FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Fairborn City Schools Announces Hall of Honor 2026 Inductees
Fairborn, Ohio — Fairborn City Schools is proud to announce the Hall of Honor Class of 2026, recognizing distinguished alumni and community members whose service, leadership, and dedication have made a lasting impact on the Fairborn community and beyond.
The Hall of Honor 2026 Ceremony will take place on April 24, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at the Fairborn High School Performing Arts Center.
2026 Hall of Honor Inductees
Bill and Jane Doorley
Bill and Jane Doorley have served the Fairborn community for more than 30 years. Bill dedicated over 31 years as an educator in the Fairborn City School District, while Jane built a distinguished career as a critical care nurse, palliative care nurse, and Assistant Professor at Wright State University.
Following their retirements, the Doorleys began volunteering at the Fairborn FISH Pantry in 2012. Jane now serves as Executive Director, and Bill as Pantry Manager. Together, they devote 60–80 hours per week working with businesses and organizations to combat hunger, support more than 80 volunteers, and minimize the trauma caused by poverty in Fairborn. Their compassion and tireless service continue to inspire the community.
Emily Gay
Fairborn High School Class of 2009
Emily Gay currently serves as Communications Manager for the City of Fairborn, overseeing newsletters, social media, press releases, and community outreach. Prior to her municipal role, Emily worked at WHIO-TV in Dayton as a Content Manager and Executive Producer, as well as a News Producer, guiding the development and production of daily newscasts.
Emily is a three-time Ohio Valley Emmy Award winner, a four-time Edward R. Murrow Award recipient, and has received honors from the Associated Press and Society of Professional Journalists. She also served as an Indianapolis Colts cheerleader in 2011.
Gary Johnson
Fairborn Park Hills Class of 1979
Gary Johnson has been the Director of the Fairborn Civic Band for 29 years and is the Co-Founder and Co-Director of the Fairborn Regional Orchestra. He has coordinated audio systems and entertainment for the Fairborn Sweet Corn Festival for 26 years and has served as Church Music Director at multiple Fairborn churches for three decades.
A retired educator with 25 years of service, Gary is also a private guitar instructor, recording artist, and songwriter. He received the 2025 Fairborn Chamber of Commerce Jack Huelsman Civic Award for his extraordinary dedication to music and community engagement. His ensembles perform at all major Fairborn community events.
Brent Naughton
Fairborn High School Class of 1991
Brent Naughton is an award-winning sports artist whose work has been featured by global brands including Hershey, Crest, Olay, Pampers, Lunchables, and Brawny. Inspired by his early experiences at Fairborn Little League and Fairborn High School, Brent designs and sells baseball cards and exhibits artwork nationwide.
He actively mentors young artists and volunteers his talents to support numerous organizations. Since 2017, he has partnered with Portrait of a Soul, providing free portraits to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and the Cincinnati Down Syndrome Association. Brent credits Fairborn City Schools staff for encouraging his artistic journey.
Donald Ray Pugh
Fairborn High School Class of 1971
Donald Ray Pugh served more than 35 years in Civil Service at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, retiring in 2012. Fluent in five languages, he was widely respected for negotiating on behalf of the United States Air Force worldwide. He earned a Master’s Degree in Strategic Studies from the United States War College.
Don served as President of both the Fairborn Board of Education and the Greene County Career Center, always prioritizing students. He also led the Mid-Western Children’s Home Board of Directors and dedicated his time to prison ministry and international volunteer service.
Dave Reichert
Fairborn High School Class of 1991
Dave Reichert is a retired Fire Chief for the City of Fairborn, having served the Fairborn Fire Department since graduating high school. He managed a $7 million budget and played a critical leadership role in maintaining emergency services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dave received the Medal of Valor in 2007 and the Robert B. Jacob Award of Merit in 2008 for bravery. His career exemplifies commitment to public safety, leadership, and service to others.
Martha Riddle
Fairborn High School Class of 1961
Martha Riddle dedicated her career to education as a sixth-grade teacher at Black Lane Elementary School, where she integrated environmental education into her classroom through outdoor learning experiences.
She has served extensively with the Daughters of the American Revolution, Rebecca Galloway Chapter, including 13 years as Chapter Regent, and remains active at the state level in Revolutionary War research. Martha supports numerous charitable organizations, including the USO and Blue Star Mothers, and has been a longtime supporter of the Fairborn Area Historical Society and Fairborn Senior Center.
The Fairborn City Schools Hall of Honor celebrates individuals whose achievements, service, and leadership reflect the values of the Fairborn community and serve as inspiration for future generations.