Special to the Times Vedette
The Mount Ayr Community School Hall of Fame Committee recently announced that Barry Monaghan will be named as a member, the highest honor bestowed by Mount Ayr Community Schools.
Monaghan is a 1965 graduate of Mount Ayr Community Schools. He was a standout athlete in football, basketball, track and baseball. He also played football at Northwest Missouri State University and majored in education.
Monaghan began his teaching career at Adair Casey High School as an English teacher and coach before being drafted into the United State Army for the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in 1971 and bestowed with the Meritorious Service Award.
After returning to Adair Casey from 1972-1975 to teach and coach, Monaghan moved to Jesup Community Schools to serve as vice principal before landing in Guthrie Center as the principal and athletic director.
During his time in education, Monaghan served on the Iowa High School Speech Association Executive Board, including as president in 1984.
In 1984, Monaghan was recruited out of education into the banking industry. He worked his way up the ranks at Guthrie County State Bank, eventually serving as president. He continues to serve as CEO, as well as president of the board of directors and Guthrie County Bancshares, Inc. During his leadership, the bank expanded its services to the communities it serves.
Monaghan has been well known for giving back to his community, being a member of the local American Legion and Lions Clubs. He also started and continues to lead the 10 Squared Men of Guthrie County group.
He has been the voice of Guthrie Center, announcing for high school baseball since 1996 and the football and track teams since 1998. He has also announced track meets at Panora for the last four years.
“As our committee reviewed nominations and worked through the selection process, we were awed by the outstanding accomplishments and tremendous success of all those who were nominated,” said Shaun Kniep, chair of the Hall of Fame Committee. “Our task was arduous, but we feel privileged to have a role in recognizing people who have had such an exceptional impact on the school and community.”
Kniep says the Hall of Fame was established to create a lasting tribute to those who have brought honor to themselves, the Mount Ayr Community Schools and the community, noting that selection to the Hall of Fame recognizes individuals and groups who have accomplished extraordinary feats in extracurricular activities, individuals who have made significant contributions to the school, and graduates who have distinguished themselves in life after high school.
Hall of Fame weekend will be part of the annual Mount Ayr Community Schools homecoming festivities with the Hall of Fame Banquet and Induction ceremony set for Saturday, Sept. 28.