While longevity of service may be nothing new in higher branches of government, it can be a rarity at the local level. The Springfield Board of Education celebrated that unique distinction for one board member.
At the January 11 meeting, the board recognized Ev Harris for his 50 plus years of service, naming the district’s newest educational building in his honor–the Everett W. Harris Administration and Educational Complex.
Mr. Harris was acknowledged by his peers, all of whom commended the board member for his dedication to Springfield Schools, students and staff.
“I don’t know if there is a pillar stronger than you in education, “Superintendent Matt Geha said, adding, “What you have done here is remarkable.”
Marty Rothey, northwest regional manager for the Ohio School Boards Association, pointed out Mr. Harris not only served the district faithfully, he also served the OSBA for many years. His roles included ambassador of education, student and legislative liaisons, master board member and all Ohio school member.
He has received more than 11 awards of achievements and was the first recipient of the Neil Pohlmann award, which is presented to a long-serving board member who supports the work of the OSBA and helps promote and support public education throughout Ohio, Ms. Rothey explained. See Holland Mayor Lee Irons presented Mr. Harris with a proclamation from the village. The mayor admitted he has known the board member perhaps longer than anyone else. “I’ve known Ev since we were kids on the staff at Camp Miakonda,” he recalled.
The mayor said he could not think of anyone more deserving of recognition. “He is the ultimate example of a true community builder.”
Springfield Township Administrator Mike Hampton agreed. “On behalf of the township trustees and the constituents of which we serve, I would like to express our most sincere appreciation for your 50 years of service as a school board member as well as a community leader at-large. Your relentless dedication and leadership have been responsible for the district’s continued success,” he said.
On a personal note, Mr. Hampton remembers that when he was in school, Mr. Harris could always be counted on to attend athletic and other events in support of the student body, something he has continued to do over the years. “This guy has led the charge for Springfield, and it is truly an honor for me to be here and recognize you.”
Speaking on behalf of the board, member Ken Musch honored his service with a little levity and a “walk down memory lane.”
Mr. Musch noted the Billboard’s number one hit during Mr. Harris’ first year was “The first time ever I saw your face,” by Roberta Flack. That same year, 1972, Silly String was invented and Time Magazine’s Man of the Year was then President Richard Nixon. “Watergate and all that followed took place later that year,” Mr. Musch said.
He added, “Bell bottom pants were the fashion rage, and I don’t remember what year it was when you got your Corvette, but in 1972 you were paying 36 cents per gallon for whatever car you were driving.”
Mr. Musch pointed out during that same year Title IX legislation passed ensuring equal treatment for students and employees and addressed sex discrimination in the workplace and in athletics.
Although much has changed since that first year, Mr. Musch said Mr. Harris never wavered in his dedication to the district. “Together, you and I have worked hard and invested our time to help Springfield Schools become one of the top schools in the region. It is not because of your longevity that you are so respected in this state and beyond– it is because of your humanity, your unwillingness to accept only what is easy, and your example of the importance of compromise.”
“I know that I speak for each member of this board, for the district’s administration, faculty, staff, students and communityat- large when I say thank you for all you have brought to the district.”
Retired superintendent Dr. Cynthia Beekley remembered that Mr. Harris could be relied upon to express his opinions and let you know when he differed with staff. “He would read the riot act to you, but you knew at the end of the day, he had your back. We trusted each other.”
Treasurer Ryan Lockwood echoed Mr. Musch’s comments. “It’s a testament to your success that you have been on generations of boards. Thank you for being a person we can all look up to,” he said, noting that he and the superintendent have relied on the elder stateman’s experience and insights.
“We are blessed to work with Ev as a colleague, Mr. Lockwood said as he unveiled a photograph of the new educational building with signage naming the complex after Mr. Harris.
Following the presentation, Mr. Harris said he was taken aback by the accolades and overwhelmed by the meeting turnout. “This is a total surprise for me. Thank you for coming. I deeply appreciate that.”
He remembers starting school in Springfield in 1946 and deciding to raise his family in the district. “I want to thank my family for supporting me over the years so I could become a good board member.”
Turning to Mr. Geha, he noted that the superintendent is one of seven superintendents he has worked with over the years.
Of the district, Mr. Harris said, “The education and academics are number one here.” He added that when Springfield students graduate, “they have what it takes to succeed.”
He also commended the staff. “All of the people here, you were hired because you are the best.”
He closed by encouraging others to become members of the Springfield community. “It’s such a great place to live.” ~Jane Maiolo
