The Partnership Plan, in conjunction with Stillwater Area High School is proud to announce the 2026 recipients of the Distinguished Alumni Award. This year’s honorees, Cynthia Bronson Sweigert, Ted Hooley, and Shannon Williams, join a prestigious group of over 100 graduates recognized since the award’s inception in 1987.
The Distinguished Alumni Award honors graduates who have made education and service to others a high priority, serving as role models for current and future generations of Ponies.
Meet the 2026 Honorees:
Reverend Cynthia Bronson Sweigert (Class of 1970): A trailblazer in faith leadership, Reverend Cynthia Bronson Sweigert was among the first women ordained in the Episcopal Church. Throughout her career, she has been a powerful voice for interfaith collaboration and equity, building bridges between diverse communities across the country and fostering inclusion and understanding.
Ted Hooley (Class of 2006): As the Founder and CEO of Senitizo, Ted Hooley has dedicated his life to global health. His nonprofit work in the Central African Republic provides patient-centered, locally led care with a focus on maternal and child health. Through thoughtful leadership and a commitment to sustainable, community-driven solutions, Ted continues to improve access to life-saving healthcare while building systems designed to endure for generations.
Shannon Williams (Class of 1996): Shannon is a healthcare consultant and licensed Critical Care Paramedic who balances national system operations with local service. From her early days as a paraprofessional at Lake Elmo Elementary to her current work teaching EMT students and leading community CPR training, Shannon is a tireless advocate for patient care and emergency services.
Read more about each honoree here.
Join the Celebration
The community is invited to celebrate these outstanding alumni at an upcoming event hosted by The Partnership Plan:
Distinguished Alumni Banquet:
Friday, May 22, at 5:30 p.m. at the Lake Elmo Inn Event Center.
Click here to get tickets!
We congratulate Cynthia, Ted, and Shannon on their incredible achievements and for embodying the spirit of Stillwater Area High School through their service to the world.