What do a firefighter, a photographer, a dance instructor and a high school soccer coach have in common?
They’re all in the running for Wilsonville’s First Citizen award.
On Tuesday, Feb. 7, the Rotary Club of Wilsonville announced its finalists for the annual honor. Out of 12 nominees, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue firefighter Casey Carpenter, local photographer Greg Artman, Innovative Dance studio owner Molly Kalekilo and Wilsonville High School girls soccer coach Tammy Bradley were chosen as finalists for the award, according to a press release.
The award is granted to an upstanding citizen in Wilsonville, characterized by their service to the community and chosen out of a pool of community nominations. Since its creation in 2002, 27 people have received the title of First Citizen.
The winner will be announced at the club’s Heart of Gold dinner and auction on April 6. The event begins at 6 p.m. and will be held at the Oregon Golf Club. Inspired by the 2022 film “Top Gun: Maverick,” the theme will be Wings of Service.
Last year, “organizational mastermind” Lisa Krecklow was chosen for her history of volunteer work, and past First Citizens also include former Mayors Charlotte Lehan and Tim Knapp.
“We are extremely blessed to live in a community such as Wilsonville. The amount of incredible leaders and volunteers that actively participate and impact members of our community is mind-blowing,” Rotary Club President Kyle Bunch wrote in the press release. “We received many phenomenal nominations for this year’s award and look forward to celebrating with each of the four finalists.”
Kaelyn is a general assignment reporter for the Wilsonville Spokesman, covering everything from City Hall to local events, personalities and more. Originally from Florida, Kaelyn moved to Wilsonville in May, 2022. When she isn't reporting, Kaelyn loves thrift shopping, hiking, cooking and hanging out with her dog, Rudy.
