LWVMC Democracy in Action

LWVMC Democracy in Action

Democracy In Action — LWVMC


Democracy In Action event banner

A member of 'Urban Strings' Columbus founded by Catherine Talmadge Willis (2025 Honoree).

Honoring Champions of Civic Engagement

Each year, the League of Women Voters of Metropolitan Columbus proudly hostsDemocracy In Action—a signature event recognizing individuals and organizations who make a lasting impact on our democracy.

This annual celebration shines a light on those who lead with integrity, promote civic participation, and work tirelessly to strengthen government transparency, equity, and justice in our community.

'Democracy In Action' Event

The event is one of Central Ohio’s most respected civic honors. For decades, this event has recognized public servants, community advocates, journalists, and everyday citizens who embody the League’s mission: empowering voters and defending democracy.

Past honorees have included local officials and judges, voting rights advocates, education and equity leaders, public media organizations, youth organizers and grassroots coalitions.

What to Expect

  • A keynote or fireside chat
  • Award presentations to distinguished honorees
  • Networking with civic leaders, elected officials, and engaged citizens
  • Optional silent auction or fundraiser supporting League programs

Whether held in person or virtually,Democracy In Action  is a celebration of those who show us what democracy looks like in action.

Want to be part of this inspiring event?

  • Attend the next Democracy In Action celebration
  • Nominate a civic leader or organization who deserves recognition
  • Sponsor or support the event to help us continue this legacy
Donate to LWVMC

Sponsor the next Event?  Contact us atvote [at] lwvcols.org

Questions?Contact us atdevelopment [at] lwvcols.org

Why Your Support Matters

Democracy In Action  is our major fundraising event. The award ceremony brings together supporters and community leaders to recognize outstanding contributions—and to sustain the very work that upholds foundational democratic principles.

Your support goes directly to the League's efforts to ensure elections are free, fair, and accessible; to protect our environment; and to reduce the influence of money in politics.Together, we safeguard our democracy.

Committee Contact
Contact Name: 
Lucy Buzzee
Email: 
development@lwvcols.org
League to which this content belongs: 
Metropolitan Columbus

All Posts Related to this Committee

Democracy In Action: 2025

cw

Catherine Talmadge Willis is a lifelong educator, community activist, and cultural visionary whose work has uplifted generations of children and families across Central Ohio. Best known as the founder of Urban Strings Columbus, Catherine has been a catalyst for positive change in education, the arts, and family advocacy for over six decades.

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Democracy In Action: 2024

Rev. John Edgar and Sue Wolf

2024 Honoree was Reverend John Edgar. He was responsible for building a Church for All people that has achieved a positive impact on the surrounding community. In addition to offering daily worship services, the church offers a number of services that are beneficial such as a free store where people are welcome to come grab essentials items like household goods, clothing, and food. They also have many volunteers who help out with their affordable housing program, after school program, and even offer job opportunities. They offer free bikes for people who have trouble getting to work. They offer a healthy eating and living program that helps people improve their mental and physical health. It has motivated many people who sustain the church and volunteer their time.

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Democracy in Action: Honorees (2017-2023)

past honorees

Yearly since 1992 the LWVMC has given the 'Democracy In Action' award to a person, persons, or organization in recognition of their outstanding participation in civic affairs and service to the community. Past recipients include: Mary Lazarus, John Fisher, Chuck White and WBNS-10TV, Herb Asher, JoAnn Davidson, Robert Duncan, Bob & Dorothy Teater, Cynthia Cecil Lazarus, Rev. Leon Troy, Fred Andrle, Mike Curtain, Matt Habash, Senator John and Annie Glenn, Betty Montgomery, Yvette McGee Brown, Joseph Mas, Columbus Metro Parks, the Statehouse News Bureau, Sara Neikirk, Justice Thomas Moyer, Hugh Dorrian, Janet Jackson , Ted Celeste, Amy Klaben, Fran Ryan and Reverend John Edgar.

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Democracy In Action

Submitted by Metropolitan Columbus in November 2017.

Event Date: 
05/01/2018 - 6:00pm to 05/02/2018 - 7:45pm
Event location: 

Ohio State University Fawcett Center

LWVMC is proud to announce that Mr. Hugh Dorrian has been chosen as the recipient of ‘Democracy In Action’ Award for 2018. 

Register for this event »
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