Honoring Service: Pierre Chagnon named 2026 recipient of John D. Hamilton Community Service Award
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The Chautauqua Region Community Foundation recently presented the 2026 John D. Hamilton Community Service Award to Pierre Chagnon.
Presented annually since 1994, the John D. Hamilton Community Service Award recognizes an individual whose dedication, leadership and service have strengthened community spirit and enhanced the quality of life throughout the Chautauqua region. The award honors the legacy of John D. Hamilton, whose lifelong commitment to civic leadership continues to inspire generations of volunteers.
Throughout the evening, guests reflected on the breadth of Chagnon's service and, including Chagnon's children Jenelle and Marc, who offered a personal perspective on Chagnon.
"Working together is the theme for tonight's celebration," said Laura Otander, chair of the John D. Hamilton Community Service Award Committee. "There are few people who have demonstrated the ability to work with a team to accomplish a significant impact more than Pierre Chagnon."
When Chagnon took the microphone, he did what one might expect from a servant leader, he highlighted those who mentored him and whose example of leadership he has tried to emulate.
"Each board that I served on provided an opportunity to learn from others," Chagnon said. "I am naming a small number of the people who have supported, encouraged, and mentored me as a way to share this recognition."
Throughout his 31-year professional career with SKF, Chagnon built a background in business analysis, product planning, purchasing, materials management, customer support, human resources and manufacturing management. Among the organizations he has served are the Jamestown Area Development Corporation, Rotary Club of Falconer, Reg Lenna Civic Center, Bemus Point Central School District, Jamestown Audubon Society, Town of Ellery, Chautauqua County Legislature, Chautauqua County Sewer Agency, Chautauqua Lake & Watershed Management Alliance, Manufacturers’ Association of the Jamestown Area, South and Center Chautauqua Lake Sewer Districts, Chautauqua County Soil and Water Conservation District, and other civic, conservation, faith-based, and community organizations. His service also includes years of coaching youth athletics, supporting his parish, and mentoring young people throughout the region.
"When we pause to think of John Hamilton and the recognition awarded in his name, we can't help but think that someone like Pierre; someone who is versatile, thoughtful, continuously learning, and rarely declines an opportunity to serve is a perfect selection," said Tory Irgang, executive director of the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation.
To to share congratulatory sentiments with Chagnon or make a gift in his honor, visit crcf.me/pierre