By Samantha Bolden
The Selma Times-Journal

Jewell Williamson has been very active in the Selma community since 1970, but all that work hasn’t gone unnoticed.

The Selma Exchange Club presented Williamson with its 47th presentation of the Book of Golden Deeds plaque Wednesday at The St. James Hotel.

During the dinner, Club President president KellySue Giampietro noted that Williamson initially turned down the chance to be the recipient of the award.

“I feel very overwhelmed about receiving the award because I think that it should’ve gone to someone more deserving,” Williamson said.

However, Giampietro disagrees with Williamson.

“Jewell is the recipient because it is well-deserved,” Giampietro said.

The Selma Exchange Club “Book of Golden Deeds” is a permanent display at the Selma Public Library. Each recipient receives a plaque. The club has presented recipients with the prestigious award since 1968.

Williamson graduated from Orrville High School in 1967 and has not slowed down since.

She attended Livingston University and earned master’s degrees in elementary education and school administration as well as certification in early childhood education. In 1974, she was chosen as one of the teachers to introduce the first state kindergarten pilot program in the Selma City School System.

In 1997, Williamson retired from teaching to pursue a career in real estate and purchased Cornerstone Realty, where she currently still works.

She has served as president, president elect and secretary of the Selma Board of Realtors and is also a member of the local, state and national professional realtor associations.

“I feel that I have been so blessed in my life having two lifetimes in one,” Williamson said.

“Both careers have provided me the opportunity to fulfill my calling in life — the desire to teach and help others.”