By: Peg DeGrassa
pdegrassa@delconewsnetwork.com

SPRINGFIELD – The Springfield Area Educational Foundation hosted its annual Arts and Achievers Hall of Fame ceremony this month, honoring outstanding Springfield High School alumni and educators who have made significant contributions to their fields and communities.

The 2024 Springfield Area Educational Foundation Hall of Fame inductees and Springfield Area Educational Foundation Rising Stars.

The 2024 inductees include Jeannie Tourscher Cammarota, Dave Perillo, Rich Sangillo, Thomas “T.J.” Colaiezzi, Joseph Dascola, William “Chip” Mackrides, Marshall Mirarchi and Sharon Taylor.

  • Tourscher Cammarota was a dedicated teacher in the Springfield School District for over 26 years (1991-2017). Cammarota initiated impactful programs such as Artist in Residencies, the Japanese Art Exchange, and the sculpture garden at Sabold Elementary.
  • Perillo is an acclaimed artist, illustrator, and designer who graduated in 1992 and has since collaborated with major brands, including Disney, Target, Marvel, Pixar, Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network.
  • Sangillo, a 1994 graduate, is a creative director and developer who designed campaigns for Sony, Fox and Netflix, and contributed to human space flight missions for NASA.
  • Colaiezzi graduated in 2000 and transitioned from fitness industry executive to entrepreneur, co-founding and leading LifeBrand, a software company, as CEO and president.
  • Dascola: The 1963 graduate is an international executive and community leader who served as director of operations for Prince Racket Co., president of Franklin Mint Canada and Calstar.
  • Mackrides graduated in 1971, and since became a township supervisor, lawyer and judge, winning numerous awards for distinguished community service.
  • Mirarchi, a 2001 graduate, joined the Secret Service, Special Operations Tactical Canine Unit, earning awards for valor, the British Order of Merit and Special Agent of the Year.
  • Taylor was a beloved language arts teacher in the district from 1958 to 1993. Taylor inspired students to think critically, fostering mutual respect, self-worth, and motivation to achieve their best.

Additionally, two Rising Stars were honored at the Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

The Rising Star award aims to recognize high-achieving young alums under 40, highlighting their early accomplishments and fostering a strong connection among alums, the Springfield Area Educational Foundation and the Springfield School District.

Emily Feehery, a 2011 graduate, has excelled in photography after earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts from The University of the Arts. Her work in jewelry photography has been showcased through Lagos in the New York City subway system. Nicole Melso, a project scientist, also graduated in 2011 and she is revolutionizing modern astronomical technology and making significant strides in her field.

The ceremony, sponsored by Sun East Federal Credit Union, featured anecdotes of the honorees and journeys through the Springfield School District and celebrated their post-graduation achievements and contributions to society. For more information on the Springfield Area Educational Foundation, visit www.saef.net.

The Daily Times. Thursday, May 30, 2024.