2026 Class of Senior Citizens Hall of Famers at Statehouse Ceremony

AGE Celebrates 2026 Class of Senior Citizens
Hall of Famers at Statehouse Ceremony

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 25, 2026
Contact: Alex Lapso, alapso@age.ohio.gov

 COLUMBUS, Ohio – Eight deserving older Ohioans who have distinguished themselves as thoughtful and dedicated leaders were honored by the Ohio Department of Aging (AGE) at the 2026 Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. The event was held at the Ohio Statehouse on Wednesday afternoon. 

The eight members of the Class of 2026 come from across the state and range in age from 61 to 94. The class includes a career nurse and healthcare professional, a teaching artist, a trailblazer in agriculture, an advocate for older adults, a conservation leader, an economic development and community service volunteer, and a former governor and first lady who have dedicated their lives to public service. 

2026 Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame inductees: 

• Nancy Bucci, 76, Columbus 
• Padma Chebrolu, 61, Lebanon 
• William T. McKarns, posthumous, Hanoverton 
• Ralph H. Smith, 82, Niles 
• Nancy Stranahan, 74, Hillsboro 
• Former Governor Bob Taft and Former First Lady Hope Taft, 84 and 80, Spring Valley 
• Merris A. Welge, 91, Ontario 

The Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame honors extraordinary older Ohioans who embody healthy aging and serve as pillars of their communities. A total of 532 older Ohioans have now been inducted since the Hall of Fame’s inception in 1977. 

“The Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame is our opportunity to embrace the immeasurable contributions of older Ohioans across the state,” Director Ursel J. McElroy said. “We honor each inductee for their accomplishments and for truly living life to the fullest. 

AGE Director Ursel J. McElroy and Chair of the Ohio Advisory Council for Aging Trey Addison were the co-hosts for the induction ceremony who introduced the Hall of Famers and handed them their awards. 

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

Prior to recognizing the Class of 2026 inductees, Director McElroy paid tribute to former directors of the Department of Aging. Each former director present was acknowledged for their individual contributions in fulfilling the department's vision of making Ohio the best place to age in the nation. 

As part of the ceremony, videos were played highlighting the Hall of Famers and honoring past directors. WATCH VIDEOS: 

“Governor DeWine’s Welcome Message” 
“Hall of Fame Introductions”  
"Hall of Fame Personalities" 
“Honoring Former Directors” 

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 aging.Ohio.gov.