Regions Present Champion for Children Awards

Each year MASA regions present their own Champion for Children Award to an outstanding member of their community who has had a positive impact on education in their region. This year’s recipients are no exception.

Region 1 presented its award to Steve Freidhoff. Mr. Freidhoff is Technology Director at the Escanaba Middle School, where he won recognition for his service to children in the Escanaba community as a coach, parent volunteer, and technology director. “ Steve has had a significant impact on teachers and on students through his proactive leadership, dedication, and positive attitude while dealing with significant health issues, said MASA Region 1 President Robert Staple.”

Region 2 presented its award to Bud Hanel. Mr. Hanel is President of Inland Lakes Boosters, where he won recognition for his leadership and fundraising efforts that benefit the band, athletic programs and classrooms. “ Bud Hanel is neither wealthy nor well educated,” said Inland Lakes Schools Superintendent Dale Rieger. “What he might lack in financial or educational resources he more than makes up for through his spirit of optimism, his boundless energy, and his contagious desire to help others. The Champion for Children award is a fitting recognition for a wonderful person who has done so much for so many for so long.”

Region 3 will present its award to George Heartwell. Mr. Heartwell is Mayor of Grand Rapids where he earned recognition as a longtime volunteer in the Grand Rapids schools. “ Mayor Hartwell goes beyond simply using his bully pulpit on behalf of our shcools; he is there in person for our children. ‘Mr. Mayor’continues his personal mentoring relationships with our neediest children, despite the heavy responsibilities he carries. Mayor Heartwell is a true advocate for our public schools.”

Region 5 presented its award to Debbie Weiss. Ms. Weiss is the founder and president of the “Moms Who Care” program, which supports students, staff and community of Flushing High School. “ No one works harder in our community for the betterment of our students and staff than Debbie,” said Flushing High School Principal Gary R. Whitmire. “She is both the visionary and heart and soul of the Moms Who Care program. The students and staff of Flushing High School gain so much each and every year from the commitment of Debbie Weiss and the Moms Who Care.”

Region 6 presented its award to Margie Betz. Ms. Betz recently retired from her position as prevention specialist for the Eaton Intermediate Schools, where she left her mark as a supporter for students, teachers, administrators, parents, and community members of both Eaton and Ingham Counties. “ Margie is a true Champion for Children,” said Eaton ISD Superintendent, Al Widner. “Whenever someone starts a sentence with 'I need…' Margie is there asking, 'What can I do to help?' Margie has secured many recognition awards for others. Now it's time for Margie's efforts to be recognized.”

Region 7 presented its award to David Farrell. Mr. Farrell is retired fifth grade teacher at the Colon Community Schools, where he has taken on the responsibility for the district’s Grandparent Mentoring Program. “ Mr. Farrell was willing to build the program from just a concept," said Region 7 President, Carole Schmidt. "His dedication has gone above and beyond the program's expectations. The students' increasing test scores are tied to his dedicated servie to the youth of Colon. Mentoring is magical in the 'Home of the Magi' thanks to Mr. Farrell.”

Region 8 presented its award to Robert DuBois. Mr. DuBois is Summit Township Clerk and a consultant with the Jackson Public Schools and Education Associates. As a retired school administrator and active community leader, Mr. DuBois has earned respect for his lifetime of service on behalf of children. “ Bob DuBois is remarkable in his ability to motivate people, young and old, to rise to any challenge, overcome any obstacle, and strive for success,” said John M. Graves, Jackson County Intermediate School District Superintendent. “Bob DuBois believes in kids. He has been a true Champion for Children for over 45 years.”

If you have any questions, feel free to call Linda Wacyk at lwacyk@gomasa.org 517.327.9268.