Hall of Honor | Xenia Community Schools Foundation

2024 XCSF Hall of Honor Sponsors and Patrons

Presenting Sponsor

Kettering Health/Greene Memorial

Grand Sponsor

Gary and Chris Allen

Sponsor

Cardiologists of Greene County, LLC

Cox Elementary, Lisa Peterson, Principal and Staff

Gabriel E. Lofton, PhD

Paul Marshall

Tony McIlvaine, McIlvaine Realtors

Montgomery Insurance and Investments

Nick’s Restaurant, Marc Perkins

ScreenPlay Printing

Silver Arrow Financial

Bob and Ann Williams

Xenia United Presbyterian Church

Grand Patrons

Marsha Bayless

Danny Cassity

Gregg Cross

Mike and Sheila Earley

Family of Dr. Thomas J. Craft, Sr.

Cindy and Bill George

Greene County Sheriff’s Office Youth Activity Fund

Homesite Title Agency

Stephanie Johnston

Ronald Lewis

Robert and Cheryl Marcus

Dr. James A. Smith

Tony and Janet McIlvaine

Dr. James A. Smith

Stephan and Stephan Law Group, LLC

Rick Williamson

Xenia Adult Recreation and Services Center

Patrons

Steve and Michelle Brodsky

JoAnne Earley

Steve and Mary Grech

Gabe Lofton

Bill and Barb Richey

Barbara and Tom Stafford

Xenia Community Schools Foundation Announces Hall of Honor Class of 2024

Congratulations are in order for the Xenia Community Schools Foundation Hall of Honor Class of 2024! Four new members will be honored this year. The Twenty-sixth Annual Hall of Honor Dinner and Induction Ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, April 27, 2024, 6:30 PM at Tecumseh Elementary School. The dinner will be preceded by the Tenth Annual Silent Auction for Grants beginning at 5:30 PM. Tickets are $45.00 each and are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber is located at 334 W. Market Street. Call: (937) 372-3591 for more information.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation invites the community to celebrate the accomplishments of the 2024 Hall of Honor inductees:

Kent Edward Anderson, XHS Class of 1980, Teacher, Coach, Role Model, excelled at Xenia High School, both as a student and as an athlete. He was named 1^st Team All Western Ohio League in both baseball and golf. He attended Wilmington College, where he played golf.

Kent was a educator and coach in Xenia Community Schools for forty years. He coached over 1500 games during his career in a variety of sports. He was named Varsity Baseball Conference Coach of the Year eight times and Southwest District Coach of the Year in 2009. He also coached both varsity boys and girls basketball to win four Conference titles. His Varsity Girls Golf Team won two Conference titles. The OHHSAA recognized him for over 300 varsity wins in basketball. Kent was inducted into the XCS Athletic Hall of Fame in 2023.

As a lifelong Xenia resident, who is devoted to his family, the youth of the community can look to him as a role model. His leadership, has led to many students becoming leaders and assets to the Xenia Community. He has been a servant educator, who exemplifies the “Spirit of Xenia”.

David W. Crandall, DDS, XHS Class of 1971, Dentist, Volunteer, Community Role Model attended Wright State University and enlisted in the USAF in 1972, where he served for four years in the Strategic Air Command. He returned to Xenia after graduating from the OSU College of Dentistry. While at OSU, he served as a student athletic dentist for two years. After returning to Xenia, Dr. Crandall was active in his church and provided dental services on a number of mission trips to Belize, as well as through local organizations.

He selflessly donated a kidney to his mother in 1989 in a “groundbreaking” procedure.

Dr. Crandall assisted with many restoration and maintenance activities at Collins School, a family-owned one room school house which provided thousands of Xenia elementary students a historical educational experience for a number of years.

He served as a member and president of Xenia Rotary, was active with his church, the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce and the Dayton Dental Society. Dr. Crandall was named a Paul Harris Fellow by his fellow Rotarians and was actively involved in many projects.

Dr. Crandall passed away unexpectedly in January, 2024. The community, patients, friends and family will miss his devotion to family, outgoing personality, sense of humor and kindness. He is a role model for a life of service, as well as a life well lived. He served his country, his church, his friends and his community. He also volunteered and donated dental services to those in need.

David S. Peterson, Esq., XHS Class of 1977, Attorney, Community Volunteer, Role Model, graduated from Ohio Northern School of Law, was admitted to the Ohio State Bar in 1984 and is the owner of Peterson and Peterson, LLC., a multi-generational law practice. He is a member and past president of the Greene County Bar Association, a member of the Ohio State Bar Association, a member of the Ohio Association of Justice, the American Association of Justice and the Miami Valley Trial Lawyers Association. He has served on various committees and in leadership positions in these groups.

David has also participated in a variety of community volunteer roles including: the American Red Cross, Greene County Board; St. Vincent DePaul at St. Brigid Church, Greene County Council on Aging, along with other groups. He has provided financial support to Athletes in Action and sponsored teams in the Xenia Soccer Club, along with providing legal and financial support to a variety of local charitable organizations.

David Peterson is a highly respected member of both the Xenia Community and the legal community. He is a devoted family man. He was the recipient of the F.M. Torrence Award in 2023. This award represents the highest honor awarded by the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce. It is a lifetime achievement award for prolonged voluntary service to the community.

Timothy Peyton, XHS Class 1998, Entrepreneur, Mentor, Philanthropist, attended Arrowood and Cox Elementary Schools, Warner Middle School and Xenia High School. He graduated from Ashford University in 2012 with a degree in Business Management. The nomination for induction was submitted by a group of Xenia teachers, who described Tim as an average student who became an outstanding adult. He began his career with a job at F & S School and Office Supplies in 1998. He eventually became the owner, having learned good customer service, quality product selection and entrepreneurial skills from the owner/mentors. He went on to launch other endeavors, including School Supply Connection, A Plus Graphics, Begin Again Toys and The Abstract Athlete. His businesses and toys been nominated and received over seventy toy awards from multiple products. Begin Again has been nominated for “Toy of the Year” five times. His products have received multiple awards including National Parenting Product Awards, Bio- Based Product of the Year Award, Dr. Toy Best Green Toy Award and Parents’ Choice Award.

His nomination for inclusion in the Hall of Honor focused on his philanthropy in donating his time, talents and products to enhance the education experience of young students and to support teachers in the Xenia Community. He is highly motivated, recognizes the importance of education and is a champion of project-based learning. He has provided support through, mentoring and financial support, to the XTAR program. Tim would like to support initiatives focused on expanding the XTAR environment experience to other students.

Tim, additionally, has generously supported local swim teams, offered employment opportunities to young people, along with financial support and learning experiences. He also engages in other philanthropic activities to assist children in need during holiday seasons.

He was described in one supporting testimonial as “an unsung hero and just an amazing human being”.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation is dedicated to enriching the academic pursuits of all students, faculty and staff within the Xenia Community Schools. The Foundation has provided grants for classroom enrichment programs and scholarships from donations and investment income of the Foundation for more than thirty years.

Xenia Community Schools Foundation Seeks Hall of Honor Nominations

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation is currently accepting nominations for theSeeks Hall of Honor Nominees 2024 Class of the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor. Nominees should be graduates of Xenia High School who have achieved remarkable success in their career and/or anyone who has made a significant contribution to education in Xenia. Nominations are due by February 9, 2024. The Hall of Honor Banquet will be held April 27, 2024, at Tecumseh Elementary School.

There are several options for submitting a nomination:

Follow the guidelines listed on the Xenia Community Schools Foundation website (xcsfoundation.com) in the Hall of Honor section.
The “Hall of Honor Nomination Form” is available on the Xenia Chamber site by clicking the link to the form. Complete the form and submit it by email to: staff@xcsfoundation.com. In addition to email, forms can be submitted by postal mail or hand delivered to the Xenia Chamber of Commerce.
The form can be printed from the Xenia Community Schools Foundation section of the Xenia Community Schools website. https://www.xeniaschools.org
Paper copies of the form are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce.

Note: Self-nominations are acceptable as well as posthumous nominations.

The nomination(s) can be emailed to staff@xcsfoundation.com or mailed to the Xenia Community Schools Foundation, c/o Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, 334 West Market Street, Xenia, OH 45385.

The Hall of Honor plaques display is located at the entrance to Xenia High School. The display honors those who have made significant contributions. It also serves as a motivator for current students to realize the value of the education they are receiving, as well as their responsibility to make a significant difference in their world.

Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor and Online Auction Supports Classroom Grants

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation will be recognizing the Class of 2023 Hall of Honor inductees on April 22nd. Plaques for all inductees are installed in the entrance at Xenia High School. Inductees receive a framed copy of the plaque, a crystal commemorative award and several proclamations including ones from the mayor of the City of Xenia, the Greene County Commissioners and state legislative bodies. Inductees serve as role models for current and future generations of Xenia students and the Xenia community.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation’s online auction, as part of this event, activates on April 10, 2023, and will close April 22^nd. Proceeds from the auction will be used to fund classroom grants .

The auction can be accessed at: https://www.32auc tions.com/XCSF2023. Many of the auction items were donated by school staff, XCSF Board of Directors and local businesses. Auction items will continue to be added. The auction is open to all community members, whether or not they will attend the Hall of Honor event.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation provides grants for classroom and teacher projects. Almost $25,000.00 was awarded for the 2022-2023 school year. Funded projects are geared towards enriching student learning. Some grant projects represent district-wide initiatives. All the grants for Xenia Community Schools’ students and teachers are beyond what regular school funding can provide.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation is an Ohio non-profit 501(C) (3) corporation. Gifts made to the XCSF qualify as tax deductible charitable contributions. The Board of Directors includes both local residents and staff of the Xenia Community Schools District. For information about the XCSF, please visit the website (xcsfoundation.com), check us out on Facebook (Xenia Community Schools Foundation) or call the Chamber of Commerce at 937-372-3591 and leave a message for Barbara Stafford or send an email to: staff@xcsfoundation.com.

Xenia Community Schools Foundation Announces Hall of Honor Class of 2023

Congratulations are in order for the Xenia Community Schools Foundation Hall of Honor Class of 2023! Four new members will be honored this year. The Twenty-fifth Annual Hall of Honor Dinner and Induction Ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, April 22, 2023, 6:30 PM at Tecumseh Elementary School. The dinner will be preceded by the Ninth Annual Silent Auction for Grants beginning at 5:30 PM. Tickets are $40.00 each and are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber is located at 334 W. Market Street. Call: (937) 372-3591 for more information.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation invites the community to celebrate the accomplishments of the 2023 Hall of Honor inductees:

Tamara Bartley, XCS Board of Education, Educational Leader, Community Volunteer, is a 1990 graduate of Xenia Community Schools, having attended Cox Elementary, Warner Junior High and Xenia High School. She graduated from Wright State University in 1994, with a BS in Education. She is currently in her twenty-eighth year of teaching in Fairborn City Schools, twenty of which have been in first grade inclusion classes for children with disabilities. She has extensive training as a literacy coach and in the area of language arts. Tami has volunteered extensively on many committees and curriculum initiatives in the Fairborn City Schools.

She is part of a multi-generational Xenia family with a history of service in education and community. As such, Tami has volunteered many hours with the Xenia High School Football, Wresting and Lacrosse programs, including fundraising, and served as as Touchdown Club president for six years. Through her efforts, the Club attained a nonprofit organization status.

Tami’s father, William Spahr, a twenty-five year member of the XCS Board of Education, passed away in 2018. Tami applied and was chosen to fill the remaining year of his term and went on to run and win a four year term. She is in the final year of that term. Tami has served XCS, through her position on the Board of Education, by serving on the Community Engagement Committee, the Athletic Committee, and the Diversity Committee.

Tamara Bartley is an excellent role model for the Xenia Community and Xenia students as a model educator, community leader, volunteer, hard worker and dedicated family member.

Greg Delaney, Successful Businessman, Recovery and Spiritual Leader, graduated from Xenia schools in 1983, having attended Tecumseh Elementary, Central Middle School and Xenia High School. He is a graduate of Wright State University with a Bachelor’s degree in marketing and sales.

Greg excelled in the business world in information technology sales on an international level during the early part of his career. Unfortunately, he began to suffer from Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and spent decades battling with the disorder, entering recovery in 2008. Greg attended and then led a recovery group at A House of Prayer (AHOP) which led to him being ordained into ministry in 2009.

Greg now uses his talent to help others with substance abuse disorders or mental illness. He is an advocate, a networker, author, speaker, educator and is dedicated to working with like-minded individuals to create opportunities for people in the faith-based arena. He has assisted with startup and influence in over eight organizations: Freedom Church-A House of Prayer, Jeremiah Tree, Jeremiah Tree Recovery Living, Bridges of Hope, HerStory House, Safe-Harbor House, R.E.A.C.H. For Tomorrow and GOODLIFE at the Cleft. His nomination for induction into the Hall of Honor included testimonials of support from community leaders and those he has worked with at the above named organizations.

Greg serves on the RecoveryOhio Advisory Council. The Council is working towards creating a system to “make treatment available to Ohioans in need, provide support for those in recovery and their families, offer direction for the state’s prevention and education efforts, and work with local law enforcement to provide resources to fight illicit drugs at the source”.

Greg is an example of a person who has overcome adversity and used his experiences to reach out and help others. As such, he is a role model for the community and students of Xenia.

Tom Kelley, Jr., Public Servant, United Way Leader, Role Model,

Tom Kelley, Jr., who grew up in Wilberforce, is a 1976 graduate of Xenia Schools, and a 1980 graduate of Central State University. His career includes 14 years in the Dayton area business / corporate communities, followed by 30 years with Montgomery County in the governmental sector, serving the final 10 years as Assistant County Administrator responsible for all public human services programs, directing 1,300 staff and $350 million annually.

Tom is currently President and CEO of the United Way of the Greater Dayton Area, for Greene, Montgomery, and Preble Counties, where thousands of lives are touched annually.

Tom’s community awards and recognitions include runner-up for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Man of the Year, United Way of the Greater Dayton Area Volunteer Fundraiser of the Year, Parity, Inc. Top Ten African-American Male, and as a Community Service Leader Honoree by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha and Sigma Pi Phi Fraternities, married to Helen Jones-Kelley, with a blended family of one son, three daughters and nine grandchildren.

Tom coached youth baseball, soccer, and basketball in Xenia through the 1980’s and helped lead and organize the building of the XHS baseball field in 1992. He serves as a phenomenal role model demonstrating hard work, diligence, commitment and a passion for helping others. As a member of the Class of 2023 Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor, he will continue to inspire the Xenia community and its students through his example of servant leadership.

Kenneth Riggsby, Community Servant, Xenia Fire Chief, Role Model, is a 1979 graduate of Xenia High School. Chief Riggsby started his career at Xenia Township Fire Department. After two years of being a volunteer firefighter, he began his tenure with the Xenia Fire Division. He has held the positions of Firefighter/Paramedic, Lieutenant, Captain, and Deputy Fire Chief prior to being appointed Fire Chief in September 2011.

In addition to his duties as Fire Chief, he is a systems administrator for the records management system and computer aided dispatch for Greene County. He has been trained in the management of the system that is utilized and conducts fire training for dispatchers along with maintaining response areas and trucks in the CAD (Computer Aided Dispatch). Chief Riggsby has also completed numerous courses at the National Fire Academy.

Chief Riggsby has given a lifetime of service to the Xenia Community, including forty years in the fire service. He is also a leader in his church. AHOP. In 1998, Chief Riggsby was named as the #1 Firefighter in the Xenia Best of Xenia series conducted by the Xenia Daily Gazette and has received numerous commendations during his career.

Chief Riggsby is a role model for service to his home community.

Xenia Community Schools Foundation

Seeks Hall of Honor Nominees

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation is currently accepting nominations for the 2023 Class of the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor. Nominees should be graduates of Xenia High School who have achieved remarkable success in their career and/or anyone who has made a significant contribution to education in Xenia. Nominations are due by February 10, 2023. The Hall of Honor Banquet will be held April 22, 2023, at Tecumseh Elementary School.

There are several options for submitting a nomination:

Follow the guidelines listed on the Xenia Community Schools Foundation website (xcsfoundation.com) in the Hall of Honor section.
The “Hall of Honor Nomination Form” is available on the Xenia Chamber site by clicking the link to the form. Complete the form and submit it by email to: staff@xcsfoundation.com. In addition to email, forms can be submitted by postal mail or hand delivered to the Xenia Chamber of Commerce.
The form can be printed from the Xenia Community Schools Foundation section of the Xenia Community Schools website (www.xeniaschools.org).
Paper copies of the form are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce.

Note: Self-nominations are acceptable as well as posthumous nominations.

The nomination(s) can be emailed to staff@xcsfoundation.com or mailed to the Xenia Community Schools Foundation, c/o Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, 334 West Market Street, Xenia, OH 45385.

Xenia Community Schools Foundation Announces Hall of Honor Class of 2022

Congratulations are in order for the Xenia Community Schools Foundation Hall of Honor Class of 2022! Five new members will be honored this year. The Twenty-fourth Annual Hall of Honor Dinner and Induction Ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, April 23, 2022, 6:30 PM at Tecumseh Elementary School. The dinner will be preceded by the Eighth Annual Silent Auction for Grants beginning at 5:30 PM. Tickets are $35.00 each and are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber is located at 334 W. Market Street. Call: (937) 372-3591 for more information.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation invites the community to celebrate the accomplishments of the 2022 Hall of Honor inductees:

Danny R. Cassity, XHS Class of 1968,Teacher, Coach, Administrator and Role Model, exhibited strong leadership skills in high school where he was Student Council Vice President, President and a member of the National Honor Society. He was also a successful football athlete, and named MVP in his senior year, along with ALL-WOL and ALL-Area. He earned two varsity letters in both football and baseball.

Danny Cassity attended Morehead State University, earning a BA in Political Science and an MA in Secondary Education. He acquired a certification in Secondary Administration from Eastern Kentucky University. He served in the Kentucky school system for 39 years including 23 years as a teacher, 26 years as a coach, and 16 years as an administrator. Danny was appointed a “Kentucky Colonel” in 1985 by the governor after attending the Visiting Teachers Institute through the Kentucky Governor’s Scholar Program. This recognition is synonymous with character, leadership, and dedication to the welfare of others.

During his years of service in the Kentucky school system Danny was awarded honors as a teacher, football coach and mock trial team coach. He was selected as one of Kentucky’s Outstanding Social Studies teachers and was twice chosen as Kentucky Football Coach of the Year. His two state champion mock trial teams represented Kentucky in National High School Mock Trial Championships. Danny’s life has been a reflection of the values he acquired from his experiences as a student in the Xenia Community Schools and the Xenia community as a whole.

Evan Davis, XHS Class of 2008, Student Role Model and Courageous Career Foreign Service Officer, was a member of Key Club, Spanish Club, and Student Council. He participated in a number of theatrical productions, was a member of the XHS Vocal Ensemble, the XHS Tenor-Bass Choir, and the Advanced Theatrical Production Showcase.

After receiving a Thomas R. Pickering Undergraduate Fellowship for Foreign Affairs and a Foreign Language and Areas Studies Fellowship, he graduated from the Ohio State University in 2012 with a B.A. in International Relations. While at Ohio State, Evan was named the 2011 Homecoming King to honor his academic excellence and contributions to the student body. In 2014, he obtained an M.A. in International Economics and Latin American Studies from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies.

Prior to assuming his current role in Washington, D.C., as Special Assistant to the Spokesperson of the U.S. Department of State, Evan served as the Spokesperson and senior media advisor for the Afghanistan Affairs Unit based in Doha, Qatar. Previously, he served as the Deputy Spokesperson at U.S. Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan. Evan’s other Foreign Service assignments include Gaborone, Botswana; Caracas, Venezuela; and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He is the recipient of the numerous Department of State Superior Honor and Meritorious Honor Awards.

Evan and his colleagues were forced to evacuate the U.S. Embassy after the fall of Kabul on August 15, 2021. Amid the withdrawal of US and NATO forces and during the final days of the war in Afghanistan, Evan worked hand in hand with military officials on the evacuation of 123,000 Americans and Afghan nationals – the largest airlift in history. Working in difficult conditions and at great personal risk, he was one of the last American diplomats to depart Afghanistan. The evacuation was a major humanitarian effort that shaped the future of U.S. foreign policy.

Ronald Chess Lewis, XHS Class of 1984, Prosecutor, Judge, Community Volunteer and Role Model, has lived and worked professionally in the City of Xenia for nearly his entire career. As a Xenia City Prosecutor and Law Director for almost twenty years, he served the people of Xenia, victims of crimes, and law enforcement officers. He advocated for community members citywide. Ron Lewis was elected to the position of Xenia Municipal Court Judge in January 2020, and processed 12,000 cases per year. Cases ranged from speeding tickets to DUI’s, and from simple assaults to domestic violence. These crimes touch every corner of the Xenia Community. He was appointed in January 2022, by Governor Mike DeWine, to serve as a judge in the Second District Court of Appeals. He is the first judge in many decades, from Greene County, to serve in this role.

Ron has been a very active member of the community and, and over the years, served on a number of Boards both in leadership positions and as a board member. Some of those include: Xenia Rotary, Greene County Family Violence Prevention Center, Greene County Fraternal Office of Police, Greene County Community Network, Glen Helen, Greene County Law Library, Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, Greene County Bar Association, Greene County Bar Association Grievance Committee, Republican Central Committee. He is a member of Faith United Methodist Church and is a former member of the Dayton Masonic Learning Center. Ron is the past president of the Greene County Bar Association.

Ron Lewis has dedicated his career to public service and has shown care, respect and commitment to the health, welfare and growth of the Xenia Community. He is an advocate for victims of crimes, as well as a resource for those in need of assistance. after falling to a low point in life. He is respected in the community, showing concern and care for individuals who appear before him and believes Xenia is only as strong and healthy as each individual community member.

Carla Long, Xenia Educator, Teacher, Principal, and Education Advocate has been described district’s dream of a topnotch principal. She laid the cornerstone of success for many students in the Xenia Community and impacted her staff to strive for excellence. Carla formed a strong foundation by working from “the ground up.” She began her career in Germany working as an aide and substitute teacher, and progressing to a teaching associate in Goldsboro, North Carolina. In 1984, Carla brought her strong teaching ability, ,professional leadership style and passionate personality to Xenia Schools where she remained for twenty-eight years. She led Xenia students and staff to at Tecumseh Elementary to a designation of a “School of Excellence”;” the first in the district. Tecumseh Elementary remained a “School of Excellence” for many years, Carla obtained her assistant superintendent certification in 1995. She taught elementary education for ten and a half years at Spring Hill and completed her last sixteen and a half years as an elementary principal at Arrowood and Tecumseh.

Carla Long was a part of the grant writing team for the district, and she continued as a principal to write numerous grants to benefit Xenia schools. Carla was part of a number of grants and committees including: Coordinator of Peers, Parent Connection, Greene County Social Studies Curriculum, Building Staff Development Team, Conflict Peer Resolution Program, Intergenerational Learn and Serve, and the Community Action Team that was responsible for implementation of the action steps in restructuring the district. She presented the Conflict Resolution Program to Wilmington College undergraduates, the Superintendent’s Community Advisory Committee, WOEA Day, and parent and staff meetings. She brought the Renaissance Program to Xenia High School.

People were drawn to Carla’s expertise in education. She ran well-organized meetings, expected excellence from staff and students, was willing to evaluate common practices, invited change as a means to growth and achievement. She researched innovative ideas to solve problems and boost education, and always displayed her infectious passion that got everyone engaged..

Her sphere of influence was contagious! Carla has been described as a magnetic force, drawing people and resources into action. She created an open, inviting atmosphere that encouraged collaboration with administrators, staff, parents, students, and community members with enthusiasm and positivity. Carla was a dedicated worker, devoting well over 100 percent of her time to Xenia Schools. She will be best remembered for her Peace Rule: Use kind words and kind actions.

Cheryl D. Marcus, XCS Board of Education, Educational Leader and Role Model, has demonstrated her devotion to the children of Xenia Community Schools through her sixteen years of service on the Xenia Community Schools Board of Education from 1994 -2001 and 2014-2021. Over her lengthy career on the Board, she served as president and vice president and was actively involved in several district committees. She earned the Ohio School Board Association Award of Achievement. She has been effective in raising awareness of the district to workforce diversity, curricula enhancements, to increasing volunteerism and partnerships with local universities.

Cheryl was inducted into the Greene County Women’s Hall of Fame in 2017. She is a long-time Xenia resident and graduated from Central State University in 1980. She earned an Ed. S. degree in educational leadership from the University of Dayton and completed the 2005 Management Development Program sponsored by Harvard University.

Mrs. Marcus, with her husband Robert, raised five very successful children who all attended and graduated from Xenia Schools. Not only has Cheryl served as a role model and leader to the district but she also has been active in the Xenia Community Schools Foundation. She is very involved in her church, United A.M.E. where she serves on the Steward Board and the Usher Board, while supporting the other ministries. Cheryl is past president of the Wilberforce Chapter of Links, Inc.

Mrs. Marcus has championed public education and served as an exemplary model of service. Her service to the Board and Xenia Schools was and is that of a professional with integrity, honesty, dedication and grace. She builds bridges by fostering inclusion, empowerment and education. Through her contributions to the Xenia Community Schools over many years, she shas earned the designations of “Educational Leader” and “Role Model” for current and future generations of students and community members.

XCSF Hall of Honor Nominations Due February 4, 2022

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation is accepting nominations for the Hall of Honor Class of 2022. Nominees should be graduates of Xenia High School who have achieved remarkable success in their career and/or anyone who has made a significant contribution to education in Xenia. Nominations are due by February 4, 2022. The Hall of Honor Dinner and Induction Ceremony will be held April 23, 2022, at Tecumseh Elementary School.

There are several options for submitting a nomination:

Follow the guidelines listed on the Xenia Community Schools Foundation website: xcsfoundation.com in the Hall of Honor section.
The “Hall of Honor Nomination Form” is available at the Xenia Chamber of Commerce. Complete the form and submit it by email to: staff@xcsfoundation.com. In addition to email, forms can be submitted by postal mail or hand delivered to the Xenia Chamber of Commerce, 334 W. Market St., Xenia, OH 45385.
The form can be printed from the Xenia Community Schools Foundation section of the Xenia Community Schools

https://www.xeniaschools.org/about_us/xenia_community_schools_foundation

Note: Self-nominations are acceptable as well as posthumous nominations.

The nomination(s) can be emailed to staff@xcsfoundation.com or mailed to the Xenia Community Schools Foundation, c/o Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, 334 West Market Street, Xenia, OH 45385. Questions can be directed to (937)620-0790.

The Hall of Honor plaques display is located at the entrance to Xenia High School. The display honors those who have made significant contributions and achieved success. It also serves as a motivator for current students to realize the value of the education they are receiving, as well as their responsibility to make a significant difference in their world.

Xenia Community Schools Foundation Announces Hall of Honor Class of 2021

Congratulations are in order for the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor Class of 2021! Four new members will be honored this year. The Twenty-third Annual Hall of Honor Induction Ceremony and Dinner is scheduled for Saturday, April 24, 2021, at 6:30 PM at Tecumseh Elementary School. The dinner will be preceded by the Seventh Annual Silent Auction for Grants beginning at 5:30 PM. Tickets are $35.00 each and will be available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, as of March 12^th. The Chamber is located at 334 W. Market Street. Call: (937) 372-3591 for more information.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation invites the community to celebrate the accomplishments of the 2021 Hall of Honor inductees:

Blair Montgomery Davis (Businesswoman, Community Leader and Volunteer, Role Model) a 2002 graduate of Xenia High School, was born and raised in Xenia. She graduated from Bowling Greene State University with a BS degree in Business Administration. Blair worked for Cincinnati Insurance until she joined the family insurance business, Montgomery Insurance and Investments, in 2008, and became an integral part of this three-generation local business. Following the family ethic of service to the community, she has offered her time and talent to activities and civic organizations such as Downtown Xenia, Inc., First Fridays, One Bistro Advisory Board, “Xenia Lives!”, Downtown Music Festival and the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce as a Board member, Hospitality Committee Chair, Annual Banquet Committee Member and Xenia Area Young Professionals volunteer.

She is well respected by her peers in local business and received the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce SL Stephen Award in 2016, recognizing her as a person who worked unselfishly through voluntary service to promote the Chamber and community. She has also been awarded the Keystone Insurers Group Thoroughbred Sales Award in recognition of her top sales performance for a young insurance professional.

Blair is passionate about the community of Xenia, including the schools, and gives selflessly of her time, hard work and talent to events that achieve success through her leadership skills. She will serve as a role model for future generations of Xenia students and community members.

Dr. Elizabeth A. Delaney (Hensley) (Renowned Oncology Nurse, Educator, Role Model) is a 1984 Xenia High School graduate who attended Wright State University where she received her BS in Nursing. She has earned two additional master’s Degrees from Wright State and her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Ohio State University. She has been a leader in Oncology Nursing, earned a variety of honors, has been published extensively and is well known for her work in palliative care.

Dr. Delaney joined the staff of Cedarville University in 2012, where she has been instrumental in the development of their nursing graduate program and the integration of palliative care nursing education. She has also become a voice and recognized advocate for families impacted by substance abuse disorder. She has relied on personal family life experiences to positively affect the lives of countless individuals locally, state-wide and across the nation.

Dr. Delaney has been named to Ohio Attorney General David Yost’s Scientific Committee on Opioid Prevention & Education (SCOPE) and is also co-conducting a program evaluation of “The GoodLife” prevention program aimed at middle and high school students. This program has been utilized at XHS and will, hopefully, be leveraged again in the future.

Dr. Delaney is also a founding Partner Professional in the organization 4CancerWellness whose mission is to enhance the care and supportive services for cancer Patients and their significant others.

Her peers, patients and colleagues consistently view her as a model of professionalism, dedication and hard work.

Jean Reid Dungy Shoates (Groundbreaking Mathematician, Role Model) graduated from Xenia East High School in 1949 and attended Central State University majoring in mathematics. In 1952, she became a mathematician and statistician at Wright Patterson Air Force Base. Mrs. Shoates held a classified position with the Foreign Technology Division (DTD), currently known as the National Air and Space Intelligence Center (NASIC). In 1967, Mrs. Shoates became the first woman and first African American to hold a supervisory position in the mathematical and engineering fields.

Serving as the supervisor of Mathematics Scientific Programs, Mrs. Shoates designed software to enable engineers to evaluate foreign aircraft performance and assisted space personnel by designing software to display foreign missile performance and satellite orbits.

In 2019, Jean Shoates was the keynote speaker for the Black History Month Commencement Program at NASIC and was described as the “Hidden Figure” of NASIC.

As an outstanding citizen and role model, Mrs. Shoates is a member of the Zion Baptist Church and has served in many different ministries of the church and has served as Treasurer of the church for 44 years. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and a 44-year member of the Wilberforce Chapter of the Moles, Inc. In 2019, she was recognized for her achievements and service by her local chapter at the Mole National Conclave. Since 1996, she has served Greene Memorial Hospital in a number of volunteer positions, including her service as area captain for the American Cancer Society.

Michael Thomas “Mike” Ungard (Sports Reporter, Veteran, Role Model), a 1953 graduate of Xenia High School attended the University of Cincinnati and served in the United States Army. He served the Xenia community throughout his life as a teacher, coach, umpire and sports reporter. His career spanned nearly 40 years during which he also served as sports editor of the Xenia Daily Gazette and the Beavercreek News. Mr. Ungard shared a Pulitzer Prize for his coverage of the 1974 Xenia tornado.

His lifelong passion was sports, and he was inducted into the Xenia Athletic Hall of Fame in 2012 and the Beavercreek Athletic Hall of Fame in 2002. Often referred to as “The Nude Knob”, he was a fixture at local high school sporting events and provided extensive coverage of athletic events including, a game preview, information about players on each team and the strengths and weaknesses of each team, in addition to extensive coverage of the game itself and post-game interviews. He had an incredible memory for detail, unique writing style and “nose for the news”.

Mike Ungard was highly respected for his support of youth athletes and his incredible base of knowledge. Mike, himself, had a successful high school athletic career as a golfer, football player and track and field participant, winning a Miami League shotput title as a junior. He was a role model of hard work and dedication on behalf of area youth. Mike Ungard is being inducted into the Hall of Honor posthumously, having passed away on November 25, 2020.

Xenia Community Schools Foundation

Seeks Hall of Honor Nominees

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation is currently accepting nominations for the 2021 Class of the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor. Nominees should be graduates of Xenia High School who have achieved remarkable success in their career and/or anyone who has made a significant contribution to education in Xenia. Nominations are due by February 5, 2021. The Hall of Honor Banquet will be held April 24, 2021, at Tecumseh Elementary School.

There are several options for submitting a nomination:

Follow the guidelines listed on the Xenia Community Schools Foundation website (xcsfoundation.com) in the Hall of Honor section.
The “Hall of Honor Nomination Form” is available on the Xenia Chamber site by clicking the link to the form. Complete the form and submit it by email to: staff@xcsfoundation.com. In addition to email, forms can be submitted by postal mail or hand delivered to the Xenia Chamber of Commerce.
The form can be printed from the Xenia Community Schools Foundation section of the Xenia Community Schools website (www.xeniaschools.org).
Paper copies of the form are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce.

Note: Self-nominations are acceptable as well as posthumous nominations.

The nomination(s) can be emailed to staff@xcsfoundation.com or mailed to the Xenia Community Schools Foundation, c/o Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, 334 West Market Street, Xenia, OH 45385.

Reverend Gary G. Chapman

XHS Class of 1981

Veteran, Pastor, Community Servant

Reverend Chapman attended Xenia schools for twelve years, where he was Student Council President and lettered in both Basketball and Track, and went on to graduate from Central State University. He was commissioned in the U.S. Army as a Second Lieutenant, promoted to First Lieutenant and was honorably discharged in 1992. He recently celebrated his 25^th year, serving with dedication and commitment, as pastor of Xenia’s Zion Baptist Church. He has served as an Intervention/Prevention Specialist for Xenia Community Schools providing insight and guidance to at-risk youth. He has touched the lives of incarcerated men at the MonDay Community Correctional Institution and is now the Operations Manager at Jeremiah Tree House, a facility for men in recovery. Rev. Chapman has held leadership positions in the Ministers and Deacons Institute for the Western Union Baptist District Association, African American Ministerial Alliance of Greene County, East End Community Organization, Golden Age Senior Citizens Center, Interfaith Hospitality Network, Xenia Area Association of Churches and Ministries and the Miami Valley Community Action Partnership. He is a person of strong faith and courage who serves as a role model for students and community members, as he renders care and demonstrated citizenship in the community. Reverend Chapman is a member of Kappa Alpha PSI. He is married to Faith Wainwright Chapman a counselor at Warner Middle School and they have three children: Mahogany, Malachi and Daniel.

Fred William (Ted) Forbes

XHS Class of 1954

Architect, Engineer, Civil Servant, Community Leader

Fred Forbes attended the University of Cincinnati and earned a BS degree in Architecture. Later, he attended the University of Dayton Department of Civil Engineering. And completed all required degree courses. Mr. Forbes was presented the” Exceptional Civilian Service Award” in 1966, approved by the Secretary of the Air Force, for his pioneering research work in Aerospace Expandable and Modular Structures. This was one of many recognitions for his work in this area. He worked at Wright Patterson Air Force Base from 1964 through 1972, held several positions and authored and presented over thirty technical research papers in his area of expertise. He then opened his own Architectural and Engineering firm in Xenia where his firm designed hundreds of projects. Fred Forbes was appointed to an advisory committee of 21 citizens after the 1974 tornado which was known as the “Spirit of 74”. The group met weekly and reported to City Commission periodically. He was active in the Xenia Living Arts Council, the Chamber of Commerce and successfully applied, on behalf of the City, for a Yearly Economic Development Grant. Mr. Forbes has been the recipient of architectural design awards, management awards, professional engineering and design awards and has been a member of a number of clubs and organizations.

Roger D. “Rock” McColaugh

XHS Class of 1967

Businessman, Volunteer, Role Model

Rock McColaugh is a lifelong resident of Xenia and attended Xenia Schools, where he earned multiple letters in Wrestling and Track and Field. He then attended Central State University and graduated from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science in 1970. He is the current President of the McColaugh Funeral Home. He joined his father in business in 1970 and assumed control when his father passed away in 1998. Under Rock’s leadership, the McColaugh Funeral Home has become one of the leading funeral providers in Greene County. He is known for his compassion, humility, and good nature. He has helped thousands of people in the community in their greatest time of need. He participates in the annual Xenia High School Mock Accident, fundraising efforts for the Xenia Community School Foundation, campaigns for Xenia School levies and has engaged in numerous other volunteer efforts such as the YMCA membership drive and the Children’s Miracle Network Telethon. As a member of Faith Community United Methodist Church, he served on numerous committees and joined a mission trip to Guatemala. Rock was also on the Executive Board of the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce. He worked on several fundraisers for Greene Memorial Hospital, volunteered with high school Track and Field meets and was active with the Easter Seals Day Camp. He is a long time Xenia Rotarian, serving as past president, is a Paul Harris Fellow, annually rings the Salvation Army bell for Rotary at Christmas and helps with the Fourth of July Fireworks. He has sponsored and coached numerous youth soccer, baseball and basketball teams. Rock is a role model for hard work, community engagement and service.

Charles R. Purvis

Educator, Role Model

Charles Purvis came to work for Xenia Community Schools as a first-year teacher at Central Jr. High School in 1959 and decided to make Xenia both his home and the place to raise his family. He held a variety of positions during his twenty-eight-year tenure with the District. These included: History teacher, assistant principal and principal at Central Jr. High, Head of Federal Programs, Director of Personnel and Title I. He also served, until his retirement, as Assistant Superintendent from 1983-1987. Mr. Purvis coached football, basketball and track, in addition to starting a variety of new activities such as girls drill team, drama and a 9^th grade choir. He was instrumental in obtaining an expedited insurance settlement for the District after the 1974 tornado, and he checked on students and staff in the various buildings daily while they were housed in other districts. He has been described as a visionary who wanted to be on the cutting edge of new technology. Charles Purvis has remained extremely active after retirement, as a transportation director in another district, racing horses and even began a mowing business. He has been active in his church in a variety of capacities and was part of the Buckeye Baptist Builders. He served on the Ohio Disaster Relief Team and built an elementary building in Uganda. He remains active serving his community.

David Thompson

XHS Class of 1989

Leader, Community Development Advocate, Role Model

David Thompson attended Xenia schools from 1976-1989. He graduated from Bowling Green State University in 1993 with a degree in Recreation Administration. He practically grew up at the YMCA and has devoted his professional career to working at various YMCAs including Toledo (Branch Executive), Xenia (CEO of the Greene County YMCA Association) and Coffman Family YMCA (Group Vice-President). David was instrumental in facilitating the merger of the Greene County YMCA and the YMCA of Greater Dayton in May 2008. His leadership was key to the success of the REACH (Recreation, Education, Activity, Community Health) Project, a collaboration between the YMCA of Greater Dayton, Kettering Health Network, the Xenia Adult Recreation and Services Center, Clark State Community College and Central University. The successful opening of the new complex in early 2019 resulted in more than doubling of membership at the YMCA and brought new vitality, consolidated resources and pride to the Xenia Community. David joined Rotary in 1997 while living in Toledo. He is a wonderful example of a Xenia Command has been a member of the Xenia Rotary Club since 2005. David’s Christian faith guides his service within the YMCA, the community and church. He is a wonderful example of a Xenia Community Schools graduate of tremendous character and ability.

Xenia Community Schools Foundation Announces Hall of Honor Class of 2020

Five new members will be honored this year. The Twenty-second Annual Hall of Honor Dinner and Induction Ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2020, at 6:30 PM at Tecumseh Elementary School. The dinner will be preceded by the Sixth Annual Silent Auction for Grants beginning at 5:30 PM. Tickets are $35.00 each and are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, located at 334 W. Market Street. Call: (937) 372-3591 for more information.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation invites the community to celebrate the accomplishments of the 2020 Hall of Honor inductees: Rev. Gary G. Chapman, XHS Class of 1981, Veteran, Pastor, Community Servant; Fred William (Ted) Forbes, XHS Class of 1954, Architect, Engineer, Civil Servant, Community Leader; Roger D. (Rock) McColaugh, XHS Class of 1967, Businessman, Volunteer, Role Model; Charles R. Purvis, Educator, Role Model; and David Thompson, XHS Class of 1989, Leader, Community Development Advocate, Role Model.

Xenia Community Schools Foundation

Seeks Hall of Honor Nominees

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation is currently accepting nominations for the 2020 Class of the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor. Nominees should be graduates of Xenia High School who have achieved remarkable success in their career and/or anyone who has made a significant contribution to education in Xenia. Nominations are due by February 7, 2020. The Hall of Honor Banquet will be held April 18, 2020, at Tecumseh Elementary School.

There are several options for submitting a nomination:

Follow the guidelines listed on the Xenia Community Schools Foundation website (xcsfoundation.com) in the Hall of Honor section.
The “Hall of Honor Nomination Form” is available on the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce website by clicking the link to the form. Complete the form and submit it by email to: staff@xcsfoundation.com. In addition to email, forms can be submitted by postal mail or hand delivered to the Xenia Chamber of Commerce.
The form can be printed from the Xenia Community Schools Foundation section of the Xenia Community Schools website (www.xeniaschools.org).
Paper copies of the form are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce.

Note: Self-nominations are acceptable as well as posthumous nominations. The nomination(s) can be emailed to staff@xcsfoundation.com or mailed to the Xenia Community Schools Foundation, c/o Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, 334 West Market Street, Xenia, OH 45385. The Hall of Honor plaques display is located at the entrance to Xenia High School. The display honors those who have made significant contributions. It also serves as a motivator for current students to realize the value of the education they are receiving, as well as their responsibility to make a significant difference in their world.

Xenia Community Schools Foundation Hall of Honor Class of 2019

Congratulations are in order for the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor Class of 2019! Four new members will be honored this year. The Twenty First Annual Hall of Honor Induction Ceremony and Dinner is scheduled for Saturday, April 27, 2019, at 6:30 PM at Tecumseh Elementary School. The dinner will be preceded by the Fifth Annual Silent Auction for Grants beginning at 5:30 PM. Tickets are $35.00 each and are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, located at 334 W. Market Street. Call: (937) 372-3591 for more information.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation and this year’s Presenting Sponsor, Greene Memorial and Soin Hospitals, invite the community to celebrate the accomplishments of the 2019 Hall of Honor inductees: Gary L. Allen, XHS Class of 1961, Educator, Community Volunteer and Role Model; Scott J. Anger, XHS Class of 1981, Law Enforcement Officer and Role Model; Elaine J. Hughes, Retired Nurse, Community and School Volunteer and Role Model and Douglas W. Yates, XHS Class of 1976, Karate Instructor and Competitor and Role Model.

Gary L. Allen was a member of the Xenia High School Class of 1961. He is being honored as an educator, community volunteer and role model. Gary Allen is a proud product of public schools. He worked for 40 years at the district, state and national level to improve public education and the lives of children and their families. He was educated in the Xenia Community Schools, graduated from Central State University with a degree in Education, and later earned a Masters’ Degree from Wright State University. He taught at McKinley Elementary School for 27 years. During that time as a leader in the Xenia Education Association he helped establish what the Xenia Community Schools Foundation is now. He has been active in his church and other community organizations. Gary was honored with the F.M. Torrence Award, inducted into the Xenia Athletic Hall of Fame as a member of the 1959-60 Basketball Team, and installed into the Central State University Alumni Achievement Hall of Fame. He went on to serve as the Vice-President and President of the Ohio Education Association, the largest public employee union in the State of Ohio. For his work in public education he has received much recognition for his service.

Scott J. Anger was a member of the Xenia High School Class of 1981 and is being honored for his achievements as a law enforcement officer and role model for the youth of Xenia. Scott Anger served his country in the Ohio Army National Guard, attended Clark State Community College and began his successful 30 year career in law enforcement with Xenia Police Division. He held several positions and ranks and finished his XPD career as the Captain in charge of the Criminal Investigations Section. He went on to work with the Greene County Sheriff’s Department as the Director of the Agencies for Combined Enforcement (A.C.E.). He graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in criminal justice and psychology from Capital University, and graduated from the FBI National Academy in 2008. He earned many awards and commendations, the highest being the Casey Elliott Memorial “Xenia’s Finest” award. He spent time as the DARE officer for Xenia students, and served as a youth sport’s coach for several years. He was past President of Greene County F.O.P. #37 and a longtime board member on the Mental Health and Recovery Board of Clark, Greene and Madison counties. He has given his time and efforts to assist individual community and school leaders throughout his career. Scott Anger has made a career of helping others in the community and is a fine example of a product of the Xenia Community Schools.

Elaine J. Hughes is a retired nurse, who is being inducted for her service as a community and school volunteer and role model. Elaine Hughes has spent her career as a community health nurse working with children. Because of her love of children and the community, she has spent over 15 years as a volunteer in the Xenia Community Schools as a PTO member, reading coach, and a member of the Visioning, Finance and levy committees. She volunteers for Greene County Parks and Trails and is Mrs. Claus each year at Santa’s Holiday in the Park. She has received the Jamestown Citizen of the Year award, Greene County Health District’s Employee of the Year, Barb Zajbel Xenia Ambassador Award, and is an inductee into the Greene County Women’s Hall of Fame.

Douglas W. Yates was a member of the Xenia High School Class of 1976. He is being honored for his endeavors and achievements as a karate instructor and competitor and the example he has set as a role model for students in Xenia. Doug Yates began studying karate in 1973. In 1976 as a senior at XHS he opened his own karate school. He has had a very successful career training thousands of children and adults in the study of Martial Arts. He was a World Rated Professional Kickboxer from 1981-1985. As a member of the United States Karate Team won a Gold Medal at the 1994 Goodwill Games in St. Petersburg, Russia. As a coach he has produced 2 students who went on the make the United States Karate Olympic Karate Team, his son D.J. Yates and Nicole Fisher. To date the Doug Yates Karate school athletes have won over 500 medals in National and International competitions. Since 1994 he is the President / Founder of the Miami Valley Karate Tournament Association providing Martial Art competition all across the Miami Valley Area. He was recently inducted into the United States Karate Federation “Hall of Fame” as an Athlete who helped make Karate an Olympic Sport for the 2020 Games in Tokyo, Japan. He is a member of the World Karate Union “Hall of Fame” and the Ohio Black Belt “Hall of Fame”.

Xenia Community Schools Foundation Announces Hall of Honor Class of 2019

Congratulations are in order for the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor Class of 2019! Four new members will be honored this year. The Twenty-first Annual Hall of Honor Induction Ceremony and Dinner is scheduled for Saturday, April 27, 2019, at 6:30 PM at Tecumseh Elementary School. The dinner will be preceded by the Fifth Annual Silent Auction for Grants beginning at 5:30 PM. Tickets are $35.00 each and are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, located at 334 W. Market Street. Call: (937) 372-3591 for more information.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation and this year’s Presenting Sponsor, Greene Memorial and Soin Hospitals, invite the community to celebrate the accomplishments of the 2019 Hall of Honor inductees: Gary L. Allen, XHS Class of 1961, Retired Educator and Former President of the Ohio Education Association; Scott J. Anger, XHS Class of 1981, Director of a crimes unit with the Greene County Sheriff’s Office and Past President of the Greene County Fraternal Order of Police; Elaine J. Hughes, Retired CPNP from Greene County Public Health, Xenia Community Schools Volunteer and Doug Yates, XHS Class of 1975, owner of Doug Yates Karate and Successful Karate Competitor.

December 3, 2018

Xenia Community Schools Foundation

Seeks Hall of Honor Nominees

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation is currently accepting nominations for the 2019 Class of the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor. Nominees should be graduates of Xenia High School who have achieved remarkable success in their career and/or anyone who has made a significant contribution to education in Xenia. Nominations are due by February 8, 2019. The Hall of Honor Banquet will be held April 27, 2019, at Tecumseh Elementary School.

There are several options for submitting a nomination:

Follow the guidelines listed on the Xenia Community Schools Foundation website (xcsfoundation.com) in the Hall of Honor section.
The “Hall of Honor Nomination Form” is available on the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce website by clicking the link to the form. Complete the form and submit it by email to: staff@xcsfoundation.com. In addition to email, forms can be submitted by postal mail or hand delivered to the Xenia Chamber of Commerce.
The form can be printed from the Xenia Community Schools Foundation section of the Xenia Community Schools website (www.xeniaschools.org).
Paper copies of the form are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation Announces Online Silent Auction to Support Classroom Grants

The Twentieth Annual Hall of Honor Dinner and Induction Ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, April 28, 2018, at 6:30 PM at Tecumseh Elementary School. The dinner will be preceded by the Fourth Annual Silent Auction for Grants beginning at 5:30 PM. Tickets are $35.00 each and are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, located at 334 W. Market Street. Call: (937) 372-3591 for more information.

The Foundation is excited to announce an online bidding opportunity for the Fourth Annual Silent Auction for Grants! This new feature will to enable our guests, and those who are not able to join us, to start bidding on April 13^th. Proceeds from the auction will support the Xenia Community Schools Foundation’s classroom grants initiative.

The auction website can be found at https://one.bidpal.net/xeniacommunityschools

To participate and view the great selection of items, go to the site and register as a bidder. Once you do so, the bidding will begin, and bidders will have the opportunity to keep a watchful eye and receive text notices on items. Bidding is easy and can be done from anywhere … a computer, tablet, or phone!

Those attending Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor Dinner and Induction Ceremony on April 28^th, and who are unable to register online, can bid in person. Trained volunteers will be on site at the event to help submit bids and donations!

The Foundation has received auction items from all of the schools, the Board of Education members, administrators and members of the XCSF Board of Directors in support of this event. Many community members have also donated baskets for the Silent Auction. Additional items may be added until Hall of Honor event, so be sure to keep checking the online link! The auction will close on April 28^th at 7:30 p.m.

March 16, 2018

Xenia Community Schools Foundation Announces Hall of Honor Class of 2018

Congratulations are in order for the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor Class of 2018! Five new members will be honored this year. The Twentieth Annual Hall of Honor Induction Ceremony and Dinner is scheduled for Saturday, April 28, 2018, at 6:30 PM at Tecumseh Elementary School. The dinner will be preceded by the Fourth Annual Silent Auction for Grants beginning at 5:30 PM. Tickets are $35.00 each and are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, located at 334 W. Market Street. Call: (937) 372-3591 for more information.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation and this year’s Presenting Sponsor, Greene Memorial and Soin Hospitals, invite the community to celebrate the accomplishments of the 2018 Hall of Honor inductees: Bradley T. Montgomery, XHS Class of 1976, Businessman, Community Leader and Volunteer, Role Model; Phyllis Ann Pennewitt, XHS Class of 1953, Mayor of Xenia, Accountant, Community Volunteer, Role Model; William Timothy Spradlin, XHS Class of 1978, Fire Chief, Public Safety, Combat Veteran; Brian Lawrence Stephan, XHS Class of 1996, Businessman, Community Leader and Volunteer, Role Model and Aleksandar Svager, Community Volunteer, Professor Emeritus.

Brad Montgomery was born and raised in Xenia. The 1976 graduate played basketball and golf for XHS and was named WOL honorable mention in basketball his Junior and Senior year. He ranked academically in the top 15% of his class of 550 students. Brad graduated from Manchester University in 1980 with a Business major and was a 4 year letterman in golf. Brad has worked in the downtown Xenia family business since 1983 and is now President of Montgomery Insurance and Investments. Brad motivates and encourages his family, employees and fellow Xenia residents by example. He regularly encourages his staff to volunteer in civic activities. Brad is a lifelong member of Faith Community United Methodist Church and has served in many leadership roles there. Brad is an advocate and supporter of the Xenia Community Schools and affiliated organizations. He has served as Treasurer of the Xenia Community Schools levy campaigns for many consecutive years. His company has funded school programs and he has personally coached and volunteered. Brad has been engaged in civic groups such as the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, Xenia Rotary, Xenia Economic Growth Corporation, Xenia Adult Recreation and Services Center and supports many other local activities and organizations. Brad has been recognized multiple times for his support of his community. He has received the XACC SL Stephan Award, President’s Award, Kiwanis Guest Conductor winner, and received the 2014 XACC F.M. Torrence Award for lifelong service. His parents, Bob and Dorothy Montgomery, instilled in him the importance of hard work and giving back to the community. He continuously exhibits his support for the Schools, Xenia business community and his hometown. Brad enjoys golf, canoeing, fishing, biking and everything outdoors.

Phyllis Pennewitt, a lifelong Xenia resident, attended Xenia High School, Wright State University and Antioch University, where she earned a Master’s Degree in Accounting. She retired in 1996 from the McGregor School of Antioch University as an accountant. Phyllis served her community on Xenia City Council from 2000-2005 and as Mayor of Xenia from 2006-2010. She has been described as “a loving, giving, energetic, positive, supporting, unselfish soul” who was an avid volunteer. Her volunteer activities were often in leadership roles, were wide ranging and included: X*ACT, Child Conservation League, Xenia Adult Recreation and Services Board, CASA, Greene County Historical League, BRACA, Board of Zoning Appeals, Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, Golden Age Senior Citizens Board and the Mayor’s Association of Ohio. Phyllis was a member of the Faith Community United Methodist Church and served her church in many roles. Her 47 year marriage to Donald Pennewitt and devotion to her family served as a shining example for all. Phyllis was inducted into the Greene County Women’s Hall of Fame in 2015. Mrs. Pennewitt passed away on January 12, 2018. She will be remembered as a role model for current and future generations of Xenia students and the Xenia Community.

Tim Spradlin was a National Honor Society graduate of Xenia High School who later earned Associate Degrees in Fire Science Technology and Human Resource Management. He also earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Management at Wilberforce University and attended the Master’s Degree program in Pastoral Counseling at Ohio Christian University. He has over 35 years’ experience and numerous certifications related to firefighting, rescue, law enforcement and arson investigation. Tim was described as “one of those guys every firefighter wants to be”. He has served with Xenia City and Xenia Township Fire Departments plus the Greene County Sheriff’s Office and State Fire Marshal. He was instrumental in the response and recovery during the September 2000 F4 tornado that struck the Xenia area. Tim served with the US Air Force and Air Force Reserve for 30 total years. He served on active duty in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2002 and Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2007. Tim was awarded the Bronze Star Medal by the US Army for combat meritorious service in Iraq. He has received numerous other military medals, awards and commendations. Since 2010 Tim has worked at Greene County Veteran Services and with Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2402 in Xenia. He operates a non-profit charity using his horses to provide equine therapy for veterans with PTSD. Tim Spradlin is truly a patriot, a public servant and a wonderful role model for the youth in our community.

Brian Stephan excelled at Xenia High School where he earned 9 varsity letters in football, tennis, and swimming. He was Vice-President of Student Council and a National Honor Society Member. Brian received a scholarship to play football at Michigan State University where he graduated from in 2000 with a degree in Business Administration and Pre-Law. He moved back to Xenia after graduation and started his Financial Planning career. He is Managing Partner of Stephan and Associates Wealth Management and a Certified Financial Planner. Brian exhibits selfless philanthropy, volunteerism and community leadership. He is the Past President of the Xenia Rotary Club and Xenia Rotary Foundation, past Chairman of the Board of the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, as well as the past Vice-President of the Greene County Council on Aging. He has been recognized with a number of community awards including: 2013 runner up for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society Man of the Year Award, the 2014 Chamber of Commerce Russ Remick Award and the 2015 Chamber of Commerce S. L. Stephan Award. He is active with the Adams Trust, the Xenia WEE Bucs Organization, Xenia Elite Basketball, Xenia YMCA and Xenia Community Schools Foundation. He is married to his wife, Stephanie, and has two sons, Gunnar and Gage. Brian is an exceptional role model of professional success and community support and involvement for current and future generations of Xenia students.

Aleksandar Svager is a dedicated community volunteer. He is also a mentor, teacher and philanthropist. He has made the Wilberforce/Xenia Community his home for more than forty years and has volunteered in the Xenia Community Schools for six years. As a Holocaust survivor, he regularly shares his experiences with students in the hope that learning from history will lead to an appreciation of all individuals. He also demonstrates service to the Xenia Community Schools through his leadership in the Optimist Club Oratorical and Essay Contest at Warner Middle School. Many of his students have found their participation in the essay contest to be a life changing experience. It gave them confidence to express their opinions and to engage in public speaking. Mr. Svager was a faculty member and Department of Physics chair at Central State University and continuously encouraged students to set high standards. He is proud of his work in developing African American physicists, many to the doctorate degree level. He has established a scholarship for female students in mathematics through the Dayton Foundation. His volunteer service to the Xenia Community Schools is truly valued and appreciated.

January 31, 2018

Hall of Honor Nomination Deadline Approaches

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation is still accepting nominations for the 2018 class of the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor. Nominations are due by February 9, 2018. The Hall of Honor Banquet will be held April 28, 2018, at Tecumseh Elementary School. The event will be preceded by a silent auction before the start of the dinner and induction ceremony.

Nominees should be graduates of Xenia High School who have achieved remarkable success in their career or anyone who was made a significant contribution to education in Xenia. The guidelines for nominations can be found on the Xenia Community Schools Foundation website (xcsfoundation.com). The format for the application can also be accessed through the Hall of Honor section. Copies of the nomination form are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce. The form is also available on the Xenia Community Schools website through the Xenia Community Schools Foundation link on the home page. Copies of the form are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation is currently accepting nominations for the 2018 Class of the Xenia Schools Hall of Honor. Nominees should be graduates of Xenia High School who have achieved remarkable success in their career, or anyone who was made a significant contribution to education in Xenia. They are due by February 9, 2018.

The Hall of Honor Dinner and Induction Ceremony will be held April 28, 2018, at Tecumseh Elementary.

The nomination(s) can be emailed to staff@xcsfoundation.com or mailed to the Xenia Community Schools Foundation, c/o Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, 334 West Market Street, Xenia, OH 45385.

Xenia Community Schools Foundation Announces Hall of Honor Class of 2017

Congratulations are in order for the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor Class of 2017! Six new members will be inducted this year. The Nineteenth Annual Hall of Honor Induction Ceremony and Dinner is scheduled for Saturday, April 22, 2017, at 6:30 PM at Tecumseh Elementary School. The dinner will be preceded by the Third Annual Silent Auction for Grants beginning at 5:30 PM. Tickets are $35.00 each and are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, located at 334 W. Market Street. Call: (937) 372-3591 for more information.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation and this year’s Presenting Sponsor, Greene Memorial and Soin Hospitals, invite the community to celebrate the accomplishments of the 2017 Hall of Honor inductees: John E. Bowen, XHS Class of 1973; Douglas Kent Cope, XHS Class of 1984; R. Greggory Cross, XHS Class of 1967; Janet Kindred, XHS Class of 1971; Kathleen Seagraves McCormick, XHS Class of 1983 and William (Bill) “Schu” Schumacher, XHS Class of1974.

John E. Bowen, Successful Business Professional, Community Volunteer, Role Model attended Xenia Schools for eight years. His strong work ethic developed early in life. He was fourteen when he started working to help his family, which included seven children, while saving for college. He became the first and only person in his family to go to college. John attended Wilmington College and graduated with a degree in business in 1977. He has had a very successful career in the credit union industry and has served on the boards and/or supported programs of the Xenia YMCA, Xenia Kiwanis Club, Board for Greene County Domestic Violence and his church. He is a devoted family man who has set an example of dedication to education and a desire to give back to his community.

Douglas Kent Cope, Public Servant, Role Model, attended Xenia schools for thirteen years and retired as Captain of the Xenia Fire Division in 2015. He is a thirty year veteran of the fire service, having started his career in 1989 as a Firefighter/Paramedic. He has served in a number of different roles including the Miami Valley Technical Rescue Team as a Canine Search Specialist and as a Search and Rescue Team or Task Force Leader in various operations responding to large scale disaster incidents. These assignments include the 2000 Xenia Tornado, the 9/11 World Trade Center, the Space Shuttle Columbia Disaster, Hurricanes Isabel, Ivan, Katrina, Gustav, Hanna, Ike, Irene and Matthew and the Haiti Earthquake. He has received awards for his exemplary service and is a member of several professional organizations.

Greggory Cross, Educator, Coach, Community Volunteer, Role Model, attended Xenia schools for thirteen years and was the 1967 recipient of the prestigious Rocky Thomas Scholarship. He was a successful athlete and President of the National Honor Society. Gregg played football at Central State University and, later, was on the first varsity basketball team at Wright State University. He graduated from Wright State in 1972 with a degree in Sociology and, later, returned to earn his teaching certificate. He was a teacher in Beavercreek Schools for 35 years teaching Social Studies, World Government and Geography. He served as Beavercreek’s assistant and head football coach for 16 years. Gregg has been instrumental in raising funds for and promoting the Xenia Athletic Hall of Fame. He has served as Chairman of the Athletic Hall of Fame for four years. Gregg has given of his time on many committees in the Beavercreek Schools and received recognition from both Beavercreek schools and Wright State University.

Janet Kindred, Educator, Volunteer, Mentor, attended Xenia Schools for 13 years and returned to teach elementary school for 35 years. She has been a lifelong resident of Xenia and has dedicated herself to helping others in the Xenia Community. She has continued, after retirement, to volunteer for and to guide students, parents, teachers and schools. Janet was Salutatorian of the XHS Class of 1971. She received her Bachelor of Science in Education from Wright State University in 1974, and her Master’s in Education in 1980. She has served as a mentor for many teachers and volunteered her time on projects and numerous school district committees. These included the XCS Key Communicator Team and the Xenia School Workforce Diversity Committee and Plan. She has received multiple recognitions including: 2010 Ohio Lottery Teacher of the Month and the 2003 Western Ohio Education Association, Federal Children and Public Education Donor and Executive Club Award Winner. Janet continues to volunteer her time and displays a strong commitment to her family and her community.

Kathleen Seagraves McCormick, Ret.MSgt USAF, Role Model, attended Xenia Schools for 12 years. She excelled in track and basketball in high school. She was recruited to play basketball at Urbana College, and graduated in 1987, after four successful years of achieving academically and playing basketball, with a degree in Business Administration. Kathleen enlisted in the USAF in 1987 and served in various assignments areas, while progressing in rank, over the next twenty-four years until retirement in 2011. She received many awards and decorations, including: Meritorious Service Medal with Three Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal with Four Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Achievement Medal with One Oak Leaf Cluster, Iraq Campaign Medal with One Bronze Star and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal. She volunteered extensively while in the service and now resides back in Xenia.

William (Bill) “Schu” Schumacher, Band Director, Inspirational Educator, attended Xenia Schools for 13 years. Numerous former students nominated him for induction into the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor citing the high bar he set for the band and each individual player. He is described as “inspirational” and a teacher who displayed faith in his students even when they doubted themselves. Many former students keep in touch with him and value his ongoing friendship. Under Mr. Schumacher’s direction, the Xenia band scored “1” in Class A OMEA concert band contest for the first time and went on to be successful in numerous subsequent competitions. Bill was the recipient of the John Philip Sousa award in 1974.

Hall of Honor Nomination Deadline Approaches

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation is still accepting nominations for the 2017 class of the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor. Nominations are due by February 3, 2017. The Hall of Honor Banquet will be held April 22, 2017, at Tecumseh Elementary School. The event will be preceded by a silent auction before the start of the dinner and induction ceremony.

Nominees should be graduates of Xenia High School who have achieved remarkable success in their career or anyone who was made a significant contribution to education in Xenia. The guidelines for nominations can be found on the Xenia Community Schools Foundation website (xcsfoundation.com). The format for the application can also be accessed through the Hall of Honor section. The form is available on the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce website “Forms and Flyers to Download” area.

The nomination(s) can be emailed to admin@xacc.com or mailed to the Xenia Community Schools Foundation, c/o Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, 334 West Market Street, Xenia, OH 45385.
Xenia Community Schools Foundation

Seeks Hall of Honor Nominees

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation is currently accepting nominations for the 2017 class of the Xenia Schools Hall of Honor. Nominees should be graduates of Xenia High School who have achieved remarkable success in their career or anyone who was made a significant contribution to education in Xenia. Nominations are due by February 3, 2017. The Hall of Honor Banquet will be held April 22, 2017, at Tecumseh Elementary School.

The nomination process is easy. Simply follow the guidelines listed on the Xenia Community Schools Foundation website (xcsfoundation.com). The format for the application can also be accessed through the Hall of Honor section. The form is available on the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce website “Forms and Flyers to Download” area.

Note: Self-nominations are acceptable as well as posthumous nominations. The nomination(s) can be emailed to admin@xacc.com or mailed to the Xenia Community Schools Foundation, c/o Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, 334 West Market Street, Xenia, OH 45385. The Hall of Honor display is located at Xenia High School. The display honors those who have made significant contributions. It also serves as a motivator for current students to realize the value of the education they are receiving, as well as their responsibility to make a significant difference in their world.

April 13, 2016

2016 XCSF Hall of Honor Ticket Deadline Approaches

Tickets for this year’s Hall of Honor Dinner and Induction Ceremony will be available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce through Friday, April 22, 2016.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation invites the community to celebrate the accomplishments of the 2016 Hall of Honor inductees: Chad R. Jackson, PhD, XHS Class of 1998, Scientist and Role Model; Jane Newton, XHS Class of 1976, Businesswoman and Role Model; Donald R. Person, XHS Class of 1973, Chief of Police and Community Supporter; Richard “Dick” Strous, XCHS class of 1951, Community Volunteer and Robert E. Williams, Superintendent of Xenia Community Schools and Community Leader.

A significant program of the Foundation is the annual Hall of Honor. The Foundation hosts a dinner and induction ceremony to recognize graduates, former staff, or community citizens who have set an example through their professional success and/or have made significant contributions of service to the Xenia Community Schools and the Xenia Community.

The Eighteenth Annual Hall of Honor Induction Ceremony and Dinner is scheduled for Saturday, April 30, 2016, at 6:30 PM at Tecumseh Elementary School. The dinner will be preceded by the Second Annual Silent Auction beginning at 5:30 PM. The auction is open to the members of the community. No ticket is required for the auction portion of the event. Tickets for the dinner and induction ceremony are $30.00 each. Tickets are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, which is located at 334 W. Market Street. Call: (937) 372-3591 for more information.

February 26, 2016

Xenia Community Schools Foundation Announces Hall of Honor Class of 2016

Congratulations are in order for the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor Class of 2016! Five new members will be honored this year. The Eighteenth Annual Hall of Honor Induction Ceremony and Dinner is scheduled for Saturday, April 30, 2016, at 6:30 PM at Tecumseh Elementary School. The dinner will be preceded by the Second Annual Silent Auction for Grants beginning at 5:30 PM. Tickets are $30.00 each and are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, located at 334 W. Market Street. Call: (937) 372-3591 for more information.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation and this year’s Presenting Sponsor, Greene Memorial and Soin Hospitals, invite the community to celebrate the accomplishments of the 2016 Hall of Honor inductees: Chad R. Jackson, PhD, XHS Class of 1998; Jane Newton, XHS Class of 1976; Donald R. Person, XHS Class of1973; Richard (Dick) Strous, XHS Class of 1951 and Robert E. Williams, former Superintendent of Xenia Community Schools.

Chad R. Jackson, PhD, in Neuropharmacology and Scientist, attended Xenia Community Schools and was very successful in academics and athletics. He was a member of the XHS National Honor Society, Student Council President and lettered in both track (4) and football (3). He attended Earlham College and later earned his doctorate in Neuropharmacology from Emory University. He currently serves as Science Policy Advisor, in the Office of the Science and Technology Advisor to the Secretary of State, U.S. Department of State. Chad’s work ethic, dedication and professional success make him an excellent role model for both students and the Xenia community.

Jane Newton, Businesswoman and Community Leader, is the owner and President of Collett Propane, Inc. She graduated from Wright State University with a BS in Business and has worked in the family operation since 1980. She is a past president of the Ohio Propane Gas Association. Jane Newton is an active community volunteer and supporter. She has provided tireless service over the years both on the Greene County Community Foundation and as President of the Xenia All Sports Boosters. Jane is an outstanding example of a self-made success and family person, who makes the time to give back to her community.

Donald R. Person, Police Chief and Community Supporter, exemplifies a local person who has stayed and worked in his home community to make it a great place to live. He was sworn in as Police Chief for the City of Xenia in 2003. “Randy” Person has been employed by the local police department for almost forty years and worked his way through the ranks to his current position. He has pursued advanced training for the Department and graduated from Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command. He and his family “give back” to the community through a special light display at their home during the holiday season. The display provides enjoyment, but it also serves as a fundraiser for the Greene County Interfaith Hospitality Network. Donald Person has demonstrated that his commitment to his community is unwavering, and he serves as a role model for future generations.

Richard “Dick” Strous, Community Volunteer, has demonstrated his integrity, ability and devotion to the welfare of the Xenia community for several decades through his involvement with Xenia’s Rail and Arts Fest and Greene County Historical Society rail display. Mr. Strous has held office in several organizations, including Faith Community United Methodist Church, the Greene County Historical Society, and as the organizer of Xenia Rail and Arts Fest. He has also been the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions. He was one of the founders of the “Meet Me at the Station” program at the Xenia Bike Hub in 1990. This educational program serves third grade students. The program received an award from the Ohio Historical Society. Dick Strous serves as a role model by contributing his time and talent to his home community.

Robert E. Williams, Former Superintendent and Community Leader’s, approach to education has been summarized by his nominators as follows: “As a teacher, principal, superintendent, parent or Board member, we make our best decisions when we determine first what is best for the students, and then make all subsequent judgements based on that insight”. Mr. Williams began his career in Xenia in 1963 as a science teacher. He later worked as assistant principal and principal at Central Junior High School and as principal of Xenia High School. “Bob” Williams became the Superintendent of Xenia Community Schools in 1986 and retired in 1995. During his career, he developed many new initiatives and worked to revitalize the Xenia Educational Endowment Fund (now known as the Xenia Community Schools Foundation) and helped to develop the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor. Robert Williams has served his community, both as a member of the Kiwanis Club for 45 years and through numerous volunteer activities.

Hall of Honor Nomination Deadline Approaches

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation is still accepting nominations for the 2016 class of the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor. Nominations are due by February 12, 2016. The Hall of Honor Banquet will be held April 30, 2016, at Tecumseh Elementary School. The Second Annual Silent Auction for Grants, open to the public, will begin at 5:30 pm. The Dinner and Induction Ceremony starts at 6:30 pm.

Nominees should be graduates of Xenia High School who have achieved remarkable success in their career or anyone who was made a significant contribution to education in Xenia. The guidelines for nominations can be found on the Xenia Community Schools Foundation website (xcsfoundation.com). The format for the application can also be accessed through the Hall of Honor section. The form is available on the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce website “Forms and Flyers to Download” area.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation is currently accepting nominations for the 2016 class of the Xenia Schools Hall of Honor. Nominees should be graduates of Xenia High School who have achieved remarkable success in their career or anyone who was made a significant contribution to education in Xenia. Nominations are due by February 12, 2016. The Hall of Honor Banquet will be held April 30, 2016, at Tecumseh Elementary School.

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Hall of Honor Event to Celebrate Five of Xenia’s Finest

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation invites the community to celebrate the accomplishments of the 2015 Hall of Honor inductees: Gary H. Chapman, XHS Class of 1979; Robert Paul Dillaplain, M.D., XCS Board of Education Member; Joseph E. Haines, XHS Class of 1941; Mark Manley, XHS Class of 1980 and Marsha Kline Smith, XHS Class of 1970.

The Seventeenth Annual Hall of Honor Induction Ceremony and Dinner is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2015, at 6:30 PM at Tecumseh Elementary School. The dinner will be preceded by a Silent Auction beginning at 5:30 PM. Tickets are $30.00 each and are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Comme

Silent Auction Proceeds to Support XCSF Grants Program

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation will be hosting a Silent Auction on April 18, 2015, as part of the annual Hall of Honor Induction Ceremony and Dinner event. The auction will be held at Tecumseh Elementary School and will begin at 5:30 p.m. Donations received as of March 25^th are included in this Preview Book. Proceeds from the auction will be used to fund grants.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation provides grants for classroom and teacher projects. Almost $20,000.00 has been awarded for the 2014-2015 school year. Funded projects are geared towards enriching student learning. Some applications represent district-wide initiatives. All the grants for Xenia Community Schools’ students and teachers are beyond what regular school funding can provide.

This year’s group of awards includes funds for purchases of library books, Accelerated Reader Program, software, Chemistry Club supplies and STEM-related course materials. The Foundation also honored a grant request titled: “Enhancing Access to Arts Programing”. The Foundation funded the purchase of five pianos. These are housed at Shawnee, Cox, McKinley, and Tecumseh elementary schools and Xenia High School.

Xenia Community Schools Foundation Announces Hall of Honor Class of 2015

Congratulations are in order for the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor Class of 2015! Five new members will be honored this year. The Seventeenth Annual Hall of Honor Induction Ceremony and Dinner is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2015, at 6:30 PM at Tecumseh Elementary School. The dinner will be preceded by a Silent Auction beginning at 5:30 PM. Tickets are $30.00 each and are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, which is located at 334 W. Market Street. For more information call: (937) 372-3591.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation and this year’s Presenting Sponsor, Greene Memorial and Soin Hospitals, invite the community to celebrate the accomplishments of the 2015 Hall of Honor inductees: Gary H. Chapman, XHS Class of 1979; Robert Paul Dillaplain, M.D., XCS Board of Education Member; Joseph E. Haines, XHS Class of 1941; Mark Manley, XHS Class of 1980 and Marsha Kline Smith, XHS Class of 1970.

Gary H. Chapman, College Art Professor, is an art professor and head of his department at the University of Alabama. He has had over fifty solo exhibitions with institutions such as The Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, University of Cincinnati, University of Georgia, and University of Miami. He has received numerous grants and fellowships, including a 1996 National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship in Painting from the Southern Arts Federation and 2001 and 1994, Individual Artist Fellowships from the Alabama State Council on the Arts. His work has been reviewed extensively and is published in over twenty catalogs and books including the 3rd, 16th, 52nd and 88th editions of New American Paintings.

Robert Paul Dillaplain, M.D., XCS Board of Education Member, has served the Xenia Community Schools in that capacity since 1994. He has been recognized for exemplary duty by the Ohio School Boards Association on multiple occasions and has served as President and Vice-President of the Board of Education numerous times over the years. In his professional career, he served in the United States Air Force, and he devoted himself to Xenia, his adopted community, as a gynecologist and obstetrician. He also served as Medical Director the Greene County Combined Health District. Dr. Dillaplain is well known for his philanthropy and volunteerism, including, but not limited to: Under One Roof, the Greene County Fair, Greene Giving, First Frontier and the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce.

Joseph E. (Joe) Haines, State Legislator, is the role model of a true public servant. He has also been described as a tireless worker and a true friend. He served as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives for nineteen years, as a Greene County Commissioner and was a past president of the Xenia Board of Education. He received the Ervin J. Nutter Award in 2009. Joe was part of a farm operation that has been in his family since 1812. He was a lifelong advocate for agriculture and conservation. Joe Haines recently passed away at the age of ninety-one and is being inducted posthumously.

Mark Manley, Xenia Teacher and Administrator, has taught thousands of students to appreciate the joy of music, of choral art and the wonder and magic of live theater. He has been described as an exemplary instructor who established high standards of quality to which others aspire. The twenty-three years of performances of XHS choirs, the Vocal Ensemble, and theater groups under his direction are legendary. Currently in his twenty-ninth year of service to Xenia Community Schools, Mr. Manley serves in the Office of the Superintendent as the Administrative Specialist. He was a Xenia Education Association Officer for over twenty-five years, served on many levy campaigns, was Program Coordinator for the Resident Educator Program and has provided leadership for many other District initiatives.

Marsha Kline Smith, Xenia Community Schools Teacher, taught mathematics to thousands of students at all levels. She made learning fun and “hands on”, so that students could really connect to the concepts. She is described as the type of teacher students gravitate to and respect, even though she was “tough” and set high standards. She was admired by her colleagues. Marsha was a supporter of Xenia athletics, vocal arts and theater. She is described as having “bled blue”. She was awarded the Howard Post Excellence in Education Distinguished Graduate Award almost every year since 2004. Marsha Smith worked quietly throughout her career and was not an individual who sought recognition. She was a role model to the community in terms of her courage as an elven year Breast Cancer Survivor. She lost her battle on February 28, 2014, and is being inducted posthumously.

Xenia Community Schools Foundation Seeks Hall of Honor Nominees

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation is currently accepting nominations for the 2015 class of the Xenia Schools Hall of Honor. Nominees should be graduates of Xenia High School who have achieved remarkable success in their career or anyone who was made a significant contribution to education in Xenia. Nominations are due by February 16, 2015. The Hall of Honor Banquet will be held April 18, 2015, at Tecumseh Elementary School.

Note: Self-nominations are acceptable as well as posthumous nominations.

The nomination(s) can be emailed to admin@xacc.com or mailed to the Xenia Community Schools Foundation, c/o Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, 334 West Market Street, Xenia, OH 45385.

The Hall of Honor display is located at Xenia High School. The display honors those who have made significant contributions. It also serves as a motivator for current students to realize the value of the education they are receiving, as well as their responsibility to make a significant difference in their world.

Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor

April 3rd Sponsorship Deadline Nears

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation is dedicated to enriching the academic pursuits of all students, faculty and staff within the Xenia Community Schools. The Foundation has provided grants for teacher and classroom enrichment programs and scholarships, from the investment income of the Foundation, for the past thirty years.

A significant program of the Foundation is the annual Hall of Honor. This dinner and induction ceremony serves to recognize graduates, former staff, or community citizens who have made significant or outstanding contributions or service to the Xenia Community Schools. The seventeenth annual Hall of Honor will be held April 18, 2015, at Tecumseh Elementary School. A Silent Auction begins at 5:30pm.

The 2015 class of inductees includes: Gary Chapman, Robert Paul Dillaplain, MD, Joseph E. Haines, Marsha Kline Smith and Mark Manley.

Corporate/individual sponsorships in support of this ceremony are:$750.00 $500.00 and $250.00. All include recognition at the event and in the program, as well as on our website: xcsfoundation.com.

Sponsorships can be arranged by contacting the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce at 937-372-3591 (Leave a message for Barbara Stafford) or by sending your contribution payable to the “Xenia Community Schools Foundation” to the Chamber at 334 W. Market Street, Xenia, OH 45385. PayPal is also available as a payment option through the “xcsfoundation.com” website.

Xenia Community Schools Foundation Announces Hall of Honor Class of 2014

Congratulations are in order for the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor Class of 2014! Six new members, including one couple, will be honored this year. The Sixteenth Annual Hall of Honor Induction Ceremony and Dinner is scheduled for Saturday, April 12, 2014, at 6:30 PM at Tecumseh Elementary School. Tickets are $25.00 each and are available at the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce which is located at 334 W. Market Street. For more information call: (937) 372-3591.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation and this year’s Presenting Sponsor, Greene Memorial and Soin Hospitals, invite the community to celebrate the accomplishments of the 2014 Hall of Honor inductees: Melvin “Mack” Bottorff (Class of 1961), John A. Finlay (Class of 1959), Jim and Luann McHarg (Class of 1960 and Class of 1966), James W. Percival and William D. Spahr (Class of 1966).

Melvin “Mack” Bottorff identifies himself as a person “dedicated to serving young people, particularly the youth of Xenia Community Schools”. Mr. Bottorff served his country as a Marine during the Vietnam War. Over the past forty-five years he has been an educator, coach and volunteer. He is also an ordained minister and has served Xenia youth within the spiritual community. He is retired, yet he continues to serve at Mound Street Academies assisting promising former drop-out youths to find paid co-op employment in the local community.

John A. Finlay, Attorney at Law, has distinguished himself by his unselfish service to his country, community, school system and church. He was a Captain in the United States Air Force. Mr. Finlay has served on numerous committees and in many organizations, often providing pro bono legal service to many non-profit organizations. John Finlay has been a member of the Xenia Community Schools Board of Education and served as both a member and chairman of the Xenia Community Schools Foundation. He is a former member and chairman of the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, and he has received many awards for his service to the community and Greene County.

Luann and Jim McHarg distinguished themselves as graduates of Xenia schools who worked as district teachers and administrator (Jim McHarg) and as community activists. Luann served two generations of students who attended Tecumseh Elementary and owe their love of science to the hours in Luann’s vibrant class. Jim distinguished himself as an elementary and middle school math teacher, a district math consultant, and a secondary supervisor. They worked quietly throughout their careers and were not individuals who sought recognition. They were role models to the community in terms of their commitment, dedication and caring. Jim McHarg is being inducted posthumously.

James Percival recently retired as Xenia City Manager after twenty-three years of service to the citizens of Xenia. The Xenia Community Schools Board of Education voted unanimously, by a resolution on February 10, 2014, to nominate him as a candidate for induction into the Xenia Community Schools Hall of Honor. Mr. Percival’s central thesis during his career was that children are our future and will become the foundation of a thriving community. Jim actively participated in the co-ordination of many school and City endeavors. These included: providing support and assistance through his role as a city leader during the recent construction of five elementary buildings and with levies. He helped to re-purpose older school buildings and shared the use of city facilities with the school district. The safety of our children was one of his primary concerns. His professional and easy going attitude always promoted a “win-win” outcome.

William Spahr is a Xenia High school graduate from a multi-generational Xenia family. In high school, he was active in in music, theater, 4-H and Student Council. Bill Spahr attended Central State University (B.S. Industrial Technology Education) and the University of Dayton (M.S. Elementary and Secondary Educational Administration). He has made significant contributions to education in Xenia through his service as a member of both the Xenia Community Schools Board of Education and the Greene County Career Center Board of Education. His has also been an avid volunteer in a significant number of community activities. Mr. Spahr had a very successful forty-three year teaching career in Fairborn. Over the years, he provided professional volunteer service to the Ohio School Boards Association, the Ohio Department of Education and the Governor’s Office. He has been awarded numerous honors and awards for his service. He has demonstrated an unending and tireless commitment to serving his community and the school district.

The Xenia Community Schools Foundation Hall of Honor event is the primary annual fundraiser for the Foundation, which provides classroom grants to teachers and scholarships for students.

Partners in Education Seeks Nominations

The Partners in Education Committee of the Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce seeks nominations for two awards to be presented at the Xenia Education Foundation Hall of Honor Dinner on April 12, 2014. These awards will recognize those who have made contributions that benefitted students enrolled in Xenia Community Schools.

The Business Partner of the Year Award recognizes a business or organization that is a Chamber member and has made significant contributions in advancing the mission of Xenia Community Schools. These contributions may include, but are not limited to, volunteer work, partnerships with individual school buildings on activities, real and in-kind donations, and other forms of support.

The Community Partner of the Year Award recognizes an individual who possesses either individual or business Chamber membership who also made significant contributions over the same time period. These contributions may include, but are not limited to, volunteer work, mentoring or tutoring, assisting with activities, real and in-kind donations, and other forms of support.

Deadline for nominations is March 21, 2014. Nomination forms can be sent to Xenia Area Chamber of Commerce, 334 W. Market St. Xenia, OH 45385 or sent via e-mail to rbolender@greeneccc.com. For more information, contact committee chairman Ron Bolender at 372-6941.

Link to the nomination form on the Chamber’s website: http://www.xacc.com/filemgmt/visit.php?lid=501