07 May Foundation Files: Waldhauer’s memory preserved
Best Selling Author and National Teacher Hall of Fame Inductee, Kim Bearden came and spoke to the staff of USD 418 during the 2022 Waldhauer Hour
In 2006 the Lisa Waldhauer Memorial Fund was established in the memory of Former McPherson High School Teacher Lisa Waldhauer. The fund was established with the intent of continuing Lisa’s passion for teaching and the advancement of students. The fund has supported both McPherson Middle School and High School since its establishment, most notably by funding the ‘Walhouer Hour”. The ‘Waldhouer Hour’ pays for a speaker to come and present to either students or teachers. Through these speakers the fund hopes to provide students and faculty with new perspectives and motivate them to be their best.
Article originally from McPherson Sentinel – Dec. of 2007 – Contributed by Ted Morris
Lisa Waldhauer moved to McPherson in 2001 from Findlay, Ohio, teaching government and history at McPherson High School. Lisa was following in the footsteps of a beloved teacher, Leon Pauls. It soon became clear that Lisa was going to build her own legacy.
Lisa’s quick wit, dedication and infectious smile quickly endeared all who crossed paths with Lisa. She was more than a teacher to many of her students.
She had a way to challenge the brightest students and work with any student who was making an effort. But Lord help the student who had the capability but who would not apply themselves.
Lisa was diagnosed with cancer in June 2004. After a valiant two-year fight, she ultimately lost the batte with the cruel arid non-discriminatory disease, in July 2006.
One of her students commented that “Heaven must have needed a fantastic teacher, because she was the best on earth.”
This mutual love and respect with her students was shown in many ways. After her passing, the senior class of 2006 purchased these medallions on the school sign and dedicated them in her honor.
Student Government, or “Stugo,” was one of the organizations at the school that Lisa volunteered her time to. Led by a select few caring students and friends, Stugo constructed a memorial, garden at the entrance to the high school nearest to her classroom.
It is because of the love and· caring of her students and Lisa’s passion for their advancement that the Lisa Waldhauer Memorial Fund was established in August 2006. Initial contributions and support from the McPherson community and around the country was overwhelming.
A donor advisory board. consisting of Kim Morris, Carla Williamson, Jeannie Odle and Marsha Silver was formed to help direct the fund, the purpose of which is to provide a resource for educational enrichment opportunities in McPherson. Examples of programs include funding for class programs, educational field trips, scholarships for students to receive additional training or testing and other opportunities as determined annually by the advisory board.
In its first year, the Advisory Board was able to use the proceeds from the earnings of the· initial deposit. to award a $500 scholarship to Michael Davis.
The board identified an individual who was striving to improve themselves through further vocational training. Lisa was always looking for ways to help those who wanted to help themselves, and it was felt that Michael fit that description.
The board launched a fund-raising golf tournament at McPherson Country Club. Through sponsorships,. donations and the tournament more than $24,000.
These proceeds will. allow the Advisory Board to continue to offer opportunities for McPherson County students. On Oct. 5, the first session of the “Waldhauer Hour” was held at both the McPherson Middle School and the McPherson High School. Bill Cordes addressed both student bodies and delivered a motivational speech that encouraged the students to dedicate themselves to their goals as that is the only way they will be successful The Advisory Board continues to look for ways to reach the students; They are looking for additional opportunities for· more speakers.
They are. also searching for other ways to help enrich the students’ lives. Lisa’s legacy will continue through the Lisa Waldhauer Memorial Fund: