16-02-2025
CCCF opens nominations for Excellence in Teaching Award
The Cass County Community Foundation has opened the nomination period for the 2025 The Elizabeth A. Billman Excellence in Teaching Award.
Billman served on the Board of Directors of the Cass County Community Foundation for a period of 16 years, serving two terms as chairman of the board of directors and was on the board of directors at the time of her death. The Cass County Community Foundation established the award in honor and memory of her outstanding service, community leadership and legacy of excellence.
'Billman was an educator, administrator, mentor, and role model for teachers and young women,' the a press release from the CCCF said.
Billman retired as principal at Thompson Elementary School. She also taught in the Southeastern School Corporation, beginning her teaching career at Washington Township School. She was a member of the Lewis Cass Alumni Association where she received the Distinguished Service Award. Billman served in the Southeastern School Corporation for 38 years.
The Award is presented annually to an individual teaching at the elementary school level, kindergarten through sixth grade, at Caston, Lewis Cass, Logansport, or Pioneer School Districts. Nominees must have completed five years of teaching or less and be nominated by their building principal. Nominations are due to the foundation by March 31.
The award consists of a $500 stipend for the teacher and a plaque. A permanent plaque has been designed and is located at the CCCF office to commemorate each year's recipient.
The Award is presented in May.
Previous recipients include Jennifer Rosenberger of Franklin Elementary in 2021, Katie Easter of Lewis Cass Elementary in 2022, Brittany Bertrand of Lewis Cass Elementary in 2023, and Jordan Helton of Fairview Elementary in 2024.
'Liz was the consummate servant leader, a true friend and colleague,' CCCF president Deanna Crispen said. 'The impact of her leadership and significant contributions of time, talent, and treasure reached far beyond what she ever imagined. In a time when the world struggles to know the truth, Liz was a shining example of how to live a full life in service to others, true to herself and unwavering in her faith. She is deeply missed.'
