March 20th, 2024
The Grand Island Public Schools Foundation hosted its landmark Legends & Legacies Event on Tuesday, March 12th to honor those who have made a lasting, positive impact. The dinner banquet held at the Riverside Country Club brought an opportunity for friends, family, community members, and supporters of education to celebrate the honorees.
Three notable alumni as well as three dedicated educators were honored for their outstanding contributions to education, their communities, and beyond.
Hall of Honor inductees were:
- George Ayoub, GISH Class of 1968
- Steve Hornady, GISH Class of 1968
- Dr. Thomas Meedel, GISH Class of 1967
The honorees were Legendary Educators:
- Yvette Engelhaupt
- Kermit McCue
- Donald Vander Hamm
Each of the Hall of Honor inductees were nominated as individuals who have made a lasting mark on society. Whether through their remarkable achievements, discoveries, or advocacy, the GIPS Foundation saluted the honorees as leaders who fit the mold.
“I feel really honored and humbled.” George Ayoub said of the Hall of Honor recognition, “If you look at the board (Hall of Honor), there are some spectacular people that did way more than I’ve done. But, you know, I guess it’s just humility as I think back to the things that I learned in high school that eventually came around and helped me.”
From transformative teaching methods to consistent excellence, the honored Legendary Educators have shaped the lives of countless individuals and through education helped shape our future.
“I realize that there are thousands of teachers that have given as I have, this honor is for them as well.” Yvette Engelhaupht reflected on her Legendary Educator honor, “We all have gifts, we just open them at different times.”
The Legends & Legacies Event was re-imagined for 2024 with the last event held in 2017. It is a tradition paying homage to those who have made significant strides in their respective fields and have inspired others through their actions and teachings. The GIPS Foundation looks forward to continuing the tradition of honoring community and education trailblazers.
"Our Foundation is committed to recognizing the exceptional talents and contributions of our alumni and educators," said Kari Hooker-Leep, Executive Director of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation. "The Legends and Legacies event is a testament to the profound impact these individuals have had on our community and beyond."
Nominees for the next inductees may be submitted at https://gipsfoundation.org/ or by contacting the GIPS Foundation directly at (308) 385-5525.
