Inductees

Kate Kerswell Muldoon

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2019

Kate received her bachelor’s degree in education from Buffalo State University and her master’s degree in education from the University of Buffalo. She also received a bachelor’s degree in interior design from Buffalo State University. Kate was employed by the Niagara Falls Board of Education for over 30 years, beginning her career as a middle school art teacher. She continued as an art and drama teacher at Niagara Falls High School where she directed musicals for 20 years. Kate was a member of the team that created the drama curriculum for New York State schools.

Jack Lis

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2019
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1969

Lis in North Tonawanda, he was a 1961 graduate of North Tonawanda High School. A saxophone and clarinet player, he won an award in 1961 as an outstanding musician and appeared with his jazz quartet that year on national television on Ted Mack’s “Original Amateur Hour.” He could play anything,” said his wife, who started dating him in high school. “He just knew the songs by heart.” He began studying music at the University of Buffalo, then transferred to Fredonia State College, graduating in 1966. In his senior year, he won a championship award at the Mobile Jazz Festival in Alabama, performing with the college’s dance band, which was crowned the festival’s most outstanding band. He began teaching instrumental music and music theory at Niagara-Wheatfield in January 1967, where he established the jazz program and formed the jazz ensemble. He retired in 2000. For several years, he also taught part time at NCCC and started the college’s jazz ensemble. At the beginning of his teaching career, he went on the road with jazz bands but preferred to be home with his family, his wife said. He assembled bands to play weddings and special events, such as the Kootsie Ball. He also led a polka band, J.K.’s Orchestra, which recorded a CD, and led a band in Sarasota, FL. In addition to his work at Melody Fair, he was music contractor for the Niagara Falls Convention Center after it opened in the 1970s and music contractor for Seneca Niagara Casino in the early 2000s. He was a member of the American Federation of Musicians, Locals 106 and 209; the New York State School Music Association; the Music Educators National Conference; and the International Association of Jazz Educators. He also was former president of the Niagara County Music Teachers Association.

Cindi O’Mara

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2019

“A NT staff member since 1999, is recognized for her contributions to the NTHS music program that occur years before her students reach high school. As an elementary music educator, she is directly responsible for successfully introducing hundreds of young students to instrumental music and nurturing an interest and development that continues through high school. She provides a foundation for the future. Without her efforts and those of her counterparts at the elementary and middle school levels, there would be no high school program.

She is respected throughout the local and statewide music education community as an exemplary teacher/conductor, having been selected numerous times to serve as guest conductor for honor ensembles. She is a NYS Music Educators Association”

Doug Fronczek

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2019
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1969

Attended SUNY Fredonia 1969 -1973; Dual Major – Music Education & Piano Performance, Dual concentration – vocal & instrumental music. Graduated Magna cum laude; 1978 SUNY at Buffalo Awarded Master of Fine Arts; 1973-74 North Tonawanda Schools. Taught elementary instrumental music – Wurlitzer, Gratwick & Drake Schools; 1974-2010 – Sweet Home Central Schools, Taught Jr. High vocal music emphasizing choral training – grades 7 & 8 Boys Choruses of 60-180 voices during tenure. Accomplishments include: •Students competed & participated in County & State Choral Fests & solo festivals; •”Gold & Gold” w/ Distinction Evaluations awarded to Boys Choruses; •1980 Boys Choruses represented Erie County & WNY at State Arts Festival @ State Capital, Albany; •Boys Choruses performed at Riviera Theater, Bison’s Stadium and Blue Jay’s stadium in Toronto; Produced, directed & played (pit piano) for musicals at Jr & Sr High; 2002 -10 Served as District Coordinator of Music Department. Accomplishments: Expanded District Music Fest, moving venue to Alumni Arena @ UB from Sweet Home HS. Move increased audience capacity over 4000 providing comfortable environment for event featuring districts ensembles grades 4 – 12; •Successfully campaigned & served on district planning committee to add a state-of-the-art music wing (2007) to Jr High School & included full rehearsal rooms for choral, band & orchestra, an electronic music lab & 600-seat auditorium w/ full state technologies. Douglas was recognized for his participation at dedication! Initiated annual Jazz Festivals w/ ensembles from the UB, Fredonia State, & Eastman School of Music. Organized “side by side” concerts – High School Bands & Orchestras with ensembles from Eastman, Fredonia & Houghton Colleges. Planned performances of Navy Sea Chanters & Singing Men of Ohio. Established an annual “Faculty Art Night” highlighting solo & ensemble performances by music faculty of Sweet Home and exhibits by art faculty. Coordinated annual talent shows raising money for charitable causes & school’s PTA. Provided an “out” for local high school rock bands via creation of “Phil Fest”… this event was brain child of music students & Douglas served in advisory & coordinating position. Other endeavors: •1980 to 93, Served as organist & choir director, Friedens United Church of Christ; •1980 – 93 Coordinated church choirs from Tonawanda’s for annual Choir Festival benefiting local charities; •Founder of the Twin City Bargemen, a barbershop chorus & they performed at nursing facilities & were invited to sing national anthems for Blue Jays in Toronto, Canada. •1993-94 Served as organist & choir director – Salem United Church of Christ; •1994 Co-chaired (with Henry Pendleton, NT 1971 Graduate) a benefit concert for son of Tony DePaolo at the Riviera Theater. Featured were church & school choirs from Tonawanda’s & Amherst; 2005-16 – Doug’s wife Margo (Kramer, NT Class 1971) & he perform with Buffalo Choral Arts Society. Had the honor of conducting BCAS in one of his choral arrangements, performing at Eastman School of Music (Oct 2015) & at base of Statue of Liberty, July 2015; 2010-16 Served as Organist/Choir Director – St. United Church of Christ, Pendleton, NY.

Cindy Bradley

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2017
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1996

Class of 1996, reached the highest levels of achievement as a young musician at NTHS. She was the featured soloist for the NTHS Jazz Band and Marching Band; attained All County and All State status for trumpet and was awarded Gold in the NYS School Music Association Solo Competition. She received her Bachelor of Music in both Jazz Studies and Music Education from Ithaca College and a Master in Jazz Performance from the renowned New England Conservatory. From there, she has enjoyed outstanding success as both a music educator and a professional jazz musician. She is an accomplished trumpet player and writer having performed regularly at jazz festivals around the world. Her original compositions, and reached No. 1 on Billboard Smooth Jazz singles chart and her numerous awards include Oasis Contemporary Jazz Awards New Artist of the Year and Brass Player of the Year, Jazziz Magazine Critic’s Choice of the year for, American Smooth Jazz Awards Debut Artist of the Year and Best New Artist of the Year.She was a quarter finalist for the GRAMMY Music Educator Award in 2014. As an elementary school band teacher in New Jersey, she grew a program from 12 students to over 180 and travels throughout the United States conducting clinics and workshops. She also holds a master’s degree in Educational Leadership.

April Carere

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2017
Niagara Wheatfield High School graduate

April Carere has been an instrumental music educator in the North Tonawanda School District for 21 years. She has served as President of Niagara County Music Educators Association for the 5 years and in various executive board positions for 16 years. In 2017 April Carere was inducted in the North Tonawanda Wall of Fame. Last spring (2019) Mrs. Carere was honored to receive the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra Award for Excellence in Music Education. Community involvement and music education advocacy is a driving force in Mrs. Carere’s diverse accomplishments. In 2004 she was instrumental in the creation of the North Tonawanda District Band Program incorporating all five elementary schools. Concerts were held at North Tonawanda’s historic treasure, The Riviera Theater. In 2012 April Carere began an exciting collaborative effort that resulted in the implementation of a 2 week summer honors band program. This very popular “camp” has grown to include four concert bands, jazz ensemble, 4 Niagara County school districts, 8 teachers and 400+ students. The SHB (summer honor band) program was presented at a workshop at the NYSSMA State Conference last December. As a ten year grant recipient, the “Remember Ryan Recital” has become a beloved tradition in North Tonawanda resulting from a 10 year collaboration with the Remember Ryan Foundation.
Because of these efforts which resulted in over $10,000 in instrument purchases many young musicians were able to take part in the band program in North Tonawanda Schools. Additionally, through the foundation Mrs. Carere commissioned and premiered a new work for the North Tonawanda Intermediate School 6th grade band in June 2019. April and musician husband Russ own and operate Carere Music Studio where she has been a private clarinet instructor for many years. Mrs. Carere enjoys guest conducting throughout New York State and performing with local ensembles. She is a member of NafME, NYSSMA, NYSBDA, NCMEA and a member of Delta Kappa Gamma. Music is a way of life and tradition in the Carere family that encompasses three generations of music educators and performers. The Carere’s three children are WNY public school music teachers. She received her Bachelor Degree in Music Education from SUNY Fredonia and Master’s Degree, summa cum laude from SUNY Buffalo.

Dean Vallas

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2017
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1995

“Staff member since 1995, is a graduate of the prestigious Crane School of Music and also holds degree in music performance and conducting from SUNY Buffalo. Among the most highly respected music educators in the area, his vocal students have garnered numerous selections to All-County, Area All State and All State Choruses. Many students have also participated in the Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus Affiliate Program and the Buffalo Broadway Master Classes.

The NTHS Choral Music Department, under his director and development, offers music opportunities and experiences available in only the best of the best high school programs. Included among these are performances at the Statue of Liberty, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the White House, the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, the Sears Tower, Disney World and Grand Ole Opry. He was introduced in 1995 as a showcase of musical talent that has become an annual tradition at NTHS and the most popular recurring student performance in the history of the school. The yearly stage productions he directs have enabled hundreds of students to enjoy a quality musical theater experience.

He is a recipient of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra Music Educator Award; served as President of the Niagara County Music Educators Association and was Chorus Chairperson of the NYS School Music Association. He is also an accomplished chamber choir vocalist.
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Mark C. Bonn

NTHS 1980

Class of 1980, credits an NTHS course in Television Production, taught by Paul Belter, as the inspiration that ultimately pointed him in the direction that has led to an award-winning career in television editing and documentary filmmaking. He has received eight Promax Awards for editing, the industry standard for achievement, as well as Telly Awards for excellence in editing and documentary television. Two of his works as Director/Editor have garnered multiple industry awards:Wings of Silver:The Vi Cowden was voted Best Documentary Short in the Artemis Women in Action Film Festival; Sedona International Film Festival; Black Hills Film Festival; Ventura Film Festival and the Rainier Independent Film Festival. It also received the prestigious Audience Award at the Port Townsend Film Festival, Gig Harbor Film Festival and the Buffalo-Niagara Film Festival. In Times of War: Ray Parker & Story was voted Best Documentary in the Beverly Hills Shorts Festival, Sedona International Film Festival, Boulder lnterpational Film Festival and Festivus Film Festival. It also received the First Place Documentary Short Award at the ReeHeART International Film Festival. At the time of his induction into the Wall of Fame he and his wife, Christine, produce and direct the acclaimed documentary film series In Times of War Documentary Project a history told by the men and woman who wrote it.

James Piorkowski

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2013
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1974

James Piorkowski is a professional classical guitarist with multiple credits as a soloist, chamber musician, recording artist, composer and arranger. He was a member of the highly acclaimed Buffalo Guitar Quartet for 18 years and performed with the group throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, South America and the Caribbean. An award-winning music educator at SUNY Fredonia, he named a SUNY Distinguished Professor in 2010, the highest ranking in the State University System.

Jon Noworyta

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2013
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1990

Achieved the highest level of performance recognition as a student musician at NTHS in being named to the NYSSMA Area All-State Symphonic Band in 1989 and the NCMEA All-County Band in 1989 and 1990.

An accomplished music educator, his student groups have performed at the New York Band and Orchestra Festival at Carnegie Hall in New York City; the Music for all National Concert Band Festival and the Illinois State Music Convention.

Kyle LoConti

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2013
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1969

Is an accomplished theatrical director, choreographer and arts educator has served with distinction on the arts faculty of Niagara County Community College for over 30 years.

Her tenure includes more than a decade as Coordinator of the Department of Theater Arts and, since 2005, Chair of the Division of Arts, Media and Technology. During her time at NCCC, she has produced, directed and choreographed numerous Theater Arts Department productions.

John Kerswell

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2013
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1982

Is a highly respected classical music recording and broadcasting professional with many notable credits including a 2011 Emmy Award and a 2012 Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording.

He was also Line Audio Supervisor for a 2013 Grammy nominee for Best Opera Recording. He currently serves as Audio Operations Director for the Metropolitan Opera in New York City.

David Manth

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2013
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1983

Graduated from high school as one of the most prolific and accomplished young musicians in NTHS history having achieved special recognition as both a concert and jazz musician.

He was named to the NCMEA All-County Concert Band and All-County Jazz Ensemble and was Lead Alto for the NYSSMEA All State Jazz Festival. He returned to NTHS in 1988 as an instrumental music teacher and has served as School District Music Coordinator since 1998.

Margaret Madej

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2012
Faculty/Legends

Margaret Rose Madej taught studio art, drawing and painting, art appreciation, advertising and design, creative crafts and photography at NTHS for over 20 years. Margaret Rose Madej was a member of the Fine Arts League of Buffalo, Impact Gallery for Women, past president Williamsville Arts Society, and a volunteer at the Burchfield-Penny Art Center.

Robert Mangold

Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1955

He is one of the most renowned American Minimalist painters and enjoys a worldwide reputation in contemporary art. His work is displayed in galleries through the U.S. and Europe.

The new U.S. Courthouse in Buffalo boasts stained glass artwork he created.

Dale DiBernardo

Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1975

She has been a costume designer for more than 20 years for theater, opera and television and has designed for productions starring Rich Little, Sandy Duncan, Vicki Lawrence and many other professional performers.

She serves as resident costume designer for the Carousel Dinner Theater in Akron, OH.

Dr. Todd Hastings

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2012
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1985

He is an acclaimed performer and clinician in both classical and commercial music fields. He has performed with the likes of Aretha Franklin, Henry Mancini, Bernadette Peters and Ben Vereen and was lead trumpet for the Broadway touring company He is professor of trumpet at Pittsburgh State University.

Dr. Kathleen Gardiner Mulcahy

Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1987

She is a freelance artist and appears regularly with the National Symphony Orchestra and Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra in Washington, DC. She is principal clarinetist of the Roanoke Symphony and Virginia Chamber Orchestras and spent five years with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.

Aaron Mentkowski

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2006
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1992

Aaron currently anchors for “7 News This Morning” from 5:00 to 7:00 AM and is a Channel 7 News Meteorologist. After graduating from NTHS, he attended the University of Buffalo and went on to SUNY Oswego, where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Meteorology. While in Oswego he studied Lake Effect Snow Patterns in detail. He is a member of the American Meteorologist Society and holds the AMS Broadcasting Seal of Approval. Aaron has earned the American Meteorologist Society’s Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) designation, a professional recognition of the quality of his weather broadcasts. Aaron is the first broadcast meteorologist in Buffalo, NY and the 35th in the country to earn the CBM designation, a mark of distinction and recognition amount radio and television meteorologists.

Edwin C. Payton

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2006
Faculty/Legends

A Music Teacher at NTHS from 1965 to 1988, Ed Payton’s legacy is partially defined by a 30-year teaching career in music. He began in the elementary schools, working the longest at Gratwick and Grant schools. His bands were outstanding. Ed went on to teach at Reszel and Payne Jr. High. At Payne Jr. High, Ed was advisor to the Student Council, conducted and taught A and B Band, Dance Band and even started an extraordinarily successful marching band. He was the founder of “Sugar and Jazz” Big Band, teaching students from junior high and high school the music of the big band era. Mr. Payton received the NT United Teachers “Teacher of the Year” Award in 1978. June 6, 1980 was proclaimed “Edwin C. Payton Day” in North Tonawanda. He taught with great passion and that passion carried over to his students. Ed taught them an appreciation of music, dedication to a group, and hours of fun through accomplishment. Even after retirement, Ed inspired many “older” (retired) students by forming a 17-piece band, “The Blue Notes,” in Florida. Many of his students teach and perform today – thus his legacy continues.

Henry G. Pendleton

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2006
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1971

Henry Pendleton is a North Tonawanda resident who has sung and acted on the stages of Kleinhans Music Hall, ArtPark, in New York City, and below ground in the Waitomo Caves of New Zealand. He has sung roles in many Italian operas, operettas, musicals and shows as well as singing as a soloist all over Western New York. Henry was a soprano voice throughout high school, but his tenor voice emerged after graduation. Mr. Pendleton studied with the late May Oddie, Genia Las and Gary Burgess. Henry admits his most exciting experience in his 30-year professional vocal career was performing excerpts from Phantom of the Opera on stage of the Sydney (Australia) Opera House with the American Legion Band of the Tonawanda’s. Henry was awarded the Young Artist of WNY Award featured in a concert al ArtPark in 1977. Locally, Henry is known for his charitable works in fund raising for various organizations.

Maureen Ann Porter

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2006
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1982

Maureen graduated from NTHS in 1982 and from Niagara University in 1986 as an English & Theater Arts Major. She began her theater career in the NT Summer Theater’s production of “Camelot”. Her roles in high school and community theater, plus four plays yearly in college set the foundation for her acting and producing career. She has been seen on many stages in the Buffalo area including: Art Park, Shakespeare in Delaware Park, Irish Classical Theater and the Andrews Theater. Shen has appeared in several feature films, commercials and television including “AM Buffalo”, “America’s Most Wanted” and “General Hospital”. Maureen is the founder and co-founder of four theater companies and Solid Grounds, the first coffee house in Buffalo. She is a member of Theater for Change Company and continues her production and directing activities at Niagara University.

David W. Wittkowsky

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2006
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1981

David W. Wittkowsky was an outstanding contributor to the school community while at NTHS. He was extremely involved, as both leader and performer, in the vocal and instrumental music department throughout his high school career. From 1986 to 2001 David served first as Managing Director, then as Executive and Artistic Director of the Cleveland Film Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the art of film. During his tenure, he significantly expanded the organization’s program offerings, funding base and scope of its flagship event, the Cleveland International Film Festival. David is a graduate of Case Western Reserve University and was selected as recipient of CWRU’s Young Alumni Award in 2000. He also earned an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, where he was an F.C. Austin Scholar.

Jody Ziehm

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2006
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1975

The artwork of Jody Ziehm has been featured in many group shows across the region. She is an active member of the Fine Arts League of Buffalo, the Amherst Art Society, Williamsville Art Society, and the Tonawanda’s Counsel of the Arts. She is a signature member of the Niagara Frontier Watercolor Society. Jody travels extensively through­out Western New York, participating in many outdoor art festivals. She has traveled to Florida and exhibited in some of the top-rated shows in the State.

Mary Alice Demler

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2003
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1982

Maryalice has also done extensive live reporting at Channel Two covering such notable world events as the Olympic Games in Salt Lake City, Utah and World Youth Day with Pope John Paul II in Toronto. She also reported from Rome, Italy during the Papal Conclave that elected Pope Francis and for the funeral of Pope John Paul II. Maryalice also travelled to New York City to provide extended coverage of Pope Benedict’s visit and to Washington, D.C. for the funeral of NBC Political Analyst and Buffalo native Tim Russert.Maryalice is an honors graduate of Niagara University with bachelors degrees in both political science and French. She is a native of North Tonawanda and was crowned “Miss New York State” in 1990 and represented the Empire State in the Miss America Pageant.Her broadcasting career began as a morning radio personality at WJYE-FM in Buffalo as one half of the duo “Joe and Maryalice in the Morning”. Prior to broadcasting, Maryalice taught middle school French and worked as a special projects director at DeGraff Memorial Hospital.Broadcasting awards include two Emmy Awards from the New York Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. The first was for her in-depth report “Prison and Persistence” in the competitive Crime News category and the second for winning the “News Anchor – On Camera Talent” category for a compilation of her anchoring and reporting work. She is the first Buffalo news anchor to receive that prestigious award. She’s also received an Associated Press Award for Best Interview and over a dozen other New York Emmy Award nominations for her reporting work. Maryalice has received several awards for community service including Business First’s 40 Under 40 Outstanding Community Leaders and the Niagara University Alumni Founder’s Award. Broadcasting awards: Buffalo Excellence in Media Awards Finalist, Two individual New York Emmy Awards, “Female News Anchor of the Year” awarded by Medaille College Communications Department, “Best of Gannett” award for reporting excellence, New York State Associated Press Award for Best Interview, “Best of Gannett” honorable mention for reporting, American Cancer Society Award and the Federal Executive Board Chairman’s Award for health reporting.

Sebastian Marino

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2003
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1991

Sebastian is a Senior Software Engineer and Research Project Lead at the world-famous Industrial Light and Magic Studios, a division of Lucasfilm Ltd. In California. Sebastian Graduated from NTHS in 1991 and from Canisius College in 1996. While at Industrial Light & Magic, Sebastian has participated in the production of dozens of major motion pictures including Jurassic Park III, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Star Wars Episode II, The Hulk, The Mummy Returns and Terminator 3. In March of 2002 Sebastian received an Oscar for Technical Achievement from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for his contributions to the development of specialized computer graphics system which allows for the animation of clothing, skin, and hair on computer generated characters. In addition to his studio work he is also a guest lecturer on film making at Stanford University. He was inducted into the NTHS Fine Arts Wall of Fame on April 1, 2003.

Edward Parske

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2003
Faculty

Edward Parske was an Art Teacher at North Tonawanda Schools from 1931 to 1969. A career teaching art at NT that spanned 38 years is bot one of the things for which Ed Parske will long be remembered. During his tenure Ed was both role model and mentor for many aspiring artists and students in all phases of graphic and fine arts. As a classroom teacher and editor of the yearbook and school paper for many years, Ed devoted both his boundless energy, his consummate artistic skill, and his gentle guidance to all students. In addition, he hand lettered tens of thousands of graduation diplomas for each and every class up until his retirement in 1969. Many of Ed’s students have achieved world renown in the field of both commercial and applied art, many have successfully pursued employment in the design world; all have cultivated, through his efforts, a life-long love of art, a fitting testament to the quality of Ed’s tutelage, to his love of teaching and his passion for art. He was a special gift to the students at North Tonawanda High School.

John Stempin

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2003
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1979

John is currently a newscast anchor/ reporter and producer for National Public Radio (NPR) in Washington D.C. As a student at NTHS John was instrumental in the creation of the school’s radio and television station, WVNTV, the construction of the broadcast studio and the interconnecting of all the rooms for telecommunication service. He became general manager of the station in his senior year and a career was launched. After obtaining a degree from NCCC in Broadcast Technology John joined a local radio station and soon was on his way to establishing as a nationally known and highly respected reporter, producer, and on-air personality. The recipient of numerous national and international broadcasting awards, John has achieved a position of prominence in the news media world but has never forgotten his roots at NTHS and Western New York nor those who helped and guided him.

Debra Swartz

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 2003
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1982

A 1982 graduate of NTHS, Debra has had a most distinguished and highly productive theatrical and musical career in the North Tonawanda schools, the community and in Western New York. As President and Dean of Education of Starry Night Theater Incorporated, she has been personally responsible for the refurbishing of the Ghostlight Theater, the establishment of a large, viable and active membership and for the development of the theater’s acting school curriculum. Debra has been actively involved in all aspects of the theater experience since her early days with the NT Summer Theater and Theater Workshop programs while she was in grade school. She is an experienced costume designer and choreographer, an accomplished graphic artist, and a skilled and talented actress. Debra is a dedicated teacher, a tireless worker and a life-long advocate of children participating in and studying theater arts. She is an energetic, active and a highly motivated promoter of theater in North Tonawanda and Western New York.

Norman Alexander

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 1999
Faculty and Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1972

Norman Alexander is a retired music educator, fromthe North Tonawanda City School District, spending one of 35 years in the Amherst Central School District. During his career, Mr. Alexander, or “Mr. A”,as he was called by most of the students to whom he had the pleasure of teaching, taught instrumental music at every level. While at NorthTonawanda High School, he was responsible for directing the Wind Symphony and the Symphony Orchestra for the past twenty-five years of his career. Prior to that he directed the Concert/Marching Band and Jazz Ensemble. His ensembles consistently received outstanding evaluations at both competitive music festivals and at NYSSMA Major Evaluation Festivals. He also served the North Tonawanda City School District as the Music Department Coordinator, as well as, serving on several district committees. Among his former students are professional music educators at the public school and college levels, professional performing musicians, and sound-recording technicians, including the Chief Sound Engineer for the Metropolitan Opera. Mr. Alexander served as a guest conductor/clinician at several music festivals in Western and Central New York, including numerous All-County Ensembles at both the Junior and Senior High School levels.He has been a guest conductor for the Wheaton (IL) North High SchoolWind Ensemble in Wheaton, Illinois and also at the 2012 National Concert Band Festival in Indianapolis, Indiana. During the summer of 2012, Mr. Alexander served as the conductor for the Buffalo-Niagara Concert Band for their summer concert series.Mr.Alexander is currently the director of the Sanborn Fire Company Band. Mr. Alexander received both his Bachelor of Arts in Music Education and Master of Music Education Degrees from the State University of New York at Buffalo.

In addition to his public-school experiences, Mr. Alexander has been the Director of Athletic Bands at Niagara University and SUNY at Buffalo and Director of the All-College Band at Niagara County Community College. His professional memberships include The National Association for Music Education (NAfME), New York State School Music Association, New York State Band Director’s Association, and the Niagara County Music Educator’s Association. He served NCMEA in several capacities, including two terms as President. He has alsorepresented NCMEA as a member of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra Education Committee. Normanhas been honored by both of his Alma Maters for his service and commitment to excellence. He is currently a member of the “Fine Arts Wall of Fame” at North Tonawanda High School and also the Athletic Band “Hall of Fame” at SUNY at Buffalo. Norman and his wife, Lynn, live in North Tonawanda and have two daughters. Their eldest, Sarah, is a Music Educator at North Tonawanda Middle School. She is married to Nathan Roberts and they two sons, Nathan and Alexander. Their youngest, Katherine, is a practicing attorney, working as Associate City Judge for the City of North Tonawanda. He would like to thank his family, especially his wife, for their unconditional support throughout his Thirty-Five year, plus, career.

Russell Carere

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 1999
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1974

Russ Carere, woodwind and guitar performer, teacher, and composer, comes from 3 generations of professional musicians and accomplished music teachers. His professional career began at age 17 when he performed with Andy Williams and has spanned a prestigious resume of musical accomplishments since that time. Mr. Carere’s versatility in all genres of musical performance and his consummate reputation as an exemplary woodwind doubler has set him apart from others as he is in constant demand as a freelance musician. He is employed at many professional musical theatres such as Shea’s, Artpark, Studio Arena, as well as throughout the Rochester area and also performs frequently in Atlanta, Georgia. Mr. Carere has toured and performed with hundreds of performers, such as Charlotte Church, Liberace, Tom Jones, Mel Torme, Paul Anka, Rosemary Clooney, Natalie Cole, Tony Bennett, Aretha Franklin, Johnny Mathis, Dave Brubeck, and Ben Folds to name but a few. As a member of the world renowned Amherst Saxophone Quartet, Russ performed at Carnegie Hall and was featured on a National Television broadcast of CBS Sunday Morning. He has toured and performed extensively throughout 48 states and also in Japan and Poland. Some of his professional collaborations include Lucas Foss, Paul Chihara, Steve Reich, Phillip Glass, Walter Hartley and David Stock. Mr. Carere has performed with many professional orchestras throughout the United States including Buffalo Philharmonic, Chautauqua Symphony, Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and San Jose Orchestra. Also a published composer, his original ragtime, jazz, and concert band compositions have been well received by audiences locally and throughout the nation. He is currently under commission. Russ has released his own CD of original ballads and light jazz compositions and can be heard on many CD’s with the Amherst Saxophone Quartet as well as various local jingles for TV and radio.As serving as Artist in Residence at University of Buffalo Mr. Carere taught graduate and undergraduate students and classes. An in demand private instructor he has taught hundreds of local students in the Tonawanda/Buffalo area. He and his wife April, own and operate Carere Music Studio and their three children are all WNY public school music teachers.

Robert Duerr

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 1999
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1972

As a young student at NTHS Robert earned distinction as a gifted and accomplished pianist and organist. During his years at the High School, he served as accompanist for many musical productions and as a soloist. It was – however, after he graduated that his true potential as a conductor and organist was realized. After obtaining undergraduate and graduate degrees in organ performance and conducting at USC Robert founded and became Artistic Director of the Pasadena Chamber Orchestra and Chorus. Robert has conducted numerous performances of the major operatic and symphonic repertoire at leading houses and prominent music festivals in the United States and around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera and the New York City Opera, at Lincoln Center. The recipient of many performing and conducting honors and awards, Robert has clearly distinguished himself as a leading young conductor on a national and international level.

John Park

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 1999
Faculty

Musician, teacher and gentleman, John Park’s love of music and his commitment to the students of North Tonawanda has resulted in a remarkable career affecting the lives of countless young musicians in our community. Known to all his students as “Mr. Park”, the respect that was directed his way was but a morsel of the respect he gave to those around him. During his tenure at NTHS Mr. Park directed many ensembles to the highest caliber of musicianship, a true reflection of his own musical experiences. His career not only resulted in many outstanding John K. Park bands, but also contributed to the development and success of many outstanding professional musicians and educators. His own personal musical experiences as a professional musician and the breadth of his musical knowledge make him a much sought-after resource by both former students and professionals in the area.

Leonard Rusin

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 1999
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1965

A student of fellow NTHS Fine Arts Wall of Fame Inductee Ed Parske at NTHS Len has been an art teacher in Niagara Falls for more than thirty years and has also pursued his career as an accomplished and internationally recognized artist whose inspiration comes from the natural world. Len’s award-winning artwork (his 1996 New York State Waterfowl Stamp and Print Design Competition) is only one of many – captures the raw spirit of nature, displaying both his keen sense of artistic style and exceptional ability. His work reflects his love for nature and for the environment. Len’s paintings can be found in many permanent and private collections. His paintings, photographs and drawings have been featured in many national magazines and books over the years. The featured artist in a variety of fund-raising programs, the sale of Len’s extremely popular paintings has helped raise thousands of dollars for environmental and educational groups.

Norbert Skibinski

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 1999
Drama Club Advisor 1986

In 1987 Norbert took over the NTHS Drama Club and became the driving force behind the development of a premier high school theater arts program. Emphasizing a multi-disciplinary approach to theater, he drew the art and music departments into the productions and successfully directed major Broadway musicals every year. The scope and quality of theatrical activity at NTHS, which extends to an Alumni Theater group, is a direct result of Norb’s efforts and expertise and is a testament to his love of the theater and his devotion to his art. It is, however, his work with the students that is most exemplary. He has provided, for many students, who might otherwise not have had the opportunity to receive recognition, the arena, and the vehicles in which to excel. Named Outstanding Foreign Language Teacher of the Year in New York State in 1990, this warm and congenial man has achieved well-deserved distinction both as an excellent teacher and as a brilliant and successful director.

F. Donald Shearer

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 1997
Faculty

Donald “Doc” Shearer will probably best be remembered for the truly outstanding, entertaining, and innovative Marching Bands that brought such credit to North Tonawanda High School during his 33-year career in North Tonawanda. Under Doc’s direction and leadership, the NT Lumberjack Marching Bands became the biggest and best in all Western New York. Don, a native of Lockport anu a graduate of the Eastman School of Music, was also one of the driving forces behind the development of the Twin Cities Orchestra, which he directed, to great acclaim, for many years. Operettas, shows, a traditional performance of Handel’s Messiah and symphony concerts were all carried out under his capable and professional direction. It is, however, for his unselfish work with, and his genuine love for, the almost three generations of students that North Tonawanda High School will always be indebted to and always remember “Doc” Shearer.

Verdun Kerswell

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 1997
Faculty

If there has been one person who raised the performance of the NT high school choruses to an almost professional level over a span of thirty-plus years, it is without question Verd Kerswell. “K”, as he is fondly called by his students, directed his various choruses, with great success over the years, through such works as “Carmina Burana”, the Brahms and Faure “Requiems”, Handel’s “Messiah”, the Bach “Magnificat” and “Cantata No. 4”, the Schubert “Mass in G”, Vivaldi’s “Gloria” and many more major traditional and contemporary choral works. These are accomplishments of hugely significant proportion. Active in the community as choir director in a number of local churches, Verd, and his family, have contributed much to the cultural and musical heritage of North Tonawanda.

Tonio DiPaolo

Inducted into the Fine Arts Wall of Fame in 1997
Graduated from North Tonawanda in 1969

A graduate of North Tonawanda High School and the Eastman School of Music, Mr. Di Paolo is one of the premier tenors in America today. He has sung leading roles in most of the major opera houses in the US, Canada and Europe and has received international critical acclaim for his excellent vocal quality, musicianship, and stage presence. In addition to his successful operatic career, Mr. Di Paolo is a popular concert artist and soloist on the international scene and has appeared as guest soloist with many orchestras both in the US and in Europe. As a popular student at NTHS, Mr. Di Paolo sang throughout Western New York and brought much credit to his school, his community and, most deservedly, to himself.