Hall of Famer Lois Howell, Kent, Ohio, 70, was an officer of the Akron Jaycee Wives group when the organization was involved with the All-American Soap Box Derby. She then joined the SBD staff in 1980 as operations manager. For years, she managed all events in support of race week, including the welcome ceremonies, heat-and-lane drawing, the Topside show, food for champs, champs’ attire, souvenirs, trophies and the awards show.
Howell is a graduate of Cuyahoga Falls High School and earned an associate degree from The University of Akron. She left the Soap Box Derby in 1994, when she joined Western Reserve Academy in Hudson, Ohio. She retired from the school in 2023 as registrar and test coordinator.