2023 Steele Award: Randy Scafturon
August 23, 2023
By Kimberly Banti
Tarriers have long benefited from the work, wry humor, and stalwart dedication of this year’s Steele Award recipient, Maintenance Lead Randy Scafturon, who also happens to be retiring from Charles Wright Academy after 18 years of service.
Throughout his tenure in the facilities department, Mr. Scafturon has supported the backbone of life on the CWA campus – from literally keeping the lights on in the hallways to managing the upkeep of signage and road surfaces to setting up for myriad events, be they athletic banquets, milestone celebrations like commencement, the Spirit Auction in the Dome, the Alumni Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony and alumni tent at homecoming, or admissions events like the open house. “Randy’s impact on this place has been immense, and I will always be grateful to him for how hard he works to get the job done, no matter how big or small,” said Head of School Susan Rice.
In addition to doing the legwork of maintaining school and campus facilities, Mr. Scafturon’s leadership qualities are abundant and have made him an invaluable member of the maintenance crew, often mentoring colleagues and showing them the ropes. “I have worked with Randy for 16 years, and in that time he’s been a friend and a leader for the facilities department,” said Grounds Coordinator Matt Charlton. “Randy was always patient and calm when under pressure or deadlines. He’s always been a go-to for me when I needed work advice or just to get his opinion on something. He will be greatly missed and hard to replace.”
Mr. Scafturon’s inherent kindness and ready smile have also been highly regarded by his colleagues across departments and divisions – he is known for always saying hello and for cracking a dry joke to make work more friendly and fun. “Randy has been a joy to work with,” said Facilities Administrative Assistant Sue Johnson. “He is kind, considerate, and always encouraging. Our department will feel a tremendous loss with his retirement.”
It is with great appreciation and fond wishes that CWA congratulates Mr. Scafturon on his retirement and thanks him for his service to the school community.
Christopher Steele was a 1982 graduate of Charles Wright. As a student, he threw himself into what Charles Wright had to offer. He played soccer, took an active part in Donn Laughlin’s drama productions, both backstage and onstage, and was a talented art student. He had a particular love for the outdoors, and those who went on trips with Chris recall his passionate enthusiasm for hiking and climbing. After a long fight with cancer, Chris passed away in 2002. In his memory, his family and friends established an award to honor a Charles Wright staff member who has made an outstanding contribution to the school and its students and faculty.