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WHEREAS, Gary J. Niels earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland, a master of theological studies degree from the Regent College, University of British Columbia, and a master's degree in education administration from Columbia University Teachers College; and,
WHEREAS, since 2002, Mr. Niels has served as Head of Winchester Thurston School, leading the school through a period of extraordinary transformation, strengthening academic programs, and creating a more diverse faculty and student body; and,
WHEREAS, under his direction, Winchester Thurston has been celebrated nationally as a leader in progressive education and is listed in a group of the most highly regarded independent schools in the United States; and,
WHEREAS, Mr. Niels oversaw the greatest expansion and enhancement of Winchester Thurston School's campuses since 1963. In 2005 and 2006, Winchester Thurston's North Hills Campus and Upper School in the Shadyside neighborhood opened, respectively; and,
WHEREAS, during his time as Head of School, the school's endowment increased from $7 million to $19 million; and,
WHEREAS, Mr. Niels was instrumental in creating and advancing the nationally recognized City as Our Campus program, which gives students the opportunity to engage in active learning across Pittsburgh's neighborhoods and help to find solutions to the city's most pressing issues; and,
WHEREAS, during his tenure, Mr. Niels supported and energized Winchester Thurston's student athletes as they made school history. Since 2007, the school has earned two PIAA state championships, one PIAA individual state championship, three WPIAL team championships, twelve WPIAL individual championships, and eight WPIAL section championships; and,
WHEREAS, after sixteen years of dedicated leadership, foresight, and wisdom, Mr. Niels will conclude his duties as Head of School, leaving behind an unmatched legacy of accomplishments; and,
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council ...
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