This month marks the return of the nomination period for The Mary Hawley Public Service Award. Named in honor of Newtown’s beloved benefactress, the award was established to promote volunteerism by recognizing an individual who, through lengthy and exceptional public service to Newtown, best represents the selfless commitment and spirit of its namesake.

The inaugural Mary Hawley Service Award was presented last year to Gordon Williams. The honor recognized his remarkable legacy of service, characterized by humility and a profound sense of community.

This year, the nomination form will be available online from March 3 to May 2.

Readers should visit surveymonkey.com/r/MaryHawleyAward to nominate someone.

There will also be hard copies of the form available at C.H. Booth Library (25 Main Street), Edmond Town Hall (45 Main Street), Newtown Senior Center (8 Simpson Street), and Newtown Community Center (also 8 Simpson Street).

Bronson Hawley, a selection committee member and descendent of the award’s namesake, says volunteerism is the backbone of this community.

“Volunteerism is the backbone of our community. Nothing happens without the people who spend countless hours selflessly serving Newtown’s many vital organizations,” he added. “The Mary Hawley Public Service Award is a way to recognize Newtown’s unsung heroes, who make our community such a treasure.

“We hope our neighbors will take a few minutes to nominate an outstanding volunteer, while also celebrating the cherished legacy of Mary Hawley,” he added.

The recipient of the 2025 Mary Hawley Public Service Award will be selected in June and their name will be added to the plaque at Edmond Town Hall. They will also receive a personalized memento to commemorate the achievement and Newtown Savings Bank will donate $1,000 to a Newtown-based nonprofit of the recipient’s choosing.