Nominations being accepted for the Lang Volunteer Award

(COLUMBIA, MO) - Nominations are being accepted for the 2020 Howard B. Lang Jr. Award for Outstanding Volunteer Service. The award program, organized by the City of Columbia and the New Century Fund, recognizes an outstanding volunteer for his or her contribution to city government. 

The award was made possible by Leo Hill, city manager from 1952 to 1958, who worked with Howard Lang when he served as mayor of Columbia. Hill wished to honor Lang, Columbia’s mayor from 1953 to 1957, for his service to the City through this award. Lang passed away in November 2007.

Nominees may have filled any volunteer role that benefits the city through its departments, programs, or services: a board, commission or task force member, elected official, or volunteer with any of Columbia’s city departments. The recipient will be chosen based on impact, initiative, and length of service. Nominations will be accepted through Jan. 31, 2020.

Previous recipients of the award are Ed Kaiser, a longtime volunteer with the Columbia Public Works Department and the Columbia Police Department; Darwin Hindman, who served as mayor from 1995 to 2010; Dave Griggs, Chairman of the Board for REDI (Regional Economic Development Incorporated);  Robert C. Smith, former mayor 1961 to 63; Jo Sapp, who led initiatives for the City’s visioning process and public arts support; Kee Groshong, for his wide-ranging service; Genie Rogers, for her significant work with the Columbia Housing Authority; Mary Anne McCollum, former mayor and effective volunteer for numerous city programs and services; Cheryl Price, for her work with accessibility; and Marin Blevins, for his work with City of Columbia Parks and Recreation.

The selected honoree will be presented a plaque along with a $1,000 check made to the individual or an organization of the donor’s choice.

Application forms and other details are posted on the city’s website at https://www.como.gov/lang-award/

More information is available by contacting John Baker, Trust Administrator, City of Columbia, 573.817.5027, or [email protected].