Chamber of Commerce 2019 Citizen of the Year

Nancy Adrian Named Chamber Citizen of the Year

WASHINGTON, IOWA (Date) — Nancy Adrian was named Citizen of the Year by the Washington Chamber of Commerce at the Washington Business Partnership Annual Dinner held March 9 at the Riverside Casino and Golf Resort.

In making the posthumous award presentation, Chamber Board Member Erik Buchholz said Adrian was “truly a shining example of humility, generosity, love and community spirit. Washington County and its residents are truly better for having had the honor of calling Nancy one of our own.  She deserves the honor of Citizen of the Year, although posthumously, as a thank you for her lifetime commitment to helping others, her hundreds of hours of volunteerism and being a consummate cheerleader.  Those of us that knew Nancy know she would smile and be humbled by the honor then get right back to work,” he said.

Buchholz said Adrian, through her work as Washington County Extension Director and through hundreds of volunteer hours she dedicated to Washington County non-profits and programs, went above and beyond serving both adults and youth empowering them with problem solving and creative thinking and most importantly kindness.

“Her commitment to improving our community and the lives of those who call Washington County home was evident by the many groups she volunteered with including: Community Foundation of Washington Board, Leadership Washington Committee, Washington County Barn Quilts, Washington Tourism Committee, Brighton Community Chamber of Commerce, Alter Society and Religious Education teacher, 4H leader and Master Gardener,” he said.

Nancy was a big idea person and was not afraid to spearhead major projects, rally community support, garner financial support, and then stand back and humbly watch her handiwork bring a project to fruition that was a benefit for all.  Among those projects were the creation of Ding Darling Highway, Washington County Freedom Rock and Park and promoting and maintaining Whoopee Days.

She was the recipient of many honors including the Award for Professional Excellence in Agriculture. She was recognized for innovation and initiative to respond to the needs of Washington County around agricultural production, management and environmental stewardship as well as being instrumental in programming for Beginning Young Farms, Women in Agronomy and organized the first Women in Agriculture Conference.

“While we wish Nancy was here to receive this honor and recognition, we hope that being honored posthumously will not only honor the legacy of this lifelong Washington County resident, but that her story and passion to improve the lives around her will inspire others to do as Nancy always did- smile, stay humble and get back to work!” Buchholz said.