HONORING JON – April , 2025 (works as Athletic Director at Colorado Academy)
Because my son, Jon, is being awarded 3A Athletic director of the Year at the director’s conference later this month, Jon’s girlfriend hosted a celebration party for him at her parent’s clubhouse Friday night. And her parents prepared the Italian dinner! Attendees at the party included several family members, me, a couple of aunts, his son and girlfriend, and a few cousins. Also, many people from his past two jobs and those who mentored him along the way were there to pay tribute to him.
The words and song “it takes a whole village to raise a child” came to mind as I reflected on the special evening honoring my son for his award. Indeed, as Jon was growing up, many people were influential his growth and achievements. They were role models taking him under their wings, and that village helped steer him in directions he never even pondered for his future career. Many are educators, and as we all know, teachers often influence our lives. We all have heroes and memories of those who were there to shape our journeys. And it was touching to have so many mentors recalling stories about him, some tales I had never heard. Those who were unable to attend sent notes that Christine read expressing their love and pride.
And just as important to this moment, Jon is now part of that cycle where he has a role in being one of the ‘village’ who helps to shape the lives of students and athletes he works with and coaches. This award honors his contribution to making a difference in other people’s lives. This was clear by the sharing from individuals and reading the touching notes to him that Christine borrowed from his office and carefully framed and placed on our tables along with beautiful flowers.
It was ironically, or not, also the same day as his father’s birthday, and he tearfully paid tribute to him, and had photos on the table to remember his contributions to this honor. He passed nearly 22 years ago, and now Jayden, my grandson, will be 21 this summer. It was great to see Jayden and meet his girlfriend, Petra, too and glad they were here to celebrate with him. It was a very memorable evening, and we were all proud to honor Jon at this moment of his life. May he continue this good work for the rest of his career, and life!