Byron-Bergen Central Schools has named two alumni to the Hall of Fame for 2014. Elizabeth Findlay (Class of 1980) and David Keller (Class of 1975) join the ranks of other distinguished Byron-Bergen alumni honored with a place in the Hall of Fame for their achievements after graduation.
The Byron-Bergen Alumni Hall of Fame recognizes the accomplishments of the district’s graduates. This honor is in its twelfth year and has become part of the school district culture and a permanent reminder to students about the outcome of hard work and diligence.
According to a district press release, this year’s honorees exemplify dedication, leadership and service.
While attending Byron-Bergen Central School District, Elizabeth Findlay participated in National Honor Society, Band, Chorale, Solo Festival and All County Band. She earned a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Fredonia in elementary education, and a master’s degree in reading from The College at Brockport. She started teaching at Byron-Bergen in 1985 as a kindergarten teacher for her first five years, becoming a 6th grade teacher in 1990 and continues in that role today. Findlay has been very active in Byron-Bergen Central School District, participating on many committees, mentoring new teachers, and is a master teacher for student teachers. Findlay also participated in the Bureau of Education and Research in Rochester “using guided reading to help your students become better readers.” In the 2005-06 school year, she was selected as the Byron-Bergen Middle School Teacher of the Year and in 2008, she was chosen as the Wal-Mart Teacher of the Year.
David Keller was active in French Club, Future Teachers of America, American Field Service, Yearbook Co-Editor, Swim Club, Concert Band, Marching Band, and hosted an exchange student from Brazil during his time at Byron-Bergen. In 1975, Keller joined the U.S. Army Bands Program and studied music under the Navy Master Chief Mike Scairini. Upon graduation from the School of Music, he served in multiple Army Bands throughout the United States and in Berlin, Germany. In 1992, he was selected to the U.S. Army Field Band (the musical ambassadors of the Army) in Washington, D.C. The culmination of his military career came when he was selected as the first musician to become a Command Sergeant Major. Sergeant Major Keller (retired) served over 34 years and, while in the U.S. Army Field Band, performed in all 50 states. He performed for every Presidential Inaugural event from George Bush, Sr. through Barack Obama. During his Military career, Keller received numerous awards and medals. Keller has performed with many symphonies and orchestras throughout the United States. During his long and distinguished military career, Keller pursued his education at numerous universities and colleges, ultimately studying music with Karl Nitchie, principal bassoonist Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Keller is currently the Principal Bassoonist, Genesee Symphony; Bassoonist/Clarinetist, Batavia Concert Band; pit musician for Genesee Community College, Batavia Players, and Byron-Bergen CSD.
Keller participates in the Byron-Bergen holiday and spring concerts (2011-present), performs in the pit orchestra for musicals, and has assisted with construction/painting of the school musical sets. Currently, Keller is the treasurer of the B-B Music Boosters, and has been instrumental in fundraising events for the group; and is an active member of Gillam-Grant Community Center.
The 2014 Byron-Bergen Alumni Hall of Fame inductees will be honored on Friday, October 17. They will spend the day visiting with Byron-Bergen students and sharing how their school experience influenced their lives. After an induction ceremony and dinner that evening, the two honorees will be recognized just prior to the boys varsity soccer game. To attend the induction ceremony and dinner ($25 per person), contact Patty Gunio at (585) 494-1220, ext. 2329 by October 10. Seating is limited to 80 people.
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