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The Steel Valley School District and community members honored the men and women of the armed forces with its 44th Annual Veterans Day Program on Friday, November 14, 2025.
The annual program celebrates the service, sacrifice, and commitment of those members of the Steel Valley community who have answered the call to serve their country. The annual program is organized by the Veterans Day Committee, which was coordinated this year by Mark Fallon.
Each ceremony celebrates a distinguished honoree, and this year's guest was Steel Valley graduate Adam Votedian. Mr. Votedian served in the U.S. Army Reserves for eight years and is now a member of the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire. He was introduced by Steel Valley High School students Rebekah Klieber and Shaterra Meadows, who highlighted his lifetime of service to his country and community.
Mr. Fallon served as the host for the program. Guests were welcomed by Steel Valley superintendent Mr. Bryan Macuga, Pastor Keith Kaufold offered the opening marks, School Board President Mr. Jim Bulger introduced the Veterans Day Committee and special guests, and assistant superintendent Dr. Brian Plichta provided the closing remarks. Pennsylvania State Representative Mr. Dan Goughnour was the guest speaker and shared some brief remarks with those in attendance.
Multiple local officials donated American flags, which they or a representative from their office presented to a Steel Valley students. Flags were donated by Mayor John Burwell, Homestead; Mayor Rob Falce, Munhall; Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato; Congresswoman Summer Lee; State Representative Dan Goughnour; State Senator Nick Pisciottano; School Board President Jim Bulger; Allegheny County Councilperson Bethany Hallam; and State Representative John Inglis.
The flags were presented to Adam Keesecker, Dominique Ruiz, Rebekah Kleiber, Shaterra Meadows, Holden Labishak, Darren Blasko, Katherine McNeely, Yurron Arrington, and Hannah Lesser.
This year's theme was "Building a Better Community," which highlighted beautification, small business support, the improvement of public spaces, the reduction of waste, and other ways to serve within the community. Students were challenged to bring creative ideas to address those areas of need. Five students received $50 awards in memory of veterans and community members for their submissions.
- Mikenna Lucas, in memory of Glenn G. McNeish, USMC.
- Destiny Rhodes, in memory of Bernie McKinney.
- Reese Grimm, in memory of the Seven Espers Who Served.
- Asher McNeil, in memory of John F. Lukowski.
Classroom 31, accepted by Bryson Pingor, in memory of Charles "Chick" Toth, U.S. Army.
Two students received $100 prizes for their submissions:
- Nola Pruden, in memory of John Dudas, and in honor of the Harmony Club.
- Gabriella Collins, the Blue Star Award from the Vincent Rodgers Family.
The program also featured performances by the Steel Valley choir and band, as well as a presentation of the colors by Girl Scout Troop 52469. Following the ceremony, a wreath was laid at the memorial outside of the middle school entrance.
