The Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the 2019 Citizen of the Year for the Lafayette – Oxford – University community. Since 1972 the Chamber of Commerce has recognized someone who helped make a direct, lasting impact on the community through volunteer service. This year’s winner will be the 48th recipient of the annual award. 

People who chose to nominate someone will need to send the Chamber a completed nomination form, a typewritten biography of the nominee and three separate nomination letters. Candidates selected will be judged on the basis of providing positive contributions to the LOU community, going above and beyond what is normally expected of them in an elective or appointed office, or above and beyond success in their profession or business. Candidates will also be judged on their perception as a role model in the community for good citizenship and volunteerism in a non-paid capacity. 

Last year’s Citizen of the Year was Sherwin Haynie of Abbeville. Haynie is a life-long resident of Lafayette County and graduated from Lafayette High School and the University of Mississippi. Haynie served on numerous boards throughout the LOU community, helping him become the 2018 recipient. 

Deadline for nominations is on May 2 at noon. To get a nomination form or more information about the guidelines, people can go to the Chamber office on 299 Jackson Avenue West or call 662-234-4651. This year’s honoree will be announced during the Chamber/EDF Annual Meeting Luncheon on May 15.