Oct. 7, 2024 ~ On the evening of Oct. 2, the Olathe Public Schools community gathered to celebrate five extraordinary individuals as they were inducted into the district's Alumni Association Wall of Honor. The event brought together past and present, highlighting the remarkable legacies these honorees have built within Olathe.
Becky (Milloy) Vrbas, co-chair of the Wall of Honor committee and a proud 1974 graduate of Olathe High School, welcomed the audience, setting the tone for a night filled with reflection and celebration. The American Legion Color Guard conducted the presentation of colors and Pledge of Allegiance, followed by the invocation from Rev. Ryan Kapple, a 1989 graduate of Olathe South High School who now serves at Leawood Presbyterian Church.
Superintendent Dr. Brent Yeager then took the stage, offering words of congratulations and gratitude to the honorees. As he spoke, there was a sense of pride in the room — a shared recognition of these individuals' profound impact on the schools and the wider Olathe community.
The Olathe East High School Madrigals, directed by Derek Cross, further elevated the atmosphere. Later, these talented students served the meal, embodying the spirit of service and togetherness that the night celebrated.
The first honoree was Tom Kearney, a 1970 graduate of Olathe High School. Kearney’s dedication to the community is unmatched — he serves as chair of the Olathe Historical Preservation Board, leads initiatives like the Olathe Kids’ Fishing Derby, and has been involved in countless charitable efforts. His deep-rooted commitment to Olathe shines through in everything he does, including his annual role as Santa during the holiday season.
Next, the spotlight turned to Kerry (Koening) Lane, a 1991 Olathe South graduate and the current principal of Olathe East High School. Kerry’s journey through the district, from a language arts teacher at California Trail Junior High to leadership roles across several schools, is a testament to her unwavering dedication to students. Her hands-on approach reminds us of the core mission of education — supporting the success of every student.
Joni (Caylor) Moreland, a 1988 graduate of Olathe North High School, has immensely impacted the community by founding the Starfish Project, a non-profit organization dedicated to connecting people with much-needed resources. Joni’s vision for helping others has rallied volunteers across the city, coordinating the collection and distribution of clothing, household items, and food to those in need. Through her efforts, Second Saturdays — an initiative providing hot meals, haircuts, and health screenings — has become a vital lifeline for Olathe’s underserved. Her Blessing Bags and Dignity Bags programs offer essential supplies to the homeless and displaced students, respectively, while her partnership with Beds of Bags transforms plastic bags into sleeping mats for those without a place to call home. Joni humbly shares all the credit for Starfish with her volunteers.
The families of Catherine Smith and Dr. Melvin Winters graciously accepted the awards on behalf of their loved ones, reflecting on the legacies they left behind.
Catherine, affectionately known as “Ms.” by her students, taught English and coached forensics and debate for decades at Olathe South. Her influence on generations of students was profound, as she mentored students and teachers alike, leaving an indelible mark on the district.
Dr. Winters, who served as superintendent from 1968 to 1991, oversaw transformative growth in the district. His progressive leadership left a lasting impact, not only on Olathe’s schools but also on the broader educational landscape. His career accomplishments included enacting a progressive pay scale for all professionals and staff, greater health benefits and sick leave, a professional council for teachers and administrators, and special curriculum overseers to assist teachers with new teaching concepts.
As the honorees or their representatives took to the podium to share memories of their time in Olathe, a common theme emerged — the deep bond between the district and the people who call it home. Each story reflected a shared experience, reminding everyone in attendance of a supportive community's lasting impact on one’s life.
To conclude the evening, Olathe Board of Education President Dr. Stacey Yurkovich led the Wall of Honor recipients in an induction. Director of Community Development Heather (Devocelle) Schoonover, a 1988 Olathe South graduate, then offered heartfelt thanks to the event’s sponsors and shared closing reflections on the night. With every word, she highlighted the incredible legacy each honoree has left behind and the bright future they continue to inspire.
It was a night of nostalgia, pride, and above all, a celebration of the people who make Olathe a place of community, education, and service.
