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2024 Hall of Fame

Redwood Area Schools Hall of Fame Welcomes Newest Inductees

 



The Redwood Area Education Foundation and Redwood Area Schools proudly welcomed the newest members to their Hall of Fame during an induction ceremony on September 28, 2024.  The event brought together alumni, former staff, family members, and friends to celebrate the accomplishments of this year’s honorees.

During the ceremony, attendees enjoyed heartfelt speeches, reminiscing about the honorees' time in Redwood and the many ways they’ve shaped the lives of students and community over the years. The event concluded with a delightful reception sponsored by Taher Foods, Inc.

“I am incredibly proud to celebrate this event and honor this year’s inductees,” said Rachael Buyck of the Redwood Area Education Foundation. “These individuals have not only helped to shape Redwood Area Schools, but have also made an incredible impact on our entire community and beyond. It’s a true privilege to recognize those who genuinely make a difference!”

For more information on the Hall of Fame or to nominate a future candidate, visit the Redwood Area Education Foundation website: www.redwoodareaeducationfoundation.org.


 



Craig Hillier

Craig Hillier’s journey began right here in Redwood Falls, where his curiosity, ambition, and natural gift for communication were evident from a young age. Even in kindergarten, his teacher and parents, Ollie and Joanne, noted his talent for talking.  Little did they know that this natural gift for communication would eventually set the stage for a remarkable career.

As a high school sophomore, Craig was selected to participate in the Hugh O’Brien Leadership program, an experience that instilled in him a passion for leadership and service. After graduating in 1985, Craig pursued degrees in business marketing and speech communications from Mankato State University, paying his tuition by promoting professional speakers like Tom Hopkins and Tony Robbins.

In 1989, Craig married another RFHS graduate, Kelly Schiller, and not long after, his dream of a full-time speaking career became a reality. Since then, Craig has inspired more than two and a half million students nationwide with his motivational presentations on leadership and achievement. Known for his humor, enthusiasm, and powerful messages, Craig has dedicated his life to helping others achieve their dreams, set goals, and pursue excellence.

In addition to his speaking career, Craig is a prolific author and has received numerous accolades, including the Distinguished Young Alumni Award from Mankato State University and the Outstanding Alumni Award from the Minnesota Athletic Directors Association. His work emphasizes living a life of significance and leaving a legacy of leadership, kindness, and integrity.

Craig’s deep pride in his Redwood Falls roots is evident in his speeches and personal reflections. He and Kelly are the proud parents of DJ and Abigayle and grandparents to Holly and Kinsley. Craig Hillier’s induction recognizes his lifelong mission to improve lives through leadership, motivation, and mentorship. His work ethic, enthusiasm, and belief in others make him a true pillar of pride for Redwood Falls.


 




Joyce Johnson

Joyce Johnson’s lifelong dedication to education and community service has touched countless lives, both here in Redwood Falls and far beyond. A 1957 graduate of Redwood Falls High School, Joyce went on to earn a degree in English with minors in Speech and Spanish from Mankato State Teacher's College. Her passion for education led her to the Peace Corps, where she trained in San Francisco before embarking on a life-changing assignment in the Philippines. There, Joyce taught English as a second language at the University of the Philippines and at a Philippine high school, where she also trained teachers how to teach English as a second language.

Upon returning to the U.S., Joyce’s contributions to education continued as she taught at Redwood Falls High School and Morgan Public School. Her passion for learning led her to pursue a Master of Science degree in Media from Mankato State, which propelled her into a distinguished career as a librarian and administrator. Joyce excelled in public programming, staff training, and community engagement at libraries in Montana and California.

Joyce’s philosophy that “many hands make light work” has been evident in her lifelong volunteerism. In every community she has lived, she has contributed tirelessly, serving on school boards, hospice boards, foundation boards, and participating in local parishes and historical societies. In Redwood Falls, she has been deeply involved with the Friends of the Library, the Redwood Area Library Foundation, the Library Commission, the Plum Creek Library Board, the Redwood Area Education Foundation and her local parish.

Joyce’s Hall of Fame induction honors her lifelong dedication to making a difference through education, volunteerism, and community involvement.


 




Don Yrjo

Don Yrjo dedicated 35 years to the Redwood Area School District.  After earning degrees from Bemidji State University (Magna Cum Laude) and Mankato State University, Don began his career as a technology instructor in Linton, ND, before moving to Redwood Falls in 1977.  During his tenure, he held many roles including teacher, coach, and eventually, the high school principal, serving until 2012.

Don’s leadership was transformative, from establishing one of the top industrial arts programs in southwestern Minnesota to playing a key role in creating the district’s Alternative Learning Program. Known for his visionary approach, he guided the school through significant transitions, while always ensuring that both staff and students felt supported. His contributions were widely recognized, earning him multiple awards, including Principal of the Year from the Southwest Minnesota Association of Secondary School Principals in 2000 and 2010. Upon leaving Redwood Area Schools, he continued to make a difference in education as University Supervisor at Southwest Minnesota State University until his retirement in 2023.

Beyond his impact within the school, Don has been an integral part of the broader Redwood Falls community. Since 1999, he has served as director, vice president, and president of the Redwood Area Communities Foundation, helping to guide the organization for over two decades.

What truly sets Don apart is his character—trustworthy, honest, and a wonderful sense of humor. A devoted family man, Don enjoys hunting, fishing, golf and travel with his wife, Bev, and children, Melanie, Mike, and Mark.

Don Yrjo’s legacy is one of integrity, dedication, and optimism.  His induction into the Hall of Fame honors his lifelong commitment to educational excellence and community service.






Denny Stoterau

Denny Stoterau dedicated 39 years of service to Redwood Area Schools, serving in various roles, including educator, coach, community education director, dean of students, and athletic/activities director.

A 1969 graduate of Luverne High School and a 1973 graduate of the University of South Dakota, Stoterau began his career in Miller, South Dakota, as a teacher and head wrestling coach.  At Redwood Falls, he taught middle school social studies, served as head wrestling coach for 16 years, and led the football team as head coach for 7 years, among other coaching roles prior to his administrative opportunities. His leadership as activities director, which spanned over a decade, earned him the title of 2010-2011 Regional Administrator of the Year.

Denny’s career was defined by his dedication to students, athletes, and colleagues. Known for his ability to build strong relationships, he inspired a work ethic, competitive spirit, and desire for excellence in everyone he worked with. His genuine care for others made him a mentor to many, shaping the careers of numerous coaches and teachers who continue to carry forward his legacy of compassion, professionalism, and integrity.

Beyond his professional achievements, Denny remains an active volunteer in the community. Married to his high school sweetheart, Nancy, he is a proud father of four: Andy, Ben, Sarah, and Nick. Redwood Area Schools is honored to recognize Denny Stoterau for his impact and service through his induction into the Hall of Fame.


 




Rick Ellingworth

Rick Ellingworth devoted nearly 45 years of leadership to Redwood Area Schools. His career began as a Business Education Teacher and Head Football Coach, evolving through various roles, including Middle School Principal and Activities Director, before his 28-year tenure as Superintendent from 1992 to 2020.

Under Rick's leadership, Redwood Area Schools became a model of academic excellence and community engagement. His strategic initiatives led to the establishment of numerous key programs and facilities, including the district’s Middle School, the Redwood Area Community Center, the Senior Center expansion, the Ehlers Intergenerational Center, the Orrin Estebo Career Development & Training Center, and the Redwood Area Education Foundation. Each of these initiatives played a crucial role in ensuring that the district remained at the forefront of educational innovation while strengthening its ties to the community.

Rick's commitment to excellence created an environment of professionalism, collaboration, and high expectations among staff, ensuring that every student had the opportunity to succeed. His hands-on leadership, visible presence, and genuine care for both students and staff earned him the respect of many.

Beyond his professional achievements, Rick is known for his integrity, compassion, and tireless dedication to the betterment of the entire community.  But, Rick’s journey would not be complete without his family, including his wife, Janet—also a Hall of Fame member—and their three children, Tom, Eric, and Katie.

Rick exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional leader and advocate for children. His visionary leadership, dedication, and impact will forever be a part of the Redwood Area School District’s history.

 

 

 

 

 

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