The Independence High School (IHS) Alumni Association will host its 2026 Educator of Excellence Recognition Program on Monday, March 9 in the Independence High School Media Center. The event is open to the public. Doors open for socializing and pizza at 11:30 a.m. The presentation will begin at noon. Donations are welcomed.
This year’s program will recognize Gretchen Obrovac, an honors graduate of the IHS Class of 2000 and current middle/high school music and vocal teacher, and celebrate the lasting legacy of Katherine Boerwinkle, a former Independence educator whose influence shaped many students.
Gretchen Obrovac will be recognized for her impact as a music educator. As a student, she was involved in vocal, band, musicals, volleyball, Bio Society, Spectator, and Prom Committee. Her former teachers included Mr. Ken Gunlicks, Mr. Eric Wells, and Mr. Al Bogigian. As a high school senior, her stated 10 year goals included being married and working as a music teacher. Today, she is fulfilling that dream.
Nominators said, “Gretchen brings the best out in all of her students. She may teach them music, but she collaborates with them on what they would like to learn, sing, and how they would like to grow within the music world. She creates bonds with the students and helps to guide them through the pivotal years of their lives. She is able to tap into each of their individual strengths to not only let them shine, but to also make the vocal or musical more cohesive. She often has the difficult skill of balancing being a well liked teacher while also being firm and holding them accountable.”
The program will also honor Katherine Boerwinkle, born in 1906 in Sandusky, whose educational journey included studies at Wheaton College, Western Reserve University, and The Ohio State University. She taught English, math, and Latin at Independence High School from 1959 through the 1960s and was especially beloved as sponsor of the Latin Club. One former student reflected that she cultivated well rounded individuals and made life meaningful through the Classics.
Her daughter, Kaye Boerwinkle Kessler, Class of 1959, attended the ceremony at age 84 to represent her family. The recognition served as a reminder that the influence of a dedicated educator continues far beyond the classroom.
Katherine’s son, Tom Boerwinkle, went on to play college basketball and became a standout center for the Chicago Bulls, earning a place in franchise history.
The Educator of Excellence program reflects the pride of Independence and the deep appreciation the community holds for those who shape the lives of students. From current educators making a difference today to those whose legacy continues to inspire, the event highlights the lasting impact teachers have on generations of students.