Forty-six long-serving staff and faculty were honored in the annual Anniversary Awards Ceremony held during an All-School meeting on Jan. 29. Combined, they represent close to 550 years of service to the School. 

“Overall, Hotchkiss is, in part, what faculty and staff have made it and it is only right that they be recognized and thanked for their contributions,” said Head of School Craig Bradley, before announcing the names of whose who have served the School for 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, and 35 years.

In addition, the following four members of the staff and faculty were recognized for their 25 years of service to the School: Instructor in Mathematics Bridget Dixon Moon P’13,'16; Summer Programs Director of Admission and Residential Life Christie Rawlings ’85, P’12,’14,’19; Director of Donor Relations Dawn Runge; and, Supervisor of the Grounds Department Tim Schilling P’00,’04,’08.

Two special staff awards were presented in recognition of outstanding contributions to the School: The Margot Hooker Award, given to Jean Lilley, housekeeping; and the Robert J. and Candice Barker Staff Recognition Award, presented to Wendy MacKenzie, associate director of human resources.

John Bryant, director of facilities, presented Lilley with the Hooker Award, established in 1996 in memory of long-serving staff member Margot Hooker. He praised her work ethic, her commitment to the School and to the students, and the pride she takes in her work. 

“For most of the past 28 years, Jeannie has helped make four of our 13 dorms feel like a “home away from home” for students. In this capacity, she has impacted the lives of hundreds,” said Bryant. 

He cited her high standards, attention to detail, and willingness to know and support students.

Director of Human Resources Laurie Ross presented MacKenzie with the Barker Award, which honors Robert and Candice Barker, whose work for nearly four decades, exemplified dedication the School.In honoring MacKenzie, Ross cited the positive impact she has had on staff and faculty members. 

“She is the ultimate collaborator and she brings people together to solve challenges or to improve circumstances for others,” Ross said. 

“Wendy is also being celebrated for completing five  years of service at Hotchkiss. For most people who were hired during this time, Wendy was your introduction to the community, easing you through the new hire process. It’s not all about forms and processes, though. Wendy approaches this entry as an important opportunity to establish a positive relationship and ensure that each person feels welcomed.” 

In addition to the those who have served the School for 25 years, the following employees were recognized for their years of service:

5 Years:      

Ed Brammer III
Derek Brashears
Paul Campbell
Becky Curtis
Teresa Dawson
Allen Deane
John Dreger    
Mike Eckert    
Nan Herow 
Rob Hilliker    
Bill Kearns
Wendy MacKenzie    
Parker Reed    
Ryan Ross
Geoff Sherrill    
Catya Ubaldo    
Darren Visconti    
Jodi von Jess    
Melyssa White    
Tyler Wosleger    
    
10 Years:  

Jack Brown
Liz Dittmer
Francis Goodhouse
Brant Hadzima
Jane Herold
Diana Jones
Mark Knapp
Jason Maier
Teresa Mango
Merrilee Mardon
Chelsea Mendoza
Jeff Navin
Richard Syracuse
John Weber

15 Years:    
Roger Wistar

20 Years:       
Wendy Levithan
Chip Lilley Jr.
    
30 Years:    
Christy Cooper
John Cooper
Carolyn Nye
John Thorne-Thomsen

35 Years:    
Jean Lachaine Jr.