Collegiate Recognizes Retiring Faculty and Staff

Collegiate School honored eight faculty members for their service this afternoon as they head into retirement at the end of this school year.
Faculty, staff, alumni, parents, family and friends gathered in McFall Hall as the Upper School Guitar Ensemble performed. Collegiate Board Chair Frank Mountcastle opened the event with reflections on what these eight individuals and their combined 200 years of service have meant to the School.

“Today, we are saying goodbye to true legends,” he said. “We are so thankful that you have made Collegiate your professional home. Your dedication is what makes Collegiate so special.”

Retiring this year are: Middle School Head Charlie Blair (41 years), Middle School French teacher Maria Bensen (36 years), Upper School French teacher Val Siff (33 years), Lower School librarian Allison Williams (31 years), Upper School science teacher Susan Fourness-Ewell (29 years), Middle School history teacher George Wickham (19 years), custodian Mary Terry (6 years) and Head of School Steve Hickman (5 years). (Mr. Hickman was called out of town for a family emergency and could not be in attendance for today’s reception. Ms. Terry was also unable to attend.)

To close the ceremony, Mr. Mountcastle thanked the retirees for their incredible service to Collegiate.

“You will be missed around here,” he said, “but we wish you all the best in your retirement.”
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