Kermit Bankson was a wrestling coach and PE teacher at Albany High School for many years, leading his teams to multiple championships. He served as a mentor to countless students and inspired them to reach their full potential. Mr. Bankson’s vision for athletic facilities at AHS helped create the design for the new gym.

Virginia L. Behm was a teacher and principal at Albany High. She wrote the founding criteria for the establishment of MacGregor High School, a small, necessary school to enhance the opportunities for young people in Albany. Ms. Behm established a Limited English Proficient Outreach Program at Golden Gate Fields, known as “Riding High.” She was an advocate for inclusive athletics and continues to volunteer at AHS wrestling events. Ms. Behm was the first woman president of the North Coast Section of the California Interscholastic Federation.

Craig Bryant is an instrumental music teacher. He has conducted award-winning music programs and AEF was happy to support a grant that allowed Mr. Bryant and students to perform at Lincoln Center. Mr. Bryant has been generous in providing music groups to perform at community events, including AEF fundraisers.

Judith Carey was a dedicated librarian at Marin School. She began the Transitional Kindergarten (TK) library at Albany Children’s Center from donations made in Mary Wallmann’s memory. Ms. Carey maintained quality libraries in Albany schools during difficult state funding cycles. AEF could always count on her to be a Barnes & Noble shopping-day volunteer.

Robin Davis was a longtime, beloved teacher and principal at Albany Middle School. Upon retirement she served as a volunteer tutor. Ms. Davis was famous for her love of pickle decor, which students often contributed to.

Ernie Douglas was a dedicated instrumental music teacher for AUSD. He was a founding member of Albany Music Boosters and a leader of the Albany Community Orchestra. Mr. Douglas inspired a love of music in both children and adults.

Ruth Ganong was a former Board of Education member and Mayor of Albany. She also served on the AEF Board of Directors. Ms. Ganong was a leader in school finance measures.  She shared her love of Albany history with elementary school students by giving classroom presentations.

Paul Giganti was an Albany kindergarten teacher, a noted California math educator, and a member of the AEF Board of Directors. He has served as the editor of the AEF Update for many years. Mr. Giganti is the author of several children’s math books, which he generously shares with Albany schools.

Ingrid Haney was a longtime yard duty and instructional aide at Marin School. She also provided school office support and was a PTA leader. Ms. Haney was the arbitrator of many playground disputes.

Ethel Hansen was a long-standing crossing guard at Cornell School, ensuring the safety of students in all kinds of weather.

Nancy Henderson was an adaptive PE teacher for AUSD. She implemented innovative programs for all grade levels, often with grants funded by AEF. Ms. Henderson created programs partnering students with special needs and middle- and high-school students in the Adaptive PE program with activities such as swimming, bike riding, and roller skating.

Dale Hudson was a longtime Superintendent of Schools in Albany and supervised the building of the new Albany Middle and Albany High campuses. He was a strong supporter for the creation of AEF. Mr. Hudson steered the district through difficult times and ensured educational opportunities for all of Albany’s students.