2008 Inductees

Whether they are a past Sidney High School graduate,
a former staff member, or someone who has had a significant impact on our community, the achievements of these inductees are a source of pride for Sidney City schools and our community.

Barbara Fifer (SHS 1965) laid the foundation of her writing career while still a student at SHS as co-editor of the Sidney High School News. As a creative writing major at Ohio University, she returned during the summers to work and hone her writing skills as a reporter at the Sidney  Daily News. She continued her career as an editor, writer and publisher in Montana. Her former professor, David Madden, writes that “Barbara is nationally recognized for her work.” Today she is a published author of numerous articles and several books about the history of the American West.

Philip E. Maurer is a true example of America’s “greatest generation.” A member of the class of 1940, Maurer went on to serve in the United States Army’s 248th Combat Battalion during World War II where he was seriously wounded, losing a leg. Following his recovery, he returned to Ohio where he earned a degree in Industrial Engineering at the Ohio State University. He then began a 35 year career with Goodyear Tire and Rubber and was a pillar of the St. Marys and Auglaize County communities serving on numerous church and civic boards.

Douglas Stewart (SHS 1967) Doug Stewart’s life has been characterized by loyalty and longevity of service, exemplified at an early age as a 9-year member of the Sidney High School marching band (which just may be a record). He left Sidney to attend Huntington College (Indiana) and upon graduation returned to a career in banking at the People’s Federal Savings and Loan. He became Peoples’ youngest President in 1982, a position he still holds today. He has been a community leader in Sidney as well, chairing numerous church and civic boards including chairmanship of the Sidney Memorial Stadium Steering Committee.

Thomas L. Watkins (SHS 1950) was once characterized by a friend and colleague as “a man of quiet accomplishment.” After graduating at the top of his high school class, Tom completed a business degree at University of Cincinnati and then served in the United States Air Force where he attained the rank of Captain. After military service, he returned to Sidney where he began a career as an executive at Amos Press and devoted himself to the community. He served on numerous church and civic boards, including the Wilson Hospital, Alpha Center, IUTIS, United Way, First Presbyterian Church and the Barnes Educational Trust.