Hannan Center Opens Nominations for 2026 70 Over Seventy Awards

Hannan Center, a Detroit-based nonprofit dedicated to preserving dignity and enhancing quality of life for older adults, has opened nominations for its 2026 70 Over Seventy Awards, an annual program recognizing 70 Michiganders age 70 and older whose continued contributions are strengthening communities across the state.

The program was launched in 2017 highlights leaders, innovators and everyday changemakers who are redefining what it means to age, demonstrating that impact, purpose and influence do not diminish over time. It reflects a simple idea: purpose does not retire, and older adults remain essential to Michigan’s civic, cultural and economic vitality.

“Our honorees remind us that there is no age limit on vision, courage or service,” said Vincent Tilford, President and CEO of Hannan Center. “At 70 and beyond, they are launching businesses, strengthening neighborhoods, creating meaningful art and showing up for others every day. These awards are our opportunity to recognize that their contributions continue to matter.”

The 2026 program will honor 70 individuals across seven categories:

·Lifetime Achievement – A lifetime of meaningful contributions and continued influence

·Art – Advancing creative expression through impactful work

·Changemaker – Driving social, cultural or economic progress

·Civic and Community Leadership – Demonstrating sustained service with measurable impact

·Entrepreneurship – Building or growing ventures later in life

·Lifelong Learning – Pursuing knowledge and personal growth

·Unsung Hero – Providing quiet, consistent service that improves the lives of others

Nominees must be at least 70 years old at the time of nomination. Individuals may be nominated in multiple categories, though each honoree will ultimately be recognized in one. Community members are encouraged to nominate family members, friends, colleagues and local leaders whose stories reflect resilience, purpose and service.

Past honorees have included community advocates, educators, entrepreneurs, artists and volunteers whose work has strengthened neighborhoods, advanced equity and inspired others across generations. Their stories underscore the program’s mission to elevate aging as a period of continued growth, contribution and leadership.

Nominations are open through July 6, 2026, and must be submitted online at www.hannan.org. A separate form is required for each category, with narrative responses outlining the nominee’s impact and achievements.

Honorees will be celebrated at the 2026 70 Over Seventy Awards Brunch on Saturday October 3, 2026, from 11:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. at the International Business Center at the Atheneum Hotel in Detroit.

Hannan Center is also inviting businesses foundations and individual donors to support the 70 Over Seventy Awards through sponsorships that help sustain programs uplifting older adults across Metro Detroit. Sponsorship packages connect partners with an audience of up to 650 business civic philanthropic and individual leaders who care about building an age inclusive region. Opportunities are designed to both celebrate Hannan Center’s more than 100 years of impact and provide vital resources for its ongoing work in lifelong learning care coordination and community engagement. To secure a sponsorship or request additional information contact Madonna Draughn executive assistant at mtdraughn@hannan.org or 313 833 1300 ext. 16 or visit hannan.org.

About Hannan Center
The mission of Hannan Center is to preserve the dignity and enhance the quality of life for seniors in Michigan. In 1925, Luella Hannan founded the Luella Hannan Memorial Foundation to serve aged persons in Detroit. Today, over 100 years later, Hannan continues to ensure that seniors are respected, valued, empowered to reach their potential and connected to a community of their choice. Through lifelong learning opportunities and care coordination, Hannan Center assists older adults with their social, educational, medical, financial, and housing needs. For more information, please call 313.833.1300 or visit www.hannan.org.