The Service League of Cherokee County is proud to announce the three finalists for the 2026 Heritage of Hope Award. Following an outpouring of nominations from community members, the Service League has selected Dr. Debra Murdock, Mrs. Marcie Smith, and Fire Chief Eddie Robinson as this year’s finalists.
The Heritage of Hope Award was established to recognize an individual whose time, talents, and dedication have made a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of children in the Cherokee County community. Each of these individuals demonstrates a deep commitment to supporting children in need and inspiring hope within our community.
Our Finalists
As a Cherokee County native, a graduate of Cherokee High School, and a lifelong educator, Dr. Murdock’s roots in this community run deep, but her impact on its future runs even deeper. Compassionate leadership is what led Dr. Murdock, a science teacher at E.T. Booth Middle School, to become the Chief Operations Officer of the Cherokee County School District, and it is a testament to her excellence. She has spent her career being a voice for the voiceless, proving that leadership is not about the title you hold, but about the people you lift up.
Dr. Debra Murdock embodies the spirit of the Service League. She has dedicated her life to ensuring that every child in Cherokee County, regardless of their background or struggles, has a champion.
Marcie Smith serves as the Executive Director of The Children’s Haven in Cherokee County, a role that reflects both her professional calling and personal purpose. Raised with firsthand insight into the challenges facing vulnerable children, she developed a lifelong commitment to protecting children, strengthening families, and building a community where every child can thrive.
Marcie leads with a clear mission to promote the health and well-being of children impacted by abuse. Through her service with Georgia CASA, leadership in the Rotary Club of Canton, and continued work with the Salem Camp Meeting, she exemplifies civic responsibility. Her time, voice, and leadership are all dedicated to creating a safer, stronger, and more hopeful future for children.
Chief Eddie Robinson has dedicated nearly 30 years to serving Cherokee County as a firefighter, leader, and source of hope for children and families in need. A U.S. Army veteran and cancer survivor, he understands the power of perseverance and compassion, using his personal journey to inspire children facing serious illness.
Beyond his role as Fire Chief, Chief Robinson is deeply committed to supporting and mentoring the next generation through youth programs, school fire safety education, and advocacy for children battling life-threatening diseases. His life and leadership reflect faith, service, and hope in action.
While this award reflects the mission of the Service League of Cherokee County and honors the collective ten years of service represented by its one hundred members, current Service League members and Awards Committee members are not eligible for consideration. These finalists have consistently exemplified compassion and selfless service through their dedication to a single organization or through involvement in multiple volunteer efforts that positively impact children. They serve as outstanding role models, leading by example and working tirelessly to make Cherokee County a better place for children in need.
The recipient of the 2026 Heritage of Hope Award will be announced at the Service League of Cherokee County’s Annual Gala and Benefit for the Children on January 31, 2026, at Timbers on Etowah in Canton, Georgia. The event begins at 6:00 p.m. and includes dinner, dancing, a silent auction, and raffles. In addition, the League will recognize Service League members who are completing their 10-year commitment.
Tickets for the Service League of Cherokee County’s Annual Gala and Benefit for the Children are $150 per person and may be purchased here.