The Alumni Series returns to the district by introducing our first-ever discussion with a Fonda-Fultonville Class of ’64 graduate. Meet Mr. Tom Lippie. During our conversation, Mr. Lippie shared his fondest memories of FFCS and the community’s impact on him as a person and professional. During our interview, a theme developed of being true to your personal goals but also thinking about helping others in the process.
Mr. Lippie currently resides in Amsterdam, N.Y., with his wife Nancy of nearly 54
years. They are the proud parents of four grown children and are active in their community. He credits his upbringing in East Fonda for the skills, lessons, and community pride he has proudly carried throughout his life.
Mr. Lippie is currently the Director of Independent Living Services for the Resource Center for Independent Living. He is also a graduate of Siena College.
What are your fondest memories at FFCS?
I would say my classmates and all the memories made in the district. My graduating class was 55 students, and some say it was the best class at Fonda-Fultonville. I was an active student-athlete, and it played a role in my experiences in the district. I fondly recall Coach Swenson (soccer), Coach Fedullo (basketball), and Coach Catena (JV basketball) for playing roles in my life, not only in athletics but also after my time at FFCS. I also have the fondest memories of my teachers, who were phenomenal in my experiences as a student. FFCS was such an amazing community.
What traits did FFCS instill in you as a student?
My father always had a saying: never forget where you came from. From the time I was four years old, I remember the values that my family and our community shared with us, and those memories still are a big part of who I am today: respect others, be kind, and be accountable for your actions. As a parent, friend, and coworker, or in my professional career, those were important themes that I followed. I am thankful for that advice.
How has FFCS shaped how you are today?
I learned that it is important to help and be sensitive to others’ needs. This has carried through in my life to help others and our school and town embodied that. I told my team members wherever I worked, I always felt the need to serve the people. There’s no ‘I’ in team. Fonda shaped my thoughts on teamwork. We were always taught to respect each other and our opponents. Life lessons at FFCS were invaluable to me. I’m thankful to be a graduate of Fonda-Fultonville.