123rd Alumni Banquet Held

The 123rd Alumni Banquet was held June 2, at the Porch Restaurant at the Lamb Tavern in Springfield with Alumni Association president Jim Simpson 1W2 serving as master of ceremonies.

The evening began with a reception, Richard Dunlap 6W5 giving the invocation, and dinner.

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Simpson, in his opening remarks, held up a picture his mother had given him many years ago with the words, “No matter what may be your lot in life, build something on it,” which the audience enjoyed.

Stacy Starr explained how the 6W8 class gift was raised and then was joined by Edgar Speer and Ronald Wildasin, all members of the 50th Reunion Committee, and presented their class’ anniversary gift, a large facsimile of a check for $68,000, to President Michael Rounds. Starr explained that $68,000 was their goal because they are the class of 6W8, but they got stuck well below that amount. After asking his class to reach deep into their pockets, they rose to the occasion and met their goal. President Rounds then thanked the class for their dedication to Williamson.

Next, Starr presented the Distinguished Alumnus Award to Board Vice Chairman Art Lallo 7W9, Bill Goodworth 8W2 explained the meaning of the Distinguished Alumnus Award, and Edward Hatchigian 6W0 presented a Distinguished Alumnus Award to Bob Abbot 8W1.

Then, Hatchigian, a member of the Alumnus of the Year Award Committee, introduced the Alumnus of the Year Award and invited all past recipients of the award who were present to stand by the podium while Trustee Richard Storm 6W2, a committee member, presented the award to Richard Daubenspeck 9W1.

Ron Rinker 8W5, Nominating Committee chairman, then announced next year’s Association officers: Daniel Flood 8W1, president; Ryan Myers 9W6, 1st VP; Mario Cetroni 9W3, 2nd VP; Phil Lock 6W9, treasurer; and Ed Hatchigian 6W0, corresponding secretary.

Flood then thanked Simpson for his year of service, gave him a certificate of thanks, and offered a few remarks.

The evening closed with Dunlap inviting the Class of 6W8 to stand at the front of the room to lead the audience in the singing of the alma mater.