They Lit the Way--Distinguished Educators
The 2025 Pathways to Success Reception was held on October 9th at The Wedgewood Cove. The educators honored this year are Ralph Summers, Dave Podlogar, Gary Koeder, and Roger Zeman. Pictures and bios of these Distinguished Educators are posted below. A detailed description of the event may be found here.
We are seeking nominations for the 2026 Distinguished Educators honorees. Online and mail in nomination forms may be accessed below.
We Are A Community Committed To Its Children
They Lit the Way: Honoring Albert Lea's Distinguished Educators
Ralph Summers
1944-1966
In recognition of Ralph’s service to the students of the Albert Lea School District as athletic director, involvement in intramural sports, and elementary physical education
Picture and full bio
Albert Lea Tribune obituary
Northfield School Recognition
Christmas Seal Award
Gary Koeder
1963-1997
There are no shortcuts to any place worth going to. You are never powerless to get there.
Dave Podlogar
1970-2003
I tried to make the classes interesting and fun, but safety was always my top concern, in the classroom with the tools and machines.
Roger Zeman
1970-2010
To me the “C” in education stands for caring, and I always cared deeply about my students. There is no greater gratification in teaching than the “Ah Ha moment”, seeing the moment a child grasps a new concept.
Picture and full bio
INTRODUCTION
A partner to the Pathways to Success–Distinguished Alumni program, the They Lit the Way–Distinguished Educator program recognizes those extraordinary individuals who were on the other side of the desk from those who became distinguished alumni. Outstanding teachers deserve recognition as Distinguished Educators for the assistance they provide their students in unveiling the genius that rests within us all. For as Plutarch observed, “The mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be ignited.” Those honored as Distinguished Educators are representative of all teachers who have enlightened their students and have “Lit the Way” for the path that leads to their future. Please recognize a teacher who was especially influential for you by submitting a nomination from one of the fields below.