2016 Spirit of America nominee: Nancy Caldwell

NOMINATOR: Lisa Stewart

WHY DO YOU BELIEVE THIS NOMINEE DEMONSTRATES THE SPIRIT OF AMERICA?

Nancy Caldwell spent most of her life showing how much she loves her country and community. She was born in 1938, married Larry (a veteran) in 1962 and retired after 34 years of teaching physical education.

She has a master's degree in education with a major in physical education and minor in biological science and social studies.

She was president of Southeast Missouri District Physical Education Association in 1977 and 1978, and was vice president and secretary for many years. She was a secretary for the Scott City School Board for 12 years.

Nancy is truly an amazing woman doing amazing things.

Community involvement:

• Organized Red Cross Learn to Swim.
• Helped start first girls softball team.
• Delivers Meals on Wheels.
• Joined VFW Auxiliary 6407 in 1975.
• Has clipped and mailed coupons to troops' families with the Overseas Coupon program for five years.
• Organizes a written essay contest yearly for high school Voice of Democracy, and Patriots Pen for middle schools.
• Teaches Sunday school class at Broadway United Methodist Church, where she has been a lifelong, active member.
• The most special to her heart is collecting for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. More than $100,000 has been raised by Scott City K-12 students, businesses, family, friends and residents. She has helped with St. Jude Radio-thon locally the past five years.
• She serves on the committee to preserve Scott City's history.
• Has monthly lunches with Red Hat Ladies and retired teachers.
• Named Woman of the year in 1977 and 2004.