Boyertown's Annual Citizens of the Year Event: Sold Out & Inspiring

L to R: Award Citizens: Jarid Miller, Keith Seiwell, Jayne McHugh, Alison Shapin, Jeffrey Brunner.

by Jane Stahl

I always love State Representative Dave Maloney's introduction that suggests if you're not from Boyertown, you wish you were.

PA State Representative David Maloney, offers praise to award recipients during what is his final opportunity for this event in his current capacity; he is not running for re-election. 

And there's Commissioner Christian Leinbach who, at every occasion I've hard him speak, describes Boyertown as a special place with special people--sharing that Boyertown is his favorite Berks County community.  

L to R: Commissioner Christian Leinbach and Jim Davidheiser, the event's Master of Ceremonies.

And every year at the  Citizens of the Year event, I think of my mother--born in Boonton, New Jersey, who instilled in me a love of this community and insisted that her husband-to-be, my father, who grew up in New England, never think she'd leave her beloved community.  The longer I live, the more I understand her devotion to Boyertown.. 

The 2026 Citizens of the Year event, held at the Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles, welcomed a sold-out crowd to celebrate those who were awarded: Jayne McHugh, "Citizen of the Year"; Jeffrey Brunner, "Mentor of the Year"; Jarid Miller, First Responder of the Year"; Alison Shapin, "Student of the Year," and the General Carl Spaatz National USAAF  Museum, a "Special Recognition Award."

Takeaways from the speeches  included Jeff Brunner's challenge not only to find the unique gift in those you mentor, but push them to greater achievements as his aunt inspired him to do. 

Former Mentor of the Year Tina Schrode and current recipient Jeffrey Brunner share a special moment. 

State Senator Tracy Pennycuick, in recognizing Student of the Year, Alison Shapin's extraordinary skills , achievements, and involvement in the YMCA's Youth in Government organization (one of many other involvements), urged her to continue to excel and predicted they'd meet again someday on the Senate floor.  In addition to Student of the Year, Alison was awarded the James A. Tribbett Memorial Scholarship 

Student of the Year Alison Shapin encourages us to avoid mediocity and strive to excel.  (Alison will join me for a "B Inspired" episode in  upcoming weeks available on your favorite podcast platform.)

PA State Senator Tracy Pennycuick (back left) and State Representative Donna Scheuren join Boyertown's Mayor Lori Carnes (front) for a fun moment.

Keith Seiwell was rightly acknowledged for his vision and determination in establishing the Carl Spaatz National USAFF Museum, insisting that it be established in Boyertown, and creating an interactive experience that attracts thousand of visitors and thousands more young people, leaders of tomorrow. 

L-R Veteran Matt McHugh and Keith Seiwell, executive director of the Carl Spaatz National USAFF Museum stand proudly to honor recipients. 

Jarid Miller's humility charmed the crowd along with the knowledge that his desire to serve his community was deemed something "in his DNA.". Gratitude was expressed to his family whose "service" included sharing Jarid with the community. 

In honoring Jayne McHugh for the breadth and depth of her leadership and tireless efforts over decades also honored the Junior Woman's Club of Boyertown, celebrating its 75th year. Jayne serves as the current president. Also acknowledged was the Boyertown Alumni Marching Unit, celebrating its 50th year. Jayne was a charter member of the organization.  She's apparently everywhere--organizing, leading, inspiring others--and, no doubt, eager to continue her effort.  

The annual event serves to remind us of all the good things happening and all the good people--past and present--that truly make Boyertown a special kind of place. And we are reminded that we are all called to give our community our best efforts in whatever capacity we are able.  

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