The Olympic High School Foundation recently hosted the second annual Order of the Trojan Induction Ceremony, a special evening that brought together alumni, educators, community partners and friends of Olympic to celebrate the people who have shaped the school’s legacy. The sold-out event honored four remarkable inductees, alumni Mike Shildt and Beatrice Thompson, and educators Larry Wells and Joe White, whose contributions continue to elevate the Olympic community.
The night opened with a welcome from Principal Casey Jones, followed by powerful remarks from Olympic teachers Mr. Holiday and Ms. Douglas. Mr. Holiday shared a story about showing up for a student in crisis, reflecting the deep care Olympic teachers pour into their work. Ms. Douglas described how Foundation support helped her create the “Zen Den” for Exceptional Children students, a space that now plays a crucial role in student wellness. Their stories offered a moving reminder of why the Foundation exists and how grants directly impact classrooms and student lives.
The first honoree recognized was Mike Shildt, Major League Baseball manager and proud Class of ’86 Trojan. Mike was introduced by Kay Click, a close friend and Olympic graduate, whose heartfelt remarks beautifully framed his journey. Mike spoke with warmth and humility about how his time at Olympic taught him to bring together people from different cultural backgrounds, skills that later helped him lead diverse teams at the highest levels of baseball. His humor, authenticity and gratitude resonated deeply with the audience.
Next, the audience heard from Beatrice Thompson, Class of ’74 and a pioneering force in Charlotte broadcasting. Her daughter, Jamila Rasheed, delivered a thoughtful introduction that set the stage for a speech filled with wit, reflection and joy. Beatrice’s story about Mr. Wells and the band sparked laughter throughout the room and underscored the powerful sense of community that defined her Olympic experience. Her voice and presence reminded everyone why she is such a beloved figure in Charlotte.
The evening then honored Larry Wells, longtime band director whose influence spans decades of Olympic students. Larry was introduced by Alan Sledge, an Olympic graduate and former band director at the school who studied under Larry. Alan’s remarks were personal, funny and deeply respectful, illustrating how transformative Larry’s mentorship has been for countless students. The moment became even more memorable when Ziad Rabie, Olympic alumnus, renowned saxophonist and Artistic Director for Jazz at the Bechtler, surprised Larry with a tribute performance, his first time doing something like that, motivated entirely by his admiration for Larry.
The final inductee of the evening was Coach Joe White, Olympic’s second employee and its first athletic director and coach. He was presented by Coach Dave Johnson, last year’s Order of the Trojan inductee. Coach White’s acceptance speech was powerful, humble and heartfelt. His comment that he accepted the honor for “we, not me” perfectly captured the spirit of community that has long defined Olympic. Hearing him reflect on the impact of the early years of the school, and then seeing the tremendous legacy that followed, reminded everyone in the room of the foundational role he played in shaping Olympic’s identity.
Throughout the evening, guests connected with teachers, alumni and community members while hearing stories that highlighted the profound impact Olympic educators and alumni continue to make. Thanks to the generosity of attendees and supporters, the event also raised significant funds that will go directly toward classroom grants and professional development opportunities for Olympic teachers.
The Order of the Trojan serves as a powerful testament to the lifelong influence of great educators and inspiring alumni. We are grateful to everyone who attended, spoke, volunteered and supported this event, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to this year’s inductees.
Special thanks to all of the donors and sponsors who made the evening, and the ongoing work of the Foundation, possible. We are grateful to our Presenting Sponsor CPI Security, in honor of Larry Wells, our Gold Sponsor Cardinal Legacy Wealth Advisors, and our Silver Sponsors Founders Credit Union, Okuma, and Steele Creek Animal Hospital, in honor of Mary Young. Their generosity helps ensure that Olympic’s teachers and students receive the support they deserve.
If you would like to support the Foundation’s work, and help fund classroom grants, teacher stipends and professional development, please consider making a donation. Your support directly impacts Olympic’s teachers and students.
