Fox Cities News

Heartfelt gratitude, poignant memories, and well-earned accolades filled the room as the Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) honored retiring employees, longtime educators, community supporters, and champions of education at the District's Annual Retirement and Recognition Dinner. The event highlighted the impact teachers, staff, and education advocates have made on generations of students.

On Wednesday, May 29, OASD celebrated 56 retiring employees and 18 employees marking 25 years with the District. District and school leaders recognized each retiree by sharing stories that underscored their dedication to the Oshkosh community. OASD Board of Education members congratulated and thanked the honorees as they received their awards. Retirees were given a glass apple as a memento, while 25-year employees received commemorative clocks.

"Our retirees and longtime employees have given so much to the Oshkosh community through their unwavering commitment to our schools and students," said OASD Superintendent Dr. Bryan Davis. "This annual event allows us to express our profound gratitude for all they have done to support public education in Oshkosh."

A complete list of honorees is available in the OASD Board of Education 40th Annual Retirement & Recognition Program. Event photos are available in the 2024 OASD Retirement and Recognition Photo Gallery.

The Oshkosh Area School District also celebrated its biggest advocates by recognizing Amy Hardy, Jeff Cysiewski, and the Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce for their exceptional support of public education. Hardy and Cysiewski were honored with the 2023-2024 Individual Friend of Education Award, while the Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce received the Corporate Friend of Education Award.

"These extraordinary individuals and the Oshkosh Chamber have gone above and beyond in supporting our students and education system," said Davis. "Their impact extends far beyond financial contributions—it is their personal investment of time, expertise, and unwavering advocacy that makes a profound difference."

Amy Hardy was recognized for her dedication to fostering STEM education and robotics programs within the district. As a longtime coach for FIRST Lego League (FLL) teams like Baksteen Valken, she has mentored many young minds towards state and national success. Her volunteer work has ensured a continuous flow of robotics talent through programs like Wave Robotics.

Jeff Cysiewski was honored for his technical guidance to the Wave Robotics team. He played a key role in equipping the district's Fab Lab with advanced equipment necessary for competing at high levels in FIRST Robotics competitions. His mentorship has inspired innovation among students.

The Corporate Friend of Education Award was presented to the Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce for its efforts to bridge local businesses with public education through initiatives such as adopt-a-school programs, career expos, Youth Leadership Oshkosh, and other career readiness activities.

"The Oshkosh Chamber is honored to receive the OASD Corporate Friend of Education Award," said Rob Kleman, President & CEO of the Oshkosh Chamber. "We are deeply committed to fostering strong ties between our local businesses and schools, ensuring our students have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive."

The OASD extends its deepest gratitude to all honorees for their invaluable service to the community.