October 4, 2024

CHS teacher named Woman of the Year

Carbon High special education teacher, Vale Himonas, Price, was honored as Woman of the Year 2004 at the annual Women’s Conference held on April 16 and hosted on the CEU campus.
Himonas was nominated for Woman of the Year by her coworkers at Carbon High School.
The list of Himonas’ selfless sacrifices in behalf of many of her students and community members was considerable and praises numerous as SUN Center Director and Woman of the Year 2003, Kathy Murray presented the award.

This archived article was written by: R. Jensen

Carbon High special education teacher, Vale Himonas, Price, was honored as Woman of the Year 2004 at the annual Women’s Conference held on April 16 and hosted on the CEU campus.
Himonas was nominated for Woman of the Year by her coworkers at Carbon High School.
The list of Himonas’ selfless sacrifices in behalf of many of her students and community members was considerable and praises numerous as SUN Center Director and Woman of the Year 2003, Kathy Murray presented the award.
“This year’s recipient is described as being our community’s Florence Nightingale – truly a major piece of our life here in Carbon County, but especially in the lives of those she serves,” Murray read.
Himonas who has been an educator at Carbon High for the last 30 years has also been a strong supporter of the American Cancer Society and Special Olympics.
Those that know her and have been touched by her generosity describe Himonas as a selfless, personable, energetic mediator, always willing to serve those around her. Himonas believes in the responsibility of parents, educators, employers, and acquaintances to help the youth of today develop the skills necessary to become reliable and productive.
Statements in her nomination read: “She takes [the students] under her wing and guides them in developing manners, proper etiquette, respect for others, responsibility, and good work ethics …
“A constant example of kindness, teaching with respect and understanding, she gives the gift of hope to those she serves. She is truly an asset to her community.”
“This is very unexpected, and although this is a great honor, the person that Kathy spoke of is not one person, it’s a community of people,” stated Himonas.
Thanking her colleagues at Carbon High, CEU’s cosmetology department, community partners, students and their parents, Himonas recognized the efforts of all who contributed to her own efforts.
Himonas also spoke of four ingredients she believes are essential to educating students and adults: unlimited supply of caring, sprinkle of humor, conviction of ability and the dignity of individuals.