As we continue to highlight the men that make up our great leadership we invite you to learn more about this year’s Junior Grand Deacon, Brother Dan Hall from Solon Lodge #575. Bro. Hall is a past District Education Officer, District Deputy Grand Master, and District Advisor, bringing a wealth of knowledge to his position. Keep scrolling to read our full interview.
Please introduce yourself. Tell us your name, title, home lodge, and how long you’ve been a Freemason.
My name is Daniel A. Hall and I am the Junior Grand Deacon for the Grand Lodge of Ohio. I am from the tremendous 22nd District where I have served as a District Education Officer, District Deputy Grand Master and District Advisor over the last 10 years. I am a member of Solon Lodge 757 and have been a Freemason for 23 years. My wife Lauren and I have two daughters Hope (25) and Londyn (5). Hope lives in North Carolina with her husband Hunter and they have a son Theodore who will be turning one in March of 2025.
Tell us about how and why you joined the Grand Lodge officer line? When did you join?
Most Worshipful Brother William M. Carter III and his lady Zoe invited my wife Lauren and I to Dinner. It was in the summer of 2023. We discussed many different things that evening. But at one point MWB Carter says the reason we are here tonight is because I will not be re-appointing you as District Advisor. This was followed by a long pause that felt like minutes but was probably only a few seconds. He says the reason I am not going to re-appoint you is because I would like for you to take on a new role this year as Junior Grand Deacon. In October of 2024 I was installed into this new role.
What is the role of the Junior Grand Deacon? What are your responsibilities?
The role of the Junior Grand Deacon first and foremost starts with taking pictures when we are at events and coordinating with the Grand Marshal to ensure everything flows smoothly when the Grand Lodge officers are in attendance. I help with lining up attendees for the procession of events, escorting honorees to and from the podium. Some administrative aspects of my role are that I am in charge of coordinating with each of our 25 Masonic District’s to obtain names for the Excellence in Youth Awards and Local Luminary Awards that are presented by our Grand Master at each Grand Master’s Reception. The Junior Grand Deacon is also a Reviewing Officer for the Grand Lodge. This means that I review inspection reports for many of our lodges once they have been submitted by our District Deputy Grand Master’s.
What does it mean to you to be part of the Grand Lodge of Ohio leadership?
Being a part of the Grand Lodge of Ohio leadership is an honor and privilege. With this new role comes great responsibility. I along with the other Grand Lodge Officers have the opportunity to continue to serve the Brethren of this great fraternity by working as a team, discussing the challenges and successes that we see around the state. This allows us as leaders to create programs or initiatives to help the craft for years to come.
What do you hope for the future of Ohio Freemasonry?
My hope for Ohio Freemasonry is that through our tenets and values we continue to attract the younger generation. We need to continue to put education at the forefront of our Lodges. Men join our fraternity seeking to become better men. It is through a deeper understanding of our mysteries where they find such truth. It is our responsibility to give them the experience that they seek.
Can you share your favorite moment from your time as an Ohio Freemason?
There are many different memories that come to mind over the years. From being installed as DEO or DDGM. But the most memorable was knocking on the door and receiving my Entered Apprentice Degree. That degree was conferred by a Brother (WB Johnny Manis) whose ritual work was so inspiring that it started a fire inside of me to be able to do the same for others.
Do you have any advice for members looking to get involved?
I would recommend getting involved within your lodge. Whether it be on a committee, an officer or just helping with the dinners. Freemasonry has a place for everyone. Sometimes doing something uncomfortable can turn out to be some of the most rewarding things on this journey.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I would just like to say that Freemasonry has taught me how to be a better man in all aspects of my life. By embracing those core values and beliefs that are passed down through our Masonic lecturers we can make a difference in this world. Don’t be afraid to share Freemasonry with others. It might just change someone’s life. It certainly has changed mine. I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to meeting many of the Brothers across the state.
Interested in learning about other Grand Lodge leaders? We recommend reading our interview with the 2024 Grand Marshal, Junior Grand Deacon, and Grand Tyler!