As Millard West celebrated its 25th year during the 2019-2020 school year, distinguished athletes, coaches, sponsors, contributors and teams were all honored with being inducted into the Hall of Fame.

In order to be in the Hall of Fame, alumni needed to have graduated at least 10 years ago, and  staff needed to be retired or not working at West anymore. Candidates were nominated and observed by the committee, this group is made up of individuals that were at West when the building opened. 

“The committee looks at a range of things depending on what category the nominee falls into,” athletic director Lance Smith said. “For these alumni students, they look at the impact during their time at West, this embraces awards, participation and various accomplishments during and after high school.”

Other inductees can include categories such as staff members, athletes and coaches.The committee looks at organizations they have helped with and how they have contributed to the schools success. 

This year, four individuals and one team were inducted and recognized as people who have impacted the history of Millard West. 

One athlete induced was Laura Ferguson Foral. She was a 12 time letter winner, a State Runner-Up in cross country, a State track medalist and All-State in basketball for three years. After graduating, she attended Creighton University for dentistry, and has continued to practice dentistry for the last 12 years. 

“Being inducted into The Hall of Fame was such a great honor,” Foral said. “I loved my time at Millard West, it was so fun being so involved at a new school and creating all of the traditions.” 

Another inductee included Max Kurz , a retired teacher and coach. During his time at school, he was the department head of physical education mainly in the weight room. He also coached girls and boys cross country, as well as the boys track and field head coach. Kurz retired after 47 years of coaching and teaching. 

“I have enjoyed every minute of every day that I was able to impact students and athletes in their daily lives since I was there at the very beginning of our school,” Kurz said. “We have marvelous staff that have set the standards of West, and it is important that we are recognized.”  

Along with these individuals, the 2007 girls State Championship soccer team was also recognized in The Hall of Fame. This group of girls is tied for the most wins with the 2019 team. In the State Tournament, with 12 freshmen and only five seniors, this team beat Bellevue East 4-2, then Millard North 1-0 and Westside in the final during a shootout, 2-1. 

Notable players included center back captain and OWH All-State Captain Jordan Shefte, center midfielder and first team All-State and Gatorade Player of the year Allie Adam and forward Katie Pickinpaugh who holds the record for the most career goals and points. 

The other inductees for the second year included a parent and contributor, Dave Bruce and alumni, Daniel Bruce. 

As the Hall of Fame moves forward, the school plans on advertising more and nominating more people each year to expand and add on to these inducted teams and individuals.