DEDICATED TO THE FUTURE
Caton Hall Dedication
Trustee Emeritus Doug Caton, who during his tenure as Chair of the Board oversaw the complete refurbishment of the Arts and Sciences building now named Caton Hall in his family’s honor and the renovation of the new Art space above the Canteen.
September 18th provided the opportunity to publicly present Mr. Rick France, 13th Headmaster of the Miller School of Albemarle. Master of Ceremonies Mr. Peter Hufnagel, Dean of Faculty, remarked that “it is not difficult to see why Mr. France has had such a profound impact on his students, athletes, and co-workers during his forty-year educational career. While it is impossible to put into words exactly what Mr. France does that changes the lives of so many young people, one way to put it would be: ‘He teaches his athletes and coaches his students.’” The evening also afforded the introduction of Miller’s new Chair of the Board, Richard “Dick” Abidin. Mr. Abidin is president of CMS and Fielder’s Choice Enterprises in Charlottesville and has served on our board as a trustee and member of the executive committee since 2009; Mr. Abidin became Chair of the Board in July of this year. Since July, Mr. Abidin has taken on numerous projects here at the Miller School of Albemarle with enthusiasm and professionalism. He spearheaded the recent paving of the main entrance road this summer which, needless to say, is appreciated greatly by everyone who drives up the front hill to Miller School. In addition, Mr. Abidin has made significant contributions to the governance and organization of the board.
Cheif architects of the dedication ceremony Annie Knepper and Brad Bodager
University of Virginia School of Engineering Professor Kay Neeley, Chair of the Board Advancement Committee, acknowledged the generosity of donors to the Miller School of Albemarle’s new Bell Tower Society, which recognizes annual giving. Professor Neeley and her husband John Crafaik are parents of Miller graduates Arthur and Elliot. She was the prime mover behind the development and implementation of our new Design/Build preengineering curriculum here at the Miller School of Albemarle. Her efforts continue to support and enhance this program, which incorporates many of the core values of Samuel Miller as it builds the technological literacy of students as they proceed through the 21st century. This program will serve as one more way of keeping Miller School “on the map.”
Bell Tower Magazine • Fall/Winter 2010
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