On March 23, 2023, the Crimson Knight Foundation (CKF) held its Third Annual Crimson Knight Foundation Awards Gala at Spring Lake Manor. The awards are presented to individuals whose accomplishments in their professional and vocational fields have had a lasting impact on the Wall Township schools and community. The Gala recognizes a Wall Township High School alumnus for exceptional achievement in their field, a community member for their leadership and dedication to Wall Township, and a district staff member for excellence in service to the Wall Township Public Schools.

The three outstanding community members honored at the gala were Samantha Santiago, Steve Jankowski, and Lt. Todd Lee. 

Monmouth County Commissioner, and former Wall Township Mayor, Nick DiRocco, was on hand to present certificates from the county to this year’s honorees, with the assistance of current Wall Mayor Tim Farrell and Deputy Mayor Erin M. Mangan.

The Meritorious BOE Employee Award was presented by WTPS Superintendent, Dr. Tracy Handerhan, to Wall High School Teacher and NHS Advisor Samantha Santiago. Ms. Santiago is a highly qualified educator with a background in biological sciences, health education, and psychology. She has ten years of experience teaching general education and special education students in various subjects such as biology, anatomy and psychiatry, environmental science, and AP and CP psychology. Samantha is currently working towards her Doctorate in Education in Higher Education from Fairleigh Dickinson University with a focus on mental health and the inclusivity of the LGBTQ+ student community in higher education institutions. She aims to create safe and inclusive spaces for learning and materials tailored to her students' unique needs.

Though absent from the evening’s proceedings due to illness, Steve Jankowski, a Wall Township High School alumnus from the class of 1978, received the Distinguished Alumni Award from WHS Dept. Chair of Fine Arts & Music, Les Hollander, for his exceptional achievements in the music industry. Steve is an award-winning trumpeter and musician based in the New York City area. He is currently on tour with Nile Rodgers and Chic and has toured with several other artists, such as Blood, Sweat and Tears, Don Henley, and K.C. and the Sunshine Band. He has also performed at many notable events and venues, such as the Montreux Jazz festival, Madison Square Garden, and Carnegie Hall.

The Excellence in Community Leadership Award was presented by Monmouth County BSA District Executive, Stacey Stefanski, to Wall Township resident and Allenwood Boy Scout Troop 82 Leader Lt. Todd Lee of the Belmar Police Department. Todd is a highly trained and experienced law enforcement professional who graduated from the Marine Academy of Science and Technology as a Battalion Commander in 1990. He has also graduated from the United States Department of The Interior Law Enforcement Academy and The New Jersey Department of Corrections Academy. Todd has received extensive training in various areas and is an instructor for various programs. He has been an active contributor in the scouting community locally and at the county level and has received various awards for his leadership contributions.

CKF is a not-for-profit foundation created to support excellence in primary school education in the Wall Township Public School District. They support restoring, maintaining, and building Crimson Knights’ pride by funding programs and purchases, over and above what the school district provides, to maintain the excellence of facilities and opportunities in the Wall Township Public Schools.

The organization reached out to its audience, asking for their assistance in various ways. They offered two main options for those who wished to contribute, either by becoming a sponsor or joining a committee. They ask potential participants to join one of their committees, including communications, sponsorship/fundraising, marketing, and event planning. The organization expressed gratitude towards the audience for their presence and generosity, and any support provided would be highly appreciated.

The honorees are shining examples of excellence in their respective fields, and their contributions to the community are highly appreciated. The foundation looks forward to continuing to support, foster, and recognize excellence in education in the Wall Township Public School District, and the board is tremendously grateful to its sponsors and supporters for helping make the event such a wonderful evening.