Carol Hay Presented with 2024 John D. Hamilton Community Service Award

Carol Hay was honored Friday night as the recipient of the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation’s John D. Hamilton Community Service Award. The event took place at the Roger Tory Peterson Institute, which welcomed nearly 100 attendees in recognition of the 2024 recipient. 

The annual award has been presented since 1993 in recognition of an individual’s dedication, leadership and support in furthering community spirit. It is named for John D. Hamilton, in celebration of his impact throughout his lifetime.  

“We had a lovely evening with beautiful weather and some heartfelt words about a woman who is truly deserving of this recognition.” noted Tory Irgang, Executive Director. “Carol has supported numerous community individuals and organizations with her time and leadership, and it was an honor to put the spotlight on her for the evening.” 

Carol moved to western New York with her husband, J. Douglas “Doug” Hay in 1972. There, they operated a retail and wholesale pottery business and farmed and raised animals on their homestead in Sherman. When their children were school-aged, Carol accepted a teaching position in the Sherman Central School District and after ten years in the classroom, became a principal at Dunkirk City Schools, then principal at Panama Central School, before serving as Superintendent of the Panama district. She retired in 2010, but retirement gave her more time for serving her church in various volunteer leadership roles, the Stanley Hose Fire Department Auxiliary, and the Sherman Historical Society.  

When she lost her husband Doug to cancer, she put her caretaker abilities to work advocating for and driving neighbors and church members to appointments. She also volunteered as Interim Executive Director for Community Helping Hands and served on its Board of Directors. She also turned her passion for history into service as a Board member for the Chautauqua County Historical Society.   

One of Carol’s longest serving volunteer roles was on the Board of Directors for the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation. She served on the Executive Committee and continues her role on the General Grants Committee.  

Friday’s event was attended by family, friends, and colleagues of Carol’s, with commendations from elected officials, both in attendance and through letters of recognition. Jeffrey Hay, son of the recipient, along with Irgang and Peter Stark, provided the night’s remarks. 

In a video produced for the event, Carol spoke of her penchant for stepping up when a need arises. “I do know how to say no. It’s just that there aren’t a lot of occasions to use the word. Usually, you can say yes, and be helpful, be kind, and considerate. Why say no, if you can say yes?

The Chautauqua Region Community Foundation administers over 700 endowments in support of emerging community needs, charitable organizations and local students pursuing higher education. For more information visit www.crcfonline.org or contact Lisa Lynde, Donor Services Officer at 716-661-3390 or llynde@crcfonline.org