Olathe High School Class of 1970

(Oct. 12, 1952 —              )

Before retiring in 2012 as an educator in the Olathe School District, Tom served as a gymnastics coach, STUCO sponsor and technical theater assistant at Olathe High School and Olathe North High School and on the North Central Association Accreditation Committee while at Olathe East High School. Students wrote that Tom encouraged them along their continued education and career paths. He was a mentor for students who were “book smart,” but were lacking in self-confidence. Tom is chair of the Olathe Historical Preservation Board; chair of the Olathe Kids’ Fishing Derby; has served as president of the Olathe Public Schools Retired Employee Association; is an Olathe Noon Optimists board member; has served on the Center of Grace’s Let’s Grow committee; regularly volunteers for the University of Kansas Audio Reader Network and serves on its board; is involved with “Olathe’s Got Talent” and “Dining with the Stars;” and plays Santa at Christmas. Tom was honored by the Kansas State High School Activities Association for 40 years of officiating football. Thanks to his knowledge of Olathe and its schools, Tom provides a unique perspective and is a tireless promoter of all things Olathe.