Talbot Citizen and Service Awards

Council Member Dave Stepp shakes hands with Citizen and Service Award Nominnee.

Council Member Dave Stepp shakes hands with Citizen and Service Award Nominnee.

The Talbot Citizen and Service Awards honor the unsung heroes who help make Talbot County a better place to live, work, and visit. Any nominee must be a resident of Talbot County, volunteer their time in the County, and be over 18 years of age.

History of Awards

The "Maryland You Are Beautiful" Program began in the 1980s as a way to recognize the unsung heroes who make Maryland a better place to live, work, and visit. The program generated enormous state pride and foster volunteerism, goodwill, and community support. When the State program ended in 2022, the Talbot County Council chose to continue the local aspect of the program, renaming it to the Talbot Citizen and Service Awards in 2024, and incorporating it as part of Talbot Day. We are proud to continue the tradition in a new light. 

Previous Years

  • 2025

    4.25.2025_TalbotDayNominees

    Nominees

    Carlton “Corky” Greene
    Childlene Brooks
    Christine Dorset
    Daphan Smith
    Della Andrew
    Doris Dobson
    Mary DeShields
    Jennifer Stanley
    JR Burkhardt
    Karla Wieland-Cherry
    Kenley Timms
    Khalid Kurtom
    Lonnelle Green
    Nancy Andrew
    Raymond Bonner
    Sonny Difendafer
    Virginia Capute

    2025 Lifetime Service Award - Childlene Brooks

    This award honors individuals whose decades of professional service, civic leadership, and volunteer work have left a lasting legacy. Childlene’s name is synonymous with service in Talbot County. Through her leadership at Brookletts Place, her tireless volunteerism with numerous nonprofits, and her deep involvement in community life, she has guided, mentored, and uplifted generations. Her service has not only filled gaps—it has built bridges. We are honored to recognize her extraordinary lifetime of commitment to this community.

    2025 Ripple Effect Award -  Kenley Timms.

    This award celebrates individuals whose actions have sparked significant change and inspired others to step forward. A Vietnam veteran and longtime VFW commander, Kenley’s legacy is one of action and compassion. Whether organizing welcome-home parades, helping homeless veterans, supporting first responders, or simply showing up for those in need, Kenley leads with heart. His efforts have not only made a difference, they’ve inspired movement. The impact he’s made ripples far beyond any one moment or place.

  • 2024

    Nominees

    Angeline Sturgis
    Dana Newman
    Diana Mautz
    Dr. Judi Gieske
    James Redman
    Krista Paquin
    Laura Heikes
    Lizette Hannegan
    Michelle Moaney
    Sherye Nickerson
    Susan Roecker
    Susan Sherman
    Syrinthia Ann Foster-Johnson

    Talbot Citizen of the Year

    Diana Mautz

  • 1987-2022

    Talbot's Most Beautiful People Past Recipients

    Wayne Dyott—2022 

    Naomi Diane Thomas—2021

    Gary Interdonato—2019

    Tim Kagan—2018

    Thomas E. Hill—2017

    Eunice Knauer—2016

    Laura Heikes—2015

    Alice Ryan—2014

    Robert Blades—2013

    Phyllis Peddicord—2012

    Kathy Weaver—2011

    Leona Murray—2010

    Gordon Behrens—2009

    Harold Hutchison—2008

    Rev. Daniel G. Higgins, Jr.—2007

    Al Smith—2006

    Bertha Wilson—2006

    Pauline Neal—2005

    Henrietta “Chic” Harrison—2004

    Dorothy Johns—2003

    Marie U’Ren—2002

    Grace Cooper—2001

    David Weise—2001

    Margaret Ferree—2000

    Talbot Hospice Foundation Patient Care Volunteers—1999

    Marjorie “Midge” Fuller—1998

    Lloyd L. Beatty—1997

    Barry Fox—1996

    William J. Howard—1995

    David E. Abercrombie—1994

    Jane Foster Tucker—1993

    Rear Admiral Rafael C. Benitez (USN Ret.) — 1992 

    Kathleen Francis—1991

    Herbert Jump—1990

    Joan W. Cox—1989

    Marion Miller—1988

    Levin F. Harrison, IV—1987

Any questions about the Citizen and Service Awards may be directed to kroberts@talbotcountmd.gov or calling 410-770-8010.

Page last modified Monday, April 28, 2025 11:39:46 AM