Provided photos – Mary Ann Tillman, right, accepts the Hospice of Orleans ‘Volunteer of the Year’ from Christine Fancher, Hospice Social Worker and Volunteer Coordinator.

Press Release, Hospice of Orleans
MEDINA – Hospice of Orleans recently held its annual meeting and volunteer appreciation luncheon at the United Methodist Church of Medina.

Referred to as “the backbone” of the organization by Hospice Social Worker and Volunteer Coordinator Chris Fancher, the volunteers were reported to have served over 5,500 volunteer hours.

Stories of the duties carried out by the special people that give their time to fulfill them were shared. These people include a volunteer that drives in from Rochester, retired nurses that help sanitize equipment and a gentleman that does the shopping for the Martin-Linsin residence twice a week.

Of all of the amazing volunteers that serve, Mary Ann Tillman was awarded Volunteer of the Year for her service in the residence with scheduling, for her participation in every Hospice fundraiser and event, and for her time spent with patients and keeping the gardens at Hospice.

She was described as a “kind and gentle person that unassumingly gets things done.” Hospice is so grateful for Mary Ann Tillman and each of the volunteers that have deemed it a worthy cause and choose to bring joy, comfort and compassion each time that they serve.

The organization also recognized the following:

Business/Civic Award: Presented to Matt Davis and Carol Murphy on behalf of the Don Davis dealership in Albion for being an integral part of Hospice’s Golf Tournament, which is celebrating its 20th year this summer.

Mary Lou Tuohey of Medina graciously accepted the Mary Janet Sahukar award for her contribution to and advocacy of Hospice services. The award is named for Hospice’s founding director.

George Cond

ALBION – In 2010 the International Santa Claus Hall of Fame was established in Santa Claus, Ind. The inaugural class included Charles W. Howard, the Albion resident who started a Santa Claus School in 1937. He ran that school until his death in 1966.

Each year, a new class of Santas are inducted into the Hall of Fame and the 2015 group includes another Santa from Albion: George Cond. He portrayed Santa at Christmas Park, which was developed by Howard on Phipps Road by the Santa Claus School.

Cond will be formally inducted into the Santa Claus Hall of Fame next month during a Santa Convention in Branson, Missouri. The convention was in Albion last year. The event will be in Branson from July 6-10 and about 1,000 Santas from around the world are expected. (Click here for more on the Santa conference in Branson.)

A committee reviews nominations for the Santa Hall of Fame and Cond was selected. He joins a Hall of Fame class that includes Ed Asner, who played Santa on the big screen. (Click here for more on the new Hall of Fame inductees.)

Ed Asner

Cond was born in 1925 and lived until 1996. He is best known as the man who portrayed Santa Claus at Charles W. Howard’s Christmas Park in Albion, according to Cond’s Hall of Fame announcement.

“A student of Howard’s Santa Claus School, Cond assumed the role of Santa at Christmas Park in late 1950s and continued until the close of the park in 1966,” according to the Hall of Fame. “With Howard busy as the Executive Director and away on business during the Christmas Season, Cond handled most of the day-to-day Santa appearances throughout the park. He appeared in and around the Western New York State region on behalf of Christmas Park.”

Phil Wenz is spokesman for the Hall of Fame. He also was in the inaugural Hall of Fame class and portrays Santa full-time throughout the year at Santa’s Village Theme Park in Dundee, Illinois. Wenz also coordinated the convention in Albion last year.

“George Cond probably played Santa in Albion more than Charlie Howard,” Wenz said in an interview. “George was the day-to-day operational Santa. Charlie was a national star and George was more local. But to be Charlie’s hand chosen Santa that had to be a great honor.”

Cond also modeled Santa Claus suits for the Santa Claus Suit and Equipment Company owner Elizabeth W. Babcock in the 1970s and 1980s. Cond continued to make special Santa appearances to local families and events through the 1990s.

(Editor’s note: If anyone has pictures of Cond as Santa, please send them to news@orleanshub.com.)

Photos by Tom Rivers – Chris Keller is presented the Educator of the Year award from Margy Brown, president of the Albion Board of Education. Keller was recognized on Monday during a staff recognition program.

ALBION – Before he was a teacher at Albion Middle School, Chris Keller was working in the private sector for Jamestown Container, as a shipping manager, quality manager and then in information systems for the company with sites in Medina, Lockport and Jamestown.

“I had a lucrative career in the business world, but now I have a fulfilling career,” Keller said on Monday after he was named Albion’s “Educator for the Year.”

Keller, after 6 years in the private sector, wanted a new direction. He returned to college for a master’s degree. In 1999, he did his student teaching at Holley, and was hired in 2000 to finish out half a year at Kendall as an English teacher in the middle and high school levels.

Albion hired him that fall and Keller has proven popular among students and staff. He led an enrichment program in the middle school for about five years. He is currently an English teacher for the eighth grade. He enjoys having students ask questions, searching for new ways to solve problems.

Chris Keller was praised on Monday by Albion school leaders for broadening students’ views of the world.

“English and books are a real passion of mine,” Keller said. “I enjoy when you can get the lights to turn on for a kid. Education unlocks doors.”

Keller has led the Middle School student council as advisor, and also directed the Chess Club. He also has chaired the English Department, and is currently president of the Albion Teachers Association.

He also serves on the Medina Board of Education, and was that group’s president.

Keller, a Lockport native, served four years in the Army. He praised his hard-working colleagues at Albion, including his wife Julie, who is a pre-kindergarten teacher.

“Education is a wonderful way to spend a career,” he said. “Education is life-transforming. It has transformed mine.”

The district and Board of Education also recognized retiring teachers and staff on Monday, including from left: Paul Mann, computer specialist; David Draper, cleaner; Alan Van Camp, academic intervention services teacher; Julie McGrath, first grade teacher; Annette Pearl, special education teacher; Barbara Reiss, elementary school media specialist; and Gloria Short, cleaner.

Other retiring staff not pictured include Sharon LaDue, payroll clerk; Paul Drought, custodian; Randall Kelley, custodian; and Darlene Wilting, cleaner.

Albion also recognized Brenda McQuillan for her five years as a volunteer on the Board of Education. McQuillan chose not to seek another five-year term.

Margy Brown presents Paul Mann with a book during a staff recognition program on Monday. Mann has retired after 19 years with the district. He was the lead computer specialist in district network upgrades. He was called a hard-working, problem solver for the district.

Rachel Curtin (right), elementary school principal, congratulates Julie McGrath on a successful 29-year career as a first grade teacher. Curtin said McGrath taught more than 600 first graders in her career, and was influnetial in teaching many to read and succeed in school.

Tim Mercer (right), director of facilities for Albion Central School, praises David Draper for his 31 years as a cleaner, including many years as the night leader at the elementary school. Mercer said the district has dedicated staff on buildings and grounds.

The district also awarded tenure to the following teachers and administrators: Rachel Curtin, elementary school principal; Jennifer Ashbery, elementary school assistant principal; Jennifer Lamont, elementary special education teacher; Samantha Seaman, elementary teacher; and Barbara Wesolowski, middle school teacher.

Provided photo – GCASA awarded scholarships this week to three students, from left: Caitlin Malanowski of Albion, Jessica Bukowski of Notre Dame High School in Batavia, and Madeline Gibbs of Albion.

Press Release, GCASA

Each year, GCASA Foundation awards two $1,000 scholarships: one to a Genesee County student and one to an Orleans County student. GCASA Foundation Scholarship was established to support the work of GCASA. The foundation board is committed to the scholarship program, created to help students who will study human services, counseling, or health services.

This year, the selection committee, comprised of two board members, Kathleen Maerten and James Morey, and one past board member, Jason Smith, decided to add an additional Director’s Choice scholarship award in the amount of $250 due to the exceptional applications received.

The committee selected Jessica Bukowski, a senior at Notre Dame High School as the award recipient for a Genesee County student. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Student Senate, and Mock Trial Team. She also is a competitive gymnast and member of the Varsity swim, diving, softball, and cross country teams. Jessica works as a gymnastics coach and is expected to graduate second in a class of 39 students. In Jessica’s essay, she wrote, “I will study and perform the best I can in my education and then take what I learn to help make at least one person’s life better.” Jessica plans to pursue a degree in Psychology at Canisius College.

Caitlin Malanowski is an Albion Central School senior and the recipient of the award for an Orleans County student. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Albion Marching Band, Women’s Select Choir, and Drama Club. She participates in track and cross country. She also volunteers as a tutor at the Albion Elementary School, helping younger students with reading, writing, math, and science. Caitlin is expected to graduate third in her class of 131 students. Scott Green, High School Counselor, commented in his recommendation letter that Caitlin is someone who leads by example. He said, “I don’t think I can truly express how deserving I believe Caitlin is of this scholarship.” She plans to study Nursing at Elmira College.

The Director’s Choice scholarship was awarded to Albion Central School senior Madeline Gibbs. She has been involved with cheerleading and track throughout high school. She is a member of the National Honor Society, Rotary Interact Club, and Yearbook Club. Madeline volunteers as a tutor in the Elementary School and as a religious education teacher for pre-K and kindergarten children at her church. She also volunteers for Vacation Bible School and Cheerleading Camp. She is expected to graduate 16th out of 131 students. Madeline plans to study Nutrition and Exercise Science at Ohio State University.

Press Release, GCC

The Albion and Medina Campus Centers of Genesee Community College are pleased to announce the Spring 2016 students and instructors of the semester. Each semester, one student and one instructor at each campus center are awarded the honor for outstanding academic or teaching performance.

ALBION CAMPUS CENTER

Karen Krieger has been selected as the Spring 2016 Instructor of the Semester at the Albion Campus Center. A graduate of Medina High School, Karen earned her BS in Sociology from Buffalo State College and her MS in Education from D’Youville College. Currently, she serves as an academic advisor at the Medina Campus Center and teaches Career and Educational Planning at the Albion Campus Center.

Karen Krieger

Each of the students who nominated Karen noted her genuine interest in the well-being and success of her students. “Karen makes a conscious effort in meeting and learning about each individual student to drive his/her success,” one student noted.

Another student stated: “I was so unsure of myself and the decisions I was making at the start of the semester that I was in tears. Karen helped me to overcome my fears, build confidence and pursue my dreams. She encourages me to be independent and challenges me to succeed. She always gives me something new to think about in and out of class.”

When asked if she had one piece of advice to offer a new instructor, Karen shared that “students do not care what you know or what it is that you want to teach them until they know that you care.” She further noted that “GCC is comprised of faculty and staff who care for students and overall student success both in and outside of the classroom. Students know this when they come here. I am blessed to be a part of it.”

In her personal time, Karen’s hobbies include reading, walking, slow jogging, spending time in nature and baking. She also enjoys spending time with her husband Brian, children John and Kate, and their family pets. Karen says that her most rewarding teaching experiences include watching students find their own success. “It is such a privilege to be a part of those times in their lives.”

Louisa Shiffer

Louisa Shiffer has been selected as the Spring 2016 Student of the Semester. An undeclared major, Louisa is working hard with the goal of being accepted into the GCC Nursing program.

Nominated by several instructors, they noted that Louisa “works full time and maintains high ideals, a very high GPA and a positive attitude. (We) have never heard her complain about her work or to ask to have extensions.” She takes great pride in her academic work.”

Louisa likes the intellectual challenges and the thoughtful discussions at college. When asked if she had any advice for new college students, Louisa reminded them to “expect to work hard. Classes and school work are your responsibility and as an adult, you need to not make excuses.”

Louisa’s cites her father and siblings as major influences in her life. “I admire people who work hard to overcome odds and who sacrifice for other people.” Her long term goals include getting her Nursing degree and working as a holistic nurse practitioner.

In her personal time, Louisa enjoys reading, history (reenacting), cooking, knitting and spending time with her pets. She also volunteers teaching classes at the library.

MEDINA CAMPUS CENTER

Rick Bovenzi has been selected as the Instructor of the Semester at the Medina Campus Center for the Spring 2016 semester. Rick teaches Cell Biology, and in the past, has taught Human Biology in Medina. Comments by his students include: “Mr. Bovenzi is always available to assist students before or after class with information that is hard to understand,” and, “He makes learning hard concepts fun, which makes it easier to remember.”

Rick Bovenzi

Rick earned his MS in Science Education and Biology from SUNY Buffalo, as well as his BS in Biology from SUNY Brockport. He is a retired science teacher from the Albion Central School District.

He and his wife of 45 years have three children (now adults), three grandchildren, and one cat. In his personal time, Rick enjoys hunting, fishing and carpentry. He specializes in furniture and cabinet making. He shared that his favorite book is the Bible and A Lawyer’s Case for Christ.

When asked if he would change anything relative to career choices he has made, he shared he probably would have finished his P.A. Rick’s one piece of advice to new instructors is, “Always be honest, and admit you don’t have all of the answers, but research when you need to.” His most rewarding teaching experiences include when his past students come back and tell him that the hard work in his class paid off for them in their careers.

Danielle Moon

Danielle Moon has been selected as the Student of the Semester at the Medina Campus Center for spring semester 2016. Danielle’s major is Respiratory Care. She has already accepted a position at Rochester General Hospital as a respiratory therapist. She plans to graduate in May, take her board exam in June, and begin her new endeavor thereafter. During her full-time study at GCC, she participated in clinicals three days per week at various hospitals. Additionally, Danielle works full time at Hillside Children’s Center.

The instructor that nominated Danielle noted that she is self-motivated and mature and stated that she “works exceptionally well with others and is quick to help others who are struggling with the subject, and that she is not afraid to ask questions in class, but only after searching for answers herself.”

When asked what advice she has for new students, she responded, “My advice for new college students would be to take as many classes as possible at community colleges like GCC before transferring to a 4-year college because it helps you make up your mind on what you want to do with your life.”

Danielle enjoys horseback riding, rugby, reading and family time. She lives with her mother, step-father, and two younger brothers with one serving in the US Army.

Photo by Tom Rivers – Adam Krenning, an agriculture teacher and FFA advisor at Albion, shows buds and blossoms on apple trees to elementary students last week at the FFA land lab. Krenning has led the FFA program for 16 years.

ALBION – It was 16 years ago when Adam Krenning was hired as Albion’s agriculture teacher and FFA advisor. The program then was in danger of being shut down because of limited student participation.

The program has thrived and grown under Krenning, tripling in size. It is considered one of the strongest in the state. in 2014, the New York Association of Agricultural Educators named Albion the state winner of the “Outstanding Middle School/Secondary School Program.”

Albion has twice hosted the state FFA convention in Krenning’s tenure, and several Albion students have served in state leadership roles, including Sara Millspaugh who was state FFA president this past year.

The program can add another honor: Ag Teacher of the Year in New York for Krenning. He will receive the award from the New York Association of Agricultural Educators on June 28 in Albany.

Krenning is being recognized for how the program has grown and excelled, as well as the strong ties to the local farm community. The local farmers give 30,000 pounds of produce after the harvest season to benefit Community Action and local food pantries, a collection organized by the Albion FFA.

The farmers also work with students to plant and harvest crops at the FFA Land Lab on school property along Clarendon Road.

“With Adam you can see his true commitment to students in the activities that he does,” said Erin McCaffrey, president of the NYA Agricultural Educators and FFA advisor and ag teacher for Stockbridge Valley Central School.

Krenning teaches classes on ag business, ag science, leadership, vet science and more. Many of the students complete supervised ag education projects, documenting cost of raising livestock or other farm products, and comparing that with revenue.

Krenning pushed to create the 5-acre Land Lab to make his classes “as hands-on as possible.” The Land Lab functions like “an experiential learning classroom” where Krenning said students measure the distance between apple trees and crops, and try different fertilizers to see which are most effective, among their many assignments.

FFA Advisor Adam Krenning, left, and Albion apple grower Steve Nesbitt discuss apple tree planting strategy at the FFA Land Lab in this photo from 2014. Barry Flansburg is behind the steering wheel. Nesbitt donated many of the trees, an example of the local farm community’s support of the Albion agriculture program.

Krenning said the community support has allowed the Albion program to grow and thrive. He said students are committed to the program, and community service, whether it’s the annual food collection for Community Action, reading to elementary students in Ag Literacy Week, or hosting a Mini Farm where students can see farm animals brought in for a day at the ag shop.

McCaffrey said the number of farm families is declining in the state, yet the FFA is seeing a resurgence as many students, including those who don’t live on farms, join the FFA to gain leadership skills, learn about food production and try to connect with service projects.

Ag educators feel a little vulnerable, McCaffrey said, because the programs aren’t state mandated. The ag teachers have to continually work hard to prove their worth. Some schools without FFA and ag programs see the success in other school districts and are trying to start programs, McCaffrey said.

“Schools are trying to rejuvenate programs, but it’s hard to find teachers like Adam. That’s the biggest hurdle, finding teachers with passion.”

Krenning also is eligible to be considered for the national ag teacher award. A committee will pick six regional winners to compee for the national award.

Krenning, who grew up on a fruit farm and hog operation near Knowlesville, wants to add more to the Albion program, including a Field to Table initiative wherestudents would make meals from food they grow in the Land Lab. Krenning would like to see the students develop recipes that could be handed out during the annual food drive for Community Action.

Photos by Tom Rivers – Bob Brice, center in blue shirt, is congratulated by many Holley Central School staff after he was honored for 20 years of volunteerism with the Holley Sports Boosters on Thursday during the Orleans County Youth Recognition Banquet. Brice won the Eileen Heye Adult Volunteer Award, given to an adult volunteer who is a positive role model for youth.

MURRAY – The Orleans County Youth Board honored 20 youth for outstanding commitment and service to their community, school and families. The youth were nominated for the awards presented Thursday during the 34th annual Youth Recognition Banquet.

Some examples of outstanding service by youth include:

Randy Eblacker of Albion created a garden walkway for Hospice as part of his Eagle Scout project; Kenzie Galletta of Kendall has volunteered numerous hours the past three years at PAWS Animal Shelter; Allyson Irwin of Albion has been a busy volunteer with the Albion Fire Department and the Masonic Lodge; Jessica Mandigo of Holley volunteers at the Special Olympics and delivers candy canes to a nursing home;

Cassandra Sargent of Medina helped coordinate the unified volleyball team that introduces students with disabilities to school sports; Ian Smith of Lyndonville and Natalie Mrzywka of Holley are both active in 4-H and with the 4-H Senior Council; Joseph Velez of Medina interned at the Orleans County YMCA in the summer day camp program.

The Orleans County Youth Board recognized 20 youth for outstanding service with their community, family and school. The group includes Amanda Blackburn of Lyndonville, Randal Eblacker of Albion, Evan Gaesser of Kendall, Kenzie Galletta of Kendall, Allyson Irwin of Albion, Dixon Keon of Albion, Jessica Mandigo of Holley, Natalie Mrzywka of Holley, Rose Pajek of Kendall, Cassandra Sargent of Medina, Damian Schoonmaker of Holley, Zachary Shaffer of Albion, Ian Smith of Lyndonville, Julia Smith of Kendall, Kyle Thaine of Albion, Andrea Toussaint of Medina, Joseph Velez of Medina, Baylee VerCruysse of Medina, Austen Vroman of Holley and Angela Weaver of Holley.

In addition to recognizing the youth, the Youth Board honored two adults – one in a paid role and one a community volunteer – for their service to young people.

Bob Brice of Holley has been a dedicated volunteer with the Holley Sports Boosters the past 20 years, working in concessions and supporting the teams in many ways. His commitment started two decades ago when a Holley team needed a baseball coach. Brice stepped forward even tough he didn’t have a son on the team.

The Kodak retiree works as a teacher’s aide with the school. He praised the commitment of the Sports Boosters, who raise funds for the athletic programs, as well as scholarship and plaques for senior athletes.

“He truly loves the students, the athletes and Holley, New York,” school guidance counselor Samantha Zelent said in presenting Brice with the award at Hickory Ridge Ridge Golf Course and Country Club. “He exemplifies what a small community is all about.”

Brice has stayed active with the Boosters even after his youngest son, Robby, graduated in 2012.

“I just love doing it,” Brice said. “The kids should really be getting the award. They have given me a purpose.”

Gerry Golden, a caseworker with the Orleans County Department of Social Services, accepts the Helen R. Brinsmaid Award, given to a professional in a paid position whose work exceeds normal expectations. Chelsea Dillon, a program assistant with the Genesee-Orleans Youth Bureau, is at left.

Gerry Golden has worked 26 years as a caseworker with the Orleans County Department of Social Services. He has made a positive impact on many children, welcomed by many of those children and their parents as an extended part of their families.

“It is common for people to resent the caseworker who has come into their lives, but it is very rare for anyone to complain about Gerry,” the Youth Board said. “If a child calls with a crisis, Gerry will drop whatever he is doing to attend to their needs. He attends school meetings and extracurricular events and will travel hours to make sure a child can get home for a visit with their family.”

Golden initially wanted to pursue a career as a sports journalist. He was drawn to public service in his home county, where his mother Margaret Golden was a public health nurse and his father Bob Golden was Probation director.

Golden praised the kids and the families he works with for their success stories. He also urged others, including the youth receiving awards, to volunteer as mentors in the Just Friends program through the Genesee-Orleans Ministry of Concern.

Jeremy Babcock, an Albion volunteer firefighter who is currently is the Executive Director of Housing at the Rochester Institute of Technology, was keynote speaker for the evening. Babcock, 39, oversees a staff of 24, the residential halls and 1,000 apartments. He deals with everything from keys, pest control, furniture, laundry facilities and many other issues.

Babcock, an Albion graduate, lives an active life despite being born with birth defects in both arms.

He urged the youth award-winners to have a humble attitude while working hard.

“That drive and determination has to come from within,” Babcock said. “Only you can truly motivate and push yourself. Only you can determine the path you want to take in life.”

Provided photo – State Senator Rob Ortt (R-North Tonawanda) on Tuesday recognized The College at Brockport President Heidi Macpherson as one of the New York State Senate’s “Women of Distinction” during a ceremony at the Legislative Office Building in Albany.

Press Release, State Sen. Robert Ortt

ALBANY – Heidi Macpherson, president of The College at Brockport, was recognized in Albany on Tuesday as one of 59 distinguished women in the state.

The State Senate’s “Women of Distinction” program celebrates outstanding women from all walks of life throughout New York State whose contributions have enriched the quality of life in our communities.

“There are remarkable women in our midst whose lives, work or special accomplishments contribute to making our communities better, making our families stronger and serve as special examples to others. President Macpherson is one of those women,” said Senator Ortt. “The Senate’s Women of Distinction program provides a special opportunity to honor these women for their achievements and to thank them for the pride they bring to our communities.”

“I’m honored that Senator Ortt selected me as the ‘Woman of Distinction’ for his district, as enhancing our community is such an important part of what we are trying to accomplish,” said President Macpherson. “In the short time I’ve been at Brockport, Senator Ortt has proven to be a friend to the College and a strong supporter of public higher education.”

Dr. Heidi Macpherson was formally installed on April 29 as the seventh president at The College at Brockport. She is the first female president in the college’s history, which dates back to 1835. Ortt first met President Macpherson last summer, shortly after she took over leadership of the college in July 2015.

President Macpherson has more than 20 years of experience in higher education as an English professor, a writer and administrator in both the United States and England. Prior to her current position, Macpherson served as the Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.

The Minnesota native spent 22 years of her life in the United Kingdom, where she developed a love for international education and launched her career in higher education. Pres. Macpherson began her academic career at the University of Central Lancashire in England in 1995. While there, she took on the roles of program leader, head of the division of English, head of the Department of Humanities and professor. In 2007, she was appointed Dean of Humanities at De Montfort University in Leicester, England and subsequently held two different Pro Vice-Chancellor positions there. As Pro Vice-Chancellor at De Montfort, Macpherson wrote the university’s Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy.

Additionally, President Macpherson plays a vital role in her community – on a regional, national and international level. She’s an active member of Rotary International. In her previous role, she volunteered with the YWCA and Bethany Lutheran Homes. She’s a member of the United Way Women’s Leadership Council Steering Committee, and the Rochester Regional Community Advisory Council for Rochester Regional Health. In June, Macpherson will be recognized as the Honorary Chairwoman of the New York State Special Olympics, which will be held in Brockport.

“President Macpherson is someone who is not only committed to the academic community at The College at Brockport, but also to her community at home and abroad,” said Senator Ortt. “Her leadership, experience, and role in society are many of the reasons why I chose to recognize her as a woman of distinction in the Senate. She truly embodies the word ‘distinction.'”

President Macpherson calls the Village of Brockport home, where she lives with her husband, Dr. Allan Macpherson, and her Springer Spaniel, Tilly.

The “Women of Distinction” celebration was started in 1998. Previous winners in the annual event have included leading women from the world of business, academics and civic life, as well as those who have performed heroic or selfless acts, made significant discoveries, or provided examples of personal excellence against difficult odds.