Gallery of Achievement
The Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School Alumni Association and the Brecksville-Broadview Heights Schools Foundation invite you to nominate a candidate for the Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School Gallery of Achievement Alumni Award. Please complete the following information in detail, and mail with supporting information and material by April 15 to: Gallery of Achievement Alumni Awards Program, c/o BBHHS Alumni Association, 6380 Mill Road, Broadview Heights, OH. 44147.
Inductees are honored on a Friday in October at a high school assembly, a luncheon and at half-time of a varsity football game.
Gallery of Achievement Sponsorship
Would you like to be a corporate or individual sponsor for the Gallery of Achievement Awards Induction Ceremony? Your contribution would be greatly appreciated and it is also tax deductible! Your sponsorship will help fund the beautiful award plaques and the induction ceremony. Your name will appear in the Gallery of Achievement induction program and in the next issue of the Pollen Count. If interested, please contact Don Faulhaber at: don@faulhaberfuneralhome.com
Gallery of Achievement Sponsorship Levels
Freshman Level – $100.00
Sophomore Level – $200.00
Junior Level – $300.00
Senior Level – $500
Other (any amount is greatly appreciated)
Gallery of Achievement Past Inductees
2022 Inductees
Doris Barber
Faculty
- 1955 Graduate Slippery Rock State Teachers College; graduate work Cleveland State University – 30-year Elementary Physical Education
- BBHHS Girls track head coach (1976-1988). First woman Athletic Director (1988- 1996). Co-Founded BBHHS Gymnastics team (1960’s)
- • Martha Holden Jennings award for excellence in teaching.
- • Teacher of the year several times. Conducted “groups” for at risk students.
- Advocated and achieved parity for women’s athletics: equal pay, uniforms, equipment, access to practice and competition facilities.
- • Founded Sara Nelson Volleyball invitational tournament.
- • Enthusiastic cheerleader at BBHHS athletic events earning title MAMA BEE
Carol Buchanan
Faculty
- 1962 Graduate of Bowling Green State University beginning 32-year career at BBH that fall teaching Latin and French – Received Kiwanis dedicated to teaching award. Active in Ohio Modern Language Association – Co-sponsored ski club.
- • Member of Cleveland Messiah Chorus (turning 100 in 2022)
- • Organized dozen or more students overseas and U.S. Trips; served on multiple Curriculum committees. Served many years on USPS customer advisory council.
- • President of hometown Copley Community Homeowners Association.
Dominic Caruso
Class of 1994
- • Bachelor of Science in Communications from Northwestern University.
- • NW student athlete of the week several times – 4-year wrestling letterman
- • 2001 in New York earned his Series 3 licenses as a commodity broker.
- • Joined family Caruso Coffee Company established 2003 in Brecksville.
- Nonprofit Vocational Guidance Services (VGS) works with Caruso’s hiring hard to employ adults such as veterans suffering physical or mental issues. BGS nominated and Caruso’s won Source America Small Business Partnership award
- Together with NBC WKYC affiliate channel 3 and Erie Island Coffee Company “Coffee for a Cause” every bag or box sold thru Northern Ohio retailers Caruso’s donates $1.00 to Cleveland Food Bank. To date donated over $112,000.00.
- • Elected in 2019 to Brecksville City Council serving as Council Vice President.
Ed Herrick
Faculty and Class of 1965
- Graduate 1969 from George Washuington University - BS Education
- Masters – 1971 – George Washington University in Secondary Education.
- Thirty years Physical Education Teacher between Jr. and Sr. High Schools.
- Wrestling and Football Coach 1984 to 2010 and 2022 to present.
- • Football’s only yearend “Ed Herrick Award” given to one senior athlete.
- • Defense Coordinator 1983 State Championship team. Head Coach 1984-1992.
- • Returning, 2022, as coach and mentor to numerous former student athletics.
2021 Inductees
Keith A. Ashmus
Class of 1967
- BA and MA from Michigan State – JD from Yale Law School
- Co-Founder, Play in Bay and Bay Village Foundation
- Past chair of Advisory Board of Salvation Army of Greater Cleveland. Recipient of William Booth Award.
- Dame Cicely Saunders Award for outstanding volunteer service from Hospice of Western Reserve. Best Lawyers in America.
- Co-Founder and Partner in Frantz Ward, LLP 2000-2020.
- Past President of Ohio State Bar Association (ASBA)
Neal Gravette
Faculty 1965-2001
- After earning BS degree from Bowling Green University, his math teaching career spanned 39 years with 36 years full time in all the school buildings of the Brecksville-Broadview Heights School System.
- Earned BEA and PTA Awards as Friend of Education. Served on Curriculum and Textbook committees. Hosted over 20 eighth grade trips to Washington D.C. while teaching full time and after retirement.
- Coached girls’ softball in Broadview Heights Recreation League.
- Sold athletic tickets to football, basketball, soccer and wrestling games.
- “Gray-Y” Conducted after school activities at Hilton School.
Ann F. Stankiewicz
Class of 1972
- BS and MS from Kent State University, Ph. D in biochemistry and molecular biology 1984. MENSA.
- Received Distinguished Honors Alumni Award from KSU.
- Lector, St. Lawrence Church and active in the outreach activities CURSILLO and RCIA. Member Kappa Phi Sorority
- Employed at Roche Diagnostics as Clinical Science Manager – Coagulation. Member University’s Herrick Society
- Established scholarship for students pursuing non-Traditional career path in chemistry or nursing.
2019 Inductees
David Bronczek
Class of 1972
- BS degree from Kent State University in 1976, the year he joined FedEx. starting as an hourly team member in the front lines of the company’s pickup and delivery service.
- He moved into management in early 1980 rising in the ranks to President and CEO.
- Member of the Alexis de Tocqueville Society of the United Way.
- Served and active member of National Civil Rights Museum and on Boards of University of Memphis and University of North Carolina.
Ralph DeSantis
Faculty 1975-2005
- Career spanned 30 years 6 grade Language Arts Social Studies, Remedial Reading, Gifted and Talented. Taught 8th grade United States History at middle school.
- Selected twice as Brecksville-Broadview Heights Educator of the Year.
- Served on numerous district textbook curriculum and policy committees.
- Voice of the Bees for Boys and Girls Soccer, Holiday Wrestling Tournament and Basketball Tournaments. Assistant Basketball, Football and Track and Field coach.
Katherine Dolan
Class of 1997
- BS degree From University of Toledo. Cum Laude MS from University of Cincinnati
- First Woman Chief for the Cleveland Metroparks Ranger Department.
- First female Cleveland Heights SWAT Team for PD Drug Enforcement Administration Federal Task Force Officer seized $364,708.00 in illegal assets. Six Sigma Green Belt.
- PEALS Leader training, SWAT Training First Line Supervision & hostage negotiator.
- Active Shooter Training, Specialized Subject Control Instructor.
Jack A Hruby
Class of 1962
- Brecksville Mayor and Service Director 1970 – 1986 – Youngest Mayor in State age 24
- Served as President of Ohio Mayor and Managers Association as well as President of Cuyahoga County Mayors and Managers. Received numerous service awards, commendations and mementos of appreciation.
- Recognized outstanding trumpet player and for his Thespian Talents. Member Brecksville Little Theater. Organized annual Christmas play.
- Many accomplishments as Mayor bear his footprints throughout the City.
David Mansbery
Class of 1972
- BS Degree in Accounting University of Kentucky MBA Finance Case Western Reserve
- Founder 1983 Yuletide Hunger Program serving area families in need at the Holidays And beyond. Honorary Life Member, Brecksville Department of Human Resources.
- Inventor and holder of various U.S. and foreign patents and local business interests.
- Coach and Founder of first Baseball School in NE Ohio and BTBA Board Member.
Edward Sustersic
Faculty 1958-1967
- BS degree Findlay College. MS Kent State- Findlay College Hall of Fame 1971
- Cleveland Browns fullback 1948-49 American Football Conference Champions.
- Bronze Star – WW11 – European Theatre – 8th Air Force. Keesle AFB boxing Champ.
- Inspirational leader to students – Annual Ed Sustercic Award to outstanding boy and Girl athlete. Co-founder longest running Holiday Wrestling tournament.
2018 Inductees
Louis N. Carouse Jr.
Class of 1971
- BS Degree from BGSU 1975 - University of Virginia Retail Banking 1989
- Graduate Ohio Municipal League City Government
- Currently Brecksville City Coucilman for over 28 years
- Member Christ the Redeemer Lutheran Church, many committees
- BBH school facilities planning committee, CAPA Advisory Board and BBH Business Advisory Council.
- Chairman of Partnership for a Healthy Community
- President and Trustee Cleveland Touchdown Club Charities
John Dauria
Faculty 1966-2010
- Taught science & math for sixth graders - American History at BBH Middle School
- Named Ohio Teaher of the year in 1979
- Advisory committee member of Ohio's State Superintendent of Schools - 1984-1987
- Member of numerous committees to improve educational environment
- 2010 to present - continues to work with athletic department in football, basketball, wrestling and Girl's volleyball
- Presently President of the retired teacher's organization BBHCSD
Joan Ganim
Faculty 1969-1973
- BS Degree in Education, Kent State University. Taught Health and Physical Education at Brecksville Junior High. BBH Gymnastics Coach 1969-1976 and 1988 to present
- Coached 18 State Championship teams with 42 state champions
- Co-owner of Gymnastics World 1975 to present
- Received OHSGCA coach of the year twice
- High School National coach of the year 2014
- Accredited by Special Olympics
- Raised over $200K for the Children's Miracle Network
Matthew Harper
Class of 1977
- Serves, 20 plus years, on Brecksville Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
- Initiated the "Buy Brecksville" campaign
- Re-created the Brecksville Ball
- B.S. Degree Business Administration, Kent State University
- Brecksville Citizen of the year, 2017
- For past 25 years, owned with wife, Shirley '79, Creekside Restaurant
- Earned top workplace Award in 2017 & 2018
Dave Sladky
Class of 1960
- BS degree Wittenberg University - Master's San Diego State
- Head coach and counselor for 22 years at Wadsworth High School
- Served on YMCA Board of Trustees and Deacon in his Church
- Had own Financial Planning Service for over 31 years, recipient of awards for various financial planning recommendations
- Member Wadsworth Hall of Fame, Medina Hall of Fame
- Ohio High School's Hall of Fame joining former BBH coaches, Gerald Becker and Joe Vadini as fellow recipients
2017 Inductees
Harmann S. Botzow, Jr.
Class of 1954
- Bachelor of Science Degree Civil Engineering, Princeton University
- Masters Degree, Transportation Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- MBA cum laude, New York University
- Planning and Design for Journal Square, New Jersey Bus Terminal; Hoboken to Lower Manhattan Ferry Services; and pedestrian and subway access facilities for 80,000 daily employees and visitors to World Trade Center for New York Port Authority
- Chairman, Tuxedo, New York Planning Board
- Vice President, Gilbertsville, New York Grange
- Director, Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad
- Assistant Professor of Transportation at five universities including St. Peters College, Stevens Institute of Technology, New York Polytechnic Institute, Adelphi University and Fairleigh Dickinson University
- Author of five books including "Monorails" and "Windgalore Farm", a story of growing up in Hinckley, Ohio
Kenneth G Ganley
Class of 1992
- Life-long resident City of Brecksville, married to high school sweetheart, Nicole. They have three sons ages 10 to 16 attending Brecksville-Broadview Heights Schools.
- Played basketball, football and baseball while attending high school and remains supportive to these sports today
- Attended Northwood University in Midland, Michigan
- Past President of the Greater Cleveland Automobile Dealers Association
- President and Chief Executive Officer of the Ganley Management Company, Brecksville, Ohio with 34 automobile franchises in Northern Ohio
- Ganley Management Company is the 2nd largest privately owned employer in northern Ohio, largest automobile retailer selling 55,000 vehicles per year and the 25th largest automotive group in the United States
James Harbuck
Faculty
- Bachelor os Science Degree in English - The Ohio State University
- Masters Degree, Educational Administration - University of Akron
- Principal, Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School (1990-1997)
- Assistant Principal, Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School (1984-1990).
- Recipient, Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School, Friend of the PTA Award
- Recipient, Martha Holden Jennings Scholar Award for exemplary teaching
- Executive Director, Ohio Association of Secondary School Administrators
- Treasurer, Ohio Learning First Alliance
- Medina County YMCA Volunteer of the Year Award
June Kronholz
Class of 1965
- Bachelor of Science in journalism, Ohio University 1969
- Recipient, National Endowment for Humanities Fellowship, University of Michigan - 1974
- While a feature writer for Wall Street Journal Washington Bureau, June wrote one of the feature front page articles which led to the Journal winning a Pulitzer Prize for 9/11 coverage
- Helped break ground for women at the Wall Street Journal, becoming the first female foreign correspondent, 2nd female bureau chief and 1st Washington Deputy
- Established, with her husband, the Harare International School while in Zimbabwe
- Contributing writer to an education-reform journal "Education Next" published by Harvard and Stanford Universities
- Contributing Editor for Education Week
Robert Kubicek
Class of 1943
- Selected by U.S. Navy in senior year of High School for V12 college and officer training
- Graduated Rensselaer Poly Technical College as Ensign - 1946
- Served as Officer-In-Charge of Naval Transport Base. Cebu. Philippines - 1946
- Elected to Brecksville Council and became President of Council - 1956
- Elected as youngest Mayor in Cuyahoga County - 1958
- As Mayor, established Brecksville's City Charter form of government with options of Mayor or City Manager, established light industrial zoning south of Miller Road and assured central shopping district by property exchange and refusals of a Sprague Road development
- 2011 - Honorary co-chairman of Brecksville's Bi-Centennial Committee
Kathryn Reiss
Class of 1976
- Bachelor of Arts degrees in English and German from Duke University
- Fulbright-Hayes Scholar to Bonn, Germany. Studied Goeth, and wrote Time Windows
- Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
- Full Professor of English and Creative Writing at Mills College, Oakland, California
- Author of over 20 novels of suspense for children and teens, published by Harcourt, Scholastic, Skyview Books and American Girl
- First Novel, Time Windows, awarded American Library Association's Best Book Award
- Two-time semi-finalist for Mystery Writer of America's Edgar Alan Poe Award for Best Young Adult Novel (Pale Phoenix and PaperQuake)
- Two novels optional for film by LeVision Inc. (Time Windows and Sweet Miss Honeywell's Revenge)
- Featured or Key-Note speaker at national literary conferences
2016 Inductees
Daniel C. Biggs, Sr.
Class of 1960
- U.S. Air Force Veteran, Top Secret Cryptographic Communications Technician, 17 BW, WPABF, Ohio
- City of Brecksville; Volunteer Fire Fighter; Police Department Dispatcher; Patrolman; Platoon Sergeant; Photographer; Deputy Director Brecksville Disaster Services
- FAA Certified Commercial Pilot, Instrument, Single/Multi Engine Qualified
- Director of Operations; C.K. Newcomb and Associates, Cleveland National Air Show 30 years, with other show productions in Detroit, MI; Miami, FL; Dayton, OH; Atlantic City, NJ; Memphis, TN; Denver, CO
- Assisted in developing first training syllabus on Air Show Air and Ground Operations for International Council of Air Shows; Instructor for ten years
- Member of Vice President Al Gore's commission on Airport Safety, Dayton, Ohio
- Ohio Certified Real Estate Agent
- Member of City of Brecksville Bicentennial Projects Committee
- Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School Alumni Association President, 2002 to present
Heather Ann Hippsley, J.D.
Class of 1975
- B.A. Georgetown University
- J.D. cum laude Lewis and Clark School of Law
- Chief of Staff, U.S. Federal Trade Commission
- Awarded FTC's Louis D. Brandeis Award for Excellence in Litigation
- Served as FTC's Deputy Director, Bureau of Consumer Protection; Assistant Director for the Divisions of Advertising Practices and Enforcement; Attourney Advisor to FTC Commissioners Dennis A. Yao and Andrew J. Strenio, Jr.; staff attorney, FTC's Cleveland Regional Office
- Served as President of FTC Day Care Board; Trustee, Westmoreland United Church of Christ; Girl Scout Leader
Dan Kalinsky
Class of 1978/Faculty 1988-2015
- BS Athletic Administration, Bowling Green State University
- Founder and President of "Action Sports" Sporting Goods and apparel (1983-90)
- Recreation Director, City of Broadview Heights (1985-87)
- Hhigh School, Middle School and Youth Coach
- Athletic Director, Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School (1988-2015)
- Member of Ohio Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association
- Member of Northeast Ohio Interscholastic Athletic Association
- Ohio High School Athletic Association District, Regional, and State Tournament Manager in Basketball, Soccer, Volleyball and Wrestling
- Instrumental in the formation and addition of the following Interscholastic sports to the BBHHS Athletic program: Girls Soccer, Boys Volleyball, Girls Golf, Boys and Girls Swimming, Ice Hockey, and Boys and Girls Lacrosse
Judi (Cooke) Krew
Class of 1979
- BFA University of Akron Honors Program - Painting and Drawing
- Master of Arts in Art Education Case Western Reserve University
- Artwork exhibited in over 150 regional and national juried shows
- Designer of 6 Grand Prize winning floats for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Parade; designed over 160 patches
- Silver Beaver recipient from Boy Scouts of America; Assistant Scoutmaster; crew leader for 3 Philmont/1 Sea Base trecks; Art Merit Badge coordinator 2 National Jamborees
- Jackson High School Marching Band 7 year chaperone, Chairman for Sugar Bowl trip
- Volunteer art teacher Sauder Elementary - developed program for arts instruction grades 1-5; former art teacher at Bay High School; former teacher Cleveland Museum of Art in children's education; 35 years community arts volunteer
- Aultman Hospital Women's Board Volunteer (20+ years); member of MENSA and DAR
Tony Niccoli
Faculty 1970-2001
- Socials Studies Teacher
- Dual Bachelor Degrees, Loras College, Philosophy and History
- Dual Masters Degrees, Ohio University, Education and History
- Head Varsity Soccer Coach 1973
- 4 State Championships, 1975, 1981, 1992, 1993
- Charter member Ohio High School Soccer Coaches Hall of Fame
- Ohio Youth Soccer Hall of Fame
- Olympic Development Program State Staff / Coach 1978-2014
- Co-founder Bees Soccer Academy
- August 2015 City of Brecksville dedicated the "Tony Niccoli Field" at Blossom Hill
2015 Inductees
Frank C. DeWolf
Class of 1959
- Bachelor of Science - Heidelberg College
- Director of Marketing - BF Goodrich, Geon Vinyl Division
- Captain, Brecksville Fire Department
- Co-Chairman of Brecksville Bicentennial
- Brecksville Citizen of the Year in 2011
- Brecksville Senior Volunteer Man of the Year 2012
- Brecksville Historical Association, member and officer
- Frank & Margaret DeWolf Scholarship, Heidelberg University
Laurie Priest
Class of 1973
- Bachelor's Degree from College of Wooster
- M.S. from University of Maryland College Park
- Chair of Physical Education Department, Mount Holyoke College
- Director of Athletics Marymount University
- Assistant Professor and Swim Coach, Marymount University
- NCAA Athletic Administrator of the Year
- 100 Most Influential Sports Educators in America, 2007
- Advocate for Social Justice Issues in Sports
Stephen J. Vargo
Faculty 1958-1984
- Bachelor's Degree from University of Dayton
- U.S. Army Veteran
- Junior High School Principal
- High School Assistant Principal
- Teacher - Math
- Teacher and Tutor at Cuyahoga Community College
- Hurricane Katrina Volunteer
- Steve Vargo Fund Scholarship
Lee Watkins
Class of 1962
- General Supervisor, Republic Steel / LTV Steel, Cleveland
- American Field Service, Vice President and President' hosted two students
- Vice President, Lee-Mar Steel
- Created Archer Steel as a founding partner in 1994
- Created Matrix Enterprises, Inc. for consulting services 1998
- Vice President of Operations at Steel Technologies, Kentucky
- Received Steel Technologies' - Chairman's Award
- Created and instituted the "Leadership Development Training Program
- Board Member & Co-Chair of the Boy Scouts Sporting Clays Fundraiser
2014 Inductees
Edd Bilek
Class of 1959
- Army Sargent - First Infantry Division - Vietnam
- Recipient of two Bronze Stars
- Bachelor's Degree from Cleveland State University
- Production Control Manager - Dow Chemical American National Can
- Innovator in corporate "Green Initiative"
- Brecksville-Broadview Heights Board of Education 1984-87
- Community volunteer and Youth Coach
- Multiple volunteer trips to Honduras to improve water system
- Active BBHHS Alumni Association
Donald Faulhaber, Jr.
Class of 1958
- Owner of Faulhaber Funeral Home
- Graduate of Cincinnati College of Embalming
- Volunteer Firefighter for 16 years retiring as Captain
- Broadview Heights Rotarian of the Year 2005
- Broadview Heights Volunteer of the Year 2009
- Co-Chairman of Brecksville Bicentennial 2011
- Founder of Faulhaber Memorial Scholarship
- Member and Trustee of Broadview Heights Historical Society
- Member and past president of BBHHS Alumni Association
Ervin Gyuri Hollosy
Class of 1965
- Sculptor
- Graduate of Cleveland Institute of Art, Ohio University and Tulane University
- Assistant Professor of Art, Washington University
- Gallery Director, Johnson Atelier Technical School of Sculpture
- Founder Hol Art - Sculpture
- Artist in Residence, Grounds for Sculpture
- Outstanding Achievement Award, Hungarian Society
- Works include "Martin Luther King Memorial", Lafayette, Louisiana; "Aspirations for Liberty", Boston, Massachusetts and "The Family", Peoria, Arizona
John Klipfell III
Class of 1967
- Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Bowling Green State University
- Senior Management ~ American Greetings Corporation
- Established the Scholarship of Entrepreneurial Engagement (SEE) Program
- Founder and Executive Director of Entrepreneurial Engagement Ohio
- Developer of "Believe in Ohio Program" - STEM Commercialization & Entrepreneurship
- Developed Honors level high school Entrepreneurship class for BBHHS
- St. Vincent DePaul Society - Executive Director
- 2012 City of Broadview Heights Senior Volunteer of the Year
Joseph Vadini
Faculty 1957-1984
- Bachelor's Degree from Mountain College
- Master's Degree from Western Reserve University
- Teacher - History, Physical Education and Guidance Counselor
- Award winning college football player
- Head Brecksville Football Coach - State Championship 1983
- Ohio High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame
2012 Inductees
Ronald J. Ganim
Faculty 1970-1994
- Bachelor of Science - Kent Sate University, 1968
- Teacher - Health & Physical Education - 5 years at Hilton, 19 years at BBHHS
- Gymnastics and Football Coach
- Gymnastics teams have won 12 State Championships, including the last 9 in a row. Both are Ohio records
- Provided drug education for adults
- Worked with DARE program more than 20 years, primarily counseling students with drugs and or alcohol issues
Michael T. Good
Class of 1980
- Graduate of University of Notre Dame
- Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Aerospace Engineering
- Colonel, USAF (Ret.); Awarded Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medals
- USAF Test Pilot School; Performed flight testing on B-2 Stealth Bomber
- NASA Astronaut; Space Shuttle Mission Specialist
- Hubble Space Telescope and International Space Station Missions
- NASA Liaioson to Air Force Space Command, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Susan Hatters-Friedman
Class of 1992
- Forensic Psychiatrist - Northcoast Behavioral Healthcare, Perinatal Psychiatrist at Case Western Reserve University and Connections Mental health Center
- Current President of the Midwest American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law
- Associate Professor in Psychiatry and Pediatrics at Case Western Reserve University
- Served as President of the Cleveland Consultation Liaison Psychiatry Society
- National award winner: AmericanAcademy of Psychiatry and the Law, the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, Association of Threat Assessment Professionals, and American Psychiatric Association.
- Author of over 100 articles, chapters, papers, columns & other publications
- Accomplished musician
Anthony-Samuel Lamantia
Class of 1978
- B.A. with honors, University of Chicago; Ph.D., Yale University, Post-Doctoral Fellowship, Washington University in St. Louis
- Awarded first Ph.D. in neuroscience (neuroanatomy) from Yale University
- Founding Director Institute for Neuroscience, George Washington University
- Professor of Cell and Molecular Physiology, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill School of Medicine; Assistant Professor of Neurobiology, Duke University
- Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Fellow; C. Judson Herrick Award, American Association of Anatomists; National Down Syndrome Society fellow
Tom Nero
Class of 1948
- Kent State University graduate
- Master's Degree and Doctorate in Business
- Ohio Board of Mental Retardation and Development Disabilities member
- Founder and Director of St. Basil's first Boy Scout Troup
- Board member for Brecksville Historical Society
- Charter member Brecksville Junior Chamber of Commerce
- President Ohio Interior Design Society
- Educator, Realtor, developer, Builder and Licensed Auctioneer - Volunteering auctions for many local organizations
- Volunteer - Collection of clothes for the poor in Appalachia
Richard J. Pappas
Class of 1969
- Doctorate and Master's degrees from the University of Michigan
- President of Davenport University, Grand Rapids, Michigan
- Former President of National-Louis University, Chicago, IL; Lake Michigan College, Benton Harbor, MI; Harford Community College, Bel Air, MD
- Recipient of Norman C. Harris Award from the University of Michigan School of Education for Outstanding Contributions in Education
- Member, Board of Directors, American Council on Education (ACE)
- Received the honor of having the LMC Student Services Center named The Richard J. Pappas Student Services Center in 2005 by Lake Michigan College Board of Trustees
2008 Inductees
Natalie Cicero Abell
Class of 1968
- Bachelor's degree - Education - Ohio University - 1972
- Master's degree - Education - Indiana University
- Ph. D. - Special Education / Early Childhood Education - University of Toledo
- Professor, College of Education - University of Findlay - 1992 to present
- Named Outstanding Educator - Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce
- Successfully applied for over $3 millionin grants for professional and student development at the University of Findlay
- 20 presentations at academic conferences
- Co-Founder - Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center for People with Disabilities - Breckenridge, Colorado
- Volunteer, Bradford Woods Outdoor Center for Children with Disabilities
- Advisory Board, Medical College of Ohio's Master of Occupational Therapy Program
Charles F. Kegley
Class of 1951
- Bachelor's Degree (1956) and Master's Degree (1959) in Health & Physical Education - Kent State University
- Ph.D. in International and Development Education - University of Pittsburgh - 1974
- Professor and Administrator - Kent State University 1964 - present
- Adjunct Assistant Professor - Case Western University School of Medicine
- Chair, Kent State University's Commission to Implement a Commitment to Nonviolence (Kegley Commission) 1970
- Teacher and Coach - Brecksville School System 1956-1958; Canton Lincoln High School 1959-1960
- Interamerican University of Puerto Rico 1960-1962
- Member, Brecksville High School Hall of Fame - 1959
- Fellow - American School Health Association
- Peace Corps Volunteer, Counselor and Trainer in El Salvador, Peru, Bolivia and Venezuela
- Board Member - United Way, American Lung Association and American Cancer Society
Christopher "Kit" Taylor
Class of 1960
- Bachelor's degree - Psychology - Wittenberg University - 1964
- Master's Degree (1966) - Ph.D (1968) - Psychology - Ohio University
- Faculty - Western Washington University - 1968 to 1992
- Excellence in Teaching Award - Western Washington University - 1988
- Professor, Psychology Department - University of Arizona - 1992-2006
- Visiting Professor - University of New South Wales - Australia - 1991
- Faculty member of the Year - Arizona Psychological Association and University of Arizona for 2001-2002
- Winner, University of Arizona's Sherrill Creative Teaching Award - 2002
- Frequent lecturer on stress management at academic and trade association conferences
- Published 23 papers and presented over 24 lectures in the US, Japan, Canada, Singapore and Czech Republic
- Volunteer, Casa Maria Soup Kitchen in Tucson, Arizona - 1992 to present
Thomas J. Tupa
Class of 1984
- Winner - Ohio State High School Football State Championships - 1983
- Quarterback, The Ohio State University Buckeyes - 1984-1988
- Bachelor's Degree - Economics - The Ohio State University - 1988
- Winner, 1985 Citrus Bowl and 1987 Cotton Bowl
- 18-year career as a quarterback and punter with NFL teams; Cardinals, Colts, Browns, Patriots, Jets, Buccaneers and Redskins
- Holds the distinction as the first NFL player to score a two-point conversion in a regular season game
- Super Bowl Winner - Tampa Bay Buccaneers - 2003
- Recreation Director - City of Brecksville - 2003 to present
- Coach - Brecksville - Broadview Heights Middle School - 2007 to present
Jeannette Winter
Faculty 1963-1981
- Bachelor's Degree - Baldwin-Wallace College - 1938
- Teacher - Englkish Deparetment - Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School
- Substitute Teacher - BBH School System
- Chair - Drama Department, Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School
- Initiated the first chapter of the International Thespian Society at BBHHS
- Director - numerous plays and musicals at BBHHS
- Founder - Brecksville Theater on the Square - 1975
- Troop Leader - Girl Scouts
- Sunday School Teacher - United Church of Christ and St. Matthews (Brecksville)
- Trinity Cathedral (Cleveland)
- Volunteer - Marion Sterling School, City of Cleveland Public Schools
2006 Inductees
Robert E. Baird
Class of 1968
- Masters Degree in Management - Xavier University 1980
- Bachelors Degree in Humanities - Ohio State University 1972
- President/Member (retired) Sidney City Board of Education - 16 years
- Treasurer - Sidney Schools Foundation 1998-2005
- Member of Upper Valley Joint Vocational School
- Member of Sidney City Hall of Honor Committee
- Member of Shelby County Regional Planning Commission
- Ohio State Alumni Association
- Sidney Chamber of Commerce Leadership graduate
- Salvation Army - 6 years participation
- Coached local amateur baseball/softball
- Copeland Corporation - Program/Warehouse Manager - International Logistics 1981-present
- Borders Inc., Columbus - 1979-81
- BankOne, Columbus - 1973-79
Robert L. Faulhaber
Class of 1934
- Bachelor's Degree in Political Science - University of Omaha 1967
- Master's Degree in Public Administration - Kent State University 1970
- City Manager - Buchanan, Michigan 1968-78
- United States Air Force 1950-1967 - retired as Lieutenant Colonel
- Ohio National Guard 1945-50
- Bombardier/Navigator 1942-45
- Brecksville Volunteer Fire department 1935-42
- Contact Representative for Brecksville Veterans Hospital - 1945-47
- Brecksville Kiwanis - 1948-50
- World War II Veteran, First Commander of American Legion Post #196 - 1945-46
- Philadelphia Society Invitation Only 1972-80
- Life member of Military Officers Association of America
- International City Managers Association 1968-78
- 2004 Recipient of Spirit Award for Selfless Service - presented by Kingswood Retirement Facility
- Accomplished poet - over 30 poems published in various periodicals throughout the country
Doris S. Toth
Faculty 1954-1982
- Graduate of The Ohio State University - Biological Sciences, English, Home Economics
- Educator - Brecksville-Broadview Heights Schools - 6th grade (24 years), High School (4 years)
- Brecksville-Broadview Heights School Board member - 16 years including two terms each as President & Vice-President - 1984-99
- President of Cuyahoga Valley Career Center School Board 1997-2000
- Chairwoman - City of Broadview Heights Human Services Advisory Board
- Co-Founder Greater Cleveland School Board Association - 1991
- Member - Legislative Action Network - 1993-2000
- Member - Federal Relations Network - 1993-2000
- Founding member - Chemical Abuse Prevention Association (CAPA) - 1989
- Founded Cuyahoga/Summit Counties International Reading Association - 1978
- Wallings Road School PTA President
- 29th All Ohio School Board
- Member Delta Kappa Gamma Society - 1959 to present
- Award of Achievement - Ohio School Boards Association
- Board of Directors - Broadview Heights Chamber of Commerce (16 years) and Brecksville Schools Employees Credit Union (30 years)
- Civil Service Award - Outstanding Senior 1995 - presented by Cox Cable
- Sun Courier's Citizen of the Year 1999
Walter F. Wisnieski
Faculty 1946-1976
- Principal - Brecksville High School 1954-74
- Educator - Brecksville-Broadview Heights City School District - Mathematics & Guidance Counselor
- Brecksville Schools Coach - Basketball & Football
- President - Ohio Association of Secondary Principals 1970-71
- Shared Richfield Citizen of the Year honors with Mildred Wisnieski (spouse) 1993
- President - Bath/Richfield Kiwanis 1980-81
- Kiwanis Coordinator of Richfield Strawberry Festival
- Homecoming & Community Day Coordinator of Cleveland Cavaliers - Kiwanis Smuckers 10-mile run. Proceeds benefited pediatric trauma centers & retinitis pigmentosis charities
- Founded Richfield Little League in 1954 - Coached until 1960
- Member of Cleveland Browns Chain Gang
2004 Inductees
Gerald Becker
Faculty 1952-1979
Gerald Becker taught Industrial Arts during his 27 years with Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School. While coaching basketball, Coach Becker amassed 522 overall victories (433 victories, 16 conference championships or co-championships, 11 of those titles earned in consecutive seasons from 1958 through 1969). Coach Becker's philosophy toward coaching was basic: discipline and defense. It was not only his ability to coach the game, but how he treated individuals with fairness and respect that was important. Gerry was a great positive influence on his students and players. Coach Gerald Becker passed away at his home in Fairfield Glade, Tennessee on April 27, 1996
- Educator/Basketball Coach - Brecksville-Broadview Hts. School District for 27 years
- U.S. Navy Aviation Machinist Mate - Flight Engineer 2nd Class, WWII 1942-1945
- Graduate of Kentucky State College - 1948
- Master Degree from West Virginia University - 1950
- Played Pro Basketball with the Wheeling Blues - 1 year
- Played Semi-Professional Basketball with Pelzer Bears, Pelzer, SC - 3 years
- Inducted into Ohio High School Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame - October 20, 1978
- Brecksville-Broadview Hts. High School Hall of Fame - October 13, 1989
Duane Hocking
Class of 1955
Throughout her long and distinguished career, Professor Hocking was a pioneer, innovator and leader. She helped develop Defiance College's athletic training sports management and wellness programs. She was also instrumental in the development of comprehensive intercollegiate athletic programs for Defiance College's female students. Today, Professor Hocking is still a leader and participant in many community projects.
- Bowling Green State University - Bachelor of Science Degree
- Central Michigan University - Master of Arts Degree
- Educator - Michigan & Ohio Public Schools - 1960-1969
- Assistant Professor of Physical Education/Health - Defiance College - 1969-1978
- Associate Professor - Defiance College - 1978
- Chairperson of Education and Sport Science - Defiance College
- Distinguished Faculty Award - April 2001
- Namesake of Defiance College Female Athlete of the Year Award
- Member of Defiance College Alumni Varsity Athlete Hall of Fame
- Honored with Endowed Scholarship in Her Name Upon Her Retirement
Donald Larsen
Class of 1952
In the early years, Mr. Larsen was Cub Scout Master, Little League Manager and Co-Chaired the PTA horse show. As evidenced by his accomplishments, Mr. Larsen has always found time to serve both family and community, honestly and with all his energies, never seeking recognition. He continues to actively support alumni events
- Graduate of Baldwin Wallace College - Business
- Served in the Army Reserves 1957-1965
- Charter Member of Brecksville Junior Chamber of Commerce
- Trustee of Brecksville Historical Society
- Past President of BBHHS Alumni Association
- Volunteer - Brecksville Fire Department 1957-1991
- Recipient of Achievement Service Award by Brecksville Fire Department
- Former Member of Richfield Village (Ohio) Charter and Charter Review Commissions and Zoning Board of Appeals
- Mayor of Richfield Village 1996-2003
Nancianne Martin
Class of 1947
Faculty 1951-1981
Miss Martin has been an enthusiastic and important lifelong booster of schools, community and her church where she has been a choir member/soloist for 58 years. In her 30 years as an educator, she went above and beyond the call of duty to create and organize many school activities that enhanced the educational experience of students and faculty. She was an adviser of GAA, Leaders, Future Nurses and the Cheerleader Coach. Long before there was girls organized sports, she was instrumental in planning and attending "play days" with area schools by giving girls the opportunity to participate in team sport competitions. Through out her teaching career, she aspired to have students derive joy from physical activity and to promote a lifetime of physical fitness. Miss Martin has always been dedicated and devoted to all aspects of her life. She is always willing to lend a helping hand.
- Graduate of Kent State University - Bachelor of Science Education - 1951
- Educator - Brecksville-Broadview Heights City School District - 30 Years - Teaching Health, Physical Education & Biology
- Member of Brecksville-Broadview Heights High School Athletic Hall of Fame
- Past President/Class Representative - BBHHS Alumni Association Advisory Board
- Prepared/Edited First Printed Version of the Pollen Count
- Brecksville Community Volunteer: Yuletide Hunger Program; Salvation Army Kettle Collection/Ringer; Citizen of the Year Committee Member
Ruth M. Thomas Stroemple
Class of 1941
During her long career, Mrs. Stroemple has been able to fulfill her passion of caring for and nurturing medically fragile high risk infants by personally giving them love and attention. If not for Mrs. Stroemple, there would not be a Medical Foster Parent Program in Oregon. Because of her dedication, these infants can now be placed in medically trained foster homes. She has been successful in creating special caring environments for babies that have been abused, neglected or medically compromised. She has cared for 39 infants in her own home. In 1995, she traveled to a Romanian orphanage to serve as leader of a physical therapy team. To this day, Mrs. Stroemple continues to volunteer her time and talents to advocate, train and educate on behalf of those too young to speak for themselves.
- Graduate of Nursing Arts Program - Baldwin Wallace College - 1945
- Graduate of Oregon Health Sciences University - B.A. Child Development
- Founder/Director of Oregon's State-Wide Medical Foster Parent Program 1976
- Founder/Director of the Newborn Connection Infant Sensory Stimulation Program 1985
- Member of the Failure To Thrive Research and Study Team at Oregon Health Sciences University 1974-1985
- Foster Parent for Medically Fragile Infants 1968-1987
- One of the Top Ten Portland Metropolitan Area Volunteers by The Oregonian Newspaper - 1976
2003 Inductees
Mark Glasgow
Class of 1959
Mr. Glasgow has led a life of service and leadership at the high school and college levels, in the military, in the business arena and in the local community. He has been involved with numerous local civic organizations involving the City of Broadview Heights and the Brecksville=Broadview Heights City School District. He has been employed by Stein Inc. for 27 years and is currently the company's co-owner and vice=president
- President, Class of 1959
- Graduate of Ohio University
- U.S. Marine Corp Reserves 1964-2001
- Bronze Star for heroism under fire
- Councilman At Large - City of Broadview Heights
- Council President - City of Broadview Heights
- President-Brecksville-Broadview Heights Schools Foundation
- Co-owner - Stein, Inc.
Mildred Heinemann
Faculty
Ms. Heinemann gave to her students and continues to give to her community much of her free time and energy. She taught typing to students after school who could not schedule the class during the day. She also taught typing to V.A. patients. She provided choir direction or musical accompaniment for various area church and special event programs for many years.
- Educator - Brecksville-Broadview Heights City School District - 36 years
- Graduate of Kent State University - 1936
- Teacher of Music and Business Education
- Hy-Breeze advisor, Glee Club and Spring Concert director & Department Chair
- Initiated the National Honor Society program
- Martha Holden Jennings - Master Teacher
- Brecksville Outstanding Senior Citizen - 1988
Milton Kronick
Faculty
Mr. Kronick was nominated by several former students and was referred as an "outstanding social studies teacher." He was involved with the students at every level and was instrumental in developing proficiency test and team teaching curriculums. He continues to attend class reunions and is still active in the Ohio Council for Social Studies
- Educator - Brecksville Broadview Heights City School District - 29 years
- Graduate of Case Western Reserve University - B.A. 1950 - Masters 1966
- High School Athletic Director 1969-1976
- Teacher of Social Studies, History, Economics and Psychology
- Baseball and Track coach, Yearbook advisor, Class advisor and Department Chair
- Martha Holden Jennings Scholar
- Who's Who of American Teachers - 1968
- President-Brecksville Education Association
Janine Bowles Sarnowski
Class of 1968
Mrs. Sarnowski has led a life that exemplifies volunteerism. Among the many groups that she has either started, led, or been actively involved in are: Medina County Project Learn, Seville Board of Public Affairs, Seville Entertainment and Events Kimmittee (SEEK), Medina County March of Dimes Walkamerica, United Way of Medina County, American Heart Association, Greater Cleveland Growth Association, Ursuline College Advisory Committee, Ohio Public Employer Labor Relations Association and the National Association of Women Business Owners.
- Cuyahoga Community College - LMI Certification
- Owner/Operator - His & Hers Fitness Center & EDU-CO
- Medina County Engineers office-Engineering Center Personnel Director
- Silver Poet Award - 1990
- March of Dimes Outstanding Volunteer Award - 1990, 1991, 1992
- Medina County Woman of Distinction Award - 1993
Cary Watkins
Class of 1954
Mr. Watkins life can be divided into two stages. First, he was a highly decorated Marine serving his country in war and peace times for 20 years and eventually retiring with the rank of Lt. Colonel. His second 20+ years involved his intense involvement in the real estate industry as a broker/owner, Local, State, and National Director, and as the Director of the Victor Valley Community Hospital. Mr. Watkins has since retired to Logan, Utah where he has created a conservation area and remains actively involved on various community boards.
- University of Nebraska, B.S. - Pepperdine University, Masters in Management
- United States Marine Corp. - 1958-1978
- Two tours of duty in Vietnam - 1965, 1968-1969
- A4E Skyhawk Jet-150 missions, Helicopter Gunships - 850 missions
- Recipient of a Silver Star, 2 Distinguished Flying Crosses and a Purple Heart
- Western White House Liaison-San Clemente California
- California Real Estate Broker and Company Owner - 1978-1999
- Victor Valley Realtor of the Year - 1987
2002 Inductees
Leo H. Bender
Class of 1950
Mayor Bender has a long and remarkable history of service to both his Country and his City. He continues to be involved in area Mayors' Associations, County and Regional governing associations, and numerous other civic organizations. As a member of the U.S. Air Force, he received the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Leaf Clusters and a Presidential Unit Citation.
- Graduate of The Ohio State University, 1955
- United States Air Force, 1955-1977
- Combat Fighter Pilot, 1965
- Deputy Base Commander, Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, 1975
- Broadview Heights City Council, 1983
- Mayor of Broadview Heights, 1985 to Present
- Past President, Broadview Heights Kiwanis
- Past President, Assumption Holy Name Society
Donald A. Faulhaber
Class of 1938
Throughout his life, Mr. Faulhaber has been extremely involved and committed to various professional, civic, and religious organizations throughout the area. He has been married to his wife, Lenore, for 62 years and has three children, three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren who have either attended or are attending Brecksville-Broadview Heights Schools.
- WWII Navy Seebee, 100th Construction Battalion
- Established Faulhaber Funeral Home, 1951
- Broadview Heights Volunteer Fire Department, 1951-1972
- Brecksville School Board member, 1962-1970
- Mayor of Broadview Heights, 1972-1978
- Charter Member, Broadview Heights Kiwanis
- Charter Member, Broadview Heights Chamber of Commerce
Helen Fitting
Class of 1927
Faculty 1933-1974
Miss Fitting was one of the most respected and inspirational teachers ever to teach in the Brecksville-Broadview Heights School System. Students who had her were among the high scorers on college entrance exams and speak of what an honor it was to have been taught by her. She gave her time freely to numerous educational and community groups and especially enjoyed acting and directing in the Brecksville Little Theatre.
- Hiram College Bachelor of Arts Degree, 1932
- Masters Program, Wellesley College, 1939
- Brecksville-Broadview Heights Teacher, 1933-1974
- Teacher of English, Latin, French, English II, III, IV, Arts and Humanities
- Advisor for Debate, Oratory, Drama Club, NHS, Newspaper, AFS, FTA, Y-Teens and Commencement
- Department Chair and 1964 Jennings Scholar
- Director, Brecksville Little Theatre
Jerry N. Hruby
Class of 1966
Mayor Hruby is a lifelong resident of Brecksville and has been actively serving the Community, County, and State for most of his life. He has provided the vision and oversight for the new County Library, City Community Center and Recreation Facility, as well as the renovation of the Historic Town Hall. Mayor Hruby is active in the community theater and has written, produced and directed the annual children's Christmas Play for many years
- City of Brecksville Police Officer, 1969
- Mayor of Brecksville, 1988 to present
- Brecksville Lions Club - Citizen of the Year - 1994
- Past President Cuyahoga County Mayors & City Managers Association
- Past President, Governing Board of NOACA
- Vice-Chairman, Ohio's Transportation Review Advisory Council
- Past Chairman, Cuyahoga County Republican Mayors' Committee
Ann Liguori
Class of 1978
Ms. Liguori has been involved in the broadcast field for over twenty years and has the distinction of producing and hosting the longest running sports interview show on cable hosted by a woman. She is a major fund raiser for the American Cancer Society, Leukemia Society of America and the American Diabetes Association. Through her weekly radio show and various speaking engagements, Ann encourages young people to follow their dreams and helps to serve as a positive role model in the field of sports broadcasting
- Outstanding Senior Girl and Girl Athlete - 1978
- Sports Talk Host, WFAN in New York
- Cable Sports Talk Show Host and Executive Producer
- Golf and Tennis on site reporter
- Author of "A Passion for Golf, Celebrity Musings on the Game"
- Host of the "Ann Liguori Celebrity Golf Classic"
- Headliners Award Winner * Emmy nominee
- Telly Award winner for Excellence in Broadcasting