United Way honoring George Mylander

HURON TWP. — The United Way of Erie County is announcing the inaugural George Mylander Leadership Awards, a new annual celebration honoring the legacy of one of Erie County's most beloved civic leaders, the late George Mylander. The event will take place at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 22 — on what would have been Mylander's 93rd birthday — at BGSU Firelands' Cedar Point Center Auditorium, 1 University Drive, Huron. Created to celebrate individuals who embody Mylander's lifelong commitment to service, leadership and community, the awards will recognize a local resident or someone who works in Erie County who has made a lasting impact through civic involvement, humility and compassion. "When I arrived at United Way of Erie County, one thing became clear: We had to honor this man," said E.J. Brinson, the local United Way's executive director. "George Mylander's compassion, love and leadership are the very spirit of Erie County," he added. "We didn't just need another event: We needed a leadership movement to carry forward his name, his purpose and his passion for this community. This award is about more than legacy:It's about inspiring the next generation of changemakers." Nominate someone worthy The local United Way invites the public to submit nominations. Eligible nominees must reside or employed in Erie County and demonstrate: • Outstanding civic leadership • Commitment to community service • Proven impact on quality of life in the region • Integrity, humility and servant leadership Nominations are due by Aug. 31 To nominate someone, email staff@uweriecounty.org with the subject line "George Mylander Awards" and include: • The nominee's full name • Contact information for yourself and the nominee • A brief summary of why the nominee should be honored A selection committee composed of community leaders and individuals who knew Mylander will review submissions. Tickets, doubling as a donation to the United Way, total $75 per individual or $500 for a table of eight. A buffet dinner is included. They can be purchased at uweriecounty.org. People can call 419-625-4672 or email staff@uweriecounty.org with questions. All proceeds from the George Mylander Leadership Awards support United Way of Erie County's mission to improve lives through financial empowerment, education, health access, and critical services. Community partners This event is made possible through the support of: • Presenting sponsor Firelands Federal Credit Union "George Mylander believed that education and leadership were essential to building strong communities. Firelands Federal Credit Union is proud to carry that spirit forward not only by honoring those who lead with purpose but by empowering everyday people through trusted banking and financial education." — Kelly Steele-Moore, vice president of marketing at Firelands Federal Credit Union • Event location sponsor BGSU Firelands "We are honored to host the George Mylander Community Impact Leadership Awards at BGSU Firelands — a place that bears witness to his vision, generosity and enduring legacy. Dr. Mylander believed in the power of education to transform lives and communities, and it is with deep gratitude that we continue to walk in the path he helped create." — Dr. Allia L. Carter, Dean of BGSU Firelands Bio blast The United Way provided the following about Mylander: George L. Mylander (1932–2016) was a beloved educator, veteran, civic leader and philanthropist whose contributions shaped generations across Erie County. He served as a principal, city commissioner and mayor of Sandusky. His transformational giving and founding of the Mylander Foundation ensured continued support for education, health care, the arts and human services, including a lasting endowment to United Way of Erie County.