Madison Man Among 2024 Golden Hoosier Award Recipients

The Golden Hoosier Award Ceremony was held Tuesday in Indianapolis.

Photo provided.

INDIANAPOLIS – Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch on Tuesday announced the 17 winners of the 2024 Golden Hoosier Award.

The Golden Hoosier Award began in 2008, and annually honors senior Hoosiers for their lifetime of service and commitment to their communities.

Since the start of the program, more than 200 Hoosiers have been honored.

Frank T. Hayes, of Madison, was among the 17 recipients this year.

"Each of these Hoosiers has dedicated their life to serving communities across Indiana," said Lt. Gov. Crouch, Indiana's Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. "They exemplify the Hoosier spirit of wanting to help, wanting to give back and being generous. Congratulations to the 2024 Golden Hoosier Award winners!" 

To be eligible, awardees must currently be an Indiana resident, age 65 or older and have been a volunteer in the community for the past three years. Each awardee was nominated by someone in their community who recognized their significant contribution to their community. 

More information on the ceremony as well as bios for the awardees can be found here.

Read the bio for Frank Hayes below. 

Frank Hayes is honored for his unwavering positivity and generous spirit. As a beloved presence at a local coffee shop, he takes the time to educate visitors about the 144 blocks of Madison’s historic districts, sharing his passion for the community. His generosity shines through in his support for The Children’s Advocacy Center of Southeastern Indiana, a nonprofit dedicated to helping child abuse victims. Frank has made significant contributions as a donor. He restocks the children’s resource room with snacks, hygiene products, backpacks and toys for those in crisis. He provides lunches and actively educates others on the importance of supporting the Center. Frank also promotes and participates in annual fundraising campaigns. Frank has received a number of honors in recognition of his outstanding work. He was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash and was crowned King of The Children’s Advocacy Center. As a Madison Main Street Ambassador, he proudly served as Grand Marshal of the local parade and was presented the key to the city in 2022. Beyond his community service, Frank has co-authored the book “We Served with Honor,” a history of the 91st Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, further showcasing his commitment to preserving history and honoring those who served. Frank’s professional achievements are equally noteworthy. After serving in the Air Force in strategic command and working on the Space Station, he excelled as an engineer in the private sector and as a pilot instructor in New York. Ultimately, he chose to make Madison his home, captivated by its stunning views and rich traditions. Now, as he approaches his 93rd birthday, Frank continues to inspire those around him with his healthy lifestyle and infectious positivity. He believes in making the most of every moment