Citizen Recognition Award Recipients

The City of Sunbury is proud to honor outstanding individuals and groups who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, service, and dedication to our community. Through the Citizen Recognition Program, we celebrate residents, volunteers, students, and organizations whose actions have positively impacted Sunbury and enriched the lives of its citizens.

Selected honorees are recognized at a City Council meeting. These awards highlight meaningful achievements—whether through community service, civic engagement, or initiatives that make Sunbury a better place to live.

Below, you’ll find the stories of our recent award recipients—neighbors and changemakers who embody the spirit of Sunbury through their actions and dedication.

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Megan Truax: Sunbury's First Citizen Recognition Award Recipient 

The City of Sunbury is proud to recognize Megan Truax as the first recipient of the Citizen Recognition Award. Megan sets a high standard through her compassion, leadership, and tireless service to our community.

As the Big Walnut District nurse and co-director of Big Walnut Neighborhood Bridges, Megan has gone above and beyond to support families in need. Whether coordinating resources, answering late-night calls, or leading through the pandemic, Megan’s dedication has touched countless lives.

Colleagues describe her as “all heart,” a “true gem,” and a “champion” for students and families alike. Sunbury is better because of her—and we are honored to celebrate her impact.

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Les & Rosie Mohler: Citizen Recognition Award Recipient 

Les and Rosie Mohler have been pillars of the Sunbury community since moving here in 1978. From Girl Scout leadership and school board service to volunteering with youth and high school sports, their decades of dedication have left a lasting legacy.

Les, a physician, provided countless sports physicals and served as the high school football team doctor, while Rosie was deeply involved in schools and youth programs. Together, they built and maintained the first walking bridge over Big Walnut Creek in 1985 and later commissioned the beloved Johnny Appleseed statue on the Town Square.

As one community member shared, “Doc was the best.” The Mohlers’ impact continues to shape Sunbury—and we’re proud to honor them for their lifelong service.

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Beth Stanley: Citizen Recognition Award Recipient 

Since moving to Sunbury in 2018, Beth Stanley has become a shining light in our community. With a passion for kindness and connection, she founded the annual Kindness Krew—a Presidents’ Day tradition that delivers treats and thank-you signs to our local police, fire, and EMS teams.

Beth also inspires young minds and hearts through her Soaring Eaglets running group, encouraging kids to build confidence, stay active, and support one another. Her impact is felt in countless ways, always guided by a deep desire to uplift others.

If you’ve met Beth, you’ve likely experienced her generosity firsthand—and if you haven’t, now’s the perfect time to be inspired by her story.

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Alexis Hempy: Citizen Recognition Award Recipient

Alexis Hempy is more than a talented dog groomer—she’s a true community champion. Through her work at Bubbles and Bows, Alexis has shown exceptional care not just for pets, but especially for the working dogs that serve Sunbury and the surrounding areas.

From grooming Sunbury’s K9 Ace to therapy and service dogs across multiple departments, Alexis donates her time and expertise every 6–8 weeks, saving agencies hundreds of dollars and ensuring these dogs are always cared for.

Her generosity also extends to rescue animals in need, making her a quiet but powerful force for good. Alexis’s kindness, joy, and commitment have left a lasting mark on Sunbury, and we’re proud to recognize her as a Citizen Recognition Award recipient.

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Warren Owen: Citizen Recognition Award Recipient

For over 70 years, Warren Owen has been a dedicated and active member of the Sunbury community. From serving on the Sunbury Lions Club for more than two decades to volunteering with the American Legion, Halter and Saddle Club, and Big Walnut Conservation Club, Warren has given tirelessly to causes that uplift and unite.

Whether helping to organize the annual Ox Roast, caring for veterans’ gravesites, or maintaining the gardens at the Myers Inn, Warren’s service spans generations. He’s also a longtime member of the Tree and Landscape Commission and a regular voice at City Council meetings, always advocating for a better, safer Sunbury.

Warren’s lifelong commitment to volunteerism and civic pride makes him a truly deserving recipient of the Citizen Recognition Award.

To nominate a citizen for the Citizen Recognition Award Click Here