Eight new members inducted by York Distinguished Alumni Program (YDAP)
By Dee Longfellow
For The Elmhurst Independent
A red carpet ran down the center of the York Commons area at York High School on the evening of Wednesday, Nov. 5, where eight new “Dukes of Distinction” were added to the roster of those who were similarly honored in the last two years.
The program began with a welcome from Les Zunkel (class of 1963), representing the York Distinguished Alumni Program (YDAP). After a few words from District 205 Superintendent of Schools Dr. David Moyer and other members of the School Board, the inductees came down the carpet, each escorted by York students.
York Principal Diana Smith served as Master of Ceremonies and introduced each of the honorees who were allowed to offer a short presentation of their own, including photos displayed on a screen near the stage. At the conclusion, each was given a plaque presented by School Board member John McDonough.
This year’s honorees included:
Samuel Williams, class of 2003, representative by his friend Barbara Rosenberg;
Mark Dyer, class of 1980;
Dr. Clifford McDonald, class of 1980;
Thomas D. Marcucci, class of 1970;
Kenneth von Heidecke, class of 1970;
Dr. Susan Groenwald, class of 1967;
Lee Daniels, class of 1960; and
David Swartz, clas of 1959.
After the presentations, York juniors Kaylin Kenny and Bailey Stearns offered their take on the evening and meeting all the “Dukes of Distinction,” noting that it was exciting to see what they could become themselves. They said it was hard to believe the honorees all took part in high school much as they do today.
Next year’s event will be held on November 3, 2016. Nominations are now open for the 2016 Dukes of Distinction. If you know a deserving alum, visit elmhurst205.org/ydap or call 630-941-4719 to learn how to nominate him or her.
