Education - District honors longtime superintendent

On Thursday night, it got one that fits like a glove.

During a brief ceremony in the building’s lobby, a plaque designating the new title was unveiled.

The structure was dedicated as the “MacFadden Administration Building,” named for a man widely respected by his former colleagues and the community at large.

Dr. John E. MacFadden was employed by the district for a total of 38 years. He began his career as a high school social studies teacher, and later served as a high school assistant principal, personnel director and assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction.

In 1991, MacFadden was appointed as superintendent, a position he held for 16 years. He retired this past June.

Renaming the building after MacFadden was a decision made last spring by the 2006-2007 Board of Education. Superintendent Janice White believes it’s a wonderful way to celebrate his legacy.

White said one of MacFadden’s many accomplishments over the years was getting all the administrators under one roof. Previously, they had been scattered in various locations around the district.

“We are pleased to recognize the achievements and leadership of Dr. MacFadden,” White said.

“This is a permanent reminder of his contributions to past and future students.”

MacFadden said he feels proud and accomplished that people appreciate the time and effort he put in during his tenure with the district. However, he stressed that over the years he worked with a lot of good people who also deserve credit for what the district has achieved.

Having a building named after him was never one of MacFadden’s objectives. He is still somewhat in awe of the idea.

“This is quite an honor,” he said. “This is something you never really think about. When it happens, it makes you take a step back.”