The First Citizen program, established in 1963 by Springfield's Copley-owned newspapers, was created to honor individuals whose service has significantly contributed to the betterment of the Springfield area. Each year, a citizen board selects a winner from public nominations, recognizing outstanding community impact.
See the list of past winners
All nominations received by the deadline are reviewed by the First Citizen Board and distributed to a seven-member selection committee chosen by the board. Committee members rotate each year to give new perspective to the process. The nomination committee reviews the nominees and selects a First Citizen Award winner for the year.
The First Citizen Award Winner will be announced at the scheduled award reception.
Nominees not chosen will automatically be added to the selection process for the next year.
Nominations for the 2024 First Citizen Award must be received by October 15, 2024.
If received after this date, the nomination will be retained and considered for the 2025 award.
The award is based on the nominee’s contributions made outside of paid positions. Additional letters of support detailing the nominees’ contributions are encouraged. If your nominee is not selected as this year’s First Citizen, it will automatically be carried over for the next five years without the need for resubmission
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