The Deen Day Smith Service to Mankind Awards gala was held Tuesday night at Georgia Southern University's Nessmith-Lane Continuing Education building. A coffee was also held  at Pittman Park United Methodist Church Wednesday.

    The annual celebration, now in its 29th year, honored Dr. Karl Peace as a "true public health hero" who has helped people locally and all over the world. Peace was this year's recipent of the Humanitarian of the Year award.

    Peace has give more than $8 million to Georgia Southern, developed numerous medications and inspired and enabled hundreds to obtain degrees in medicine-related fields.

    Saying he was surprised by the award, Peace added that he was humbled and grateful.

    Also among those honored was Georgia Sen. Jack Hill, named Man of the Decade.