2026 Hilton Citizen of the Year

Nancy Whelehan Leport
Nancy Whelehan Leport was named the 2026 Hilton Citizen of the Year, recognizing her decades of service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to preserving the shared history of Hilton and Parma.
Nancy has been a central figure in organizing and advancing local historical preservation efforts for future generations. As Secretary of the Parma Hilton Historical Society, she has played a vital role in safeguarding the stories, artifacts, and traditions that define the region and connect its past to its present.
Her commitment to service began early and has continued throughout her ministry career, nonprofit leadership, and ongoing historical work. She also played a transformative role in the Hilton Alumni Association, helping turn a simple scholarship idea into a thriving 501(c)(3) organization that now supports students, teachers, and alumni across generations.
Under Nancy’s steady leadership, the Hilton Alumni Association has grown into a powerful force for educational support and community connection. Her vision and dedication have strengthened the fabric of the community, ensuring that both Hilton’s history and its future remain vibrant.
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