Nine Will be Inducted to Watchung Hills Hall of Fame

Watchung Hills Regional High School’s fourth annual Hall of Fame event will take place April 16 at 4 p.m. in the performing arts center of the school. The public is invited to attend the induction ceremony and the reception that follows.

The inductees, selected from nominations made by members of the community represent a variety of professions—education, journalism, music, public service, athletics, for example. Some of the honorees have graduated from Watchung Hills Regional High School and attained distinction in their fields. Others have served the school with dedication as teachers, coaches, Board of Education members. Others have devoted  extraordinary talent and time to their communities.

The 2011 selections to the Hall of Fame are Public Policy expert Dr. Jocelyn Crowley (Class of 1988), Courier-News and Home News Tribune General Manager Paul Grzella (Class of 1979), singer Alan LeBoeuf (Class of 1970), Mark Miller (Class of 1985), Dr. Arthur Ostrander (Class of 1960), former NBA player Christopher Remley (Class of 1981), Thomas “Bill” Simpson (Class of 1975), Dr. Clara Strupp, who bequeathed a scholarship fund at the school, and Barry Sullivan (Class of 1972).

The Hall of Fame was initiated in 2008 as part of the 50th anniversary commemoration of the opening of Watchung Hills Regional High School. It was viewed as a timely way to celebrate those who have served or brought honor to the school through their efforts and achievements. Hall of Fame members are selected from among  nominations made by the public. The names of nominees not selected for a specified year   are retained for future consideration. 

Community  members are encouraged to forward nominations for the 2012 Hall of Fame. Nomination forms will be available at the induction event and also at the Main Office of the high school.

The Hall of Fame committee is also seeking donations to cover the cost of individual plaques   for the 2011 honorees. The plaques, which bear a brief biography and a photo of the honoree, will be on permanent display in the school’s main lobby. Friends, employers, family members or alumni may wish to contribute to the plaque-funding.

A souvenir book containing information and photos about the 2011 inductees   is also in the process of preparation. Individuals and businesses wishing to express their congratulations may do so (Full page, $200; half-page, $100).  The deadline for printing is April 8. 

Tickets for the Hall of Fame Induction cover the ceremony and the reception which follows and defray part of the cost of the permanent plaques.  Tickets are $25 and they may be purchased in the Main Office of the high school or on the day of the event.

All questions relating to the event—tickets, financial contributions, ads for the booklet, etc.—may be addressed to Vice Principal Terrence MacConnell, at  908-647-4800, ext.  6975.