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2025 Heritage Class (Posthumous Induction)

2025 Heritage Class (Posthumous Induction)

Our 2025 inaugural celebration introduces a Heritage Class, honoring trailblazing alumni posthumously—individuals whose legacies continue to inspire long after their time.

 

  • Frank Devol
    Frank Devol - Renowned bandleader, composer, and actor; four-time Academy Award nominee.
  • Ralph Hay
    Ralph Hay – Canton Bulldogs owner and founding force behind professional football's birth.
  • Dick Kempthorn
    Dick Kempthorn – Football All-American and decorated military hero.
  • John Scali
    John Scali – Former U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. and prominent journalist.
  • Nick Weatherspoon
    Nick Weatherspoon – NBA standout and University of Illinois All-American.
  • Walter Crenshaw
    Walter Clarence Crenshaw Jr. – Canton educator and civic leader; namesake of Crenshaw Middle School and Park.
  • Marian Crenshaw
    Marian Crenshaw – Devoted Canton educator with 46 years of service.
  • Ira Turpin
    Ira Turpin – Respected judge and trailblazer in Ohio’s legal system.
  • Paul Martin
    Paul Martin – Longtime youth advocate and leader in Canton’s public programs.
  • Mother Angelica
    Mother Angelica – Founder of EWTN, the world’s largest religious media network.
  • Marion Motley
    Marion Motley – Pro Football Hall of Famer who broke barriers in the NFL.
  • James Allardice
    James Allardice – Emmy-winning writer for television and Broadway.
  • Reuben Klamer
    Reuben Klamer – Inventor of The Game of Life; a pioneer in toy design.
  • Harry Steel
    Harry Steel – Ohio State’s first Olympic Gold Medal-winning wrestler.
  • Blanche Thebom
    Blanche Thebom – Internationally acclaimed operatic mezzo-soprano and educator.