In recognition of unwavering dedication years and outstanding commitment to the students at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf, serving with distinction for over 25 years.
List of honorable biography of Rev. John G. Brown Service, based on chronology date order of the award.
Michael Adams
Michael Adams joined WPSD in 1973 as a physical education teacher. A former college soccer player, he also took on the role of varsity soccer coach that same year. After fifteen years, he stepped down from coaching but continued to serve in other leadership roles, including Varsity Letter Club Advisor in 1974 and Student Council Advisor from 1983 to 2000.
Adams retired in 2012 after 39 years of service. His name sign is both “A” handshapes moving in a motion resembling “gym.”
He received the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award in 2023
Rev. Brewster R. Allabough
Brewster R. Allabough graduated from the Wisconsin School for the Deaf and earned his degree from Gallaudet University in 1884. Before joining the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), he worked for a life insurance firm in New York.
In 1886, he was hired by WPSD as Supervisor of Boys. Five years later, in 1891, he transitioned to a teaching position. After 25 years of dedicated service, he retired in 1911, the first recorded retirement in WPSD’s history. Following his retirement, he was ordained as an Episcopal minister, serving the adult deaf community.
An active leader in the deaf community, Allabough served as President of the Pennsylvania Society for the Advancement of the Deaf (PSAD) from 1900 to 1908.
In recognition of his lifelong service, he was posthumously honored by the WPSD Alumni Association with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award in 2017.
Henry Bardes
Henry Bardes graduated from the Ohio Institute for the Deaf and Dumb in 1881. The following year, he was hired by the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) as a vocational instructor. By 1886, Henry introduced students to advanced techniques, including replacing soles, polishing shoes with machinery, and crafting sports gear like baseball mitts, balls, and nose guards. His shoemaking classes also produced gym slippers for boys and girls when the Porterville Gymnasium opened in 1910.
Bardes went on to become the longest-serving vocational instructor in WPSD history, dedicating 47 years to the school before retiring in 1928 at the age of 70. He passed away on May 22, 1943, at the age of 82. In recognition of his service, the Alumni Association posthumously honored him with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award in 2014.
Adolph Binotto
Adolph Binotto enrolled at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) in 1910 and graduated in 1922. Immediately following his graduation, he was hired by the school as a Boys’ Supervisor role he faithfully held for 38 years until his passing in January 1961.
Adolph married Anna Butala (Class of 1934), who worked as a houseparent at WPSD for 43 years. The couple lived in the second-floor apartment on the Boys’ Side until her retirement, becoming a constant and caring presence in the lives of generations of students.
Adolph was widely recognized and loved for his dedication and unique presence on campus. His sign name—a “B” handshape scratching the right ear—was a nod to his physical distinction, as he was born without ears. Remarkably, he was known for interpreting Pittsburgh Pirates baseball scores from the radio by placing his nose close to the speaker, feeling the vibrations travel through his face and into his inner ear. His ingenuity and passion for sharing the game’s results made him a memorable figure among students and staff.
In recognition of his unwavering passion, unconditional commitment, and enduring service to WPSD, the Alumni Association posthumously honored Adolph Binotto with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award in 2005. He was the first alumnus to receive this prestigious award, marking his legacy within the WPSD community.
Gregg Bowers
Greg Bowers began his WPSD career in 1973 as a part-time dormitory counselor. Demonstrating strong leadership, he was promoted to Dean of Boys in January 1978 and took on the role of Varsity Letter Club advisor from 1979 to 1992. In 1990, he advanced to Dean of Students. His upward trajectory continued when, in 2008, the Superintendent appointed him Assistant Superintendent—a position that was retitled Chief Operating Officer in 2010.
After 37 years of dedicated service, Bowers retired in December 2014. His name sign is a “G” handshape placed on the left side of the chest. Throughout his career, he earned numerous honors, including the Outstanding Professional Service Award in 1996 and 2004, the Superintendent’s Award in 2010 and 2014, and the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award from the WPSD Alumni Association in 2020.
Harry L. Branson
Before joining the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), Harry Branson served as editor of the Ohio Chronicle and taught printing at the Ohio School for the Deaf in 1886. In 1890, he became city editor of the Toledo Daily News. He was hired by WPSD in February 1892 as a printing instructor and went on to become the longest-serving editor of the school newspaper, The Western Pennsylvanian (WPAN), from 1893 to 1919. He also published The Little Pennsylvanian for younger readers during the 1907–08 school year.
Due to declining health, Harry was unable to resume his duties and left WPSD after 27 years of service, returning to his former home in Columbus, Ohio. He passed away on February 25, 1919. In 2017, the Alumni Association posthumously honored him with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award.
Rosemary Burke
Rosemary Burke began her long and dedicated career at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) in 1947 as a teacher. She was promoted to Supervising Teacher of the Lower Primary Department in 1953 and took on additional responsibilities as administrator of the Nursery School in 1956. In 1962, she became Principal of the Nursery School and Primary Department. She developed the school’s first preschool program in 1966 and was later appointed Director of the Lower School in 1970. In 1979, she established the innovative Parent-Infant Program and returned to lead the Nursery School as its Director that same year.
Rosemary retired in 1982, concluding 35 years of remarkable service to WPSD. After retirement, she returned to her hometown of Steubenville, Ohio, where she passed away on August 6, 1996, at the age of 72. She is buried there. Her sign name was formed with the handshape “B” chopped twice on the wrist. In recognition of her lifelong commitment to deaf education, the Alumni Association posthumously honored Rosemary Burke with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award in 2023.
Dr. James Burt
Dr. James Burt, son of Superintendent Dr. William Burt, spent his childhood on the WPSD campus, growing up among Deaf friends and the daily life of the school. From 1892 to 1894, he played football and baseball for WPSD’s teams, serving as team captain in 1893. His path led him into medicine, where he became Chief Surgeon at Allegheny General Hospital. In 1914, he returned to WPSD in a new role — as a member of the Board of Trustees. His lifelong ties to the school gave him a unique understanding of its students, staff, and mission. For 38 years, he shared his knowledge, insight, and dedication to advancing the school’s future. Dr. Burt passed away on January 19, 1952, remembered not only for his professional achievements, but also for a lifetime of connection to the community that had shaped his youth.
In recognition of his lifelong commitment to deaf education, the Alumni Association posthumously honored Dr. James Burt with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award in 2023.
Anthony Crino
Anthony Crino enrolled at WPSD but left in 1944. He played both soccer and basketball, and while he was skilled in both sports, he was especially known as a star basketball player during his school years.
After leaving WPSD as a student, he was invited to return and work at the school. Over the decades, he held a variety of roles, taking on many odd jobs and later contributing significantly to the athletics program. From 1976 to 1986, he served as a basketball assistant coach and junior varsity coach. He retired in 1993 after more than 45 years of dedicated service to WPSD.
In the wider Deaf community, Anthony earned a strong reputation as a gifted basketball player, competing for deaf clubs across the country. His impact on the sport was recognized with his induction into both the Eastern Athletic Association of the Deaf Hall of Fame and the American Athletic Association of the Deaf Hall of Fame in 1986. At the WPSD Alumni Reunion in 1987, he was also honored with the Athletic Hall of Fame Award.
Anthony Crino passed away on February 16, 2009, at the age of 85. In his memory, the WPSD Alumni Association, along with his family and friends, dedicated a tree in front of the gymnasium to honor his life and legacy.
He received the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award in 2023.
Wesley Dickson
Wesley Dickson, originally from Greensburg, enrolled at WPSD and graduated in 1948. During his school years, he was a dedicated athlete who played both soccer and basketball, helping his team to win the ESDAA Basketball Championship in 1948.
After graduation, Wesley attended Gallaudet College (now Gallaudet University), earning his degree in 1953. He returned to WPSD in 1955 to teach in the school’s printing shop, launching a career in education that would span decades. Alongside teaching, he joined the school’s basketball program as an assistant varsity coach and as the junior varsity coach.
Wesley retired from teaching in 1982 after 27 years of service but remained deeply involved with the school. In 1994, he joined the WPSD Board of Trustees, serving until his full retirement in 2017. Altogether, Wesley dedicated 50 years of service to WPSD.
He was also a committed member of the WPSD Alumni Association for 18 years, serving as President (1960–62), Trustee (1965–72), and Member at Large (1993–96, 2005–11). Wesley generously supported the school’s “Sharing the Future” initiative, further demonstrating his lifelong devotion to its mission.
In recognition of his many contributions, Wesley received numerous honors, including the WPSD Outstanding Alumni Award of the Year (1995), the Alumni Merit Award and Athletic Hall of Fame induction (2005), and the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award (2020).
Wesley Dickson’s legacy embodies the spirit of commitment, versatility, and service that have long supported the daily life and enduring success of the WPSD community. He passed away on December 20, 2019, at the age of 90.
A.U. Downing
Abishai U. Downing began his career in deaf education in 1883 at the Ohio Institute for the Deaf and Dumb. In 1890, he joined the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) as a teacher, marking the beginning of a distinguished 43-year tenure that left a lasting impression on both the school and the broader Deaf community.
At WPSD, Mr. Downing was known for his strong commitment to English language development. He founded the “English Language Club,” an initiative aimed at improving students’ spelling, vocabulary, and written expression. The club also reflected a then-common educational philosophy that prioritized spoken and written English over the use of sign language—a method that stirred ongoing debate in deaf education circles of the time. While his emphasis on English mirrored the oralist approach of the era, his dedication to student learning was unwavering.
Mr. Downing also contributed to the spirit and identity of the school in symbolic ways. He designed a blue school flag with gold lettering (W.P.S.D.), which was formally presented to the school during a ceremony on May 30, 1923. The flag became a proud emblem of school unity and pride.
Beyond the classroom, Mr. Downing was a dedicated interpreter and volunteer, offering his services at school events, Pennsylvania Society for the Advancement of the Deaf (PSAD) meetings, and throughout the Deaf community. His efforts helped bridge communication between Deaf and hearing individuals during a time when accessible interpreting services were rare.
After retiring in 1933, Mr. Downing remained a respected figure in the community. He passed away on January 19, 1947, at the age of 94. In honor of his lifelong service, his portrait was hung in the WPSD conference room as a tribute to his memory and influence.
In 2017, the WPSD Alumni Association posthumously awarded him the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to education and community life.
Dan Emerick
Daniel Emerick began his long and devoted career at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) in 1979 as a physical education teacher. Over the next 34 years, he became a beloved figure on campus—valued not only for his teaching but also for his tireless dedication to student development through athletics and community service.
Dan’s passion for coaching was evident from the start. He served as head coach for the wrestling team (1979–1981), the boys’ track team (1980–1993), and the girls’ track team (1991–1993). He also coached junior varsity soccer from 1980 to 1983 and later became assistant coach for the varsity soccer team (1984–1988). His leadership and mentorship helped countless student-athletes build confidence, discipline, and team spirit.
Known for his deep compassion and advocacy, Dan was especially supportive of students with special needs. He was actively involved in the Special Olympics, devoting his time and energy to ensure all students had the opportunity to participate and shine in athletics.
Even beyond the classroom and playing fields, Dan remained committed to the Deaf community. He was deeply involved with the Western Pennsylvania Deaf Senior Citizens group, volunteering his time and support even after the passing of his own parents. His caring spirit and steady presence made him a beloved figure in both the school and the wider community.
Daniel Emerick retired in 2012 after 34 years of service. He passed away unexpectedly on January 24, 2013, at the age of 57. In recognition of his lasting impact, he was posthumously remembered for receiving the Superintendent’s Award at WPSD in 1995, an honor that reflected his outstanding service and influence on campus life. In 2015, WPSD established the Annual Fitness Walk in his memory, celebrating his passion for health, fitness, and student involvement. In 2023, the WPSD Alumni Association posthumously honored Dan with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award for his unwavering commitment to students, athletics, and the Deaf community.
Marie Gidea
Marie Gidea began her teaching career at the West Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind before joining the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) in 1916 as an oral teacher. Known for her dedication to language development and student success, she devoted four decades of her life to educating deaf children at WPSD.
Throughout her career, Miss Gidea was deeply committed to the broader mission of supporting deaf education. According to media reports, she served on a committee that successfully raised funds for both WPSD and DePaul School for Hearing and Speech—not just once, but on four separate occasions. Her efforts helped secure vital resources for programs serving deaf and hard-of-hearing students in the Pittsburgh area.
Miss Gidea retired in 1956 after 40 years of outstanding service to WPSD. She passed away on October 14, 1981, in Riverside, California, at the age of 94.
In recognition of her lifelong dedication to deaf education and community service, the WPSD Alumni Association posthumously honored Marie Gidea with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award in 2017.
Milford Holliday
Milford Holliday began his career at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) in 1935, where he served as a dedicated teacher for 33 years. He was widely respected for his expressive and influential signing, which made a lasting impact on both his students and colleagues. Within the Deaf community, he was affectionately known by his sign name—the sign for “holiday”—a fitting tribute to his cheerful spirit and clear communication style.
In addition to his classroom teaching, Mr. Holliday was a frequent volunteer, offering his signing skills to support school events and community activities. His contributions extended beyond instruction; he played a role in shaping the cultural and linguistic environment of WPSD during his tenure.
After retiring in 1968, Mr. Holliday enjoyed a long and fulfilling retirement. He passed away on October 11, 1997, at the age of 93.
In recognition of his service and lasting influence on the WPSD community, the Alumni Association posthumously honored Milford Holliday with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award in 2014.
Calvin John
At the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), Calvin John was an active student-athlete, playing both soccer and basketball. In 1948, he was part of the WPSD basketball team that won the ESDAA Championship.
Before coming to WPSD, Calvin worked in a bakery but was laid off. In 1951, WPSD offered him a job as a janitor, beginning a long and dedicated career. Later, in 1969, he joined Five Starr Service as a bakery worker. He retired in December 1992, completing 41 years of loyal service to the school and its community.
Calvin was affectionately known by his sign name — “K” handshape moving from the right chest to the opposite side.
He passed away on November 17, 1994, at the age of 64. In recognition of his decades of service and commitment, the WPSD Alumni Association honored him posthumously with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award in 2023.
James Mackin
James Mackin began his career at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) in 1927 as a vocational teacher, where he taught painting skills to generations of young boys. Known for his steady guidance and hands-on instruction, Mr. Mackin helped prepare students for meaningful careers in the trades.
In 1946, he took on an additional role as head coach of the Boys’ Basketball Team. Under his leadership, WPSD claimed the Eastern Schools for the Deaf Athletic Association (ESSDAA) Championship in 1948, followed by a 2nd place finish in 1949 and 1955, and 3rd place in 1956. Over the course of his coaching career, his teams earned 73 victories and 88 defeats, reflecting both competitive spirit and long-standing commitment to student athletics.
Mr. Mackin retired in 1961 after 34 years of dedicated service. He passed away on September 18, 1981.
In recognition of his contributions to vocational education and athletic excellence at WPSD, the Alumni Association posthumously honored James Mackin with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award in 2017.
Dr. Arthur C. Manning
1921 – 1946
Dr. Arthur C. Manning was born in Marietta, Georgia, and pursued his higher education at Emory University in Atlanta, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 1902. Shortly after graduation, he was appointed as a Normal Fellow and Research Assistant in the Department of Articulation at the Columbia Institution for the Deaf (now Gallaudet University) in 1903, laying the foundation for his lifelong career in deaf education.
In 1910, Mr. Manning joined the faculty of the Pennsylvania School for the Deaf as a teacher. During World War I (1918–1919), he was called into national service as Chief of the Educational Service at the U.S. Army General Hospital in Cape May, New Jersey, where he oversaw the rehabilitation and education of deafened soldiers.
In 1919, the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) hired Arthur Manning as its first Assistant Superintendent, and he also taught upper-grade classes in the academic department. After the death of Superintendent Dr. William Burt in 1921, Mr. Manning was appointed as WPSD’s sixth Superintendent—a position he held with distinction for 27 years.
Dr. Manning’s tenure spanned an era of tremendous change. He navigated complex challenges including the expansion of oral methods, the growth of vocational training, the hardships of the Great Depression, and evolving policies on the education of hard-of-hearing students. Despite these pressures, he successfully advanced teacher training programs, promoted literacy, and fostered student responsibility. Under his leadership, student government was established, giving students a voice in school affairs.
A strong advocate for youth development, Dr. Manning developed a vibrant Scouting program at WPSD and served as a leader in the East Borough Council of the Boy Scouts of America.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he was awarded two honorary degrees: a Doctor of Laws from Grove City College in 1939 and a Doctor of Humane Letters from Gallaudet University in 1945.
Dr. Manning retired on October 31, 1946, after nearly three decades of transformative leadership. He passed away on June 6, 1960, at the age of 82. That same year, he was inducted into the WPSD Alumni Association Hall of Fame. In 2017, the Alumni Association posthumously honored him with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award, cementing his legacy as one of WPSD’s most influential and visionary leaders.
John McCune, Jr.
John McCune, Jr., represented the third generation of the McCune family to serve the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD). In 1923, he joined the Board of Trustees, stepping in to fill the seat previously held by his father. Continuing a proud family tradition of leadership and service, Mr. McCune became Vice President of the Board in 1927 and was later elected President in 1958—a role he held with distinction until his passing on October 11, 1972.
Over the course of 49 years, John McCune, Jr. provided steady guidance during times of growth and change, always prioritizing the needs of the school and its students. His legacy is one of dedication, continuity, and deep commitment to WPSD’s mission.
In 2023, the WPSD Alumni Association posthumously honored John McCune, Jr. with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award, recognizing not only his decades of leadership but also the enduring contributions of the McCune family, whose three generations played a vital role in shaping the school’s history.
We remember and honor not only John McCune, Jr., but also his father and grandfather, whose combined legacy of service to WPSD remains unmatched.
Tom McMullin
Tom McMullin began his career at WPSD in 1968 as a dormitory counselor before becoming a teacher from 1969 to 1979, and again from 1995 to 1999. Between 1975 and 1979, he added the role of counseling teacher to his responsibilities. In 1979, he was promoted to General Program Director, a position retitled Special Studies Director in 1984. He further expanded his duties as Vocational Director in 1985, then became Supervisor of Vocational & Evaluation in 1991. In 1995, McMullin returned to classroom teaching, continuing until his retirement in 1999 after 31 years of service.
Beyond the classroom, McMullin coached freshman soccer and track, as well as junior varsity wrestling. He also served as varsity track coach for four years beginning in 1974.
His name sign is a “claw” handshape tapping on the cheek. In recognition of his contributions, the WPSD Alumni Association presented him with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award in 2008.
Janice Neleigh
Janice Neliegh was hired by WPSD in 1965 as a physical education teacher for girls. Serving as the varsity coach for all girls’ sports, she worked diligently to establish interscholastic opportunities for female athletes.
Under Head Coach Neleigh’s leadership, the girls’ sports programs included:
- Volleyball (1966–1978)
- Basketball (1966–1977)
- Softball (1967)
- Field Hockey (1968)
- Soccer (1973–1976)
- Tennis (1976–1981)
She was also the first advisor of the Girls’ Athletic Association, serving from 1965 to 1991.
Janice retired in 1991 after 26 years of dedicated service. Her sign name was the letter “N” tapped twice on the left side of the chest.
WPSD acknowledges, “The present program of girls’ sports at WPSD owes much to Jan’s relentless advocacy for equal opportunities in athletics.”
Chris Noschese
Chris Noschese earned his bachelor’s degree from Bethany College in West Virginia before joining WPSD as a dormitory counselor from 1972 to 1976 and again from 1978 to 1979. He began teaching in 1973 and took on additional responsibilities as Dormitory Director of High School Boys from 1976 to 1978.
Throughout his career, Noschese was deeply involved in student life, serving as class advisor for the classes of 1975, 1998, and 2001. He also advised the Student Body Government from 1999 to 2003 and was Varsity Letter Club Advisor from 1976 to 1986. After 35 years of dedicated service, he retired in 2007 but continues to support the school community by volunteering as a substitute teacher.
Chris’s commitment to WPSD extends to his family: his wife Cheryl retired as a dormitory counselor, and their son Aaron worked as Chief Operating Officer (COO), furthering the family’s lasting connection to the school.
His name sign is the “F” handshape, signed like the word “fruit.”
In 2014, the WPSD Alumni Association honored him with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award and invited him to become an honorary member, recognizing his lifelong dedication to the school and its students.
Elmer Read
Elmer Read was born on February 2, 1876, the fourth child of Rev. Frank and Cassie Read, both of whom were deaf. Raised in a family devoted to the Deaf community, Elmer continued that legacy through a lifetime of service in Deaf education and youth leadership.
Before joining the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), Elmer taught at the Central New York Institution for the Deaf-Mutes in Rome, New York. In 1906, he transitioned to WPSD, where he spent the next 32 years as a dedicated teacher and mentor.
One of Elmer’s most lasting contributions was the establishment of Boy Scout Troop 2 of Edgewood in 1913, where he served as the first Scoutmaster. Under his guidance, the troop thriving building several log cabins on campus using discarded lumber, and engaging in hands-on projects, including early experiments with electricity. His leadership not only fostered practical skills but also character development and community involvement among deaf youth.
Elmer was unable to resume his duties in September 1938 due to declining health and officially concluded his service after 32 years at WPSD. He passed away on March 2, 1939, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, leadership, and devotion to deaf education.
In recognition of his contributions, Elmer Read was inducted into the WPSD Alumni Association Hall of Fame in 1955. In 2017, he was posthumously honored with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award, commemorating his remarkable service and influence on generations of students.
Elmer’s legacy extended through his family as well: his brother Frank Read served as Superintendent of the Oklahoma School for the Deaf from 1915 to 1920, and another brother, Utten Read, was both a teacher and a minister to the deaf—further exemplifying the Read family’s deep and lasting impact on the Deaf community.
Vince Ruscavage
Vince Ruscavage earned his bachelor’s degree from Penn State University. In March 1979, WPSD hired him as a teacher, where he taught students in the General Program as well as in the Elementary and Middle Schools. He dedicated 32 years to the school before retiring in 2011.
His sign name is “VR,” fingerspelled on the side of his forehead. Currently, Vince helps organize monthly luncheons for WPSD retirees and former staff, providing an opportunity to reconnect with and share memories.
Ada (Mundinger) Sapko
Ada Mundinger Sapko was born in Saskatchewan, Canada, and moved to the United States to begin her career in deaf education. She joined the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) in 1954 as a classroom teacher. After two years, she accepted teaching positions at the Lutheran School for the Deaf in Detroit, Michigan (1956), and then at Mill Neck Manor Lutheran School for the Deaf in New York City (1958), gaining valuable experience in diverse educational settings.
WPSD welcomed Ada back in 1960, when she resumed teaching and quickly became a respected leader. In 1969, she was appointed Dean of Girls, and the following year, she was also named a Consulting Teacher, advising and supporting faculty. In 1974, she was promoted to Dean of Students, and in 1978, she advanced to the position of Upper School Director, overseeing academic and student life for older students.
Ada served WPSD for a total of 28 years, until her untimely passing from cancer on June 4, 1985, while still actively working in her role. Her leadership, compassion, and deep commitment left a lasting impression on students and staff alike.
Within the Deaf community, Ada was known for her evolving sign name—initially the letter “M” like “Monday” (for Mundinger), and later “S” like “Saturday” (for Sapko, after her marriage). This personal detail reflects the affection and respect she earned from those who knew her.
To honor her memory, the Class of 1987 presented a portrait of Ada to be hung in the lobby of the Girls’ Dormitory, ensuring that her presence would continue to inspire future generations. In 2005, the WPSD Alumni Association posthumously awarded Ada Mundinger Sapko the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award, recognizing her lifetime of service, leadership, and unwavering devotion to the school and its students.
Virginia Schatz
Virginia Schatz began her remarkable career at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) in an unexpected yet memorable way. One day in 1959, Superintendent Sam Craig, a fellow member of Edgewood Presbyterian Church, was struck by how clearly, he could read her lips as she sang a soprano solo. Impressed by her clarity and presence, he offered her a position as a rhythm teacher at WPSD—a role that would begin her 28-year journey of service to the Deaf community.
Virginia’s influence at WPSD grew steadily over the years. In addition to her work in rhythm education, she became Consulting Teacher of Fine Arts from 1972 to 1977 and again from 1984 to 1985. In 1976, she was appointed Director of Community Affairs, a role later renamed Director of Community Relations in 1978. In this position, she fostered strong relationships between the school and the wider community, advocating for programs, outreach, and public support until her retirement in 1987.
Known affectionately by her sign name, which resembled the sign for “soda pop – shot”, Virginia was a lively and engaging presence on campus. She brought joy and dedication to everything she did, whether through the arts, student engagement, or public relations.
Virginia passed away in September 2017 at the age of 95. In recognition of her continued volunteerism even after retirement, she received the Outstanding Volunteer Award at WPSD in 1997. In 2020, the WPSD Alumni Association honored her posthumously with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award, acknowledging her enduring impact on the school and community.
Her legacy extended through her devoted family: her husband, Edward Schatz, served as President of the Board of Trustees from 1982 until his passing in 1996 and her daughter, Eleanor Magyar, taught at WPSD for 34 years. Together, the Schatz family exemplified lifelong commitment to the mission and values of WPSD.
John Stanton
After graduating from WPSD in 1926, John Stanton returned to the school in 1930 as an assistant woodshop instructor. He later became a full-time instructor and dedicated 38 years of service until his retirement in 1968.
A pioneering scoutmaster, John was the first Eagle Scout at WPSD. He earned both the Bronze and Gold Palms and was honored as the Outstanding Scout Leader of the Year in 1955. Two years later, he received the prestigious Silver Beaver Award. In 1958, he became the advisor for Explorer Post 20.
John’s sign name was represented by a “1” handshape mimicking a screw motion on the neck. He passed away on March 23, 1983, at the age of 80.
Margaret (Piel) Stanton
Margaret Piel began her journey at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) in 1926 through the school’s “Training-in-Teaching” program. Following her successful training, she was hired as a full-time teacher in 1927, launching what would become a distinguished 40-year career in education.
During the 1932–33 school year, Margaret married John Stanton, a member of the WPSD Class of 1926. Together, they became a beloved and respected couple within the school community.
Margaret was also known for her passionate leadership in the Girl Scout program, serving as Director of all Girl Scout Activities at WPSD. Her work left a lasting mark, and in recognition of her outstanding service, she received the highest honor awarded by the National Headquarters of the Girl Scouts of the USA on June 9, 1957—a testament to her dedication to empowering young girls.
She retired in 1967 after 40 years of service to WPSD. Margaret passed away on April 9, 1995, at the age of 91.
In 2023, both John and Margaret Stanton were posthumously honored with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award, recognizing their lifelong devotion to the mission and community of WPSD.
Connie Stepien
Connie Stepien was appointed Dean of Girls at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) in 1979. She was later promoted to Assistant Dean of Students in 1990, a role she held until her retirement in 2007. Even after stepping down, Connie continued her dedication to the school, working as a part-time interpreter for the Superintendent until her second retirement in 2016. Altogether, she devoted 37 years of service to WPSD. She passed away on November 21, 2021, at the age of 77.
Connie’s sign name was the letter “C” tapped on the chin, a familiar and respected sign across campus.
Connie’s legacy of service extended through her family: her husband, Carl Stepien, served as the Girls’ Basketball Coach for two years, and their daughter, Carrie, continues the family’s commitment by working at WPSD.
During her career, Connie was recognized for her excellence and dedication with the Superintendent’s Award in 1996 and the Outstanding Professional Service Award in 2005. In 2023, the Alumni Association posthumously honored her with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award, celebrating her enduring influence and unwavering support of the WPSD community.
George M. Teegarden
George M. Teegarden was born on March 11, 1852, in Greene County, Pennsylvania, before his family moved to Iowa. He graduated from the Iowa School for the Deaf in 1871 and went on to the National Deaf-Mute College (now Gallaudet University), earning his bachelor’s degree in 1876 — the same year WPSD hired him as one of the first three teachers at its new residential campus in Turtle Creek.
In 1889, Teegarden founded and oversaw the school’s printing department, a pioneering venture that gave students hands-on vocational training and a platform for expression. From this press came The Holiday Gazette, WPSD’s first school newsletter, which brought campus news, student writings, and community updates to life. Its inaugural issue, published on December 25, 1890, quickly became a cherished tradition, reflecting the spirit and growth of the school.
Deeply devoted to teaching English, Teegarden authored several books and adapted classic fairy tales, fables, and myths into written, translatable American Sign Language. His works included The Raindrop (1880) and Stories Old and New (1896).
On June 30, 1895, he married Celia Maul, a former WPSD student.
Teegarden served the school for an extraordinary 48 years, retiring in June 1924 as its longest-tenured teacher. He passed away on November 14, 1936. He was inducted into the WPSD Alumni Association Hall of Fame in 1958. In 1959, the school soccer field was named Teegarden Field, and in 2005 he was posthumously awarded the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award.
Bernard Teitelbaum
Bernard Teitelbaum graduated from Gallaudet College in 1923 and joined WPSD as a teacher the following year. His name sign was the letter “R” tapped on the right forehead.
Beyond the classroom, Teitelbaum was actively involved in the Boy Scout program and served for many years as advisor to the senior class. He retired in 1962 after 38 years of dedicated service to the school.
In declining health, he moved to the Columbus Colony Care Center in Columbus, Ohio, where he passed away on June 27, 1984, at the age of 83. In 2014, the WPSD Alumni Association posthumously honored him with the Rev. John G. Brown Service Award.
James Toner
After graduating from the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), James Toner began a long and dedicated career at his alma mater. In 1970, he accepted a position as a dormitory counselor and served in that role for 36 years until his retirement in 2006.
Jim’s passion for athletics and student development extended far beyond the dormitory. He served as an assistant wrestling coach in 1971, then led the Junior Varsity Wrestling Team from 1971 to 1976 and again from 1979 to 1985. He also coached the Freshman Wrestling Team from 1975 to 1976. In 1990, Jim was promoted to Varsity Wrestling Coach, a position he held until the program was discontinued in 1998.
In addition to wrestling, Jim coached the freshman soccer team from 1979 to 1985 and the Mighty Mites soccer team from 1988 to 1992. He also served as the Varsity Track Assistant Coach during multiple periods (1981–1985, 1989, and 1994–2004), and he was the Varsity Letter Club Advisor from 1991 to 2004. Known for his reliability and care, Jim personally transported students to games, activities, and their homes on a weekly basis.
Beyond athletics, Jim gave decades of service to the WPSD Alumni Association as a trustee, serving from 1981 to 2002 and again from 2008 to 2014—a total of 27 years. He also contributed generously to the Sharing the Future campaign and the Alumni Giving Tree.
In recognition of his lifelong service and contributions, Jim received several of the school’s highest honors:
- Outstanding Alumni Award (2001)
- Alumni Merit Award (2005)
- Rev. John G. Brown Services Award (2014)
Provided by Stephen Rute, WPSD Class of 1974 who spend his time for the research on alumni awards. This would not have been possible without his support in our WPSD Alumni Association.