During the Village’s Memorial Day Ceremony, Janet Setchell was named the 2026 Mariemont Outstanding Citizen (MOC). The award is fitting for Janet’s tribute to over four decades of extraordinary service and dedication to the community of Mariemont.
Although Janet was in England and could not be present to accept the award in person, her absence did nothing to dim the moment. From the Village Square podium, Mayor Bill Brown announced Janet as this year’s recipient and explained her travels abroad. Last year’s MOC honoree, Kim Beach, joyfully shared Janet’s acceptance remarks with the crowd and welcomed Janet’s son Duncan and daughter Jenna to accept the award on her behalf.
Janet Setchell’s son Duncan and daughter Jenna at the Memorial Day Celebration
Janet’s impact on Mariemont is profound. She has devoted over 40 years of service to Mariemont Preservation Foundation (MPF), serving as Executive Secretary from 1986 to 2012, while also taking on the role of Archivist. At her retirement, Millard F. Roger, Jr. praised Janet for leading MPF’s growth through the “triple A” of Activities, Acquisitions, and Accomplishments, noting that she documented 273 projects over three decades – most bearing her hand, though never her name, due to her innate modesty.
Retirement, of course, did not slow her down. From 2012 to the present, Janet has continued her commitment as an MPF Trustee, providing leadership for docent and student education programs, the Millard Rogers Lecture Series, village walking tours, historical displays, anniversary celebrations, statewide Ohio Open Doors events, and so much more – often culminating in her signature hospitality, complete with homemade scones and clotted cream.
In her written acceptance speech, Janet reflected on moving to Mariemont from England more than 40 years ago, drawn by its sidewalks, trees, and parks, but ultimately staying for something deeper: community. She spoke movingly about neighbors who look out for one another, the shared responsibility of preserving Mariemont’s heritage, and the enduring vision of Mary Emery, whose legacy continues to shape daily life in the Village.
Janet closed her remarks with gratitude and humility, expressing how fortunate she feels to have “landed” in Mariemont, a place she has now called home longer than anywhere else in her life.
MPF and the Mariemont community could not agree more. Janet Setchell is a shining example of service, stewardship, and heart – and a most deserving Outstanding Citizen of the Year.
Last modified: June 12, 2026
