PCC Foundation Hosts Fremont Hall of Fame Dinner

The weather was dampened but spirits were definitely not Friday night as the Canon City community came together to induct 3 exemplary people into the Pueblo Community College Fremont Campus Hall of Fame.

The Hall of Fame not only recognizes exemplary community service and support from these individuals, but also serves as an opportunity to raise funds for scholarships for students at the Fremont campus.

The 2016 inductees:

Maureen O’Shea Baxter joined the faculty of the Pueblo Community College Fremont Campus in its early years and was named Faculty of the Year for the 1987-88 school year. She was known for her teaching excellence, commitment to nursing and mentorship of her students. She passed away in 2010. Her son Mike Baxter and many of the Baxter family members were on hand to reminisce about Maureen’s life and accept the award on her behalf.

Larry Oddo has made a noticeable impact on Fremont County in a relatively short period. He and his family moved to Canon City in 2005 and purchased The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey. Not only has Oddo built a successful business, winning dozens of awards for the wine he produces, he quickly became a hands-on member of the community and a staunch supporter of the region’s amenities and lifestyle.

Will Colon, right, congratulates inductee Larry Oddo

Will Colon, who introduced Larry, aptly commented that Larry ends up being treasurer or president of all of the numerous boards he joins.

Myron “Smitty” Smith has been a contributor to Fremont County’s business and public service communities for more than six decades. Founder of Master Printers, he has also served as a Fremont County Commissioner and Florence City Council member and was executive director of the Fremont Economic Development Corporation. In addition to serving on other local boards, he helped develop the Airport Memorial Park and was instrumental in acquiring

Inductee Smitty Smith proudly holds Isaiah

the F-4 jet fighter that is on display at the Veteran’s Memorial at the Fremont County Airport. He served on the original fundraising committee to convert the women’s prison into the Museum of Colorado Prisons. He was introduced by his proud son, Myron “Frank” Smith Jr.

Because this program is all about the students, four exemplary scholars were awarded scholarships: Shyla Briese Young, Ryan Fisher, Rebecca Johns and Edna “Beth” Newey, who gave a resounding speech and demonstrated that if her chosen career as a librarian doesn’t work out, she also has a future as a comedienne.

The room was full of talent and promise, from past to future. These exemplary honorees paved the way for setting an example of leadership, and our scholars are continuing to carry the torch in just as impressive fashion.