James Gordon to receive Alumni Humanitarian Award

James Gordon, a 2006 graduate of Ohio University Southern, will be honored with the Alumni Humanitarian Award at the upcoming Legacy Awards ceremony on Jan. 28 at 5:30 p.m. in the Riffe Rotunda.

The event, hosted by Ohio University Southern, recognizes individuals, students and organizations for their leadership, advocacy and contributions to the community as part of an annual Community Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The ceremony is free and open to the public.

Gordon, now a long-term care supervisor at the Lawrence County Department of Job and Family Services, is being recognized for his commitment to environmental stewardship, community service and inclusivity. His efforts have focused on creating accessible outdoor spaces, fostering community engagement and providing opportunities for all ages to connect with nature.

Gordon’s passion for environmental advocacy began on the banks of the Ohio River.

“I was fishing with my uncle about three years ago and noticed the riverbank was in terrible condition,” he said. “There was no place for people to fish or enjoy the outdoors. Someone told me, ‘You can complain, or you can do something about it.’ So, I started cleaning it up myself.”

This determination led Gordon to help organize the Trash Bash Community Cleanup, an annual Earth Day event.

“Kids should have safe places to play, and parents should feel comfortable bringing their children to parks,” he explained. During the event, volunteers come together to clean Ironton parks and riverfront areas, and the day ends with a barbecue to thank participants.

As chairperson of Third & Center, an arts-based nonprofit organization focused on building community, Gordon has also expanded opportunities for environmental education through the First Cast Youth Fishing Seminar. The event introduces children to fishing while promoting aquatic stewardship.

“First Cast came to me almost like a daydream,” Gordon said. “I wanted to plant a seed for the future, to inspire kids to care for the environment.”

The seminar is open to all ages and abilities, reflecting Gordon’s inclusive approach.

“I’ve had participants as young as two and as old as 80,” he said. “If you’re elderly or disabled, we’ll find a way to make it work for you.”

Gordon credits his work at Job and Family Services for shaping his approach to advocacy.

“Most people who come to our agency are experiencing their worst day,” he said. “That’s taught me the importance of compassion and kindness, lessons I carry into my community work.”

For Gordon, receiving the Alumni Humanitarian Award is a humbling experience.

“It’s not something you seek out when you start this kind of work,” he said. “I’m honored and grateful, but it also makes me want to step up and do even more.”

Gordon draws inspiration from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., citing the quote, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” He said, “It’s so simple, but so important. Leading with love is the only way our community will grow and prosper.”

The Legacy Awards ceremony will also honor other local leaders and students for their contributions to service, advocacy, and inclusivity. Middle and high school students who participated in the Martin Luther King Jr. Writing Contest will be recognized as part of the event.