2023 Honored Citizen

The Concord Public Ceremonies and Celebrations Committee (CPCCC) is pleased to announce that longtime Concord resident Phebe Ham has been selected as this year’s Honored Citizen. 

“There was an unusual number of high-quality nominees this year,” said committee Chair Sue McCrory. “We could easily justify having chosen any one of a number of the candidates.” While selecting from so many strong nominees was difficult, the committee finally settled on Ms. Ham. In the end, Phebe was chosen based on a lifetime of varied service to the Town of Concord, as well as her enduring commitment to making the Concord experience better for the people who live here. 

Ms. Ham was reached at her home by CPCC member Nancy Crowley. According to Crowley, “Phebe was genuinely surprised by the news; she called this a great honor.” McCrory added, “We congratulate all the worthy 2023 nominees. It is clear just how special Concord is given that so many residents are compelled to be extremely generous with their time and talent.” 

Nomination forms and letters of support submitted for 2023 will be held by the CPCCC and considered again in 2024 along with any new nominations. Ms. Ham will be formally recognized as Concord’s newest Honored Citizen on Sunday, March 19, 2023, at 2:00 PM at the Town House. The Public Ceremonies and Celebrations Committee cordially invites members of the public to attend this annual ceremony 

2024 Event 

Sunday, March 17, 2024 (Anticipated)

2 p.m.

Hearing Room

Town House

22 Monument Square

Concord, MA 01842

History

Each year since 1962, Concord has acknowledged the outstanding efforts of some very dedicated citizens at the Honored Citizen Celebration. The award to the Honored Citizen is intangible. During the year of honor, the citizen is asked to lead the Patriots Day Parade and participate in the town's celebrations and ceremonies. He/she receives a replica of the original Boston Post Cane presented annually to each Honored Citizen.

In addition, the individual's name is added to the plaque located in the Town House. The Honored Citizen(s) shall be a resident(s) of the Town of Concord who is not an Elected Official. Selection is based upon significant volunteer service to the Town and/or fellow citizens which is above and beyond any remuneration (employment or profession is not considered). Volunteer service shall have been given over an extended period of time and evaluated upon depth of commitment; position(s) held and amount of time given.

Nomination Process

Nominations may be made for either an individual or a couple. The form at the link needs to be completed.  A complete biography should be supplied which describes why the nominee(s) is deserving, including career and community service information. Because emphasis will be placed on volunteer service, please explain this component in considerable detail. Selections are made based upon the quality, rather than the quantity, of nominations received. Petitions are not acceptable. 

The 2024 nomination process will open in February.  Dates to follow.  Nominations should be addressed to: Concord Public Ceremonies and Celebrations Committee Town House - 22 Monument Square, P.O. Box 535, Concord, MA 01742. You may also submit your nomination electronically to cpccc@concordma.gov