CORE | Coalition for Residential Education

The Catherine Hershey Awards* are the only national awards specifically for the residential education field. Established in 2005, the awards honor outstanding staff, students, alumni, and supporters whose tireless dedication and important contributions exemplify the essence of residential education.

The awards, generously sponsored again this year by the Milton Hershey School, are administered by CORE: the Coalition for Residential Education. Judges are supporters, alumni, and youth work professionals who rank all submitted nominations with personal and program information removed.

Congratulations to the 2009 Award Winners!

Administrator of the Year—Peter G. Gurt, Vice President of Student Life, Milton Hershey School

As an alumnus and a staff member at Milton Hershey School for over 17 years, Pete is an outstanding role model for both students and staff. He is involved in all aspects of the school, always working for students’ best interests. Pete’s first-hand experiences as a student at Milton Hershey School provide a strong foundation for his understanding and ability as a professional to motivate others towards success.

Residential Educators of the Year—George and Genevie Ratliff, Houseparents, Methodist Children’s Home


The Ratliffs, married for more than 50 years, have served as houseparents at Methodist Children’s Home for 28 years. The Ratliffs’ have an incredible ability to establish and maintain healthy relationships with youth, while their strong, stable marriage serves as a positive influence on the boys under their care. The number of former residents who maintain contact with the Ratliffs is a testimony to their inspiration on many youth who have succeeded personally and professionally.

Student of the Year—James Wesley Reed, Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches 


Described by his teachers and senior staff as “bright, determined, and honorable” and “exemplifying the development we wish for all of our youth,” Wesley serves as a role model to other students. For the past three years, Wesley has diligently worked to meet his education goals requirements. A skilled horseman, Wesley will graduate this spring and begin working in a highly selective position as a horse-riding tour guide at Grand Canyon National Park.

Residential Supervisor of the Year—John Bellini, Director of Residential Education, Hillcrest Family Services 



During his nine-year tenure, John has made important contributions to the Hillcrest community by greatly enhancing collaborative programming and communication between the school and residential homes. John’s open door policy and effective leadership style have provided students and staff alike an appropriate sense of value and purpose.

Alumnus of the Year—Leonard Russek, Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches 


One of the first two boys to arrive at the Boys Ranch campus when doors first opened in 1958, Leonard never misses an opportunity to generously contribute to the place he called home. A successful business owner and a former state comptroller, he is especially attentive to the staff, particularly the houseparents, ensuring that they are well-provided. Leonard, who regularly attends campus events, is a role model to the boys, showing them that they, too, can reach their goals and become contributing members of society.

Trustee of the Year— Elizabeth “Betty” Cox, Crossnore School 


Betty, a great supporter of Crossnore and a nine-year trustee, believes that “no child’s need is too small and no capital campaign is too large.” Always in a humble manner does Betty generously give while motivating others to do the same.

Philanthropist of the Year—Mark Solomon, CMS Companies 


Mark is an extraordinary man and a tireless, entrepreneurial philanthropist committed to the well-being of economically and socially disadvantaged youth. Founder of a Philadelphia-based investment firm, Mark is known for, among other things, his encouragement of investors to donate a percentage of their profits to philanthropic causes. Mark has designed and led fundraising campaigns that have literally saved schools. His warm heart, sharp mind, and impressive generosity have helped tens of thousands make the most of their lives.

*CORE thanks the Milton Hershey School for their support of the Catherine Hershey Awards. Catherine Hershey and her husband Milton Hershey founded the Milton Hershey School in 1909. A champion of children and a woman of great inspiration and compassion, CORE is proud to have the awards bear Mrs. Hershey’s name.