Fourth annual SIEF banquet another success

BY JAMIE BURDORF

Corby Fichter with Alumni of the Year Margaret (Fischer) Brady

Corby Fichter with Alumni of the Year Bruce Stevens

The Shenandoah Iowa Education Foundation hosted their fourth annual, "Excellence in Education" banquet on March 29th at the Shenandoah Elks. Approximately 110 guests were in attendance to celebrate staff and alumni.

The evening started with words from SIEF board member Julie O'Hara and then the meal, catered by J Bruners, was enjoyed. Servers this year were once again the Shenandoah High School Student Council members.

Board member Julie O'Hara speaks to the crowd

Near the end of the meal, entertainment was provided by the Shenandoah High School vocal and band departments. Two instrumental solos were done, a vocal trio and the jazz choir all provided music.

The jazz choir performed the number, "Superstition."

The trio of Davin Holste, Jack Murren and Drew Morelock sang their small group music number.

It was then time for the first of two Alumni of the Year recipients. Jill Johnson, from the Johnson Bros. Mill family, introduced Margaret (Fischer) Brady (Class of 1980). Brady spoke of growing up in Shenandoah and the opportunities that small towns and schools provided for her.

Jill Johnson did the introduction of Margaret (Fischer) Brady

Board members Paula Brownlee and Heather Weiss introduced the staff service awards. These went to members of the staff that have 25 years in educational experience, not necessarily in Shenandoah, but in their career. Brownlee and Weiss provided a short history of the staff, along with some words from their co-workers.

Top row (L-R): Liz Skillern, Todd McGinnis, Jon Skillern. Bottom row (L-R) Skip Eckhardt, Jacqueline Barrett and Kristi Vance

President Corby Fichter then reflected on the history of the foundation, which is approaching ten years. Fichter announced that he will be stepping down from his role as president, but will be fulfilling his term. He will be succeeded by vice-president Julie O'Hara. Fichter went on to thank several people that have helped make the foundation what it is today.

After a short intermission, the second Alumni of the Year, Bruce Stevens, was introduced by classmate Mary Irvin (Class of 1960). Stevens noted what a gift it was to grow up in Shenandoah and how important education is - then and now.

Mary Irvin introduced Bruce Stevens

Executive Director Jamie Burdorf and board member Amy Miller introduced the six Spirit Award winners. These six staff members were nominated by their peers for the spirit they bring each and every day to the Shenandoah Community School District!

Spirit Award Winners (L-R): Stacey Lihs, Sarah F. Martin, Brian Daoust, Andy Campbell, Jordan Newberg. (Not pictured: Jon Weinrich)

The foundation would like to thank each and every person in attendance and for making the event another success!