Local People

Last Updated on Sunday, 31 May 2015 03:27

The Washington County Community Foundation annouces awards.

Thomas Trettel

The Washington County Community Foundation (WCCF) has named Thomas Trettel, an English teacher from Trinity High School, as the recipient of this year's Dr. Howard Jack Outstanding Public Educator Award. Criteria for the award are that the educator inspires students of all abilities, has earned the respect of colleagues, students, and parents, and is actively engaged in the community.
After graduating from Charleroi High School, Trettel graduated from California State Teachers College (now California University of Pennsylvania) in 1977. At the time, he was hoping to be a journalist, but since the college offered no journalism program, he opted for an English degree and discovered his passion for education while conducting his student teaching.
Trettel has spent the last 38 years in the classroom and has taught students of all abilities from grades 7 to 12. He taught in both Avella School District and Parkersburg, West Virginia, before being hired by Trinity Area School District in 1983. He spent 15 years at Trinity Middle School and then moved to Trinity High School, working mostly with alternative education program participants (at-risk youth, special education students, and those in the judicial system).

Dave Richards

The Washington County Community Foundation (WCCF) selected Dave Richards to receive its annual Louis E. Waller Humanitarian Award. The award recognizes a local individual or organization devoted to the promotion of human welfare or the advancement of social reform as evidenced by humanitarian deeds in the community, whether local, national, or international.
Through his involvement with the Blue Knights (a non-profit fraternal organization consisting of active and retired law enforcement officers who enjoy riding motorcycles) and Washington Lodge No. 164 Free & Accepted Masons, Richards has spent over a decade as the lead organizer of the Blue Ride, a popular local motorcycle ride that benefits local charities. To date, the Blue Ride has raised more than $347,000.