When Nancy Hanson’s name was called as the 2017 Jane Bierdeman-Fike Award winner Friday, she burst into tears.
“I don’t know what to say,” she said.
Hanson is known for her work with the iCan Bike camp, an effort that teaches children and adults with disabilities how to ride bicycles independently.
She said the honor was unexpected.
“I was born here in Callaway County and grew up here,” she told those gathered for the event at Fulton City Hall. “I’m so overwhelmed. Thank you so much.”
Ten women nominated for their contributions to their communities in Callaway County were honored at the Friday luncheon. They included Connie Cashion, Carolyn Gaines, Barb Huddleston, Danielle Kilmer, Susan Krumm, Debbie LaRue, Crystal Morris, Jamie Oestreich and Keli Tate.
“It was no easy task,” Carmen Brandt said of selecting the 2017 winner.
Brandt serves on the city’s Human Rights Commission. Members of that commission were instrumental in choosing the award winner.
Fulton Mayor LeRoy Benton said recognizing the accomplishments of volunteers is paramount.
“It’s a great day,” he said. “It’s really appropriate we recognize volunteers in our community. Volunteering and caring about one another is what makes a community.”
He also signified approval from the woman for whom the award was named: social worker Jane Bierdeman-Fike, who died in 2012 after a long career working for “forgotten” people.
“I think Jane Bierdeman-Fike would look down with favorability with what we’re doing today,” Benton said.
The first award in 2013 went to Nancy McCue. In 2015, it was awarded to Jerrie Bell, and Suzanne Guerrant received the recognition last year.