“Big John Ware” Optimist of the Year Award
2025-2026 District Chair:
email:
The “Big John” Ware Optimist of the Year award is designed to recognize excellence in Optimist service and leadership. In addition, the nominee shall have demonstrated personal demeanor that is in keeping with the philosophy of Optimist International and the GATEway District.
Optimist of the Year Nomination Form
PAST RECIPIENTS OF OPTIMIST OF THE YEAR
Year Name Location
1994-95 Alan R Jorgensen Kennesaw, GA
1995-96 George M Daniel Carrollton, GA
1996-97 Carlton Stamey Hartwell, GA
1997-98 Hugh Overfield LaFayette, GA
1998-99 Randolph W Goldman Augusta, GA
1999-2000 Buck Buckalew St Simon Island, GA
2000-01 James (J.H.) Holcomb Gainesville, GA
2001-02 Ed May Atlanta, GA
2002-03 Betty Clements Savannah, GA
2003-04 Hall Bell Woodstock, GA
2004-05 Terry A Ussery Macon, GA
2005-06 Lamar Orr Cumming, GA
2006-07 Walter McClure Macon, GA
2007-08 Trace Vaughn Calhoun, GA
2008-09 Ida Jones LaGrange, GA
2009-10 Cheryl Pruitt Cumming, GA
2010-11 Patricia Beouy Kennesaw, GA
2011-12 Pearce Hardwick Atlanta, GA
2012-13 Harry Hackett Smyrna, GA
2013-14 Nick Prillaman Atlanta, GA
2014-15 Abraham Walker Decatur, GA
2015-16 David Grant Kennesaw, GA
2016-17 Howard Shames Cumming, GA
2017-18 Russ Thomas Cumming, GA
2017-18 Nick Prillaman Atlanta, GA
2018-19 Gwen Gable Decatur, GA
2019-20 Carolyn Tucker Chattanooga, TN
2020-21 Betty Turley Kennesaw, GA
2021-22 Sarah D. Moore Trenton, GA
2022-23 Debbie Rabjohn Canton, GA
2023-24 Deanna Morrow Carrollton, GA
2024-25 Charlie Romano Marietta, GA