Congratulations to Sacred Heart Academy (SHA) theology teacher and former Valkyrie softball coach, Bob Wheatley, recipient of the 2024 Francesconi Award for Integrity. This award, the highest honor given by Sacred Heart Schools to an employee each year, recognizes an employee who has demonstrated faithful commitment to the Ursuline Core Values of Reverence, Service, Leadership, and Community, through their works both on and off campus.
This award is named after Mr. Charles Francesconi, the first President of Sacred Heart Schools. The actions of those honored by this award reflect the integrity and character of Mr. Francesconi, whose leadership brought distinction to the Sacred Heart Schools Community.
Everyone at SHA knows and loves Bob Wheatley, often the first face parents see when dropping off their daughter in the front circle in the mornings, and a mentor and friend to students and faculty alike. Wheatley made an impact on athletes for more than two decades as head softball coach, and he continues to foster an inclusive, faith-centered environment in the classroom as a theology teacher. Wheatley was named the 7th region Coach of the Year 2020 and 2021 and was awarded SHA's Loretta P. Mudd Excellence in Teaching award in 2007. He was inducted into the Valkyrie Hall of Fame in 2023.
Sacred Heart Academy Principal Tim Adams said that Bob "builds meaningful connections and inspires students to engage deeply with their Catholic faith and to approach their lives with empathy and understanding. He is very committed to faith and moral development and encourages students to reflect on these values and integrate them into their own lives."
Beyond the classroom, Coach Wheatley's commitment to service has been especially evident as SHA's longstanding softball coach. He retired from coaching the Valkyries in 2024. Over the years, he mentored students with patience, guidance, and encouragement, helping players develop skills not only in the sport but in life, teaching them resilience, teamwork, and integrity. Adams elaborates: "Bob's influence has reached beyond the field, as he has inspired many students to grow into confident, compassionate individuals. His leadership shines in every aspect of his work."
Bob Wheatley leads and serves with integrity, humility, and strength, on the field, in the classroom, and among his SHA colleagues, setting an example of character and dedication that reflects the legacy of Charles Francesconi.
Sacred Heart Schools President, Dr. Karen McNay, and Vice President of Mission and Community, Mia Cooper, presented the award during a faculty lunch at Sacred Heart. Mia concluded her introduction to a very surprised and humbled Bob Wheatley by remarking that "he is a supportive colleague and steadfast friend, contributing to the community at Sacred Heart Schools by uplifting others and fostering a culture of respect, mutual support, and faith."
Congratulations to Bob and his family, many of whom were at SHA to see him win the award.
Past recipients of the 2024 Francesconi Award for Integrity:
2023 - Tricia Forde (Sacred Heart Model School)
2022 – Amy Olson (Office of Adminstrative Services)
2021 – Sr. Lorna Weiler (Sacred Heart Academy)
2020 – Cynthia Crabtree (OAS)
2019 – Laura Chipe (Sacred Heart School for the Arts)
2018 – Lauren Stinnett (Sacred Heart Preschool)
2017 – Donna Moir (SHA)
2016 – Ann Carol Grant (SHMS)
2015 – Sr. Judith Rice (OAS)
2014 – Ted Elsesser (SHA)
2013 – Sanu Lama (SHP)
2012 – Susan Snyder (SHMS)
2011 – Beverly McAuliffe (SHA)
2010 – Ruth Kelly (SHA)
2009 – Marsha Pierce (OAS)
2008 – Gerry Keene (SHSA)
2007 – Dan Van Meter (SHA)
2006 – Sr. Colette Kraemer (OAS)
2005 – Betty Prough (SHMS)
2004 – Anna Jo Paul (SHSA)
2003 – Sr. Louise Marie Willenbrink (SHA)