Dr. Larsandrew Dolan Award - 2008
Judy's long association with Norwood Crossing began with her grandparents who introduced Mabel Benson and Ralph Herud at one of the annual picnics. "Back in those early days in Chicago, the picnic was the place to meet the latest immigrants from 'home' (Norway)," said Nelson. The couple married, and Judy, born several years afterward, was delivered by Dr. Larsandrew Dolan, the Home's medical director, at the time.
Years later, Dr. Dolan's wife, Pauline, recruited Judy to volunteer in the Beauty Shop at Norwood Crossing. "She was having surgery on her leg and needed help," said Nelson. "I did agree and insisted she 'better come back,' and she did. We worked together until she left for Florida to live with her daughter. I ran it for years as a free service before there was a professional hired to run it per government ruling." Judy still visits Pauline in Florida, a relationship spawned more than 40 years ago.
Judy, who was raised in Edgebrook, attended Edgebrook Lutheran Church and graduated from Taft High School in 1956, all in Chicago. In her senior year, she was recruited by the F.B.I. for a secretarial position. "We had to pass tough tests and security background checks," she recalled. "I took Pittman shorthand and typing, and we were tested on accuracy and speed every six months by Washington. I worked there five years and left to marry and have a family." At the 1999 San Diego convention of the Society of FBI Alumni, Judy Nelson won the privilege of selecting a charity recipient for the Foundation of FBI Alumni Annual Award. She selected Norwood Park Home and presented a check for $1,800 to Norwood Life Care Foundation (formerly Norwood Park Home Foundation).
She also volunteers in her community. For more than 30 years, she organized the crafts show for Deerfield Family Days 4th of July celebration, served for many years as chairperson of the FBI Alumni in Chicago and, in 2006, chaired the 50th anniversary of her Taft High School graduating class.
Judy's family includes a daughter, Karen a kindergarten teacher in Deerfield, a son, Jon, who teaches English Second Language at a middle school and a high school in South Hadley, Massachusetts and three grandchildren.
This evening, in the company of friends, colleagues, and family, we proudly acknowledge her dedicated service to Norwood Crossing and are delighted to present her with the 2008 Dr. Larsandrew Dolan Award. Congratulations Judy!