As Hotchkiss recognizes its students for their academic achievements, we must also acknowledge the faculty and staff whose contributions have bettered the school. On February 5, the annual Anniversary Awards Ceremony took place. Various members of the Hotchkiss faculty and staff were recognized for their over 550 combined years of service to the community. 

The school announced the names of 42 employees who have impacted Hotchkiss for 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, and 35 years. Additionally, awards were presented honoring four members of the faculty and staff for successfully serving the school for 25 years – Bridget Dixon Moon P’13,’16, instructor in mathematics; Dawn Runge, director of donor relations; Christie Rawlings ‘85 P’12,’14,’19, summer programs director of admissions and residential life; and, Tim Schilling P’00,’04,’08, supervisor of the grounds department.

The Margot Hooker award, established in 1996 to honor a long-serving and dedicated member of the staff, was presented to housekeeper Jean Lilley by John Bryant, director of facilities. Commenting on Ms. Lilley,  Mr. Bryant remarked, “I noticed early on that she was one of our department’s special and dedicated workers. Her commitment to the school, the students, and pride in her work were and continue to be obvious.” Mr. Bryant also praised Ms. Lilley for her keen attention to detail, highlighting how she makes the dorms a “home away from home” for students.

The Robert J. And Candice Barker award was established in 2017 to recognize a member of the staff that enhances the community at Hotchkiss with their personal commitment. This award is given in the honor of Robert and Candice Barker, who, through immense dedication, served the school together for over 70 years. This award was presented by director of human resources Laurie Ross to Wendy MacKenzie, associate director of human resources. Ms. Ross emphasized Wendy’s ability to strengthen relationships between people, saying, “[Wendy] is the ultimate collaborator; she brings people together to solve challenges or to improve circumstances for others.” Ms. Mackenzie is also celebrating her five year anniversary here at the school.

Commenting on the importance of faculty at Hotchkiss, Head of School Mr. Craig Bradley said, “The excellence of the Hotchkiss experience is largely determined by the quality of the people who comprise the Hotchkiss community – students, faculty, staff, alumni, and parents. Many highly talented adults choose to spend their careers at Hotchkiss, and it is important that we as a community recognize them for their service. I find it personally meaningful to recognize people I view as cultural stewards and standard bearers in this great school.”