NOMINATIONS
Do you know an educator or an alumnus of Olympic who has made outstanding contributions to our school, its community and beyond? We invite you to nominate them for the Order of the Trojan!
Nominations for 2026 close on May 31, 2026.
Order of the Trojan
Celebrating the individuals who have made significant contributions to our school and broader community.
The Order of the Trojan, initiated by the Olympic High School Foundation, is a recognition program to honor those who have profoundly impacted our school and the wider community. Through this initiative, we aim to annually recognize the exemplary contributions of two educators and two alumni who embody the spirit of excellence and service that defines Olympic High School. The educators selected have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to fostering the intellectual and emotional growth of students, significantly enhancing the educational experience at Olympic. Meanwhile, the honored alumni have made noteworthy achievements or contributions that reflect positively on the school, serving as role models for what can be accomplished with an education from Olympic.
Selection Process
Nominees for this prestigious recognition are put forward by the Olympic High School community each spring, highlighting individuals whose actions and achievements resonate with the school's values and aspirations. This inclusive nomination process ensures that the honorees are chosen from a diverse pool of candidates, each with their own unique contributions to the school's legacy. The selection is meticulously carried out over the summer by the Foundation and previous inductees of the Order of the Trojan, ensuring that those selected for induction truly represent the pinnacle of excellence and dedication to the school and its community.
ANNUAL INDUCTION CEREMONY
The culmination of this process is celebrated at an Induction Ceremony each fall, where the new inductees are formally welcomed into the Order of the Trojan. This event not only serves as a platform to honor their achievements but also to inspire the current students and the broader Olympic community. The names of those inducted are engraved on the Order of the Trojan sculpture, which stands prominently in the school's lobby. This permanent recognition serves as a testament to their lasting contributions to Olympic, reinforcing the sense of unity and pride within the Olympic family and encouraging ongoing support and engagement with the foundation's efforts to enhance the educational landscape at Olympic High School.
2025 Order of the Trojan Inductees
Joe White, Educator 1966-1979
Joe White was the second person hired at Olympic High School when it opened in 1966 and served as its first athletic director and coach. Over his tenure, he became a cornerstone of the school’s athletic and academic community, coaching multiple sports and mentoring generations of students. His leadership extended beyond Olympic, as he later served as Chairman of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School Board, helping to shape education policy across the county. Known for his integrity, steady guidance, and deep commitment to young people, Coach White’s legacy continues to inspire excellence at Olympic and throughout the Charlotte region.
Larry Wells, Educator 1969-1992
Larry Wells spent over two decades as Olympic High School’s band director, where he built a legacy of musical excellence and student empowerment. Under his leadership, the Olympic marching band achieved widespread recognition and became a source of pride for the school and its community. More than a music teacher, Larry created a space where students felt seen, supported, and inspired to pursue their passions. His influence lives on through the many alumni who credit him with helping shape their confidence, creativity, and sense of belonging.
Beatrice Thompson, Alumni Class of 1973
Beatrice Thompson, a 1973 graduate of Olympic High School, is a trailblazer in broadcast journalism and one of Charlotte’s most respected voices in media. She was the first African-American woman to anchor a television newscast in Charlotte and has spent decades informing and uplifting the community through her work in radio, television, and public affairs. Beatrice has received numerous honors, including the esteemed Crystal Award from The National Association of Broadcasters, and remains a powerful advocate for equity, education, and civic engagement. Her career is a testament to Olympic’s legacy of excellence.
Mike Shildt, Alumni Class of 1986
Mike Shildt, a proud alumnus of the Class of 1986, has built a remarkable career in Major League Baseball. He is the former manager of the St. Louis Cardinals and the San Diego Padres. Known for his leadership, integrity, and strategic excellence, Mike was named National League Manager of the Year in 2019. Beyond his achievements on the field, he has remained a humble and dedicated supporter of youth development, mentoring players and coaches across the country. His success reflects the values of hard work and character he developed during his years at Olympic.
2024 Order of the Trojan Inductees
Dave Johnson, Educator 1968-2009
Coach Johnson dedicated 41 years to Olympic High School as a math teacher and coach, leading various sports, including football and baseball. As athletic director from 1986 to 1998, he played a key role in enhancing the school’s athletic programs and served as president of the North Carolina Athletic Directors Association in 1991-92. In recognition of his lasting impact, Olympic named its football stadium in his honor.
Mike Realon, Educator 2003-2022
Mike served as an educator at Olympic High School from 2003 to 2022. He played a pivotal role in aligning education with local industry needs and championed experiential learning through apprenticeships and industry partnerships, enhancing students' career readiness. Mike was instrumental in establishing the advanced manufacturing lab at Olympic, earning recognition from Microsoft as one of America’s top innovative educators for his transformative approach to public education.
Bruce Dye, Alumni Class of 1973
Graduate of the Class of 1973, Bruce’s pivotal challenge pledge in 2013 was instrumental in the creation of the Olympic High School Foundation; he offered a substantial donation if a foundation was established and could match his contribution. His commitment and generosity helped establish the foundation, making a lasting impact on the future of Olympic High School. A successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, Bruce continues to make significant impacts through his business ventures and charitable efforts in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and beyond.
Charles Beatty, Alumni Class of 1980
An alumnus from the class of 1980, Charles was the first chairman of the Olympic High School Foundation. He has built a career helping clients create legacies through strategic financial planning. A passionate philanthropist, he supports numerous causes, including the Olympic High School Foundation and various community organizations. Charles is recognized for his commitment to giving back and enjoys spending time with his family, engaging in outdoor activities, and enjoying life on their family farm.