The Burnet Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet brought the community together Thursday, April 30 at Hill Country Bliss to recognize the people whose service, leadership, and steady commitment con- tinue to shape Burnet.
Before the program began, Executive Director Teryl McFerrin thanked those who made the evening possible. “Before we begin, I’d like to take a moment to thank a few folks who made this evening possible. To the owners of Hill Country Bliss, Tom and Tanaya, thank y’all for providing such a beautiful venue. To Randi Reifel with Flowers by Randi for the décor, Keith and Melody Landolt for the delicious meal, Night Owl Events, Lauren Carney’s team, for the bar service, and special thanks to Vicinta Stafford for the balloon décor, Kristin Gibbs, our rock harpist, and Tatum Beierle for photography. You all helped bring this evening together and we are so grateful to you.”
Honorees received Congressional Recognition certificates signed by District 31 Congressman John Carter, alongside their awards.
McFerrin then opened the evening. “This evening is about honoring our past and celebrating our future. It takes nights like tonight to appreciate where we’ve been and how far we have come. We’ll look back at the people who helped build this community and we’ll celebrate the dreamers and leaders shaping what comes next.”
The program then moved into the Burnet Consolidated Independent School District Awards, recognizing those who have made an extraordinary impact on students and the community.
BCISD Hall of Honor Awards were led by Superintendent Dr. Aaron Pena.
Dr. Pena stated, “Since 2014, the Burnet CISD Hall of Honor has recognized individuals whose lasting contributions are memorialized at Burnet High School across four distinguished categories, with 52 honorees to date. Tonight, that tradition continues as we welcome a new class whose leadership and service have made a lasting impact on the district and community.”
A 1994 Burnet High School honor graduate and salutatorian, Dr. Bryce Allen excelled in academics and athletics before advancing through the Rice Baylor Medical Scholars Program to become a board certified, fellowship trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in adult joint reconstruction. Known for excellence, integrity, and dedication to mentoring future physicians, his impact reaches far beyond his practice.
Ms. Ann Riddell, the 2026 Distinguished Former District Employee, devoted 25 years at Burnet Middle School, where she taught multiple subjects, coached athletics, and founded the campus greenhouse program that continues to inspire students. Known for high expectations, fairness, and a willingness to serve wherever needed, she made a lasting impact on generations of students and colleagues, both in the classroom and throughout the community.
This year, Burnet CISD also honored Distinguished Former School District Employee Ms. Jill Ringstaff, a 1970 Burnet High School graduate who devoted 38 of her 41 years in education to the district. She taught a full range of math courses, helped introduce early computer and coding classes, held a lifetime Texas Education Agency certification in gifted and talented education, and served many years as Math Department Head. Her leadership extended to UIL Number Sense, Future Teachers, and campus organizations, leaving a lasting academic impact.
Established in 2022, the Andy Feild Spirit, Pride, and Honor Award recognizes a staff or board member who reflects service, leadership, and commitment to Burnet CISD. This year’s recipient, Roger Moore, is a Tarleton State graduate, a proud “Purple Poo,” and has spent decades in education and coaching while supporting campus and community events. Known for his “the more the merrier” approach, he was also recognized for his work as a DJ and announcer, and the most delicious popcorn. Widely known as the voice of the Bulldogs, Moore’s consistent presence across Burnet made him a fitting recipient.
A Bertram High School graduate and two-term Burnet CISD Board member from 1975 to 1981, Beauford Rowney brought construction expertise and steady leadership during a time of major change, including rebuilding after the 1973 tornado, while supporting programs that strengthened student learning and responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources. His legacy of service continues to be felt. He was honored as the 2026 Distinguished Former Board Member, with the award accepted by his son, Ryan Rowney.
A Burnet High School Class of 2001 graduate, John Akinloye was a standout multi-sport athlete and accomplished sprinter who continued his success at Texas State University, earning conference titles, relay honors, and a place among the program’s top performers while also excelling academically and professionally. Remembered for his drive, character, and impact on others, his legacy endures. He was honored as the 2026 Distinguished Former Athlete, with the award accepted by his brother, Joseph Smith, and his friend, Kyle Seipp.
The Educators of the Year Awards followed, as Dr. Rachel Jones introduced this year’s honorees. The district recognizes both elementary and secondary Teacher of the Year, aligning with regional, state, and national programs.
The BCISD Elementary Teacher of the Year built strong student connections that gave learners the confidence to take risks, knowing they were supported every step of the way. She models humility and continuous improvement, inspiring colleagues while her students show clear, measurable growth. Beyond her classroom, she supports her campus generously. Congratulations to Mrs. Megan Ramon.
The BCISD Secondary Teacher of the Year leads with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to serving others, creating meaningful connections with students, colleagues, and families. His impact is evident in results, with welding certifications more than doubling over three years, a 100 percent pass rate, and students excelling in FFA and BBQ competitions while earning scholarships and pursuing careers. Congratulations to Mr. Brandon Evans.
As the BCISD portion of the evening concluded, the focus remained on the educators, leaders, and alumni whose continued investment in students helps shape the future of the district and the community it serves.
