I would expect there is a recurring theme in that some of our most memorable teachers were some of our most demanding. Judy Williams was no exception. I expect that she made an impact on Sara Stacy Dyer as well. Like all of us, Judy had her quirks. But she consistently turned out extraordinary, award-winning choral groups. Her reputation was legendary. So many of her students to this day (myself included) still participate in church and community groups and frequently are disappointed that they are not of the caliber of our high school choir. She not only taught us musicality and showmanship, but like a good coach, she demanded the best from each of us and simply would not accept anything else. I hope she realizes just what an impact she had on so many students.
I also value the attention to detail I learned from Liz Lockhart when she was the publications editor. Working on the yearbook was such a positive experience. Today I earn my living writing in a variety of formats. I owe much to the encouragement and attention to detail she provided that went well beyond grammar and punctuation. She helped me to understand the things that distinguish great writing from average writing--creating the "feel" for a piece, setting the mood, using the right voice, spending thirty minutes thumbing through the thesaurus to find just the right word--not to mention the importance of meeting deadlines.
I was surprised as well as a bit saddened when she left teaching to become a realtor, thinking of the many students who would not benefit from her guidance. But I am not at all surprised that she has done very well at it. She is one of those quiet go-getters who methodically does what needs to be done behind the scenes with little concern for public recognition. I am glad she is being recognized for her current efforts, because I am not sure she, like so many teachers, did not receive the recognition she deserved from her students and faculty peers.
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