14th Annual John Young History Maker

Since our inaugural ceremony with astronaut John Young himself in 2005, the Historical Society of Central Florida has recognized the outstanding achievements of select community members by annually bestowing the John Young History Maker Award upon a Central Floridian whose lifetime of achievement has made a historic impact on the community.

The award?s namesake, Captain Young, was the ninth person to walk on the moon as commander of the Apollo 16 mission in 1972.

In 2020, in a virtual celebration, the Historical Society will present the John Young History Maker Award to Dr. Sanford ?Sandy? Shugart, longtime president of Valencia College.

At the event, the society?s posthumous John Young History Maker Past Award will be presented to two recipients: Paul C. Perkins Sr. and state Sen. Beth Johnson, for their contributions to the community. The celebration will also feature the presentation of the John Young History Maker Future Scholarship.

Proceeds from this signature fund-raising event offer vital support for the Orange County Regional History Center?s education programs, exhibits, and efforts to preserve local history.