This article was first published in Volume 1, Issue 4 of the Owensboro Times newspaper.
Terry Woodward was honored as the inaugural Community Hero Award recipient during this year’s Silver Salute Celebration hosted by the Senior Community Center of Owensboro-Daviess County. Woodward was one of several honorees celebrated for contributions across education, faith, inspiration, senior advocacy, and volunteerism.
Community Hero Award — Terry Woodward
Nomination essays described Woodward as a driving force behind many of Owensboro’s most significant economic and cultural developments. He served on a long list of boards, including the Owensboro-Daviess County Chamber of Commerce, Family YMCA, Owensboro-Daviess County Tourist Commission, RiverPark Center, Kentucky Wesleyan College Board of Trustees, and the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce.
He’s earned numerous honors through the years, such as the Owensboro Mayor’s Award, William T. Young Community Service Award, and Chamber Economic Development Award. Recognitions include Inc. Magazine’s Entrepreneur of the Year and inductions into the Owensboro Walk of Fame, Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame, International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, and University of Kentucky Hall of Distinguished Alumni.
Woodward’s impact was not confined to boardrooms. He elevated Owensboro’s profile in the music industry as a founding member of the International Bluegrass Music Association and later played a crucial role in establishing the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum. His leadership reached national influence through his roles with the Country Music Association and the National Association of Video Distributors.
Locally, he served as owner, operator, president, and CEO of Wax Works Inc., WaxWorks/VideoWorks, Team Marketing and AdVentures, and operated four national distribution warehouses, 180 retail music stores in 37 states, and at one point had more than 1,700 employees nationwide.
Education Award — Ed L. Allen
The Education Award, recognizing contributions by someone age 60 or older in the field of education, honored Ed L. Allen. He was nominated alongside Olga McKissic and Cindy Sheriff.
Allen began his career as a teacher at Daviess County Junior High before becoming vice principal at Utica Junior High and later Apollo High School. His administrative career advanced as he served as deputy superintendent of finance and ultimately superintendent of Daviess County Public Schools, where he oversaw thousands of students and staff.
Nomination essays noted, “A commitment to fostering excellence in education led to service as deputy superintendent of finance and ultimately superintendent … impacting thousands of students and parents.” Allen was praised not only for academic leadership but for fostering collaboration among teachers and ensuring fiscal responsibility in growing school districts.
Outside the classroom, Allen continued his service through the Boulware Mission. “He continues to teach and support individuals in recovery, offering encouragement, knowledge, and guidance as they work toward building new lives,” the nomination read. Essays emphasized that his influence extended far beyond formal education, rooted in a belief that learning and compassion must go hand in hand.
Faith Award — Janet Luckett
Faith Award nominee Janet Luckett was selected for her longstanding commitment to serving others through First Christian Church and the broader community. She was nominated alongside the Rev. Larry Bidwell and the Rev. Larry Lewis.
As director of the church food pantry, Luckett oversees the distribution of approximately 2,000 food bags annually. Nomination essays stated, “These bags reach individuals and families across Owensboro, including many who are homeless, elderly, or otherwise vulnerable.”
Luckett’s service also includes outreach to immigrant and refugee families through the International Center of Owensboro, reflecting her belief that faith must be active and inclusive. “Her presence there reflects her belief that faith is not confined to the walls of a church but is best demonstrated through everyday acts of service to one’s neighbors,” her nomination read.
Inspiration Award — Jan Young
The Inspiration Award honored Jan Young, who was nominated alongside Adrian Bambini and Reid Haire. Young spent her career as a school administrator, counselor, and teacher, and in retirement has turned her focus to inspiring older adults to pursue health and fulfillment.
Her nomination essays credited her commitment to lifelong growth: “She continues to inspire people through her work with Owensboro Health and the Daviess County Public Library, encouraging others through classes for fitness and healthy aging.”
Elizabeth Munday Award — Bill Cooper
Named for the founder of the local senior center, the Elizabeth Munday Award recognizes contributions to the well-being of seniors. This year’s nominees were Bill Cooper, Tom Vittitow, and Jennifer Williams, with Cooper receiving the honor.
Cooper spent much of his career with the Green River Area Development District (GRADD), advocating for senior services and regional programming. This advocacy took him through different positions, retiring from the state government.
Nomination essays emphasized his continued commitment in retirement: “Cooper has continued to be a voice for seniors, serving on boards and committees to represent this cause. Cooper has a positive personality and is a level-headed leader whom we are proud to celebrate as a great asset to our community.”
Volunteer of the Year — Larry Mansfield
Volunteer of the Year was awarded to Larry Mansfield, a daily presence at the Senior Community Center known for his reliability, kindness, and wide range of contributions. Nomination essays described him as “a welcoming face … always willing to go above and beyond.”
Mansfield routinely assists with front-desk greeting, frozen meal preparation, class setup, and delivery unloading. He helps with yoga and tai chi programs and participates in evening dances, often staying afterward to reset the auditorium for the next day. As a master gardener, he also helps maintain the center’s landscaping.
“Above all, Larry Mansfield is always kind and polite, and his demeanor is always pleasant and helpful,” his nomination stated.
Employee of the Year — Melissa Tucker
Melissa Tucker was named Employee of the Year, an honor voted on by fellow SCC staff. Known for her adaptability and commitment, Tucker was praised for stepping into any role needed to keep operations functioning.
“She truly cares about the seniors we serve. She has earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues as they have witnessed her stepping into whatever role is needed to make sure the wheels roll smoothly at the SCC,” the nomination essay read. Staff described her repairing equipment, managing office duties, assisting with events, and prioritizing seniors’ comfort and dignity over any title or task list.
T ucker, according to essays, represents the core mission of the center — service without recognition. Her coworkers wrote, “Melissa Tucker is a huge asset to the SCC, and her colleagues are honored to work with her day after day.”
Board Members of the Year — Mark Schmidt & Lora Wimsatt
Mark Schmidt and Lora Wimsatt shared honors as Board Members of the Year.
Schmidt was recognized for spearheading efforts to make a long-envisioned new Senior Community Center facility a reality. Essays highlighted his role in coordinating architects, builders, and city partners, and in soliciting professional contributions.
The nomination essay said, “He has never lost sight of the fact that this project involves more than the construction of a new building. He has spent countless hours meeting with and interacting with seniors at our current location.”
Wimsatt was honored for her consistency, creativity, and interest in the betterment of the organization. She was also credited with helping launch the Senior Class series, which brings experts to teach seniors on topics ranging from law and finance to cooking and wellness.
Essays described her as “a woman for all seasons … It is the fact that she is quiet, and humble, and kind, and gentle that makes her a powerful force in the success of the Senior Center. She is listened to when she speaks.”
