Gerald Clements went to work at Shelbyville’s Classic Chevrolet Tuesday in much the same fashion he has during his 13 years of employment there. A few hours later, however, he found himself pleasantly surprised to be surrounded by family and named the first recipient of the Shelbyville Central Schools’ “Hardworking Golden Bear Award.”

“We wanted to create a way to periodically recognize those special SHS graduates who positively promote Shelbyville schools and work hard every day to make the community better,” said Andy Hensley, Shelbyville Central Schools Director of Student Services. “We believe Gerald provides an excellent example of the type of people we are trying to highlight.”

Clements (photo, right) grew up in Manilla and moved to Shelbyville for his freshman year of high school.

“People accepted me right away,” said Clements. “I developed enduring friendships at Shelbyville High School and met special people who have been extremely important in my life. I consider myself very fortunate.”

Gerald Clements (right) with former SHS football coach Tom Hession.

He is a 1976 SHS graduate who was a player on the 1975 South Central Conference co-championship football team. He also participated in band and was a member of National Honor Society. Clements attended Purdue University.

He has dedicated significant time and effort to many local endeavors over the years, particular youth sports. He assisted in a variety of capacities with the local youth football program and was extensively involved with Babe Ruth Baseball. He served as one of the coaches for Southeast State championship all-star teams in 2004 and 2008.

“I was involved with those kids for about eight years,” related Clements. “They became like family to me.”

He and his wife of 32 years, Cathy, have been very supportive of a wide variety of school programs and activities over the years.

“It seems we have been going to events for as long as I can remember,” said Cathy, a Connersville High School graduate. “Our son was very involved and we like being there to see so many friends and kids we have known participate. Gerald is very proud to be from SHS.”

Clements has spent most of his professional life in the automobile business, working at Payton Wells in Indianapolis and locally with Sandman Brothers in addition to his current position as parts manager at Classic.

Clements’ wife; son, Gregory; grandson, Theo; mother, Sue; sister, Trina; and Classic general manager Lindsay Rogers were all on hand for Tuesday’s event.

Shelbyville Central Schools Superintendent Matt Vance (main photo, left) made the presentation.

”There are so many SHS alumni doing great things, often behind the scenes,” stated Vance. “We believe this is a fitting way to recognize those people. Gerald is an excellent representative of this award.”

Clements expressed sincere appreciation and gratitude, but was typically self-effacing in his acceptance.

“I am extremely honored and thankful,” said Clements. “This community and Shelbyville Central Schools are a big part of who I am. I am always happy to support them whenever I have the opportunity.”