When you look at the names of those who have been enshrined in the Weirton Hall of Fame since its founding in 2008, you can feel the sense of the history and dedication behind the community.

From the city’s namesake, E.T. Weir, to the city’s first mayor, Thomas Millsop, to longtime community volunteers like Nick Tranto, Deb Witkowski, Dr. J.K. Luthra, Pam Makricosta and Jim Pauchnik, to businesspeople such as Vanessa Beaver, George Kondik, educators like Tracy Ohalek, David Reitter and Louis Kuntupis, and many more, each has left a lasting impression on the city, whether through their efforts to build something physically, impart lessons for the next generation, contribute toward efforts to help others or serve the public at large through volunteerism or holding elected office.

The names of those inducted into the Weirton Hall of Fame are on display on plaques in the Weirton Room of the Millsop Community Center, a standing reminder that each of us can make a difference in the lives of others.

The Weirton Hall of Fame Committee is seeking nominations to potentially be included in the Class of 2026, and residents are encouraged to consider putting forth the name of an individual they deem to be worthy of such an honor.

Criteria for hall membership is simple, yet demanding. A nominee must be either a current or former resident who has lived in Weirton for a minimum of five years since 1947.

There are six categories for recognition: Philanthropy; public service; music and fine arts; business; industry and professions; education and religion; and sports and athletics.

Nominations for the Class of 2026 are being accepted through April 1, so time is short. Each submission must be made on an official form and must include the reason for the nomination in the form of a biography and list the major accomplishments of the nominee. Forms that do not provide the requested documentation will be rejected, organizers said, adding that includes forms that are not signed and dated.

Information is available by contacting the Weirton Municipal Building at (304) 797-8500, extension 1003. Nomination forms also are available on the City of Weirton’s website and in Room 207 of the Weirton Municipal Building.

There’s a rich history behind Weirton, one that has been built by the men and women who have been tireless in their efforts to improve the community. If you are a resident of the city and have someone in mind who you think has helped to make the town a better place, pick up a nomination form and fill it out.

By doing so, you will be helping to ensure their contributions are remembered for generations to come.