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Ruddy was an outstanding educator, drama coach

Posted 4/21/11

To the Editor: It is with a sense of sadness and proud association that I would like to wish Joe Ruddy, the outgoing Principal at Madrid-Waddington Central School, the very, very, best of wishes to …

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Ruddy was an outstanding educator, drama coach

Posted

To the Editor:

It is with a sense of sadness and proud association that I would like to wish Joe Ruddy, the outgoing Principal at Madrid-Waddington Central School, the very, very, best of wishes to himself, Sandy, and their children, upon Joe’s impending and well-deserved retirement.

While I was attending MWCS in the 1980s, I was, to be honest, probably a C+ student, at best in those days. But it was with Joe’s continuing encouragement and support, that I went on to university and was able to attain my degrees. Joe would verbally support me whenever he could, write letters on my behalf to the admissions departments, and follow up with me while I was there to make sure I was doing ok and staying on the right track.

And who could forget his unparalleled drama club that he built and managed with impeccable perfection from the ground up. I don’t know how it’s been in recent years, but when I was a member, people from all over the county and different school districts would come to attend the Spring and Fall performances, based on the reputation the club had, and with good reason. Being a part of Joe’s drama club instilled at an early age the values of hard work, teamwork, practice, and camaraderie.

Joe’s hard work and hands-on approach to his numerous advisory roles and responsibilities was an inspiration to all who worked with him.

Joe was not only an outstanding teacher and administrator, but an invaluable mentor, role model, and later on, friend. I think that I can speak for many of my former classmates in saying that we are now better persons because of him.

So, Joe, take just a few extra seconds during that final Curtain Call, to reflect on just how much you’re appreciated.

Leland “Lenny” Farnsworth; A.A.S.; B.F.A; M.S.C.

M.W.C.S. class of ’88

Massena