2012 First Citizen
of Cherokee County
JoEllen Wilson
presented at the Chamber's
41st Annual Meeing in January 2012

The First Citizen of Cherokee County is a prestigious award designed to honor a Cherokee resident for their dedication to the community. The award is presented each year during the Chamber's Annual Meeting.

The distinct title of First Citizen of Cherokee County is bestowed upon a man or woman who has resided in the county for a minimum of five years and has shown significant meritorious service to his or her community through family, civic and/or religious involvement. A panel of out-of-town judges carefully reviews the accomplishments of each applicant and the winner is chosen based upon merit.

Each year a new honoree joins a prestigious list of Cherokee Countians that includes former Canton physician Dr. Grady Coker, who was the initial recipient in 1971 and JoEllen Wilson who was chosen as the 2012 First Citizen. The First Citizen program, which went defunct in 1986, was revamped in 1992 when retired Georgia Power Area Manager Bill Wester was chosen as the 17th recipient.

Applications for the 38th Annual First Citizen of Cherokee County will be accepted beginning November 8, 2012.  Applications must be submitted by 5 PM, Monday, December 10, 2012.  The 2013 recipient will be announce during the Chamber's 42nd Annual Meeting scheduled for January 2013.  For further details, please contact the Chamber at 770-345-0400.