Dennis Campion graduated from Milton High School in 1985 and spent his entire adult life coaching, mentoring and inspiring Milton’s youth, providing a true role model for a generation of young athletes and students.
A natural athlete, Campion was a star player on the high school’s football, basketball, and baseball teams, earning 11 varsity letters. Campion’s baseball skill and acumen led him to accept a scholarship to play for the University of Wisconsin-Madison baseball team where he lettered four times. In 2006, Campion was inducted into the Milton-Area Athletic Hall of Fame.
Campion’s personal athletic successes cemented his place in Milton athletic history. Yet, Campion’s greatest achievement and lasting legacy will be his passion for supporting Milton’s student athletes as an inspirational coach and mentor. Campion was a devoted volunteer, dedicating his time to coaching and officiating youth sports. He was beloved by players, parents, and spectators alike, earning universal respect and admiration. He was a man of integrity, making everyone feel valued and important.
Campion often remained late after practices to help those in need of extra support. He regularly reached out to students and parents to celebrate their accomplishments. He was so much more than a coach. Campion was a friend and confidante who built the confidence of his players and genuinely cared for their well-being.
Above all, Campion believed in the importance of character. He taught his players that sports are about more than just winning and losing; sports are about players becoming the best possible versions of themselves. He stressed that true success is measured not by one’s performance on the court or field, but by one’s character off of it.
Dennis Campion was a man who truly embodied the ideals of sportsmanship. He was a kind, compassionate individual who inspired his players to be their best selves both on and off the field. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and hearts he inspired.
For eight decades during the 1900s, Milton and Milton College had within its midst one of the most uniquely talented individuals of diverse skill and intellectual curiosity in George Hubert Crandall.
Crandall’s 1991 obituary in the Milton Courier noted “Driven by curiosity and a creative mind he had diverse interest and skills which led him into many pursuits and friendships over his lifetime, which included teacher, athlete, farmer, musician, artist, biologist, physicist, and mathematician.” Crandall was the first full-time coach and athletic director at Milton College; was a veteran of World War I; a civilian instructor in the U.S. Army signal corps during World War II; taught math and physics at Milton College; was part of the University of Wisconsin Physics Department and served on that department’s High Nuclear Energy Staff through age 88.
The remarkable accomplishments of George H. Crandall resulted in his receiving the Pillar of Milton Award in 1953, an annual award given by the college recognizing individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the school and community. Crandall is also one of just seven individuals to have been enshrined into both the Milton-Area Athletic Hall of Fame and the Milton College Athletic Hall of Fame.
In 1910 Crandall graduated from Milton High School – located on the site of the current Milton East Elementary School. Crandall played high school baseball and basketball, edited the school’s Golden Arrow yearbook and performed the lead in the senior play. Following high school, Crandall enrolled at Milton College where he starred on the baseball and basketball teams and performed with the school’s renowned Glee Clubs. He then received an MA from the University of Wisconsin before serving as an artillery officer during World War I.
In 1921, Crandall was hired as the first full-time athletic director and coach at Milton College. He twice held the position, first from 1921 through 1926 and then from 1932 through 1942. Crandall founded the non-student organized football program at Milton College in 1921. Crandall coached football, basketball, baseball and women’s basketball. He also taught full caseloads of math and physics at the college.
During World War II, Crandall served as a civilian instructor in the U.S. Army Signal Corp. Following the war, Crandall joined the faculty in the physics department at the University of Wisconsin and served on the department’s High Nuclear Energy Staff until age 88.
Crandall died in Janesville in 1991 at age 97.
Jonathan "Jon" Cruzan graduated from Milton Union High School in 1968. A dedicated student, he was an active participant in many student organizations and activities, serving as the president of Forensics, Key Club, and Spanish Club. Cruzan earned his bachelor's degree in broad field social studies from Milton College in 1972. He continued his education by earning his master's degree in school guidance and counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in 1975.
Cruzan began his professional life as a seventh-grade social studies teacher in Burlington, Wisconsin. Ultimately, he transitioned his career into the private sector and became a regionally renowned human resources professional through his retirement in 2007.
Particularly devoted to his family and the Milton Community, he has made a second career in volunteerism--actively looking to pay his “civic rent” to the community he values so dearly.
Cruzan’s contributions to the community have been extensive. He has been a long standing supporter and volunteer for countless community organizations, including but not limited to, The Gathering Place Senior Center, the Milton Historical Society and Milton House Museum, the Milton College Preservation Society, the Milton Area Chamber of Commerce, and the School District of Milton. Cruzan served on Milton's Board of Education from 2008 to 2017, serving six years as President.
Cruzan’s leadership and dedication were instrumental in the founding of the Milton Area Youth Center, a safe and supportive after-school space for 6th-12th grade students in Milton. MAYC provides a free daily meal and engaging programming that fosters friendships, youth leadership, and mentorship.
Cruzan’s legacy to the community will be his shining example in building positive relationships, his ability to build bridges and forge connections among community members, and his action in creating opportunities that support the youth in the School District of Milton.
Richard Dabson was the band director at Milton High School, spanning two buildings and more than three decades during a time in which the quality and reputation of the band reached unprecedented heights and destinations.
Dick Dabson, affectionately called “D” by his colleagues and students, for 33 years was a respected force in the school’s music department and headed a band that marched its way across the United States. A 1952 graduate of Janesville High School, Dabson received a bachelor’s degree from Coe College in Iowa. He served two years in the United States Army and taught band at the Fort Bragg, NC, military base school system. In 1957 Dabson became band director
at Milton Union High School in the school’s original building along Madison Avenue.
Dabson’s teachings drew upon his Army background and military-style uniforms and disciplined marching styles became a hallmark of the school’s band over the next three decades. Dabson also brought to Milton schools an ambitious vision to offer his students expanded learning experiences to heights and places never previously considered. In 1961 the Milton Union High School band marched in the John F. Kennedy inauguration parade in Washington D.C. Subsequent trips became a staple of the school’s band experience and took students to places such as the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, TX, as well as events in St. Petersburg, Florida and Indianapolis, Indiana -- among many other festivals, events, and locations.
Closer to home, Dabson supervised the music department’s move to a new building with the construction of the current Milton High School along High Street in 1965. Dabson helped showcase the building’s new auditorium by teaming with the school’s choir directors – most notably Margaret Davidson -- to produce some of the school’s most memorable musical productions.
The civically minded Dabson was also involved in local government, serving more than 30 years on various city boards and commissions, including the city council. He served 17 years as Milton’s mayor during two separate tenures.
Lawrence Dickhoff graduated from Milton Union High School in 1928 and Milton College in 1933, laying the groundwork to become one of the most high-profile business names in the community and guiding the merger of the villages of Milton and Milton Junction. Dickhoff’s years of community involvement and dedication culminated with his election by an overwhelming majority to become the first mayor of the city of Milton, a position he held until his death in 1974.
Dickhoff was a standout pupil and student athlete in high school and at Milton College where he competed in basketball, baseball, football and track. In 1977 he was posthumously inducted into the Milton College Athletic Hall of Fame.
Dickhoff obtained a degree in chemistry from Milton College with the intention of pursuing a career as an educator. However, fate and opportunity led Dickhoff down a path of community service. After several years working at Milton Junction auto dealer Harte Chevrolet, Dickhoff purchased the dealership from the Harte family in January of 1939. Dickhoff Chevrolet became one of the most well-known businesses in the Milton community, and a cornerstone of the thriving Merchants Row shopping district in Milton Junction.
As a business owner, Dickhoff led by example and always by kindness. He believed in family and community first and strove to make genuine connections with his neighbors. He could always be relied upon to assist them whenever, and however, he could.
A proud graduate of the Milton school system, Dickhoff was a vocal supporter of schools and student organizations throughout his life. In the late 1950s, Dickhoff and his wife, Margaret, worked with Arnie and Rose Agnew to donate land for the development of Lamar Park around what is now Milton West Elementary School. He served on the Milton College Board of Trustees for several decades as well as the Milton Union High School board for six years.
Dickhoff was a devoted civil servant. He served on the Rock County Board of Supervisors for ten years beginning in 1949. Dickhoff was a Milton Junction village trustee from 1949 until 1961 when he was elected village board president. During the mid-1960s Dickhoff advocated, pursued and facilitated the concept of combining the villages of Milton and Milton Junction. Following a successful unification referendum, Dickhoff became the first president of the combined villages in 1967. When Milton became a city two years later, Dickhoff became its first mayor, an office to which he wholeheartedly devoted himself until his passing in 1974.
Dickhoff’s efforts toward successfully combining the villages resulted in one of the most significant and transformational events in the history of the Milton community.
Ivan FitzRandolph lived a life grounded in faith, defined by intellect, and guided by his commitment to the service of others. A nearly lifelong resident of Milton, he graduated from Milton Union High School in 1939 and enrolled at Milton College shortly after.
While still a student, he began working as a radio announcer for WCLO in Janesville and WROK in Rockford. In that role, FitzRandolph had the solemn task of being the first to deliver the news of the attack on Pearl Harbor to the citizens of Rock County.
In 1942, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving with distinction in the Signal Corps as a Cryptographic Technician in Europe during World War II. For his service, he received the American Theater Service Medal, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. Following his honorable discharge in 1946, he returned to Milton College and graduated in 1947 with a major in accounting and a minor in music.
After beginning his career with the Chevrolet Division of General Motors, FitzRandolph accepted a teaching position at Milton College in 1954. This decision marked the beginning of his enduring legacy in education and public service. During his three-decade career at Milton College, he taught economics, business administration, and accounting. He also served in a variety of administrative capacities as needed, including as comptroller, business manager, division chair, and coordinator of computer instruction.
He served on the Milton Board of Education for 16 years and was a deacon at the Milton Seventh Day Baptist Church. In 1982, he received the prestigious “Pillar of Milton” award in recognition of his unwavering service to education and the community.
A lifelong learner, his passions and pursuits reflected his curious mind and creative spirit. He was an unforgettable singer and performer, avid genealogist, fisherman, bonsai enthusiast, and photographer.
Ivan FitzRandolph lived each day in service to others. His legacy is one of enduring kindness, a passion for education, and the pursuit of knowledge. He was a steady leader who could always be depended upon to offer wise counsel and model quiet strength. Above all else, he was a man who wanted his actions to be those that his family and his community could be proud of. We can confidently say that he succeeded in every way.
A steadfast advocate for veterans and pillar in the Milton community, Jarrett Goodman's legacy of service spans both his military career and his tireless dedication to those who served. A 1969 graduate of Milton Union High School and a distinguished athlete, Jarrett was drafted into the U.S. Army in May 1970, quickly distinguishing himself in the Alpha Company, 3rd Battalion, 506th Infantry of the 101st Airborne Division during the Vietnam War. His service in Phu Bai,
Vietnam, was marked by bravery and sacrifice, earning him two Purple Hearts, a Bronze Star, and over a dozen individual medals after being injured in jungle warfare.
Discharged in 1972 following extensive medical care, Goodman’s commitment to his fellow servicemen and women would never falter. He returned to Milton, where he soon became a familiar and respected figure. Many will recognize him through his 30 years at the Milton Post Office. But, it could be said his life’s work has been supporting veterans and their families. It was through these efforts that he received recognition by then Congressman Les Aspin and was
listed in the Congressional Record in 1982 for his ongoing contributions.
Goodman's dedication to veterans' welfare has been unwavering. He has been instrumental in assisting local veterans in securing well-deserved benefits and recognitions, often correcting oversights and ensuring they receive the honors they earned. His involvement includes positions on the Rock County Veterans Service Commission, the Veterans Administration in Janesville, and the Milton Area Veterans Memorial. For over two decades, Goodman has also
played a critical role on the Congressional District 1 Veterans Advisory Board and has been a selector for Military Academy candidates.
His personal commitment to remembering and honoring fallen comrades is profound. Each year, he lays flowers at the gravesites of his unit members on Veterans Day and on the anniversaries of their deaths, maintaining a sacred connection to their memory.
Jarrett Goodman is a hero to his community and to his nation. He is the epitome of strength, integrity, dedication, and compassion. His impact on the people of Milton and beyond will resonate forever.
A proud graduate of Milton Union High School (Class of 1953), Dr. Sally Shadel Hasselbrack is a groundbreaking scientist whose innovations in textile and fire science have revolutionized safety standards in the aerospace industry and beyond. Dr. Hasselbrack earned her BA in home economics from Emmanuel Missionary College, her Master of Science in textiles and clothing from the University of Wisconsin in 1962 and her Ph.D. in Textile Structures from the University
of Minnesota in 1977.
Hasselbrack began her professional life as an educator, but was ultimately recruited by Boeing to spearhead their new textile flammability department in response to the FAAs call for industry- wide improvement in aircraft fire safety. Using her unique expertise in textiles and textile creation, her department pioneered developments in flame-retardant fabrics that have since been integrated across various industries, enhancing safety standards on a global scale.
Dr. Hasselbrack was the first woman to be named a Boeing Senior Technical Fellow in 1996, and she holds a patent for a Low Heat Output composite, which has been instrumental in saving lives during aircraft emergencies by reducing the intensity of fires, allowing passengers crucial time to escape.
Beyond her professional achievements, she has been a passionate advocate for public safety education, collaborating with the Seattle Fire Department to produce awareness films and engaging in volunteer efforts that focus on protecting children and the elderly from fire hazards. Her inventions, rooted in her early love of sewing and honored in her home economics classes at Milton Union High School, demonstrate how the lessons learned in the halls of this high
school can go on to inspire inventions that will change the world for the better.
Despite her global impact and decades of residence in the state of Washington, Dr. Hasselbrack proudly calls Milton her “hometown,” cherishing her roots in this community for having fostered her initial curiosity and inventiveness. In turn, the community will forever be grateful for Dr. Hasselbrack’s immeasurable positive impact, as a scientist, a researcher, a scholar, and an inspiration to us all.
A lifelong Milton resident and 1966 graduate of Milton Union High School, Rod Hilton has devoted more than 50 years of his life to guiding students, athletes, and the greater community. A mentor and role model to countless individuals, he is an icon of humility, humor, and heart.
Hilton was a highly active student-athlete and scholar at Milton High School. After graduation, he obtained his BS in Education and a Masters in Guidance and Counseling from UW-Whitewater. He also proudly served for two years in the United States Army.
In 1972, he returned to his alma mater as a social studies teacher and remained in the classroom for over three decades. Generations of students and staff will always remember his warm smile, high expectations, and the laughter that often echoed from his classroom. His classes pushed students to think critically and live intentionally. He is well remembered for creating hands-on learning experiences like archaeological digs and organizing History Club trips.
He also served as a Drug and Alcohol Counselor and led student groups such as “Choose Not to Use.” A trusted mentor and advocate, he offered quiet support to students who needed it most.
Beyond the classroom, Hilton built one of the longest coaching careers in Milton’s history. Over 52 years, he led teams in football, basketball, and golf. To his players, he was a steady voice, a model of integrity, and a lifelong supporter.
Hilton’s servant leadership extended far beyond school walls. He spent 15 summers leading the District’s paint crew, worked for decades with the Milton Historical Society, and created historical walking tours and cemetery presentations. He has been instrumental in preserving local history through his Milton Obituary Research Project where he meticulously cataloged historical documents for future generations.
Though officially retired from teaching, he has never stopped serving as an educator. He volunteers weekly as a second-grade reader at Harmony Elementary and often returns to Milton High School as a guest speaker in history classes. He is also a well-known trivia leader at community events, still finding joy in sharing knowledge with others.
Rod Hilton is a servant leader in every regard whose profound impact has forever shaped the heart of the Milton community.
For 32 years as an educator at Milton High School, Robert Johnson had a positive influence on a generation of students and transformed the school’s agricultural education department, FFA programs and elevated its wrestling teams to state-wide dominance. Johnson’s vision and leadership inspired a culture of community volunteerism and advocacy for youth organizations and education that will continue for generations to come.
From an early age, Johnson became deeply passionate about agriculture and by extension agricultural education. His childhood involvement in 4-H and FFA extended into a lifetime commitment to both organizations on local, state, and national levels. His enthusiasm and energy galvanized the community to support agricultural education programs and opportunities. While serving as advisor to the Milton FFA and FFA Alumni, both organizations earned national recognition, being named the nation’s top affiliate five times.
Locally, with Johnson’s vision, zeal, and ability to rally broad community support, the Milton FFA Alumni took the lead in completing numerous projects, including the construction of a new high school ag building and greenhouse; the 1995 renovation of Carl F. Anderson Athletic Field; and the construction of Schilberg Park.
Johnson is also recognized for his efforts coaching the Milton High School wrestling team. Supporting the team for 21 years, 13 as its head coach, Johnson mentored countless student athletes. Johnson’s varsity squads won 11 consecutive Southern Lakes Conference championships, made seven state WIAA state team appearances and won the state’s Division 1 championship in 2002.
Following his retirement from education in 2012, Johnson devoted more time to his second career, having founded Badger State Auction and Real Estate. As part of an on-going personal commitment to advocate for youth organizations and charitable causes, Badger State has orchestrated countless community fundraisers for worthy causes. These fundraisers have generated tens of millions of dollars for local families in need, youth organizations, youth athletic teams, and local charitable organizations.
In recognition of his innumerable accomplishments, Johnson has been inducted into the Milton Area Athletic Hall of Fame; the Wisconsin FFA Hall of Fame; and the Wisconsin Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame. Johnson has also received the Milton Kiwanis Citizen of the Year Award and the Milton Area Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Achievement Award.
In thanks for his more than 30 years of service to the state fair, 4-H, FFA, Wisconsin youth and agriculture, then Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker declared August 10, 2016 to be “Bob Johnson Day.”
Born in Milton Junction, Wisconsin in 1886, she attended Milton Junction elementary and high school prior to graduating from the Academy course at Milton College in 1906.
Mabel Maxon was a “trailblazer.” In the early 20th century, advanced educational opportunities afforded to women were few and far between. What few programs were open to women were often centered on home economics. Yet, Maxson defied convention. She earned her degree from Milton College in 1910 and went on to earn her master's degree from the University of Wisconsin. She pursued post-graduate work at the Art Institute of Chicago and the Library School at the University of Iowa.
Maxson returned to Milton in 1912 and devoted herself to the community as an educator, dramatist, and librarian. For 43 years “Miss Mabel,” as she was affectionately known by college and Milton’s younger students, served as librarian at Milton College. Maxson spent three years cataloging books and materials for the library. In a short time, she grew the collection from 6,000 volumes to more than 24,000 volumes by the time of her retirement in 1955.
Maxson considered the library to be a resource for the entire Milton community, not just the college. She welcomed Milton’s school-age children into the library and spent countless hours teaching children how to use the facility. She also headed the college English department, teaching a full course load and directing the college’s annual Shakespeare plays. She often recruited and encouraged Milton’s elementary and high school students for the play’s younger roles.
Scott Mori graduated from Milton Union High School in 1960. As a child and young adult, Mori spent his free time studying, exploring, and interacting with the rich ecosystems surrounding Storrs Lake. Neighbors and classmates recall him taking daily trips to the lake to fish, hunt, and enjoy its natural wonders. Through involvement with the Boy Scouts, and later as president of Milton Union High School’s Conservation club, his lifelong passion for natural history and conservation was solidified.
A diversely talented student, Mori was a standout both in the classroom and in athletics. As a Junior, Mori was selected to represent Milton at Badger Boys State. He also served on the Student Council and was elected president his senior year. Remembered by his classmates as a natural born athlete, he earned his letters in football, basketball, track and field, and wrestling.
After high school, he attended the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, where he obtained his B.S. in Biology and Conservation. He went on to obtain his M.S. and Ph.D. in Botany at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Most of Mori’s career was spent at The New York Botanical Garden, where he served nearly 40 years before retiring in 2014 as Nathaniel Lord Britton Curator of Botany, and as Curator Emeritus until his passing in 2020.
Over his career Mori collected more than 27,000 plant specimens, described and named 125 plants new to science, and had at least 70 plants new to science named in his honor. He wrote more than 130 scientific papers and dozens of popular articles, authored or edited 18 books, was the major professor for 11 graduate students, and served as an educator or mentor to countless undergraduates, interns, and volunteers.
In 2007, he received the David Fairchild Medal for Plant Exploration from the National Tropical Botanical Garden and the Asa Gray Award from the American Society of Plant Taxonomists. Before that, in 2002, he was awarded the Engler Medal in Silver from the International Association of Plant Taxonomy for the best publication in systematic botany: the two-volume Guide to the Vascular Plants of Central French Guiana.
In part, due to the work of Scott Mori and his collaborators, central French Guiana is now included within a large protected zone that comprises most of the southern part of this territory’s pristine rainforest.
Dr. Jon C. Platts served as the School District of Milton’s superintendent for 30 years, guiding the growth of Milton schools as enrollments nearly tripled in size during his tenure as one of the most respected school administrators in southern Wisconsin.
Dr. Platts grew up in Elkhorn where he was an outstanding three-sport athlete at Elkhorn High School. He played three years of varsity basketball at the University of Wisconsin- Whitewater while attaining a Bachelor of Education Degree. In 2018, Platts was inducted into the Elkhorn High School Athletic Hall of Fame. Following college, he spent four years teaching business education and economics in the Hortonville School District, where he was elected head of the district’s teacher’s union.
Dr. Platts was hired as the business manager for Milton schools in 1966 – a move that located he and his family closer to Madison and the University of Wisconsin where he would attain a master’s degree and Ph.D. In December 1968, Platts was hired to succeed Donald Ethen as superintendent of Milton schools. At the age of 28, he was the youngest schools superintendent in the state of Wisconsin.
Dr. Platts held the superintendent’s position through his retirement in the spring of 1999. For those three decades, he also continued his role as the district’s business manager, maintaining full responsibility for the district’s financial operations. Platts became one of the state’s foremost experts on school finance, possessing a vast understanding and historical knowledge of equalization aid; categorical aid; revenue caps; collective bargaining; and the need to provide equal educational opportunities for all children.
Dr. Platts used this extensive knowledge and background to maximize the resources of the Milton district. He possessed the interpersonal skills and speaking abilities to clearly explain Wisconsin’s complex school finance issues and their impact to school administrators, faculty, board members and the general public. During his tenure as superintendent when the district grew to more than 3,500 students, Platts guided nine major construction/remodeling projects, including the completion of Northside Intermediate School and the development of Schilberg Park. Milton High School’s auditorium is named in his honor.
Dr. Platts also applied these professional and personal qualities to the city of Milton as a 30-year member of the city’s Plan Commission. During the 1980s, Platts was an active advocate for the city’s purchase of the former Milton College library – a building that would provide the city and school district valuable and inexpensive office space and became the city’s beloved library.
Dr. Platts was active with many local civic groups, including the Milton Food Pantry for more than 20 years, helping to facilitate the organization’s move to a larger home along Hilltop Drive.
Theresa Rusch has long been viewed as a trailblazer within the School District of Milton, the Milton community, and in broader regional efforts to promote academic equity and excellence.
A graduate of Milton High School (Class of 1974), she was a standout academic and an active participant in student organizations, serving as editor of the yearbook and demonstrating early leadership skills that would define her career. After completing her postsecondary education, she returned to Milton and joined the school district in 1978 at the elementary level. She also served for several years as the District’s Summer School Coordinator, developing PreK–12 programming, scheduling, and districtwide transportation logistics.
As the District transitioned from a junior high to a middle school model, she moved to the middle school, initially as a teacher before advancing through a variety of roles. Her focus on meeting students’ needs beyond the classroom led to her involvement in developing the middle school guidance program, mentoring students, assisting in the creation of the District Alcohol and Drug Abuse (AODA) Prevention Program, acting as District AODA Coordinator, and serving on the Rock County Underage Violators (UAV) Committee.
Rusch later transitioned into administrative leadership with the opening of Northside Intermediate School and was soon after appointed Principal of Milton East Elementary. In her role at East, she worked closely with staff to implement Best Practice programs, including Response to Intervention (RtI) and Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS). As a skilled writer, she helped secure critical funding to support districtwide pupil services, AODA curriculum, and additional staffing to enhance student supports.
During her final year with the District, she was asked to serve as Interim Superintendent. She approached the role with characteristic calm and professionalism, helping lead the District through a time of transition. Even after stepping away from public education, her heart for service never wavered.
Rusch has continued to give generously of her time and talents—serving on the Milton City Council as both a committee representative and interim Alderperson, a role that grew into more than a decade of civic service from 2013 to 2025. In addition, she has remained deeply active in community organizations, including the Milton Lions Club, the Milton Fund, the CAMDEN Park Playground Board, the Gathering Place Board, and the Milton Area Chamber of Commerce.
Her lasting impact can be seen not only in the schools she led, but also in the countless ways she has invested in the growth, spirit, and well-being of the Milton community.
Remembered best "Doc Sally" Dr. Rachel Salisbury was a pioneering force in education whose life and work have become integral to Milton’s rich heritage. Born in Waterville, Maine, she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Columbia Union College in 1917, embarking on a remarkable academic journey that broke new ground for women in higher education.
Her early career as an educator at various seminaries and colleges paved the way for her significant contributions in Milton, where she settled in the late 1920s. At Milton Union High School, Dr. Salisbury revitalized the English and Literature curriculum with her innovative teaching methods. Her efforts not only enhanced the school’s academic standards but also left a profound impact on the educational community nationwide. She authored dozens of textbooks during her career that were in standard use well into the late 20th century.
In 1929, Dr. Salisbury joined Milton College as a professor of English. Her tenure there was marked by an unwavering dedication to elevating educational practices and a deep commitment to student success. She returned to the college in the mid-1940s to lead its College of Education, where she continued to influence future educators through her progressive educational theories and practices.
Beyond academia, Dr. Salisbury was a well-respected author and passionate historian, with a particular focus on local history that led to significant contributions to historical preservation. Her research into Milton’s abolitionist founders was pivotal in securing the Milton House’s designation as a station on the Underground Railroad and a National Historic Landmark.
In 1948, she founded the Rock County Historical Society and played a crucial role in the acquisition of the Tallman House, ensuring the preservation of vital historical records and artifacts. Her tireless advocacy extended to animal welfare, where she rejuvenated the Rock County Humane Society and served as its president for multiple terms, demonstrating her compassionate leadership.
Dr. Salisbury's numerous accolades, including Milton Citizen of the Year and one of Janesville YWCA Women of the Year, reflect her extensive contributions not only to education but also to the community at large. A role model and a visionary, her legacy continues to inspire a love of learning and community engagement among all those who walk the halls of Milton’s schools.
Through her enduring commitment to education, historical preservation, and community service, Dr. Rachel Salisbury’s influence remains a cornerstone of Milton’s identity, inspiring current and future generations to pursue excellence with passion and determination.
There are few individuals who have had such a direct, positive impact on the School District of Milton and its surrounding community than Wally and Faye Schilberg. Having achieved personal success through their own Milton-based business, the Schilbergs devoted themselves to giving back to the community which they loved so dearly.
Wally and Faye Schilberg’s philanthropic accomplishments are vast. There are, in fact, few students or community members in Milton today who have not had their lives touched in some way by the generosity of the Schilbergs. Through their financial support of local student and volunteer organizations, to their steadfast dedication to Milton’s youth, they inspired a culture of civic engagement and community pride that continues in Milton to this day.
As dedicated members of Milton’s chapter of the FFA Alumni, the Schilbergs led by example. Known for their “hands on” volunteerism, their dedication inspired others to become actively involved in other community events and youth-oriented projects.
The many enduring gifts of the Schilbergs to Milton students include the renovation of Carl F. Anderson Athletic Field; the construction of the high school’s agricultural education building and green house; and the development of the 40-acre Schilberg Park. In 1999, Schilberg Park was gifted to the School District of Milton as a turnkey donation for the use of all students and community members residing in the School District of Milton.
A proud graduate of Milton High School (Class of 1973), Bill Schrank returned to the high school as an educator in 1978, where he would set a new standard of excellence for the choral and performing arts program. Much beloved for his creativity, humor, and belief in his students’ potential, Schrank built a nationally recognized choral program and helped generations of Milton students discover their voices, both on and off the stage.
Mr. Schrank began teaching in the Milton School District in 1978, leading choirs at both the middle and high school levels. Under his guidance, the program grew and excelled by combining classical vocal instruction with modern performance innovation. He founded and directed Milton’s competitive show choirs, Chorolation and Rising Stars, and transformed them into nationally recognized powerhouse ensembles.
Schrank was an early advocate for treating show choir as a legitimate performance art form, pushing his students to excel musically while also building confidence, teamwork, and resilience.
His impact went far beyond the stage. His classroom was a home base where young people found belonging, direction, and encouragement. He demanded excellence from his students, but always with a spirit of joy, acceptance, and fun.
In addition to his work in the musical and performing arts, Mr. Schrank served for many years as an assistant football coach at Milton High School, further demonstrating his belief in supporting students across all of their interests.
Bill Schrank’s influence lives on in every student who found their voice, both literally and figuratively, under his direction. He elevated the arts in Milton, built a culture of excellence, and helped students believe in themselves and in each other. His legacy is not only demonstrated in the packed trophy cases but in the enduring confidence and creativity of those who called him their teacher.
Willard “Bill” Shadel was a 1926 graduate of Milton Union High School. Following graduation, he attended Andrews University in Michigan. Shadel was well known for his exceptional talents as a musician. So much so that in 1929, he assumed direction of the Andrews University’s band while still a student. He also worked as an assistant program manager of the school’s radio station where he was responsible for music presentations that included his performing as a soloist on the marimba, saxophone, clarinet and trombone. He graduated from Andrews in 1932 with a degree in journalism and history.
After earning his master’s degree from the University of Michigan, his professional life started in education when he began teaching political science at Andrews.Two years later, he took a position leading the band, orchestra and choirs at Washington Adventist University in Washington DC.
His career in journalism began shortly after his arrival in DC, when he became a correspondent for the National Rifle Association in 1936. Within a few years, he became editor of the group's magazine, the American Rifleman. In 1943, while with the Rifleman, he was assigned (or some say assigned himself) as a correspondent in Europe. He was quickly thereafter recruited by legendary reporter Edward R. Murrow to help CBS Radio cover World War II.
Over the course of his broadcast career, “Bill Shadel” became a household name as he reported on some of the most monumental moments of the mid 20th century. As a reporter for CBS Radio, he covered the D-day Invasion of Normandy from alongside US Servicemen during the storming of the beaches of France. Shadel and Murrow together were the first reporters onsite following the liberation of the Buchenwald Concentration Camp in Germany on April 12, 1945. His coverage of the atrocities at Buchenwald and documentation of the survivors’ experiences earned him the Simon Wiesenthal Center’s “Witness to the Truth” Award in 1990.
Following the war, Shadel transitioned to CBS’s television news division working alongside Murrow, Henry K. Smith, and Walter Cronkite. According to Cronkite “He [Shadel] was one of those who lived the principles of our craft. …Just to be listed on that team was a mark of a particularly successful journalistic practice, and he [Shadel] was certainly one of the very best. He was a very bright reporter and a darn good writer.”
Shadel was the first host of the CBS Sunday interview show Face the Nation and later went on to anchor ABC’s evening news program. In that role, he was selected to moderate the third Kennedy-Nixon debate prior to the 1960 election. And in 1962, Shadel broadcasted minute by minute updates to a riveted nation for 12 hours straight as John Glenn made his orbits around the Earth.
Shadel left the news business in 1963 and returned to education as a professor of communications at the University of Washington until his retirement in 1975.
A much beloved educator, coach, and community servant, Don Vruwink has left an indelible mark on the School District of Milton community and beyond.
Vruwink first joined the School District of Milton family as a social studies educator at Milton High School in 1979. Over the next three decades, Vruwink played a pivotal role in establishing his department’s sterling reputation for excellence in education. He notably created the school’s AP US History curriculum and chaperoned the annual History club trips. As a fixture at MHS, Vruwink was a mentor to countless students and staff members.
A passion for athletics led Vruwink to an extensive coaching career as well. Throughout the years, he has volunteered to coach Milton youth basketball, soccer, baseball, and football leagues. At the high school level, he coached 81 teams including softball, basketball, football and baseball.
Though Vruwink is proud of all his teams and their respective accomplishments, he may be best remembered by the community for leading the high school’s varsity softball program. During his time as coach, his players won division or conference championships 17 times, even qualifying for the state tournament in 1990 and 1992. His contributions have earned him recognition in both the Milton Area Athletic Hall of Fame and the Wisconsin Fast Pitch Coaches Hall of Fame.
Not long after beginning his teaching career in Milton, Vruwink felt a call to serve the community beyond the academic and athletic arenas. He volunteered for the City of Milton’s Parks and Recreation committee, serving as the committee’s director from 1984 through 1998. During that time, he played a fundamental role in the development of many community projects including a veterans’ memorial and other recreational facilities throughout the community.
His enthusiasm and dedication to his community pulled him to run for public office following his retirement from teaching in 2011. He has since been elected to the Milton City Council (2011-2015), School District of Milton Board of Education (2016-2019), and currently represents District 43 in the Wisconsin State Assembly.
A proud graduate from the School District of Milton, Doug Welch has devoted his career to preserving and promoting the history, culture, and traditions of the Milton community.
Following his graduation from Milton High School in 1973, Welch pursued his passion for community journalism and earned his degree in Mass Communications from Mankato State University in 1982. His career brought him back to southern Wisconsin where he was a reporter and regional editor for the Daily Jefferson County Union in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin.
In 1991, Welch became the Managing Editor of The Milton Courier, a position he held through 2012. His steadfast commitment to fair and accurate reporting of local issues earned him, and his reporting team, the respect of the Milton community and beyond. For his weekly Courier column, “Welch’s Grapevine,” he received the Robert Wright Award from the Wisconsin Newspaper Association for local column writing.
Following a 30-year career in newspaper journalism, Welch devoted his “retirement” to researching and preserving the unique histories of Milton and Milton’s community members. Serving as the assistant director of the Milton Historical Society and as the president and later curator of the Milton College Preservation Society, Welch’s research produced several works chronicling the histories of Milton’s founding families, the community’s extensive ties to abolitionism and ideals of equality, and Milton’s deep commitment to educational opportunities for all.
Welch’s dedication as a historical documentarian is rivaled only by his enthusiasm for athletics. An advocate for adult sports participation, Welch played softball and recreational basketball in Milton for most of his adult life, serving as the president of the Milton Softball Association for a dozen years through 2004. In 2010, he revitalized adult baseball in Milton by guiding the Milton Junction Pub Raptors team into the Rock River League. The Raptors brought championship-caliber amateur baseball to Milton, appearing in back-to-back league grand championship series and 10 consecutive league playoff tournaments. In recognition of his efforts, Welch was named Rock River League South Division Manager of the Year in 2012.