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Wellington Art Society Supports A Vibrant Creative Community

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Wellington Art Society Supports A Vibrant Creative Community

Story By Patrick Sherry  |  Photos by Denise Fleischman

For many artists in Wellington, their art does not begin with the first brush stroke on a canvas or a line in a sketchbook, but with interaction with other creatives who are passionate about making beautiful visual pieces. The Wellington Art Society is dedicated to bringing these art lovers together to build a vibrant creative community and enhance each other’s artwork.

Creating these experiences where art enthusiasts can connect is one of the organization’s central pillars that has been with it since the beginning. Johanna Secor, a world-renowned artist originally from Connecticut, founded the Wellington Art Society in 1981.

The intention behind starting the organization was to create a community of artists in the fledgling community who could mentor each other, foster a love for visual arts and contribute to Wellington’s developing creative culture. Today, the Wellington Art Society averages about 100 active members each year.

“Our mission is to promote art and arts in our own community in Wellington, to ensure the future of the art world,” Wellington Art Society President Kris Dru Hilles said.

While maintaining a community of artists is one of its main goals, the society’s leadership works to ensure that its members receive recognition for their work.

The Wellington Art Society hosts exhibitions for the public to see members’ pieces on full display. Rotating seasonally, you can see these creations installed at the Wellington Community Center and Wellington Village Hall. Those art pieces can be bought and help both the artist and help fund the organization’s many activities. Members also bring and sell their work directly to the public at Wellington’s Lakeside Market.

“The Wellington Art Society is the ultimate link between local artists, public spaces and art lovers,” Second Vice President Susan Mosely explained. “We elevate regional culture by jurying and curating our members’ artwork into vibrant exhibitions and helping homegrown talent build sustainable careers.”

Society members include artists of all skill levels, from professionals to hobbyists, who specialize in various mediums. Hilles and Mosely said that it is a pleasure to see so many creative people become a part of the organization. Many of them have gone on to build their careers in the art industry after joining.

Hilles has been a part of the Wellington Art Society for more than four years. He said joining the organization is one of the best things that has ever happened to him. Hilles described himself as an isolated artist who was hesitant to join at first, but since then, the group has helped broaden his creative experiences.

“I was doing stuff for my own studio, and I read about them,” he said. “I went out there… They embraced me. I never felt so welcome in all my life.”

Creating an environment where artists can inspire each other has made the organization a cornerstone in the county’s arts community. Through it, members can create lifelong friendships and achieve creative fulfillment.

“An organized creative group prevents artistic isolation,” Hilles said. “It builds a network for mentorship, preserves local culture and inspires community members by showcasing how visual mediums can communicate complex human experiences.”

However, the Wellington Art Society is not just for artists. The group welcomes patrons and volunteers who want to help contribute toward developing the creative community in the village.

“You do not need to be a practicing artist to join us,” Hilles said. “The society is a welcoming home for anyone who appreciates culture, values community connection or simply wants to support local arts.”

All this success can be attributed to the organization’s programs, which are designed to fulfill its commitment of supporting the local arts community. Among its most recognizable activities are its scholarship opportunities for high school students. Every year, high school seniors in Palm Beach County who are planning on pursuing arts-related college degrees are awarded scholarships. Since 2001, the organization has awarded more than $135,000 in scholarships to help young artists continue to develop their creative endeavors.

The Wellington Art Society’s ArtReach program similarly promotes its mission of bringing art and community together. The program organizes therapeutic art classes for various groups, such as for the children at the Kids Cancer Foundation. The organization also collaborates with other nonprofits through its ArtReach program for fundraising and local community events.

“The scholarships ensure the future of visual arts by supporting the next generation, while the ArtReach initiative uses the therapeutic power of creativity to enrich lives and heal the local community,” Mosely explained.

Meanwhile, residents have praised the organization for its warmth and the accessibility of public galleries. The Wellington Art Society reinvests any contributions from donations or art sales back into the community.

“We rely completely on the generosity of the community,” Mosely explained. “Every dollar contributed directly funds vital initiatives like our youth art scholarships and therapeutic ArtReach workshops. By donating today, you ensure that creativity remains a lasting, accessible force for healing and inspiration right here in Wellington.”

In the future, Wellington Art Society members are hoping to further its mission in other ways. The organization is looking to partner with the Palm Beach County Arts Consortium to host larger exhibitions and launch an initiative to donate supplies or financial support to local public schools with limited funding for the arts.

To the organization’s leaders, the Wellington Art Society is so much more than the creations that member artists hang up on walls. Through the many programs and outreach events, they hope to bring art out of elite galleries and straight into public spaces for the entire community to enjoy. This way, art is not only a creative pursuit but also a meaningful opportunity to deliver life-changing activities.

“Your love for art can change a life today,” Mosely said. “When you support the Wellington Art Society, you are doing so much more than buying a beautiful painting or supporting a local creator — you are investing directly in our community’s future.”

The Wellington Art Society regularly hosts interactive public programming and member meetings at the Wellington Community Center. To learn more about the Wellington Art Society, or upcoming events, visit www.wellingtonartsociety.org.

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The Real Work Begins After The Budget Is Adopted

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The Real Work Begins After The Budget Is Adopted

A municipal budget is sometimes viewed as the finish line of a long process. However, for those who work in local government, it is really the starting line. The adopted budget for fiscal year 2026-27 is a roadmap for the year ahead.

There is something satisfying about October in local government. The new fiscal year has arrived. The budget process that occupies so much of our attention during the summer is behind us. The numbers have been debated, refined, presented publicly and, ultimately, adopted by the Wellington Village Council. And then something important happens: We get to work.

A budget is sometimes viewed as the finish line of a long process. For those of us who work in local government, it is really the starting line. The adopted budget for fiscal year 2026-27 is our roadmap for the year ahead. It reflects the priorities established by our council, the needs we hear from our residents and the professional recommendations of the people who make up Team Wellington. It provides the resources necessary to maintain the services our residents depend on while continuing to invest in the infrastructure and facilities that will shape our community for years to come.

But a budget is about much more than dollars and cents. Behind every number is something real. There is a park that needs to be maintained, a road that needs to be repaired, a stormwater system that needs to function when the summer rains arrive, a water main that needs to be replaced, a recreation program that needs to serve a child, a senior who needs a place to gather or a public safety professional who needs the resources to do a difficult job well. That is why I have always believed that budgeting is one of the most important responsibilities in local government. It forces us to make choices about what matters most, not just today, but five, 10 and 20 years from now.

This year’s budget continues a philosophy that has served Wellington well: Be responsible with today’s resources while preparing for tomorrow’s needs. That approach is particularly important this year. As we begin the new fiscal year, Florida is preparing for a statewide conversation about property taxes that could have significant implications for local governments. Amendment 3 will appear on the November ballot. If approved by the required 60 percent of voters, it would increase the homestead exemption for non-school property taxes to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028, while also reducing the assessment-growth cap on non-homestead property from 10 percent to 5 percent.

There are good reasons for Floridians to have a conversation about affordability and property taxes. Families are dealing with higher costs for housing, insurance, utilities, groceries and many other necessities. Those pressures are real, and they deserve thoughtful attention. At the same time, there is another reality that we have to keep in mind. Local government does not stop because the revenue picture changes. The roads still need to be maintained. The parks still need to be mowed. Stormwater systems still need to be ready for the next heavy rain. Water has to come out of the tap. Wastewater has to be treated. Recreation programs still need to operate. Public safety remains a fundamental responsibility. And the bills for those services do not disappear.

That is why Wellington has spent years emphasizing financial stewardship, long-range planning and maintaining the flexibility to respond when circumstances change. We cannot predict exactly what Amendment 3 will ultimately mean. We also cannot predict what other changes Tallahassee, Washington or the economy may bring over the next several years.

What we can do is prepare. That preparation does not mean sitting on the sidelines waiting to see what happens. It means understanding our finances, evaluating our priorities, protecting our reserves, carefully examining our capital needs and being honest about the choices that may be required if our revenue structure changes.

It also means resisting the temptation to make decisions based solely on the headlines of the day. One of the things I appreciate most about local government is that our decisions are tangible. We can see the results of them in our neighborhoods. We can walk through the parks. We can drive on the roads. We can visit the Wellington Community Center. We can watch children learn to swim or play tennis. We can see families gathering along the Lakeside Promenade. Those things do not happen by accident. They happen because residents, elected officials and staff make decisions, year after year, to invest in them.

As Wellington begins its 31st year as an incorporated village, I find myself thinking a lot about that word: investment. Our first 30 years were built through thousands of decisions made by people who understood that a great hometown does not simply happen, it has to be cared for. The same is true of the next 30 years. Some of the decisions will be easy, others will not be. There will be competing priorities, difficult financial choices and circumstances that we cannot anticipate today. But our responsibility is to approach each of them with the same basic principles that have helped Wellington become the community it is today: thoughtful planning, fiscal responsibility, transparency and a willingness to look beyond the next budget cycle.

The adoption of the budget gives us a plan. It does not give us all the answers. And that is OK. Good planning is not about predicting the future perfectly. It is about making sure that you are prepared when the future does not unfold exactly as expected. That is what we will continue doing here in Wellington.

As we move into the new fiscal year, our focus will remain where it has always been: serving our residents today while protecting the Wellington we want to leave for those who come after us.

The budget is adopted. Now the real work begins.

 

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The Patriot Memorial: From Ground Zero To Its Permanent Home In Wellington

The Patriot Memorial: From Ground Zero To Its Permanent Home In Wellington

By Shannon Anastasio and Fiona Slusarev

Some memorials are made of stone. Wellington’s is made of a piece of history itself. The steel that once was part of the South Tower of the World Trade Center now stands as a powerful reminder of the events of Sept. 11, 2001, and a promise that its story will never be forgotten.

Located in front of Wellington’s Village Hall, the memorial stands quietly along Forest Hill Blvd., weathered, scarred and twisted. At first glance, the enormous piece of steel that makes up Wellington’s Patriot Memorial might appear to be nothing more than a remnant of a destroyed building. Look closer, however, and its significance becomes more profound.

“The steel beam keeps alive the memory of the heroic acts and ultimate sacrifices of all the first responder agencies that day,” explained Nicole Coates, Wellington’s director of emergency management and public safety. “It also represents the innocent lives lost and to help us never forget. The steel beam, in addition to the eternal flame and the names etched on glass, all serve as a beautiful tribute where thousands of visitors each year can come together to unite, remember and reflect.”

This steel that once reached into the sky above Manhattan, now adorns the entrance to Wellington Town Center. It’s a three-column exterior piece known as C-46. Before the attacks, it formed part of a window section between the 68th and 71st floors, an area occupied by Morgan Stanley. United Airlines Flight 175 struck the South Tower approximately seven floors above it at 9:03 a.m. on that fateful day.

Now 25 years later, it rests in Wellington, carrying with it a story that remains as powerful today as it was a quarter-century ago. This piece of steel survived through fire damage and destruction. Somehow, amid the devastation, its identity survived as well.

A white construction stencil remains visible on the beam: “PONYA 8T <569> B157-68-71.” Those markings helped engineers identify what the steel was, where it belonged and how it had originally been incorporated into the fallen building. It was not simply debris. It was evidence. It was history. And, thanks to the commitment of Wellington’s council and staff, it would eventually become the centerpiece of Wellington’s 9/11 memorial.

After the attacks, remnants of the World Trade Center became artifacts that were to be preserved and examined. Wellington ultimately selected C-46 to serve as the centerpiece of a permanent memorial honoring those who were lost and those who responded with extraordinary courage. The decision transformed a piece of damaged steel into a physical connection between New York City and a community more than a thousand miles away.

“When Wellington received confirmation that our request for a steel artifact was granted, we committed to handle every aspect of transportation through installation of this significant piece of American history with utmost care and respect,” Coates recalled. “Leaders from the village traveled to the hanger, located at John F. Kennedy International Airport, where all the artifacts were stored, and selected the piece you see today at the Patriot Memorial. The steel beam is a 36-foot-by-8-foot, near full exterior panel of World Trade Center 2. The feeling you could describe when realizing we were granted our request was the feeling of determination. Wellington’s leadership was dedicated to this project and its purpose.”

The journey from New York to Florida became part of the story itself. In December 2010, Wellington-bound C-46 was transported it its new home. Tim Day of Sisters Towing and his wife made the journey to retrieve the historic artifact from JFK Airport, where it was being stored. All along the route, they were escorted by first responders and people came out to line overpasses and roadways to show their respect.

“The transportation of the steel beam was a very profound experience for so many people,” Coates said. “Wellington staff, along with Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue and the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, arrived on the morning of Dec. 2, 2010, to the JFK hanger to load the beam onto a flatbed trailer provided by Sisters Towing. We draped four American flags onto the steel and positioned two banners on each side that boldly stated, ‘World Trade Center Steel — Wellington, FL Patriot Memorial — We Will Never Forget.’ We made the journey back south, receiving a police escort through Washington, D.C., and emergency response vehicles, lights flashing, joining our caravan all along the way on I-95 as we crossed each state.”

Aside from the people on overpasses, vehicles along the highway honked to show support for the traveling steel.

“When we crossed the Palm Beach County line, our caravan was met by more than 100 motorcycles, additional rescue vehicles and the PBSO Eagle [helicopter] hovering above as we made our way to Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue Headquarters,” Coates continued. “We stored the piece there until the memorial construction commenced. There was such an incredible sense of patriotism and lasting remembrance that was evident so many years after the attacks.”

Building a memorial around C-46 was not like an ordinary architectural project. Designers were not starting with a blank sheet of paper. They were starting with an artifact whose shape, scars and history could not be changed.

The engineering firm WGI was brought in to help document the steel. Using multiple laser scans, the company created a precise three-dimensional model of the beam. That information allowed the architect and contractor to design the memorial’s support system around the actual shape of the historic steel and determine its final presentation angle.

The result is more than a sculpture or simple architecture. The steel became the centerpiece because it needed no embellishment. Its scars and survival were enough to speak volumes.

On Sept. 11, 2011, exactly 10 years after the attacks, Wellington dedicated its Patriot Memorial. The memorial incorporates C-46, an eternal flame fountain and etched-glass panels inscribed with the names of victims. To this day, the steel remains one of the largest pieces salvaged from the World Trade Center site.

The memorial was created so the community could remember not only those who died but also the families who lost loved ones, those who survived but were forever changed, and the first responders who ran toward danger.

Each September, Wellington gathers at the memorial to lay a wreath, hear reflections and remember. Police officers stand beside firefighters. Community leaders stand beside residents. Families stand beside strangers. And, for a few moments, everyone is connected by the same promise to never forget.

This year, America is marking the 25th anniversary of the attacks. A child who was five years old then is now 30. A child born that day is now 25. For an entire generation, the events are history, not memory. They have seen the photographs and the videos, and heard their parents describe where they were when the news broke. But they did not live it as it happened.

They can, however, stand beside C-46, look at the steel, and see the fire scars. They can understand that this enormous structure was once part of a building that soared 110 stories into the New York City skyline. That may be the greatest gift Wellington’s Patriot Memorial gives future generations.

“I hope that 50 years from now, someone who has never experienced Sept. 11 will understand that the Patriot Memorial represents more than a piece of history,” Coates said. “It represents families and communities that were changed forever; it represents gratitude for our first responders who put themselves in harm’s way to help others each and every day; it represents sincere appreciation to all those in our military who serve, protect and defend our freedom.”

The significance of that connection will be especially evident this year. Wellington’s program on Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, begins at 8:46 a.m., the time American Airlines Flight 11 struck the North Tower, followed later in the day by a keynote presentation featuring Lt. Col. Todd Beer, an Air Force One pilot who transported President George W. Bush on that fateful day.

The Patriot Memorial is not a monument to destruction. It is a monument to people — to courage, sacrifice, compassion and the extraordinary unity that emerged in the days after Sept. 11, 2001. It represents the enduring responsibility of one generation to teach the next.

“I hope the memorial reminds future generations that it is also a symbol of unity,” Coates said. “The memorial will forever remind us that remembrance is not only honoring the past but carrying forward its lessons, courage and the spirit of community forward for generations. The Patriot Memorial serves as an enduring promise by the Wellington community that we will never forget.”

The Wellington Patriot Memorial is located at 12198 W. Forest Hill Blvd. For more information, visit www.wellingtonfl.gov.

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Wellington To Host Ceremony Recognizing 25th Anniversary Of 9/11

Wellington To Host Ceremony Recognizing 25th Anniversary Of 9/11

By Fiona Slusarev

The Village of Wellington will recognize the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks with a morning remembrance ceremony on Friday, Sept. 11 in partnership with the Fire Chief’s Association of Palm Beach County, Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue, Palm Beach County, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and the Wellington Community Foundation.

At 8:46 a.m., the same time the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center, village officials, law enforcement and fire-rescue personnel, joined by residents from across the community, will gather to honor the victims and first responders of the attacks. Held at the Wellington Amphitheater and Patriot Memorial, the event will offer a light breakfast while Wellington Village Council members speak, and Lt. Col. Todd Beer gives an address.

Beer, a veteran of the U.S. Air Force for more than 20 years, piloted Air Force One for President George W. Bush during the aftermath of the attacks. He will share his story about how he and President Bush handled the information they received immediately following the attacks as the country worked to understand what happened. He will also recount how he and the plane’s crew planned and executed the mission to fly the president to safety. Beer will also be expanding on his story at a ticketed keynote presentation at 11 a.m. in the Wellington Community Center.

Beer’s address is made possible in part by support from the Wellington Community Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the community by serving seniors, children and veterans. The nonprofit provides vital support and services to neighbors across the community.

Wellington Community Foundation Chair Jim Sackett is proud to contribute to honoring the victims, survivors and heroes in recognition of the 25th anniversary of the attacks.

“This is a wonderful event for our community, and we look forward to seeing everyone there,” Sackett said. “We wanted to be sure our local heroes were able to be up close and personal with heroic veteran Todd Beer. Being able to invite American Legion Post 390 is one of our greatest honors.”

The master of ceremonies will be Ashley Glass, morning news anchor at WPTV. Along with Beer’s address and comments from elected officials, the ceremony will include the national anthem and invocation, a presentation of colors, the laying of a wreath, a moment of silence, a rendition of “Taps” and a gun salute. It is expected that 1,000 or more people will be in attendance.

Wellington Village Manager Jim Barnes sees the ceremony as a way to unite the community for a shared moment of reflection on the almost 3,000 lives lost, and honor the firefighters, police officers, emergency medical personnel and other first responders that ran toward danger to help others.

“The 25th anniversary is a significant milestone, and we want this year’s ceremony to reflect the importance of that moment while remaining true to the purpose of the event: remembrance. The event will be an immersive and heartfelt tribute honoring the victims, knowing that many attending may have lost loved ones during the attacks or were responders on that fateful day,” Barnes said.

Now 25 years after the attacks, many adults can remember the tragedy and living through the tumultuous time that followed, while young adults and teens were born into a world that views 9/11 retrospectively. Barnes hopes to show young community members that the attacks aren’t just history and to bring all generations together for a time for reflection.

“For our younger residents in particular, I hope they take away an understanding that history is not just something we read about. It is something that shapes who we are and the responsibilities we have to one another,” Barnes explained.

The ceremony will be broadcast live on Channel 20, as well as posted to the village’s YouTube channel. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to find a seat before the prompt 8:46 a.m. start. All community members are invited to participate in this memorial honoring the victims, families and first responders affected by the 9/11 attacks.

“We hope people leave remembering that, even in our darkest moments, we are capable of extraordinary acts of courage, kindness and unity,” Barnes said. “Twenty-five years can create distance from an event, but it should never diminish our commitment to remember. We should remember the lives lost, honor those who served and recognize the importance of looking out for one another.”

For more information about the September 11th Remembrance Memorial, visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/663/September-11th-Remembrance-Ceremony.

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Saluting The People Who Help Make Wellington Better

Saluting The People Who Help Make Wellington Better

Every hometown has its landmarks, traditions and familiar faces. But what really defines a community? The people who show up. The people who notice what needs to be done and don’t wait for someone else to do it. The people who open doors, lend a hand, rally for a cause, mentor people, support neighbors and make the community around them stronger. That is the spirit behind the Our Wellington Awards.

This year, we are proud to recognize three extraordinary individuals whose contributions have left a meaningful mark on the place we call home: retired newscaster turned community leader Jim Sackett, veteran and businesswoman Krissy Robbs, and artist and author Dinah Mirson. Their paths are different. Their passions are different. Their stories are uniquely their own. But they share something that matters most: a genuine commitment to Wellington and the people who make this community special.

From giving their time and talents to championing causes, creating opportunities and stepping up when their community needs them, Our Wellington honorees remind us that making a difference doesn’t always require a grand gesture. Sometimes, it’s a series of small decisions to care, give of yourself and do a little more.

This year’s honorees represent the heart, energy and generosity that continue to shape Wellington. They are the people behind our hometown. They are the reason it feels like home. This is Our Wellington.

Congratulations To Our 2026 Honorees

 

Jim Sackett:  From Longtime News Anchor To Wellington Civic Leader

Story by Mike May  |  Photo by Frank Koester

Jim Sackett is a huge fan, advocate and supporter of Wellington. The long-time WPTV/News Channel 5 anchor (now retired) and his wife Paula moved to Wellington in 1983, and they have no plans to leave. In fact, they have always encouraged anybody they meet to follow in their footsteps.

“The nicest, friendliest people live in Wellington,” said Sackett, now 80. “I would encourage people to move to Wellington in a heartbeat.”

Sackett has been an eyewitness to the growth and expansion of the community.

“When we built our house in Sugar Pond Manor, our home was just the third house on the street,” he recalled. “Now, there are more.”

Today, Sackett is busy in Wellington as a volunteer with the Wellington Community Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving Wellington’s seniors, children and veterans in need. He is currently in his ninth year with the organization, now serving as chair of its board of directors.

Sackett concurs with the organization’s motto that “together, we are building a stronger community.” Sackett said it’s that type of commitment to civic excellence that makes Wellington stand out from other places in South Florida.

As chair, Sackett represents the organization by making appearances at many events in Wellington. He’s also a hands-on leader who has been known to use his “elbow grease,” from time to time.

“I do what I can,” Sackett said. “In early August, I packed backpacks for children headed back to school, spoke at a local appreciation luncheon for Palm Beach County teachers and helped organize a back-to-school event for the general public.”

While Sackett loves Wellington, he also has ties and commitments outside of the village.

“I’m also the chair of the Women’s Circle in Boynton Beach, an organization spearheaded by Catholic nuns that helps Haitian women learn how to read, speak English and develop skills that will help them live in South Florida.”

Another activity that has kept Sackett connected to the community is the sport of softball.

For 30 years — from age 49 to 79 — Sackett played senior softball in the western communities.

“I have been on softball teams that have played at the fields behind Wellington High School, at Okeeheelee Park and at Seminole Palms Park,” Sackett said. “I retired from softball about six months ago due to an injury to my rotator cuff, and my legs were starting to get a little wobbly.”

While the Sacketts have been happily living in Wellington since 1983, his life prior to moving to Palm Beach County was filled with a few ports of call.

“I was a U.S. Air Force brat,” Sackett said. “I was born in London, England, but I really grew up in central Illinois.”

After graduating from high school, he studied at Southern Illinois University, the home of the Salukis. Back then, the Salukis had some star-power on their football and basketball teams.

“Our football team’s quarterback was future pro quarterback Jim Hart, who played with the NFL’s St. Louis Cardinals, and one of the guards on the men’s basketball team was Walt ‘Clyde’ Frazier, who later starred with the NBA’s New York Knicks,” Sackett recalled.

After college, Sackett joined the U.S. Army, where he emerged as a captain. Part of his time defending the United States was spent living in Germany.

After life in the military, he pursued opportunities in broadcasting in places like Washington, D.C., and Bangor, Maine. In 1978, he received and accepted an offer to come work at WPTV, the NBC affiliate in West Palm Beach. The Sacketts were intrigued by the idea of living and working in Florida. He stayed at WPTV until he retired in 2011.

“Initially, I worked weekends, where I wrote scripts, edited copy, produced the show and then anchored the broadcast,” Sackett said. “I was eventually promoted to anchor the evening news at six and at eleven on Monday through Friday, which I did for the rest of my career.”

Since his retirement, when he hasn’t been playing softball, volunteering or relaxing at home, he and his wife have enjoyed traveling the world.

“We have visited the Baltic countries in Northern Europe, Austria, Scotland, Belgium, Ireland, Egypt, Vietnam, Cambodia and the Galapagos Islands,” Sackett said.

As much as he and Paula relish visiting other countries, they always enjoy returning home to Wellington, where Sackett remains the community’s biggest fan, advocate and supporter.

 

Krissy Robbs:  From Army Broadcaster To Creative Business Leader

By Mike May

Krissy Robbs has built a life rooted in communication, leadership and service. A U.S. Army veteran, entrepreneur, speaker, wife and mother of three, Robbs is the founder of Fix My Flyer, a service-disabled veteran-owned creative marketing agency that helps businesses and organizations communicate clearly and prepare for new opportunities.

Raised in Shelby, North Carolina, Robbs grew up in a close-knit community that shaped her appreciation for family and meaningful relationships. “I grew up in a small town where people knew one another and community mattered,” she said. “That experience still influences how I approach my family, business and service.”

Robbs attended Western Carolina University, where she earned a degree in communications with a minor in marketing in 2012. It was also where she met her husband, Bevans Robbs. They married in 2014.

In 2013, Robbs joined the U.S. Army, serving as a public affairs broadcast specialist. She reached the rank of Specialist (E-4) and worked as both a television news reporter and radio disc jockey. In this role, she interviewed service members, developed stories and communicated information under pressure — skills that would later shape her career.

“My military experience taught me how to tell stories, communicate with different audiences and complete the mission even when circumstances were challenging,” Robbs said.

In 2019, Robbs and her family moved to Wellington, where they are raising their three children: Melani, Maci, and Bevans Robbs III, known as Tre.

In 2023, she launched Fix My Flyer, which provides marketing strategy, graphic design, print services and business workshops to businesses, nonprofits, government agencies, educational institutions and community organizations.

“Fix My Flyer is about much more than making something look good,” Robbs said. “We help clients think through their strategy, communicate their value and show up prepared.”

Recognized as one of the top veteran-owned businesses in South Florida, her long-term vision for the company is to make professional design and printing more accessible and efficient.

Robbs’ commitment to service extends well beyond her business. She serves as public relations officer for American Legion Post 390 in Wellington. Although she is one of the post’s younger members, she has found a strong sense of camaraderie among veterans from multiple generations.

Her involvement includes delivering Memorial Day and Veterans Day speeches, participating in wreath-laying ceremonies, attending military funerals to honor fallen service members and supporting local service projects. “The American Legion has given me another family,” Robbs said. “Whether we are laying a wreath, attending a funeral, sharing a meal or checking on one another, we do it together.”

Robbs has also been a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. for more than 15 years. She is active in the West Palm Beach chapter and serves as chair of the Build Our Economic Wealth Committee. “Service is at the heart of everything we do,” Robbs said. “We help families, support young people, care for seniors and meet people where they are.”

She also serves on the board of the Western Carolina University Catamount Club, giving back to the university that played a key role in her life.

The Wellington community has become an important home base for her family. She values its close-knit atmosphere, strong schools and family-centered environment.

“It is rare for my family to go anywhere in Wellington without seeing someone we know,” Robbs said. “That sense of connection makes it feel like a small town.”

Her children enjoy the many family-friendly events throughout the village. The area’s equestrian culture also reminds her of her North Carolina roots, where members of her family were involved in equestrian activities.

When she is not working or serving, Robbs enjoys traveling with her family. They frequently visit Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, travel to North Carolina, attend concerts and cheer for the NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers. She also enjoys hosting celebrations. “I enjoy creating moments that give people something to look forward to,” she said. “I love bringing people together and creating memories we can share.”

Robbs’ journey is equally defined by service — supporting veterans, strengthening communities, mentoring youth and helping others communicate with purpose.

“I want the work I do to mean something,” she said. “Whether I am serving a client, supporting fellow veterans, working with my sorority sisters, giving back to my university or creating memories with my family, I want people to feel that I showed up with purpose.”

 

Dinah Mirson

Artist & Author Joins Fernando To Shine Light In The World

Story by Mike May  |  Photo by Denise Fleischman

There are many ways to describe Dinah Mirson. She is caring, giving, kind, artistic and a talented author. Married to husband Brian and mother of two now-grown children, Mirson is happy to be living in the community.

“I moved to Wellington with my family in June 2006,” Mirson recalled. “We chose Wellington because it offered everything we were looking for — a strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a peaceful atmosphere while still being close to everything South Florida has to offer. It has been home ever since, and I truly can’t imagine living anywhere else.”

Right now, Mirson is retired and busy carrying out some lifelong goals. One of her most recent accomplishments is getting a book designed, written and published: FERNANDO. live. laugh. love. Fernando is her dog. This book would never have been written had Fernando, a silken windhound, not become a part of the family in August 2019.

“The book combines colorful artwork, lighthearted stories behind each painting and positive reflections that encourage readers to slow down, appreciate life’s simple moments and find joy in everyday kindness,” Mirson said. “Fernando reminds us that even small acts of compassion can make a meaningful difference.”

Mirson added that many readers feel the book has brought them comfort, joy and encouragement during difficult times — which, of course, was the point. “The response has been incredibly heartwarming,” she said. “Readers have shared that the book has made them smile, laugh and, in some cases, even helped them through difficult times. Our audience is wonderfully diverse, but many younger adults have embraced Fernando’s message that kindness, positivity and slowing down are things worth celebrating.”

The colorful coffee table book has been popular with people ranging from the religious community to medical professionals. “I’ve been donating copies to clergy members, mental health providers, assisted living communities, hospitals and organizations such as the Kids Cancer Foundation because I believe its message is meant to be shared,” she said.

Mirson’s recent artistic accomplishments were triggered during the pandemic. “I actually started painting again during Covid-19,” Mirson recalled. “I had some health issues, and painting became part of my healing process. The colors, creativity and joy they brought lifted my spirits and ultimately led me back to creating art full time after retirement.”

The foundation for FERNANDO. live. laugh. love. can be traced to Mirson’s work in New York City and later in Florida.

Before retiring from a 15-year career in banking on Palm Beach in July 2022, she worked in New York City for comic strip syndication service United Feature Syndicate, beginning in 1984. In her role there, she worked in marketing and licensing, which included working with Peanuts and Garfield. Her work with United Feature Syndicate was a profound period of her professional life. “That experience taught me the power of storytelling and creating emotional connections, something I now try to do every day through Fernando,” Mirson said.

Nowadays, Mirson and her muse Fernando, a retired show dog and licensed therapy dog, spend time helping other people overcome their current struggles in life.

“Since 2023, Fernando and I have been making therapy visits throughout the community,” Mirson said. I think Fernando enjoys the visits just as much as the people he meets. Also, we are now proud to be affiliated with Bonafide Pet Therapy, where Fernando achieved his advanced therapy status this past July.”

For Mirson, her years of work in the corporate world and being a pet owner have taught her a few lessons. “I believe aging well means continuing to learn, staying connected, giving back and having a sense of purpose,” Mirson said. “Fernando has given me all of those things, and together we’ve found a wonderful way to share a little more kindness wherever we go.”

Mirson is not content to be just an author. “I’m currently collaborating on a block-to-block community art project with Tito’s Handmade Vodka at Satchel’s Last Resort pet rescue and sanctuary in Sarasota, while also planning author meet-and-greet programs at Books & Books in Coral Gables this fall,” Mirson said. “The project is designed to create a joyful, welcoming environment that celebrates rescue dogs while encouraging kindness, hope and community.”

Moving forward, Mirson is focused on devoting her time to painting, writing, community projects and therapy visits with Fernando. Mirson and Fernando have many followers on Facebook and Instagram. Learn more about them at www.thatsfernando.com.

 

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Feature Stories

Glazer Hall Builds On Success With Spectacular Second Season

Glazer Hall Builds On Success With Spectacular Second Season

By Chelsea Casagrande

Following its successful inaugural season, Glazer Hall is setting the stage for its spectacular 2026-27 season this fall and winter. From contemporary jazz, rock and comedy to film screenings, classical concerts and acrobatics, Glazer Hall will once again captivate audiences with an eclectic lineup of performances in its intimate 400-seat theater, where every seat offers a great view.

Founded by longtime Palm Beach residents Jill and Avie Glazer, Glazer Hall is a not-for-profit organization providing world-class, innovative cultural experiences to the community. The former Royal Poinciana Playhouse has been reimagined as a waterfront cultural center and theater that opens a window into the world of arts and culture — inspiring and educating Palm Beach residents and visitors with programming that is accessible, relevant and reflective of the tremendous cultural and philanthropic ethos that defines the Town of Palm Beach.

Glazer Hall’s upcoming season will showcase an all-star lineup of performances, such as Broadway’s Grammy and Emmy-nominated entertainer Cheyenne Jackson, and the sounds of Frank Sinatra from legendary actor and singer Tony Danza, both part of Glazer Hall’s Cabaret/Theater Series. Enjoy a night of laughs from acclaimed comedians John Mulaney and Jon Lovitz as part of Glazer Hall’s Comedy Series.

For Glazer Hall’s Jazz Series, feel the rhythms and blues with iconic performances from 11-time Grammy winner Christian McBride and acclaimed quintet Ursa Major, or Grammy Award-winning smooth jazz saxophonist Kenny G. Experience the diversity of Glazer Hall’s Rock Series through the dynamic string performances of the Grammy-nominated duo Will Baptiste and Kev Marcus on their Black Violin: The Be Free Tour, or enjoy the captivating vocals of Italian singer Matteo Bocelli, son of the legendary Andrea Bocelli.

Glazer Hall’s Family Series offers fun-filled performances for the whole family, such as the Rock and Roll Playhouse Plays Music of Taylor Swift, the Shanghai Acrobats and Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland. Witness the magic of movement with beautiful ensembles from the Miami City Ballet, the American Ballet Theatre and the New York City Ballet, each a part of Glazer Hall’s Dance Series. Cherish classical repertoire by celebrated international pianist Emanuel Ax, the renowned New York Philharmonic orchestra or operatic tenor James Valenti as part of the Classical Series.

Glazer Hall’s exclusive Speaker Series will return, including engaging conversations by René Silvin, the cast of Twin Peaks, Garrison Keillor and Hugo Vickers. The popular Film Series will also be back, with a screening of Rocky in Concert — a 50th anniversary special featuring a live orchestra from Bill Conti’s legendary Academy Award-winning score.

Glazer Hall is located at 70 Royal Poinciana Way, Suite P70, in Palm Beach. To learn more, contact (561) 576-7860 or contact@glazerhall.org, or visit www.glazerhall.org.


 

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Feature Stories

Wellington Historical Society Preserves Village’s Past For Future Generations

Wellington Historical Society Preserves Village’s Past For Future Generations

By Patrick Sherry

Wellington’s history is written every day by the residents who call it home. Some of the people who helped shape the community in its early days are now gone, while others are still here, but the history they made will not be forgotten because of the Wellington Historical Society.

The Wellington Historical Society was created in 2018 by residents who saw the importance of preserving the community’s past for future generations. To them, a bright future is possible by learning from local history and the people who made it. The organization undertakes this mission by sharing Wellington’s history through the recording of firsthand experiences and the collection of historical documents.

Made up of community leaders and long-time residents, the society understands that the knowledge of history can disappear if no one preserves it. However, remembering yesterday can guide those who want to build toward a greater future.

“Our work helps connect people to the place they live,” explained Sue Bierer, president of the Wellington Historical Society. “Understanding how Wellington developed gives residents a greater appreciation for the vision, determination and community spirit that shaped our village.”

The organization’s collection boasts several historical materials that document Wellington’s early years and its rapid growth. Its members archive these documents online for the community to access. Members also interview long-time residents and local leaders who made Wellington what it is today. Their stories detail their experiences seeing the small community grow into a thriving village that has become one of the most desirable places to live in Florida.

Bierer said that the most meaningful pieces in the organization’s collection are those from events and people that many residents remember, like when Prince Charles and Princess Diana came to Wellington in 1985 or the first meeting of the Wellington Village Council in 1996. Sharing stories that have never been recorded before, or seeing families recognize familiar faces, creates a personal connection to history that reminds people why preserving it matters, she said.

“We focus on collecting and documenting Wellington’s history because today’s memories become tomorrow’s history,” Bierer said. “Our goal is to preserve not only major milestones but also the everyday experiences that define our community.”

Before becoming Wellington, the area was part of a vast wetland connected to the Everglades with few people living here. But over the last 75 years, the once remote swamp was transformed into the prosperous community it is today. Even with its short history, the members of the Wellington Historical Society pride themselves on learning and understanding the place they call home.

“Although Wellington is a relatively young community, many of its founding residents recognized that important stories, photographs and historical materials could easily be lost if they were not collected and preserved,” Bierer said. “The society was created to ensure that those memories would be available for future generations.”

In 1951, accountant Charles Oliver Wellington worked with Arthur William “Bink” Glisson to purchase and assemble the 18,000 acres of land that would become Wellington’s namesake community. He named the property south of Southern Blvd. and west of State Road 7 as the “Flying COW Ranch,” with COW standing for his initials.

Shortly thereafter, state lawmakers created the Acme Drainage District on the land acquired by Wellington to provide drainage and flood control. The area was subsequently turned into agricultural land that was sold and leased to farmers. At one point, more than 2,000 acres were strawberry fields, and it was believed to be one of the largest strawberry patches in the world.

“The stories of Charles Oliver Wellington and Bink Glisson are fascinating chapters in our community’s history,” Bierer said.

When Charles Oliver Wellington died in 1959, it would take a couple more decades for the property to begin its transition to the community we know today. The decision to develop part of the land was made by Wellington’s son, Roger Wellington.

The Investment Corporation of Florida (ICOF) partnered with the Alcoa Corporation to begin the first major residential development of Wellington after it purchased 7,400 acres of the land in 1971. Rapid development followed as the population of the community continued to grow. In 1995, residents voted to establish the Village of Wellington as a municipality.

Wellington Historical Society members work to ensure that children who grow up in Wellington learn about this history. Bierer and a team of retired teachers created a curriculum that teaches elementary school students about the history of the community they live in. Schools across Wellington use the curriculum during social studies classes to celebrate the achievements of the village.

Throughout the year, the Wellington Historical Society also hosts educational programs, lectures and social events to make the village’s history accessible to everyone in the community.

“We’ve received tremendous encouragement from residents who appreciate having a place where Wellington’s history is preserved and celebrated,” Bierer said. “Many people are excited to contribute their own photographs and memories once they learn about our mission.”

Bierer said that Wellington is important to residents, so preserving and honoring the past is a meaningful way that they can ensure it will never be forgotten.

“It has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” she explained. “I’ve met wonderful people, learned so much about Wellington’s remarkable history, and had the privilege of helping preserve the story of a community that means so much to so many people.”

Wellington started with less than 100 people decades ago and has since grown to a population of more than 62,000. Many early residents are still alive today, and their descendants are the future of the community. A photograph or memory is not just a keepsake, but part of the story of the resilient, passionate people who contributed to making their community.

The Wellington Historical Society prides itself on recording those stories so it can be preserved in the unique history of the village for future generations, so they can continue the village’s legacy.

“Every community has a story worth telling,” Bierer said. “Local history reminds us where we came from, celebrates the people who built our community, and provides valuable lessons for future generations. If we don’t preserve these stories today, they may be lost forever.”

To learn more about the Wellington Historical Society, access its online archives, or donate to its fundraising initiatives, visit www.wellingtonhistoricalsociety.org.

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Feature Stories

The Wellington We Choose To Be

The Wellington We Choose To Be

Thirty years ago, Wellington’s residents chose to build a community of their own. Twenty-five years ago, our nation was reminded in the most painful way possible how much communities depend upon one another. Today, we have the privilege, and the responsibility, of learning from both.

Thirty years is a long time. For some residents, Wellington’s incorporation is something they remember. For others, Wellington has been home their entire lives. And for many newer residents, the community they moved to may seem as though it has always been here. But Wellington was not inevitable. Thirty years ago, a group of residents made a decision that they wanted their community’s future to be shaped locally. They believed local government should be close to the people it serves, and that Wellington’s unique character and quality of life were worth protecting. That decision created the village we know today.

This September, as we continue to celebrate Wellington’s 30th anniversary year, we also pause to mark another anniversary, one that has nothing to do with budgets, development or local government, but has everything to do with community. Twenty-five years ago, on Sept. 11, 2001, our country changed forever. The events of that day reminded our entire nation of something fundamental: communities are more than the places where we live. They are the people we stand beside. They are the first responders who run toward danger when others are running away. They are the neighbors who check on one another. They are the volunteers who step forward when they are needed. They are the people who, in difficult moments, put aside their differences and ask a simple question: How can I help?

Twenty-five years later, those lessons remain important. And as I think about Wellington’s first 30 years of incorporation, I believe they are connected to the story we are writing for the next 30. Because communities are living things. They grow. They change. New families arrive. Businesses open. Roads are improved. Parks evolve. New neighborhoods are built. Technology changes how we work and communicate. The expectations residents have of their local government change, too.

Our responsibility is not to freeze Wellington in time. Our responsibility is to make sure that as Wellington changes, we remain intentional about what should never change. We should continue to be a community that values its open spaces, parks, trails, equestrian heritage, neighborhoods and sense of place. We should continue investing in infrastructure that supports our residents today while preparing for the demands of tomorrow. We should continue creating places where people want to gather — not simply places where people pass through.

And we should continue to be a community where neighbors know that their voices matter. That last point may be the most important. Local government works best when it is a conversation, not one-way communication. Over the past several years, we have made it a priority to make village government more accessible and more personal. That includes sharing information more openly, communicating directly with residents through social media and other platforms, and looking for more opportunities to explain not only what we are doing, but why we are doing it.

Our residents should not have to attend a council meeting to understand what is happening in their community. At the same time, government should not assume that communicating means we have done our job. We also need to listen, and Wellington residents have certainly demonstrated that they are willing to engage. We see it during the budget process. We see it when development proposals come forward. We see it when residents advocate for their neighborhoods, parks, roads, schools and community institutions. We see it at village events and community meetings.

Sometimes that engagement leads to agreement. Sometimes it doesn’t. But that is what a healthy community looks like. We don’t have to agree on everything to care deeply about the same place. One of the things I have learned during my 23 years with Wellington is that community character is not created by a single comprehensive plan, ordinance or development project. It is created by thousands of decisions, large and small, made over many years.

It is created by the resident who volunteers. The coach who gives their time to young athletes. The business owner who invests in the community. The neighbor who looks out for someone down the street. The employee who takes pride in serving the public. The parent who brings their child to a village program. The senior who participates in a community activity.

And it is created by the men and women who choose public service, whether they are elected officials, village team members, law enforcement officers, firefighters, teachers, healthcare workers or any of the countless others who serve their neighbors every day. September gives us a reason to remember that. Twenty-five years after Sept. 11, 2001, we should remember not only the tragedy and the lives that were lost, but also the extraordinary sense of unity and service that emerged in its aftermath.

We should remember the courage of those who responded. We should remember the generosity of strangers. We should remember that, when faced with something larger than ourselves, Americans came together. And perhaps most importantly, we should remember that the strength of our country ultimately rests on the strength of our communities.

That is something worth carrying forward. As we look toward Wellington’s next 30 years, we will face difficult choices. Wellington will continue to grow and evolve. There will be proposals we support, proposals we oppose and proposals that require compromise. There will be competing demands for limited resources. There will be new technologies and new ways of delivering services. There will be challenges we cannot yet anticipate.

Our job is not to predict all of them. Our job is to be prepared for them. That means continuing to plan ahead. It means maintaining the financial discipline that allows us to invest in our community. It means protecting the infrastructure and public spaces that define our quality of life. It means being willing to embrace new ideas while remembering the values that brought us here in the first place. And it means continuing to listen to the people who call Wellington home.

Thirty years ago, Wellington’s residents chose to build a community of their own. Twenty-five years ago, our nation was reminded in the most painful way possible how much communities depend upon one another. Today, we have the privilege, and the responsibility, of learning from both. Not with one grand decision, but through the thousands of decisions we will make together over the next decade and beyond.

The Wellington of tomorrow is being built today. And ultimately, the question is not simply what Wellington will become. The question is, what kind of Wellington do we choose to be? I believe the answer should be a community that continues to grow without losing its identity; that embraces the future without forgetting its past; that welcomes new residents while maintaining the sense of community that brought so many of us here; and that remains committed to service, compassion, courage and looking out for one another.

Thirty years ago, Wellington’s residents chose to build a community of their own. Twenty-five years ago, our nation showed the world what community could mean in the face of tragedy. Our responsibility now is to make sure that the next 30 years are worthy of what they started, and that we never forget the people and principles that made both stories possible.

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Feature Stories, Wellington Table - Signature Dish

Enjoy Authentic, Scratch-Made Italian Favorites At Domenic’s & Vinnie’s Palm Beach

Enjoy Authentic, Scratch-Made Italian Favorites At Domenic’s & Vinnie’s Palm Beach            

By Patrick Sherry

Flavorful Italian cuisine is a generational passion for the owners of Domenic’s & Vinnie’s Palm Beach. With a 77-year tradition of serving authentic Italian food and Connecticut-style pizza, the restaurant brand has brought a slice of their award-winning menu to the western communities.

Matt Annenberg is the managing partner at Domenic’s & Vinnie’s Palm Beach. He and his business partner Ryan Dupont opened the new restaurant on Okeechobee Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach last March. They are establishing themselves as one of the must-visit restaurants in the area to enjoy authentic, homemade Italian dishes.

Annenberg’s family opened the first Domenic’s & Vinnie’s Pizza restaurant in Waterbury, Connecticut, in 1949. For more than seven decades, they have been perfecting their recipes with fresh, scratch-made techniques for mouthwatering Italian comfort food. The family has opened three restaurants in the Northeast and has now taken that dedication for quality offerings to the western communities.

“Growing up in the restaurant industry, I developed a passion for hospitality and creating memorable experiences for guests,” Annenberg said. “We wanted to bring our family’s recipes, traditions and Connecticut-style pizza to South Florida while building a place where families and friends can gather.”

The restaurant is best known for its Connecticut-style pizza, which is a thin-crust oblong pie with a charred, chewy crust. The Hot Lips Pizza, topped with soppressata and hot honey, along with the sausage and classic cup-and-char pepperoni pizzas, have already become popular items to order. Outside of pizza, the chefs at Domenic’s & Vinnie’s serve a wide selection of gourmet dishes, including Italian classics like freshly made pasta and chicken parmesan.

“While we’re proudly pizza-focused and best known for our Connecticut-style pizza, we also offer a carefully curated selection of scratch-made Italian favorites, fresh salads, sandwiches, wraps and lighter options, so there’s something for everyone,” Annenberg said.

The chefs are carrying on a tradition and philosophy of scratch-made dishes that pack flavor into each bite. Almost every ingredient from the kitchen is either handmade or fresh, giving customers a premier dining experience.

Not only will the high-quality offerings keep you wanting to come back for more, but it will also make you recognize the neighborhood gathering place that the owners are building. With each customer served, they hope to make you a part of their family.

“Our history, authenticity and commitment to quality set us apart,” Annenberg said. “We make our pizza dough fresh daily, use a specialized water filtration system for our dough and sauces, and prepare our house-made meatballs and house-made sausage from family recipes.”

To get more familiar with the area and build relationships with the community, they have been getting involved in local events and partnerships. “We loved the area’s down-to-earth character and saw an opportunity to bring something unique that wasn’t already available while becoming part of the community ourselves,” he said.

Residents have welcomed Domenic’s & Vinnie’s with open arms. Annenberg said that he is grateful for the positive feedback, and customers often compliment their entrées and generous portions. The owners are hoping to continue to build these relationships with every customer.

For now, the owners will be focusing on establishing their brand here in the western communities. As they continue to grow, they are not ruling out opening more locations in Florida. Regardless, they are going to carry on the nearly century-long family legacy of preparing and serving fresh, scratch-made food.

“Our goal has always been simple: serve outstanding food, treat every guest like family and become a valued part of the community,” Annenberg said. “We appreciate everyone who has supported us thus far, and we’re excited to continue serving Palm Beach County for many years to come.”

The restaurant is open for dinner Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. They are open for lunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Pickup and delivery options are available through on-demand food platforms. Catering for special events is also available. Information on the restaurant’s latest specials and promotions can be found on its Facebook and Instagram pages.

Domenic’s & Vinnie’s Palm Beach is located at 11452 Okeechobee Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach. To learn more, visit www.domenicsandvinniespb.com or call (561) 355-5224.

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Feature Stories, Wellington Education

Wellington’s Suzanne Reddoch Honored With Prestigious William T. Dwyer Award

Wellington’s Suzanne Reddoch Honored With Prestigious William T. Dwyer Award

By Fiona Slusarev

Wellington High School’s Suzanne Reddoch, an AP statistics teacher who exudes warmth and genuine care, was honored at this year’s prestigious William T. Dwyer Awards for Excellence in Education. Reddoch won the Senior High Education category at the awards, presented May 4 at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts.

The Dwyer Awards are an annual program that celebrates the hard work and commitment of accomplished educators in Palm Beach County. Established more than 40 years ago, the program starts with hundreds of nominations, which are narrowed down to 28 finalists from across the county. Then, one winner is selected for each of seven award categories.

The awards, created and run by the Economic Council of Palm Beach County Foundation, a nonprofit organization that strives to bolster collaboration between private and public sectors in the county, are decided by a panel of judges made up of almost 100 local business leaders.

Reddoch was completely shocked by her win. It was both her first nomination for and first win of a Dwyer Award — an uncommon combination. She described the awards as the teaching equivalent of winning an Oscar or Emmy.

She was nominated by her fellow faculty at WHS and then made it to the final four contenders for Senior High Education after an extensive screening process by the judges.

“It’s one of the most prestigious awards you can receive in my career. To even be nominated by my staff, and to make it to the final four, was unbelievable,” Reddoch said.

After she was nominated, Reddoch had to write a series of essays and obtain a letter of recommendation from WHS Principal Cara Gorham. She went a step further by including another optional letter of recommendation from the 2025 valedictorian.

Reddoch wrote a total of three essays that explained her personal teaching philosophy, her leadership roles within the school, and her involvement in the community in and out of the classroom.

Then, Reddoch had to be interviewed by the judges’ panel. They were particularly impressed that she records every lesson she teaches and posts the videos online for students to access. For students who are absent or simply need a rewatch to better understand a topic, these recordings are invaluable.

“I’ll record it. You can see my notes, everything — everything I project, my graphing calculator, how to do certain keystrokes,” Reddoch detailed.

The judges also admired how willing she was to step up and help the school community. From being an extra hand at lunch and chaperoning prom to helping a new basketball coach with behind-the-scenes work, Reddoch continuously goes the extra mile to support the WHS faculty, staff and, of course, the students.

“At the end, one of the judges just thanked me for how much I care about the kids,” Reddoch said. “I don’t remember his exact words because I got a little emotional, but I guess they could tell how much I care about [the students].”

You only need to listen to Reddoch speak about her students for a few minutes to understand why she won the award. From the thank-you notes her graduating seniors leave for her to the stories of the students she is still in contact with 14 years after graduation, her compassion for and dedication to her students is easy to see.

Before her current 22-year-long career as a math teacher, Reddoch was a seven-year-old who caught the teaching bug from her second-grade teacher. After her seventh-grade math teacher’s suggestion that she help her classmates with their work, Reddoch focused on a goal to teach math.

The relationship with her students is what keeps Reddoch coming back every year. Her classroom walls are lined with photos of each class she has taught since she began in 2004. She makes every student a personalized birthday sign and highlights the highest-scoring students with her Stars of the Week.

“They see how much I care,” Reddoch said of her students. “I get that a lot in notes they’ll write me at the end of the year on how much I truly care about them — and I care about them as a person, not just doing well in the class. I actually care who they are.”

She aims to be a safe adult that students can trust and come to in times of need, not just for academic guidance. Reddoch has an endless list of stories about how her students not only rely on her but also simply want to share good news with her. She’s heard everything from a student excitedly telling her how they went skydiving for their 18th birthday, to students crediting her for unknowingly convincing them not to drop out.

As much as Reddoch impacts her students, the experiences with her students also stay with her. “It’s always hard saying goodbye,” Reddoch explained. “You create these relationships with these kids, and you’re with them all year long. I’ve always gotten to know them, and they always talk about all different things with me — and the last day you’ve got to say goodbye.”

When Reddoch is not giving her all to her students, this lifelong Wellington resident unwinds by doing some yard work or photography, supporting her eldest son, a student at WHS, in travel baseball, and cheering-on her youngest son in soccer.

To learn more about the Dwyer Awards, visit www.economiccouncilpbc.org/dwyer-awards.

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