The Ohio Department of Aging will induct the 2026 Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame class Sept. 23 at the Ohio Statehouse. This year’s honorees are Nancy Bucci of Columbus; Padma Chebrolu of Lebanon; William T. McKarns of Hanoverton, honored posthumously; Ralph H. Smith of Niles; Nancy Stranahan of Hillsboro; former Gov. Bob Taft and former first lady Hope Taft of Spring Valley; and Merris A. Welge of Ontario. Their contributions span health care, the arts, agriculture, advocacy, conservation, economic development, community service and public service.
Established in 1977, the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame recognizes older Ohioans for significant contributions to their communities, professions and vocations. More than 500 Ohioans have been inducted. The Sept. 23 ceremony begins at 1:30 p.m. and will be livestreamed through the Ohio Channel. Additional details are available on the Ohio Department of Aging’s Senior Citizens Hall of Fame webpage.