New pillar added to SHS

By Melissa Piche Times Contributor

Sultan Nelson was the humble recipient of the Pillar Award at Strathmore High School (SHS) on Nov.23. 

Nelson graduated SHS in 2003 and since has gone on to receive a Doctorate degree in Philosophy and a Doctor of Medicine degree. 

Principal Doug Raycroft explained how the nomination process happens. 

“The program was started over 10 years ago (2010). Unfortunately we had to take a little break there during Covid years,” said Raycroft during his first Pillar ceremony as principal. “We have a committee of teacher and ex-teachers. We take nominations of Strathmore High School graduates and then the committee rounds down and tries to pick appropriate pillars.” 

Raycroft explained that the recipient isn’t always an academic scholar, such as Nelson – each pillar is selected based on what the committee deems represents SHS. 

The plaque outlines the recipient’s achievements and is a permanent fixture on the high school wall. The Pillars of SHS is made possible by the generous donation by Steve Rodehutskor and his family. Rodehutskor was honoured in 2010 with the first Pillar. 

“Steve represented a lot of the qualities that we wanted to recognize when we started this,” said Raycroft. “Steve’s hard work, dedication, discipline and motivation allowed him to succeed at the highest level of sport, academics and was a true professional. It’s really good for school culture.” 

Raycroft said students are seen reading the Pillars often and when visitors come to the school, they often get caught up reading about the past achievements. 

Nelson was presented his pillar by his former teacher, Dr. Michelle Ledene. 

“Every once in a while, a student comes along that leaves a permanent imprint on your life and your heart, and for me that student was Sultan,” said Ledene, as she fought through tears. “From academics, to athletic, to giving back to his community, Sultan’s passion and joy for learning was contagious.” 

She said she has never met a student who values education as much as Sultan.  

 “I’m honoured and a bit overwhelmed actually,” said Nelson. “To be honest, my journey has been filled with more love and support than one can imagine.” 

He went on to thank his school and his adoptive parents, Denise Peterson and Roger Nelson for the warm embrace he felt as a child in a new community. 

“Strathmore High wasn’t just a steppingstone for me, it was truly a launching pad,” he said. “As I accept this award, I carry with me every handshake, every good job and every moment of encouragement from this community. This is not just an award to me; it is actually a testament to the village it takes to raise a child. In my case, a curious young, man with dreams bigger than myself.

“Here’s to Strathmore High School the teachers who are the architects of our future.”