Celebrating Service: AARP Oklahoma Honors 2025 Andrus Award Recipients

AARP Oklahoma proudly recognized the power of volunteerism during its 2025 Andrus Awards and Volunteer Celebration December 2, honoring Oklahomans aged 50-plus for their exceptional service and commitment to improving the lives of older adults across the state.

Andrus Award for Community Service

The highest honor given by AARP, this award reflects Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus’s vision to improve the quality of life for all as they age. Dr. Andrus founded AARP to empower older Americans to live with dignity and purpose. Today, this award honors those who embody that mission through exceptional volunteerism and leadership.

• Esther Houser – For 35 years, Esther Houser championed the rights of older adults as Oklahoma’s State Long-Term Care Ombudsman – the longest-serving in the nation. Her advocacy shaped policy, empowered families, and earned her induction into the Oklahoma Women’s Hall of Fame. Today, Esther continues her mission through legislative work and leadership roles, leaving an enduring legacy of dignity and care for older Oklahomans.

Honorees of Distinction

These honorees were nominated for the Andrus Award and recognized for their outstanding volunteerism. Each embodies AARP’s mission to serve others and create positive changes in their communities.

• Paul and Sharon Conrady – Founders of Hyperbarics Plus and the nonprofit Hyperbarics for Heroes, Paul and Sharon Conrady provide free hyperbaric air therapy to veterans and first responders battling PTSD, TBI, and chronic pain. Their work fosters healing, hope, and community, inspiring volunteer networks and advancing alternative therapies for healthier aging.
  
• Diana Fitzpatrick – Diana Fitzpatrick has spent decades mentoring Native American students and enriching the University of Oklahoma community. Through her leadership in campus ministries, sorority sponsorship, and tribal engagement, Diana empowers youth to embrace cultural pride and leadership, planting seeds of change that flourish statewide.
  
• Vinnie Hoover – A retired social worker, Vinnie Hoover continues her lifelong commitment to service through roles that provide food, clothing, and community support. From organizing major fundraisers to leading meal programs, Vinnie’s compassion strengthens families and inspires volunteers across Oklahoma.

AARP Driver Safety Volunteer of the Year

AARP Driver Safety began in 1979 as “55 Alive” to help older drivers remain independent, safe, and confident. Today, it offers programs like Smart Driver, CarFit, and workshops for families navigating tough conversations about driving. In Oklahoma, 40 volunteers train nearly 2,000 drivers annually.

• Kevin Hackett – For 13 years, Kevin Hackett has taught AARP Smart Driver courses, helping more than 400 older adults stay safe and confident behind the wheel. His leadership extends to facilitating sensitive family conversations and expanding driver safety programs statewide, reflecting his lifelong dedication to education and empowerment.

Legacy Award

This award honors a volunteer who has served with AARP Oklahoma for at least five years and has propelled the success of AARP Oklahoma’s strategic direction and mission.

• Hank Varacchi – Since 2017, Hank Varacchi has led AARP Driver Safety programs with unmatched dedication, teaching 53 courses, mentoring volunteers, and promoting safe driving at major community events. A veteran and former Boeing trainer, Hank combines expertise and passion to help older drivers maintain independence and security.

Oklahoma Retired Educators Association Volunteer of the Year

The Oklahoma Retired Educators Association (OREA) provides a voice for retired educators, secures benefits, and enhances the quality of life for its members. This award honors those who continue to serve and inspire beyond the classroom.

• Sharon Stephen – Sharon Stephen’s decades of volunteerism span education, faith, and community service. From leadership in the Comanche County Retired Educator Association to ministries at Holy Family Catholic Church and historic preservation efforts, Sharon’s tireless work enriches lives and inspires generations.

AARP Tax-Aide Volunteer of the Year

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax preparation service for low- and moderate-income taxpayers. In 2025, Tax-Aide helped over 932,000 older adults secure $578 million in refunds and credits.

• Judy Ridgeway – As Local Coordinator for AARP Tax-Aide sites in Norman, Judy Ridgeway ensures hundreds of taxpayers receive free, accurate tax preparation each year. Her leadership expands access to rural communities, improving financial security and planting seeds of support that last beyond tax season.

These eight honorees remind us that service is not just an act, but a way of life. Through their vision, compassion, and unwavering commitment, they embody AARP’s mission to empower people to live their best lives at every age. Congratulations to the 2025 Andrus Award recipients for making Oklahoma a stronger, more connected community.