Freedom From Selfishness Award

The Dr. Lucille G. Ford “Freedom from Selfishness” Award was established in 2013 by The Women’s Fund of Ashland County Community Foundation in honor of ACCF’s founding president Dr. Lucille G. Ford.

Ford defines philanthropy as “freedom from selfishness,” and she has exemplified that definition throughout her life.

This annual award recognizes women who, like Ford, demonstrate a long-standing commitment to philanthropy in Ashland County. Each award recipient has given time, talent or resources to improve the lives of others and the Ashland County community as a whole.

We recognize each year’s recipient by presenting her with an award at a Women’s Fund event.

Must demonstrate deep-rooted, long-standing commitment to the Ashland County community and reside in, or have resided in, Ashland County on a long-term basis. Award recipients are selected by a committee of the Women’s Fund of Richland County Foundation.

Past award recipients include Nancy T. Davis (2014), Janet L. Archer (2015), Nancy E. Kopp (2016), Ann J. Miller (2017), Dr. JoAnn Ford Watson (2018), Diana S. Brechbuhler (2019), Dr. Julia Wright (2020), Lori Gottfried (2021), Norma Wygant (2022), Elaine Hess (2023), Dorothy Stratton (2024) and Marilyn Harshman (2025).

The nomination deadline is March 1, 2026