Senior Star Awards

William R. Markesbery, M.D.

Each year, the Foundation recognizes and honors those who exemplify graceful aging by remaining engaged in active lifestyle. We look for those seniors who have been an inspiration to many in communities across the Commonwealth. We work with local neighborhood associations, community partners as well as state agencies to solicit nominations for these wonderful awards. In 2011 we recognized 9 individuals for their accomplishments. The Senior Star Award has been an excellent opportunity for the Foundation to recognize and honor those who exemplify graceful aging by remaining engaged in an active lifestyle.

The Senior Star awards are named in honor of the Center’s founding Director, Dr. William R. Markesbery. Dr. Markesbery, who passed away in early 2010, founded the Center on Aging more than 30 years ago, and was recognized as an international leader in research to advance the understanding of Alzheimer's disease. Carrying forward his name with this award is one small way to recognize Dr. Markesbery and his many contributions to the Sanders-Brown Center on Aging and, more importantly, his contributions to uncovering the secrets of devastating brain diseases. In addition to all his scientific accomplishments, Dr. Markesbery was best known as a caring, compassionate clinician, a brilliant researcher and a tremendous leader.

Help us celebrate an energetic, active, civic-minded individual by nominating him or her for consideration as a “Senior Star.” For Senior Star Guidelines link and Senior Star Nomination Form click on the links below.

2011 Senior Stars

A.C. Cunningham - Lawrenceburg

Jean Singer Derickson - Stanton

Mary Frances Hunt - Wickliffe

Mary Tarry Simpson - Eminence

Robert Lam - Lexington

Lenora Kelly Olds - Owenton

Ruth Groy Smith - Monticello

Frances Rae Stanley - Williamstown

Betty Stewart - Lexington

2010 Senior Stars

James E. "Ted" Bassett III, Midway

Phyllis Jenness, Lexington

Dr. Everett and Roberta Schaeffer, Berea

Vivian Weil, Lexington

Adalin Stern Wichman, Lexington

This award gives each of us an opportunity to extend a special thank you to those seniors all across Kentucky for their many contributions to the betterment of our communities.  To make a nomination for 2011, please contact the Center on Aging Foundation – 859-323-5374.

Do You Know a Senior Star?

• Senior Star Guidelines (pdf)
• Senior Senior Star 2011 Nominating Form (pdf)