On Thursday, October 19, longtime Massillon resident and community volunteer, David W. Schultz, was recognized at the Massillon Museum by the City of Massillon with a proclamation, delivered by Mayor Kathy Catazaro-Perry, establishing December 5 as a day of service in his honor.
 
Schultz has been affiliated with the Museum as a board member and volunteer for more than 40 years. He quickly became affiliated with the Museum after moving to Massillon from newspaper positions in New Jersey, Iowa, and Nebraska for the position of editor and publisher at the The Independent. While raising a family in the city with his wife, Jane, who was an elementary school teacher, Schultz engaged immediately in civic-minded projects through Rotary Club of Massillon and service on neighborhood committees and downtown revitalization projects.
 
A small committee will work to develop a means of celebrating the David W. Schultz Day of Service annually. The intention is that the recognition relate to something that reflects Schultz's love of volunteerism, automobile history, or neighborhood beautification.  
 
"The Massillon Museum looks forward to assisting with annual commemoration of the Day of Service," says Alexandra Nicholis Coon, the Museum's executive director.  "David's longtime investment in the Museum is deserving of a day to honor his namesake.  Through his leadership and guidance over the past four-plus decades—nearly half the Museum's lifetime--David has encouraged the staff and supported the Massillon Museum's incredible journey."
 
In response to her husband’s recognition, Jane Schultz commented, "Our family was surprised, honored, and humbled at the recognition of Dave. The recognition by the museum, the city, and Dave’s friends is a reflection of his commitment, involvement, and care. Giving of time and talents where there is a need is truly the gift that keeps on giving. Our family’s hope is that the citizens of Massillon will encourage each other to share their gifts throughout the community. There is a book that writes about the “languages” of love. Dave’s language to express his love of family, friends, and community is through service.”
 
An automobile historian and collector of vintage cars, Schultz has served as a judge for prestigious car shows across the country. He helped establish the Lincoln Motor Car Heritage Museum and has served as its board chair and CEO. His love and knowledge of automobiles has leveraged the Massillon Museum's ability to acquire and subsequently maintain the Massillon-made 1907–08 Jewel car, currently on display in the permanent collection galleries.
 
Whether participating as the board chair or as a member of any number of Massillon Museum committees, or volunteering for the Friends of Massillon Museum, or helping raise awareness of the levy campaign effort, David Schultz has always been committed to ensuring the organization be supported and has played a tremendous role in the Museum's growth, according to Coon.  
 
For more information, call Coon at 330.833.4061 x111