Former Selma Mayor George Evans was added to the long list of recipients of The Selma Exchange Club’s Book of Golden Deeds Award on Wednesday afternoon.

Before his two terms as the city’s mayor, Evans had a 35-year career in the Dallas County School System and served as President of the Selma City Council.

Evans began his career as a teacher and coach at Tipton High School. He then rose through the ranks as principal, Federal Programs Director, Special Education Coordinator and finally Superintendent.

The award is presented by the Book of Golden Deeds Committee each year to recognize an individual who, according to Selma Exchange Club President Robert W. Green, is very active in the community.

“The Book of Golden Deeds Award is a community service award,” said Green. “The award is given to a citizen who has been very dedicated and committed to his community who goes above and beyond the call of duty to make their city a better place.”

Following Green’s summary of the history of the award, Dr. Cecil Williamson took to the podium to recognize past winners of the award.

“As long as the Exchange Club exists, the past winners will not be forgotten,” said Williams.

Following Dr. Williamson’s recognition of former recipients, the ceremony’s keynote speaker, Jeannie Evans, George Evans’ wife, took to the stage to share a few words about her husband.

Jeannie Evans shared the story of how she and George met, George’s 35-year career in the Dallas County School System and his love for his children, grandchildren and golf.

Following his wife’s keynote address, the former Mayor said a few words about winning the award.

Evans remained humble about being selected to win the award but also expressed his gratitude.

“It’s an honor to be accepted into this particular program,” said Evans. “I watched over the years those who have gone before me and every one of them certainly had the credentials that qualified them to be there. I just feel sort of out of place…I’m overwhelmed about it.”