Carol Hay

Carol Hay has been selected as the 2024 recipient of the John D. Hamilton Community Service Award.

A celebration event is scheduled for Sept. 20 at the Roger Tory Peterson Institute.

The annual award has been presented since 1994 in recognition of an individual’s dedication, leadership and support in furthering community spirit and enhancing the quality of life in the region. It is named for John D. Hamilton, in celebration of his tireless efforts and leadership throughout the community.

“We’re honored to present this award to such an active and thoughtful contributor to our community,” noted Tory Irgang, Chautauqua Region Community Foundation executive director. “Anyone who knows Carol can attest to how helping others brings her joy.”

Hay moved to Western New York with her husband, J. Douglas “Doug” Hay in 1972. There, they operated Gentle Earth Pottery, a retail and wholesale pottery business, and farmed and raised animals on their homestead in Sherman. When their children were school-aged, Carol accepted a teaching position in the Sherman Central School District and began a career in education. After 10 years in the classroom, she became a principal in Dunkirk City Schools before coming to Panama Central School. There she served as principal and then superintendent, retiring in 2010.

“I loved going to work,” Hay noted. “Whether teaching in the classroom, serving as principal or being superintendent of the district – each job had its challenges, but was fulfilling and fun.”

Retirement brought time for travel to see family and friends and explore the US. When Carol and Doug were at home in Chautauqua County, she was busy serving her church in various volunteer leadership roles. She also served the Sherman community through the Stanley Hose Fire Department Auxiliary and the Sherman Historical Society.

Life dealt Carol a difficult hand in 2016 when she lost Doug to cancer. Without skipping a beat, she put her caretaker abilities to work caring for others. She spent endless hours driving neighbors and church members to medical appointments, ensuring they had an advocate when their family wasn’t available.

She also put her availability to work for the community. Carol volunteered as interim executive director for Community Helping Hands and served on its Board of Directors. She also turned her passion for history into service as a board member for the Chautauqua County Historical Society.

One of Carol’s longest serving volunteer roles was on the board of directors for the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation. She served on the Executive Committee and continues on the General Grants Committee.

“We appreciate the perspective Carol brings to her role at the f,” added Ms. Irgang. “She applies logic and practicality to her decisions, but always demonstrates empathy and compassion.”

While supporting area nonprofits for decades, Hay has also been a proud mother of two sons, John and Jeffrey, and grandmother to three young adults.

“I appreciate my blessings and am grateful for good health, a loving family, many supportive friends, and opportunities to serve my community,” Hay said.

The reception honoring Carol Hay is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 20, at the Roger Tory Peterson Institute. The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. with the award presentation at 6:30 p.m.

For more information on the event, including how to purchase tickets or to send Hay a congratulatory message, visit crcf.me/CarolHay or contact the foundation at 716-661-3390.

The Chautauqua Region Community Foundation administers more than 700 endowments in support of emerging community needs, charitable organizations and local students pursuing higher education. For more information visit www.crcfonline.org or contact Lisa Lynde, donor services officer, at 716-661-3390 or llynde@crcfonline.org