Congratulations to MASA member Gary Faber from West Bloomfield Schools. Faber received the 2008 Dr. Seymour Gretchko Youth Advocate Award in May at Greater West Bloomfield Michigan Week Awards Breakfast. Faber, who will retire in July, replaced Gretchko as superintendent in 2002.

“He’s a phenomenal man and very fitting to replace Dr. Gretchko who was so well-loved,” said Cameron Thomas-Shah, last year’s Gretchko award winner and 2007 West Bloomfield High School graduate. “If I had a problem, (Faber) was the person I went to. He’s very deserving of this award.”

Faber started his career in West Bloomfield Schools in 1983 and has served as high school principal and deputy superintendent. He has received many honors including Principal of the Year for the sate in 1992 and Superintendent of the Year for Region 9 in 2006-07.

“Our district has faced some difficult times for a while but when things get difficult you have to be more aggressive to raise the spirits of the community,” said Faber, referring to budget issues. “I’m very proud of the faculty and staff who have worked so hard to positively impact the children, parents and the community as whole. We stood forward and faced the wind and always made what we believed was the right decision for children.”

Other groups and individuals were also recognized for their volunteer efforts and community service.

“We are fortunate to live with such wonderful givers and volunteers as those recognized today,” said Debbie Macon, of the awards committee. “Our entire community is fortunate so many of them choose to live in Greater West Bloomfield.”
The Friendship Circle in West Bloomfield received the Gretchko award for an organization. The Friendship Circle is a nonprofit organization that supports and provides programs for children and families with special needs.