Two to be inducted into MHS Wall of Fame

Harris, left, Cuellar [Click to enlarge]

Engraved plaques featuring photographs and descriptions of the accomplishments of Cuellar, of McCook, and Harris, of Lincoln, will join the plaques of other honored graduates' on permanent display on the "Wall of Fame" near the McCook Senior High auditorium.

Harris will be in McCook for the weekend, where he, Al Cuellar and thousands of others will enjoy the community's annual Heritage Days celebration.

Cuellar's teaching career spanned 38 years, mostly at McCook Junior High where he was best known for his history classes and his involvement in volleyball and Student Council. He was actively involved in the Nebraska State Education Association and the National Education Association, either as local president or negotiator, or delegate to state and national meetings. He continues to be supportive of former students, their activities and their families.

Cuellar was appointed by Nebraska Gov. Jim Exxon to serve on the Nebraska Mexican American Commission.

Cuellar's activities have included membership on the Ed Thomas YMCA board of directors and in the Minority Affairs Committee of the Nebraska State Education Association, and assistant editor of the Bison alumni newsletter. Al is nearing his 10th year as president of the McCook Educational Foundation.

Letters of recommendation for Cuellar included these words: "Albert has been a wonderful friend and confidante to all of the Class of 1956, as well as loyal to his many, many junior high students during his years of teaching in Nebraska. He has contributed many hours of volunteer work for the enhancement of his home town, McCook; as well as dedicating time and love to his family."

Cuellar has arranged every class reunion for the Class of 1956 including gatherings in Las Vegas, the Bahamas and Denver. In turn, his classmates have funded a scholarship in his name that is awarded annually at McCook Community College.

Bill Harris can add his name to the list of exceptional leaders from McCook High School. Best known as mayor of the City of Lincoln, Harris was instrumental in construction and redevelopment projects at University Square, Lincoln Station, Technology Park and the Highland annexation. He implemented programs for drug prevention, recycling and environmental awareness. Other ways in which he initiated change were development of Lincoln's Children, Youth, and Families Policy Initiative; Minority and Women's Small Business Assistance Center; the Small Business Loan Program; and a Mayor's Youth Advisory Council.

Even after leaving the Mayor's office, Harris has added to his list of public service. He is treasurer of the Nebraska Association of Former State Legislators, after serving as the organization's president in 2004 and 2005. He also served 12 years on the Nebraska Economic Development Commission by appointment of Gov. Ben Nelson.

Harris' resume includes time as teacher, farmer/rancher and Nebraska Army National Guard sergeant.

The Wall of Fame committee continues to seek names to add to its pool of nominees. Nominees must have been out of high school for at least ten years and contributed significantly to community and/or profession.

Letters of nomination should include the candidate's name, address and phone number (if available/applicable), and graduating class year, as well as a paragraph outlining significant contributions. Nominations must be signed and dated and include a phone number for future clarification. They may be mailed to Steve Clapp

307 Park Ave., McCook, NE 69001.

Alumni interested in serving on the selection committee may volunteer at the same address or call (308) 345-6835.