Presented every two years, the Outstanding Volunteer Award recognizes individuals or groups who have made exceptional contributions of time, talent, and energy in support of the SGS mission. Recipients of this award demonstrate a sustained commitment to service, going above and beyond typical expectations to enhance the success of SGS programs, events, and initiatives.

Awardees may include:

• Event Volunteers who have shown exceptional dedication to organizing, hosting, or supporting SGS reunions or other community events.

• Committee or Project Leaders who have taken on significant responsibilities, provided innovative solutions, and achieved impactful results for the SGS.

• Community Advocates who have actively promoted SGS within their networks, recruited new members, or expanded the society’s reach and impact.

• Long-term Contributors who have consistently volunteered over multiple years, demonstrating reliability, leadership, and passion for the SGS mission.

This award honors not only the time contributed, but also the positive spirit, collaboration, and leadership that inspire others to volunteer and advance SGS’s mission.

2023 Lynda Simmons | St. Louis, MO

2021 Terry Tietjens and Ruthetta Hansen | Virtual Meeting

2019 Paul Taylor | San Diego, CA

2017 Katherine Olsen | Parkersburg, WV

2015 James Seeley | Abilene, KS

2013 Chris and Jerry Havnar | Grand Rapids, MI

2011 Marshall Seelye and Mary Palley | Horseheads, NY

2009 Montell Seely | Salt Lake City, UT

2007 Linda Crocker | Wethersfield, CT

2005 Katherine Olsen and Madeline Mills | Abilene, KS

2003 William Thresher and George Seeley | Williamsburg, VA

City, State is reunion location

Every two years the Reunion Souvenir Book is dedicated to a member or members who have made a significant and lasting impact on the Seeley Genealogical Society. This honor is reserved for individuals whose passion, service, and contributions have enriched our shared history, strengthened our community, and advanced the mission of SGS.

Those recognized may have:

• Played a key role in organizing reunions or SGS events that brought members together.

• Contributed exceptional research, writing, or archival work that preserves the Seeley family story.

• Demonstrated years of unwavering volunteer service or leadership within the organization.

• Inspired others through their generosity, enthusiasm, and dedication to our family heritage.

By dedicating the Souvenir Book, SGS expresses deep appreciation for their legacy and ensures their efforts are remembered as an integral part of our continuing story.

Ruthetta Seelye Hansen - 2023

Walter C. and Marie A. Seelye - 2021

George and Sally Masker Seeley - 2019

Gerald “Jerry” Havnar - 2017

Marshall and Evelyn Washburn Seelye - 2015

Robert and Evelyn Johnson Seeley - 2013

John Robert and Maurine Brevoort Seely - 2011

Montell Seely - 2009

Joan Jackson Phillips - 2007

Esther Houtz Walter and Madeline H. Merrill Mills - 2005

Garner Osborn - 2003

The Society enjoys celebrating excellence both within our organization and across the broader industry. This commitment takes two forms: actively nominating deserving members for external awards and honors, and proudly being recognized ourselves for the impact of our work. By doing so, we not only highlight individual achievements but also demonstrate the strength, innovation, and dedication that define the Seeley family.

2006 Honorable Mention in Newsletter Competition - National Genealogical Society

2005 Nomination of SGS Member Madeline Mills for Induction into the Federation of Genealogical Societies' Ruth C. Bishop Volunteer Hall of Fame

2005 Honorable Mention in Newsletter Competition - National Genealogical Society

2003 Nomination of SGS Member John R. Seely for Induction into the Federation of Genealogical Societies' Living Volunteer Hall of Honor