HARRISBURG, PA — PA Humanities has announced the final group of 125 honorees selected through the Window Keeper: Civic Honors program. “Together, they reflect the many ways Pennsylvanians use the humanities to bring people together and strengthen the places they call home, including storytelling, history, culture, education and civic engagement,” the organization wrote.

Lori Strelecki has spent more than two decades preserving and sharing Pike County’s history as director of the Pike County Historical Society and Museum. Through exhibits, public programs, special events and the museum’s newsletter, she keeps the stories of local people, places and hometown heroes visible and engaging for residents, PA Humanities said. “Her creativity and hands-on leadership ensure the county’s history remains an active part of community life rather than something stored away.”

Window Keepers are neighbors, educators, artists, historians, librarians, journalists, volunteers and other community leaders whose everyday actions have a lasting impact.

PA Humanities received nominations spanning all 67 Pennsylvania counties, drawing interest from communities across the commonwealth. The final Window Keepers were selected through a review process led by a committee that included PA Humanities staff, board members and other cultural leaders. 

Window Keeper: Civic Honors was created as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary and inspired by poet Yolanda Wisher’s “The Window Keeper,” commissioned by PA Humanities and ArtPhilly for America250PA’s National Convening of State Partners in 2024.