Senior Voice -

Mary Shields is the 2020 recipient of the distinguished Ron Hammett Award from the Municipality of Anchorage's Senior Citizens Advisory Commission. Annually, the award recognizes an individual who demonstrates exceptional service, leadership and civic engagement for improving the quality of life of seniors.

Shields, a 47-year resident of Anchorage, served on the Alaska Commission on Aging (ACOA) from 2014 to 2019. With less than one year on the commission, she accepted the position of chair, and went on to serve a second term.

"Her leadership skills in chairing boards and commissions is outstanding, and she is credited with working on the Commission's state plan," said Gordon Glaser current commission chair. Mary's contributions to Alaska's seniors includes securing funding for the Power of Aging Symposium held in 2014 and then making it happen.

She currently serves as vice president on the Anchorage Senior Activity Center Board of Directors, and spent several years as a director. The center has strengthened its financials and implemented many new programs, policies and procedures, and helped develop a new signature event during her involvement.

"She is courageous when it is time to speak up and support local and state programs affecting Alaska's seniors," said AnnaBell Stevens, a member of the municipality's Senior Citizens Advisory Commission. Annually, Mary advocates for seniors with state, local and congressional leaders for programs that improve and maintain a quality of life for Alaskan seniors.