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| William Wadsworth |
William J. Wadsworth, a 55-year resident of the city, is the 36th individual to receive the prestigious award. He will be honored during a special community celebration set for April 28 at the Detroit Marriott. Tickets for the event will be available until April 10.
Wadsworth was selected based on his dedication and devotion to improving the Romulus community. He has been an extraordinary example of a public servant in the city, a chamber spokesman said. One of his most notable public efforts was the funding and construction of a new animal shelter in the city to replace the aging and inadequate facility located in an old fire station.
Wadsworth organized and worked at multiple fundraising activities, including special bingo nights and charity bowling outings, which generated more than $355,000 in cash donations from local residents and businesses. He also obtained many in-kind donations of materials and services for the shelter totaling more than $42,000. His efforts are credited for the construction of the award-winning animal shelter located on Wayne Road in the city.Wadsworth and his wife, Virginia, are the parents of three adult sons, all of whom graduated from the Romulus Community Schools. The couple have been members of Saint Aloysius Church for 55 years where they have volunteered their time to help during the Labor Day weekend festival, fish fries, and other activities hosted by the church.
Wadsworth served in the United States Army for three years before joining the Wayne County Sheriff's Department, where he served from 1969 until 1982. During that time, Romulus was part of his patrol area as no municipal police department had been established in Romulus. He earned a bachelor of science degree in public safety from Madonna College. In 1982, he began his career with the Detroit Metropolitan Airport police, where he served as a sergeant until his retirement in 2004.
Wadsworth has served as a volunteer on several City of Romulus boards and commissions. He is a long-time member of the Romulus Chamber of Commerce and the longest-serving council member in the city.
“The Romulus community is proud to honor Wadsworth and his contributions to the city. His dedication and hard work have made a significant impact on Romulus, and his commitment to public service is a shining example for all,” noted a prepared statement from the chamber.
Tickets for the Person of the Year Banquet are $50 per person payable in advance at the chamber office, 11189 Shook Road in Romulus. More information about purchasing tickets is available at (734)893-0694. Tickets will only be available until April 10.
The event will include a reception at 6 p.m., dinner at 7 and the program at 8 p.m. Detroit Metro Airport Marriott is located at 30559 Flynn Dr. in Romulus.
