We empower individuals and families to make a
meaningful, philanthropic impact on the community they love.
Take a look at some of the extraordinary impact the Hamilton Community Foundation has made.
The William and Delight Eloe Award for Inspirational Academic Leadership
Howard Eloe created the William and Delight Eloe Award for Inspirational Academic Leadership in 2010 in honor of his parents. The annual award recognizes an outstanding teacher, staff, or administrator in the Aurora Public School District.
Delight Eloe
William Eloe
The criteria for this $1,500 award includes exemplary academic leadership, effective classroom teaching, administrative professionalism, continuous professional growth, and strong public relations with students, parents, peers, alumni, and the community.
The recipient of the award is honored at the annual Aurora Public School Teachers Luncheon held on the last day of school in May.
Submissions by students, parents, colleagues, and community members can be made each year between February 1 and March 15. Nominations are submitted online through the Hamilton Community Foundation website.
2026 Recipient
Kate Metzger
Aurora band teacher Kate Metzger is the 2026 recipient of the William and Delight Eloe Award. Kate started teaching with the Aurora Public Schools in 1994, serving as the 5th grade, 6th grade, and middle school band director, as well as assisting with the high school band.
Kate encourages others to live by the three P’s of perseverance, prayer, and positivity. She has created a lasting legacy of musicianship, confidence, and teamwork through her over three decades of service to the Aurora Public Schools. Kate stated, “I am truly humbled and grateful to receive this honor. It is an absolute privilege to be named an Eloe award recipient alongside some of the finest educators I have worked with throughout my career at Aurora.”
-
2026 - Kate Metzger (Aurora Elementary and Middle School Band)
2025 - Scott Phillips (Aurora Middle School, 7th Grade Math Teacher)
2024 - Brenda Klawonn (Aurora High School, History Teacher)
2023 - Haley Sigler (Aurora Elementary School, Title 1 Teacher)
2022 - Randy Maahs (APS Custodial Supervisor)
2021 - Rod Havens (Aurora High School English and STRIV)
2020 – Doug Monson (Aurora Elementary School Counselor)
2019 – Shari Krejci (Aurora Elementary School, 2nd Grade)
2018 – Laurie Anderson (Aurora Elementary School, Kindergarten)
2017 – Jason Frew (Aurora High Vocal Music)
2016 – Amy Wilson (Aurora Elementary School, 5th Grade)
2015 – Jessica Gallagher (Aurora Schools Physical Education/Asst. Athletic Director)
2014 – Karrie Wiarda (Aurora High School English)
2013 – Luey Krejdl (Aurora Special Education)
2012 – Maggie Rasmussen (Aurora High School Counselor)
2011 – Dan Sodomka (Aurora High School Band)