“The Hall of Distinction will honor and showcase graduates, individuals and teams that have, by their accomplishments and contributions, represented the school district in an exemplary manner,” said committee member Mike Tomasoski.

The committee is currently seeking nominations for its first induction class.

Nominees can be a Norway or Vulcan High School graduate, said Tony Adams, Norway Junior/Senior High School principal and athletic director.

The deadline to submit applications is April 1. The committee plans to host its first ceremony banquet next fall.

The Hall of Distinction logo features both the Norway Knights and Vulcan Giants. (Terri Castelaz/Daily News)

There’s no limit to nominees; however, an individual must be nominated by someone other than themselves.

A complete list of criteria, along with nomination forms, can be found at ww.nvknights.org/page/hall-of-distinction.

“I’m curious to see what comes in. There’s some obvious ones and there’s one that surprises you,” Adams said. “I’m hoping the community really gets behind it.”

Honorees will receive individual plaques that feature their accomplishments to be displayed in a permanent school display.

The Hall of Distinction will be in the common area of the sports deck, to the right of the weight room, Adams said.

“Family, friends, alumni and community members will be able to observe and appreciate the prominent display during their school visits,” Tomasoski noted.

“The committee is also looking at an interactive display, where we can include more information,” Adams added. “It may take some time, but I think it’s going to be pretty neat.”

Adams explained that school officials have been talking for a few years about ways to connect with alumni and community members.

“Last year, Joe Tinti and I said, ‘This needs to happen,'” he said. “We started the ground work in the school then brain-stormed a committee.”

The committee formed in June to formulate its purpose, bylaws, display site and means of selection for inductees.

In addition to Tomasoski and Adams, committee members include Tinti, Randy Van Gasse, Bill Van Wolvelaere, John Gallino, Jan Hogberg, Barb Menghini and Steve Ortman.

Adams also noted that nominations not selected will be held for five years, so they don’t have to be resubmitted each year.

“The Hall of Distinction will be an excellent addition to our school,” Tomasoski said.

“I’m excited for our school, community and alumni, because we have so many great contributions, not just locally but nationally and globally,” Adams added. “I’m really looking forward to learning more about what graduates have accomplished. This will also give our students the opportunity to read about our great alumni.”

Nomination and sponsorship forms are available at the high school office as well.

The Hall of Distinction will be funded solely through donations, so the committee is actively seeking contributions from alumni, community members and businesses to help with costs.

Individuals or businesses donating a minimum of $100 will be recognized for their generosity in the ceremonial brochure, as well as online.

Gold- and Platinum-level donors will also receive permanent recognition in the NVAS Hall of Distinction.

Bronze level is minimum of $100; Silver level, $500 minimum; Gold level, $1,000 minimum; and Platinum level, $5,000 minimum.

Sponsorship donations can be mailed to the NVAS Hall of Distinction, Attention Tony Adams, 300 Section St., Norway, MI 49870.

The committee thanks everyone in advance for supporting the project.

For more information, contact Adams at the high school office at 906-563-9542.

———

Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 85241, or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.