Pictured left to right: Sunrise Rotarians Paul Kulik and Kristin Moosmiller; Service to Youth recipient Marsha Williams; Sunrise Rotarians Diane Conley and Gretchen Kiehl; and Interim Alcott Principal Sam Dorff.
Marsha Williams, a secretary at Alcott Elementary School, was surprised on February 26 when representatives from the Westerville Sunrise Rotary showed up at her school to name her the monthly recipient of the Diane J. Conley Service to Youth award. She received a plaque from the club, along with flowers, a cake, and a $50 gift card donated by the Walmart Supercenter on Schrock Road. An American flag will be flown in her honor during Westerville’s Field of Heroes display.
Williams has worked in the Westerville School District for 19 years, the last four at Alcott. The Sunrise Rotarians said she is the “Mother Hen” of Alcott – the one person who knows all students and their families. She is both nurturing and organized, helping teachers obtain data and information they need to do their jobs. She serves as excellent role model for students. She recently put together a very successful assembly to honor retiring Principal Bob Hoffman. They said Williams arrives at school before most everyone else, and stays long after they are gone. When she was at home recovering from recent surgery, she came in on weekends to ensure that details were being addressed. She also works closely with the PTA to plan and implement activities and programs that benefit students. “When people talk about Alcott, Marsha’s name is the first they mention,” said her nominator, Interim Principal Sam Dorff. “Her work ethic and the ability to provide opportunities for success for all students make her a worthy candidate for the Service to Youth award.”
Rotary Sunrise instituted Service to Youth awards three years ago to recognize exceptional school employees who have made a special contribution to youth; have served as a positive role model for young people; and have demonstrated service above and beyond the call of duty in performing their job responsibilities. The award is named in honor of Sunrise Rotarian Diane Conley, retired Chief of Academic Affairs for Westerville City Schools.