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Immaculata Announces Mackie Award Winners

Immaculata Announces Mackie Award Winners
Posted on 08/08/2019
Bonhams

One measure of one’s contribution to a group: Is the organization stronger, because of that person’s vision, dedication, and hard work? In the case of Dan and Nancy Bonham of Somerset, who have a combined 62 years of service to the school’s phenomenal Music Department, the answer is a resounding yes. In recognition of their commitment to the Music Department, as well as Nancy’s exemplary leadership demonstrated in the school’s academic programs, they were awarded the Mackie Award.

Initiated in 2008, the Mackie Award is given out at the Immaculata Annual Golf Classic, held this year on Monday, September 30th at Heron Glen Golf Course, Ringoes, NJ. Their commitment to the school reflects the spirit of the late J. Brandon (Mackie) Maxwell, the award’s first recipient and for whom the award was named. Mackie was a huge supporter of Immaculata, but through his tremendous volunteer work and donations, his impact was most felt in Athletics.

Dan has been a percussion instructor/show designer with the Immaculata Marching Band since 1986; Nancy joined him as a percussion instructor in 1992. Inspired by the passion and commitment of Sr. Dolores Margaret, IHM and many talented music directors and instructors, Dan and Nancy have remained dedicated band staff members. During their involvement, the Marching Band has won a dozen state and national marching band championships, as well as 30 state, regional and national percussion championship titles. In 2010, Dan started the Indoor Drumline to give students the opportunity to try percussion. Both were staff members when the Marching Band appeared on Fox and Friends morning news show and America's Got Talent.

In addition, Dan has also been a promoter of the music department online, starting the band's first website back in 1999. He currently manages their social media platforms, including Instagram and Facebook, as well as its YouTube platform, including hundreds of performances from over 30 years and with over 100,000 views. Nancy, who joined the English Department staff in 2004, currently serves as Coordinator of Special Programs. She teaches AP Literature and AP Capstone classes. With co-chair Deirdre Rosinski, Nancy runs the prestigious Marian Scholars Program and is facilitating the start of IHS's new Classical Studies Program.

"Although we've always loved what the band offers to students, its power to build confidence, community, and character became more evident, when our children, Jack and Casey, were band members,” says Dan and Nancy. “We are honored to be a part of this often life-changing program and the larger school community and grateful to be recognized for the Mackie Award. We could never give enough back to the school that has had such an amazing impact on so many young people's lives."

Please join us in honoring Dan and Nancy Bonham at this year’s Golf Classic. Registration and breakfast is scheduled at 9:00 AM; shotgun start is at 10:00 AM, followed by cocktail hour at 3:00 PM and dinner at 4:00 PM. Cost is $175 per golfer (before 9/1/19); $200 after that date; dinner guests only is $35 per person. To register as a golfer, as well as serve as a sponsor, click here. For more information, contact Stacey Geary at [email protected] or call (908)722-0200, Ext. 222.