Eight alumni of “Southern Area” schools were recently recognized as Distinguished Alumnus in a ceremony held before the District’s high school students and staff. Previously, the District recognized a single alumnus as part of its annual high school commencement exercise. Because of the many successes of its graduates, the award was expanded to include more recipients. It was also decided a ceremony dedicated exclusively to the distinguished alumni should be held during the regular school day in order to give more students the opportunity to meet with the alumni and hear their inspirational stories.

Taking part in the 2016 Distinguished Alumnus Award ceremony were: Ted Yeager, accepting the award for his late father Lee Yeager, Catawissa High School Class of 1940, Laura Cook, Southern Columbia Area High School Class of 2006, John Yocum, Roaring Creek Valley High School Class of 1957, Dr. J. Spence Reid, Southern Columbia Area High School Class of 1976, Linda Miller, Southern Columbia Area High School Class of 1980, and Ronald “Buddy” Knoebel, Ralpho Township/Southern High School Class of 1961. Also inducted, but unable to attend because of work commitments, were Lieutenant Colonel Jason Feese, Southern Columbia Area High School Class of 1990, and Dr. Eric Feese, Southern Columba Area Class of 1988. Complete biographies of these outstanding individuals are found by clicking on this link or visiting the Distinguished Alumnus page of this website.

We take great pride in the accomplishments of our alumni and they have our deepest gratitude for the honor they bring to the Southern Columbia school community!