Named Awards

Dick and Lydia’s two daughters, Chloe and Chelsea, are Staples graduates. Chloe and her husband Andrew have two children and live in Westport. Chelsea is currently erving on the Staples Tuition Grants board and Dick previously served on the board as Treasurer and Co-Chairperson, making two generations serving to help Staples graduates. We are most proud of our daughters and their children and our commitment to help future graduates through this wonderful organization.

William “Bill” Kashetta was one of Staples High School’s greatest all-time athletes, starring in 3 sports as a member of the Class of 1970—football, basketball and baseball. Big, fast and talented, Bill thrilled Wrecker fans with his athleticism, competitive spirit and toughness. He helped start the Westport PAL basketball program where generations of Westporters knew him as coach. Many also knew Bill as an avid fisherman and golfer. Bill was a talented and generous carpenter who was always willing to help with his expertise. He had a fun, outgoing personality, a huge smile and indomitable spirit; everyone was his friend.

In 1982, the summer before their senior year at Staples, newly appointed cheerleading captains and best friends Ann and Katy died in a car accident. The entire Westport community was affected by their deaths. Ann’s mother, Betty Ann Kiester, attended STG ceremonies each year after this award was established. She often commented that the award recipients, typical teenagers, happily reminded her so much of Ann and Katy.

Michael Kowall was just 13 when he died as a result of an injury sustained during a soccer match. His teammates and the Westport Soccer Association established this fund to honor him.

The Krosse Family honors the outstanding education Nick (SHS ’08) and Jake (SHS ’11) received in the Westport school system. The family notes that “Staples instills in its students the desire to continue learning, and to be the best that one can be”. In her four years on the STG Committee (three were on the Student Committee), former Co-Chair Lisa Krosse met some amazing students who persevere despite the odds. She also came to appreciate a very generous community that values education not only for its own children, but for others too.

Dr. Gerald Kuroghlian was a distinguished member of the Staples English department from 1966-2009. Jerry was adored by his students, who referred to him as Dr. K. In addition to instilling in them his love for literature and Shakespeare, Jerry is perhaps best remembered for his great sense of humor, compassion for the entire Staples community and a selfless attitude guided by his passion to improve the lives of those around him.