The Wall of Honor.
The Distinguished Citizen Award recognizes the people who have given exceptional service and support to the Douglas County Fair & Rodeo.
The Distinguished Citizen Award
The Heritage Plaza Wall of Honor recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of service and a long-standing commitment to the operation, management, or financial support of the Douglas County Fair & Rodeo.
Their names are permanently engraved on the Wall of Honor at the heart of the fairgrounds. A nomination form is available for anyone who would like to honor a deserving citizen.
Submit a nomination →Induction Ceremony
Each year during fair week, the Foundation formally inducts and honors new recipients of the Distinguished Citizen Award. Everyone is welcome to attend and celebrate these remarkable people.
See all events →New shade over Heritage Plaza
In 2025, the Foundation partnered with Douglas County to fund the sail shades that now cover the Heritage Plaza gathering space at the fairgrounds. It was a significant investment — and one the community felt all week long, giving families cool, comfortable places to gather between shows during the fair.
Put your name in Heritage Plaza
Purchase a custom engraved brick and become a permanent part of Heritage Plaza — a lasting way to honor your family, remember a loved one, or show your support for the Douglas County Fair & Rodeo for generations to come.
Wall of Honor recipients
The distinguished citizens honored on the Wall of Honor through the years.
2026
- Thomas A. “Tom” Brown
- Tom Burdick
- William “Bill” R. Maddox
- Rick Romanin
2025
- Cap and Linda Bell
- Joe Procopio
- Betty Thomas
2024
- Christina VanBibber
- Bob VanPelt
- Dr. Steven Cribley
- Debbie Mills
- Craig Sloan
2023
- John and Pat Carson
- Monty Anderson
- The Todd Spencer Family
- Pam Spradlin
- Richard M. Stevens
2022
- Pat Candelaria
- Scott Candelaria
- Brooke Serrell Fox
- Royal McKinster
- Mark F. Moore
2021
- J. R. Godley
- Roger A. Partridge
2020
- Paul and Cheryl Clayton
- Wes Jacobs
- James L. and Wilma Marr
- Ramsour Family
- Jackie Friesen and Pat Salazar
- Edward W. “Skip” Serrell, IV
2019
- George M. Beeman & Dr. G. Marvin Beeman
- The Winkler Family
- Elmer King
- Dr. Phil Riesselman
2018
- Arlie Gordon
- Dave & Marsha Amick
- Roger Evans
2017
- The Bell Family
- John Hammond
- The Hier Drilling Family
- Jack Orr
2016
2015
2014
2013
Know someone deserving?
Nominate a citizen who has given lasting service to the Douglas County Fair & Rodeo.