Julia & John Colton Award for Excellence in Animal Welfare

The Julia Colton Award for Excellence in Animal Welfare was first presented in 1995. In 2026, the award was renamed the Julia & John Colton Award for Excellence in Animal Welfare to honor John Colton’s enduring legacy and the profound impact he and Julia made together. This award is given annually to recognize an individual who has made a significant contribution to the welfare of animals throughout Middle Tennessee.

For many years, Julia Colton served as a member of the Nashville Humane Association Board of Directors and volunteered countless hours of her time to the shelter. During that time, Julia served as President of the NHA Volunteer Association and was an active member of the long-range planning committee. She chaired numerous fundraising events and devoted her life to aiding and assisting homeless and at-risk animals. She was an inspiration to everyone she met and a true hero to the animals in our care.

Alongside Julia, John Colton was pivotal in strengthening Nashville Humane during a critical period of growth. Together, their leadership helped lay the financial foundation that continues to sustain our mission today. John and Julia elevated the professionalism of the board and organization, and consistently centered decisions on doing what was right for the mission, the animals, and the people we serve. Like Julia, John was an animal lover and devoted significant time and effort to helping Nashville Humane establish an endowment to ensure its long-term success.

Julia’s objective was “to get the job done” by serving as an active volunteer with NHA and a steward to shelter pets for more than fifteen years. Julia helped make Nashville a better place for animals in need. Tragically, in 1989, Julia suffered an intracranial hemorrhage, which resulted in a condition of Aphasia.

In recognition of their extraordinary service and dedication, John and Julia Colton were named honorary members of the Nashville Humane Association Board in 2011.

Julia passed away peacefully on October 29, 2024, and will be remembered for her radiant smile, energetic spirit, and vivacious personality. John passed away on January 5, 2026, and will be remembered for his thoughtful leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to animal welfare. Together, Julia and John’s life’s work of care, service, and dedication to shelter pets continues to inspire those who knew them and those who follow in their footsteps.