When we graduate from high school, we all leave a little bit of our hearts behind. It might take some time, but eventually most of us come to look back fondly at our alma maters, the good times we had there, and the teachers and administrators who helped guide us.
That’s what the members of the Webster Thomas Class of 1993 were thinking when they celebrated their 30th reunion last summer. As part of the reunion, they decided they wanted to do something to give back to the school, and especially honor their vice principal, John Soper. So, in his memory, they held a fundraiser to raise money for the Webster Thomas Food Pantry.
Class of ’93 representative Andy LaManna explained they chose Soper for the recognition because he was “a great human being … very much appreciated by the class.”
He added,
When the class of ’93 had the reunion planning, we wanted to do something different. Knowing that no student should have to worry about being hungry during the school day (there’s enough other things to worry about in high school), we decided that we would take up a collection to raise money for the Webster Thomas Food Pantry that is right at the school.
What ended up happening was amazing. Both those that could, and those that could not make the reunion donated to the pantry. All in all we raised over $3000.
Unfortunately, Soper passed away in 2016. John’s wife Judy was very appreciative of the sentiment, writing,
John was truly dedicated to his students and the Webster schools. He took great joy in being personally involved with his classes as vice-principal and later as principal. Seeing former students succeed was his reward. Being an educator was his true calling. He would have been so honored by this dedication from the class of 1993.
Glenn Widor and Ari Halaris
Webster Thomas administrators were pretty much blown away by the generous donation. Principal Glenn Widor said, “The Class of ’93 donation made it possible for our Thomas/OWL students to know and more importantly feel that people care and want to help in numerous ways even after graduating! Having a pantry that provides essentials for those in need is of great value.”
OWL administrator/director Ari Halaris added, “I’m honored to work in a school where alumni continue to show support for our schools and programs. It’s great to have a stocked pantry right within the buildings.”
The funds were used to purchase nonperishable food for the cupboard, and provide food vouchers for students to use over breaks and vacations.
Every one of our secondary schools has a food pantry to serve those students who need extra support and don’t get enough to eat at home. Wouldn’t it be cool if other Webster class reunions did something similar to support the pantries at Schroeder, Willink, and Spry? What a great way for Webster alumni to help our current Webster students.
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Best boss I ever worked for, whether he was JV lacrosse coach when I had the modified team, Studies Director for the District, Webster High School VP in the Thomas building, or WHS Principal in the Schroeder building. Much gratitude and love to the ’93ers for honoring his service to our schools and community. Dave Moore, ret. ’99
Being a firmer student/graduate of Webster schools I have never heard about or realized the schools had good pantry’s. What a great idea. Thanks for making us aware of this great opportunity for the students! They should make this service more “public” for donations!!!
I feature the people and places and events that make Webster the wonderful community it is — and throw in some totally-not-Webster-related personal ramblings every once in a while as well.
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Best boss I ever worked for, whether he was JV lacrosse coach when I had the modified team, Studies Director for the District, Webster High School VP in the Thomas building, or WHS Principal in the Schroeder building. Much gratitude and love to the ’93ers for honoring his service to our schools and community. Dave Moore, ret. ’99
Being a firmer student/graduate of Webster schools I have never heard about or realized the schools had good pantry’s. What a great idea. Thanks for making us aware of this great opportunity for the students! They should make this service more “public” for donations!!!