Published: November 04, 2009 01:00 am      

NOW will honor school superintendent

JOHNSTOWN — A local leader in education has been selected for the top honor given by

Johnstown’s National Organization for Women.

Susan J. Anderson, superintendent of Westmont Hilltop School District, has been named the recipient of the 2009 Ellen D. Hoffman Person of the Year Award for her service and dedication to area students.

She will receive the award at NOW’s annual banquet at 6 p.m. Nov. 12 at the Boulevard Grill.

Debra Taczanowsky, Johnstown NOW president, said Anderson was chosen because she is an inspiration to young women and a strong community leader.

“Her life is exemplary, and she broke that glass ceiling at a time when it was difficult for women,” Taczanowsky said.

“She definitely shows us the steps we should all follow.”

Anderson has been a part of the

district’s administration for the past

11 years, including seven years as superintendent. She also has served in all sectors of local education as a classroom teacher, Title 1 reading teacher and instructional support teacher.

In addition, she is a regular contributor to the Westmont Hilltop School District Endowment.

“I consider each day spent as an educator a day of blessing because our field is filled with people of commitment and high calling who are dedicated to influencing the future in positive ways through the young hearts and minds of the students we are privileged to touch,” Anderson said in a statement.

She received a bachelor’s degree in education from Pitt-Johnstown, a master’s in education from Pitt and a doctorate in educational leadership studies from IUP.

The banquet is open to the public.

Tickets should be purchased in advance.



Service award



What: Johnstown’s National Organization of Women’s

annual banquet will honor Susan J. Anderson, superintendent of Westmont Hilltop School District.

When: 6 p.m. Nov. 12.

Where: Boulevard Grill,

165 Southmont Blvd., Johnstown.

Cost: $35 per person.

Reservations: 266-1677.