Council announces award winners
Published on November 14, 2025
The city council announced the citizen of the year and caring youth award winners at the volunteer appreciation dinner on November 12.
Citizen of the year: Gene Nichols
A long-time Shoreview resident, Gene has truly made our community his home through his incredible dedication and service. For nearly 11 years, Gene has been an active member of the Shoreview Human Rights Commission—now serving as co-chair—where his leadership and compassion have helped shape important local initiatives.
Gene’s commitment to public service reaches far beyond Shoreview. He also lends his time and expertise to several organizations, including:
- Ramsey County Charter Commission
- MDH Maternal & Child Health Advisory Task Force
- Face2Face, Secretary Board of Directors
- Association of Non-Smokers–MN, Board of Directors
- Tobacco-Free Alliance, Co-Chair Board of Directors
- Evergreen Shores Homeowners Association, past Secretary
- Past member of the Shoreview Community Foundation and Ramsey County Community Health Advisory Committee
One of Gene’s most impactful contributions has been his tireless advocacy to protect youth from tobacco addiction. He has testified at the city, county, and state levels in support of policies that safeguard children and teens—playing a key role in Shoreview’s decision to ban flavored tobacco products.
When asked what advice he’d offer to someone looking to get involved, Gene shared:
“Get to know the mayor and city council, follow what’s going on in the city, and apply for a board that meets your interests.”
Congratulations Gene on being named the 2025 citizen of the year and thank you for your commitment to making Shoreview a healthier, stronger, and more connected community!
Caring youth award: Charlie Neuman
This award reminds us that anyone, no matter their age, can help form the foundation of our community and Charlie is no exception!
As a senior in high school, Charlie commitment to service has grown from helping neighbors as a child to becoming a deeply engaged community leader today.
At Flaherty’s Arden Bowl, Charlie is known not only for his hard work but also for his steady mentorship of young bowlers in the junior league. He brings that same energy to his roles on the Shoreview Community Foundation’s youth advisory board and the city’s parks and recreation commission, where he ensures that youth voices are part of important conversations.
Charlie has also made a meaningful mark at school by tutoring peers, contributing to curriculum updates centered on Native American history, and even testifying before Congress on ethnic studies. As a standout Academic Decathlon competitor, he has earned three Minnesota State Championships and the 2025 national individual title. When his team faced uncertainty, Charlie stepped forward to lead study sessions, recruit new members, and keep the program strong.
When asked what his favorite part of volunteering is, Charlie noted that it’s hearing great ideas that those he volunteers with have.
Congratulations Charlie on being named the 2025 caring youth award winner and thank you for your remarkable achievements and positive impact to our community.