Educator Continues Father’s Legacy with Fundraiser for Students

In Leominster, Massachusetts, Kate Himmer is honoring her late father, Bill Macdonald, by organizing a fundraiser aimed at facilitating middle school students’ trips to Washington, D.C. This initiative continues a tradition that Macdonald, a respected educator with over 35 years of service in Leominster Public Schools, helped establish over four decades ago.

Macdonald, who taught history at the former May A. Gallagher Junior High School, initiated the eighth-grade class trip to Washington, D.C., alongside his colleague John Piccolomini. Himmer reflected on her father’s vision, stating, “They both felt it was vital for eighth graders to have the chance to experience the rich history of Washington, D.C., firsthand.” She emphasized the lasting impact of these trips, noting, “I still remember my own trip to D.C. in eighth grade,” and how many parents share similar fond memories.

Following her father’s passing in 2019, Himmer established the Bill Macdonald Memorial Washington D.C. Fund. This fund aims to provide financial assistance to students wishing to partake in the trip. In its inaugural year, four students benefited from scholarships totaling $600 each, covering half the trip’s cost. Himmer shared, “He asked that when he passed, we, his family, start a fund that would provide financial assistance for students in Leominster who want to attend the trip.”

The first official fundraiser took place in 2022, designed to alleviate the financial burden on families. However, the initiative was temporarily suspended due to the pandemic. Himmer acknowledged the rising costs associated with the trip, stating, “With the rising cost of everything, the cost of the D.C. trip is reasonable but still expensive for many families.” She called for support from local businesses to sponsor the fund, which is critical in providing scholarships.

This year marks Himmer’s third year collaborating with Katie Foley, a teacher at Samoset Middle School, to manage the annual trip. Himmer expressed her sentiments, stating, “I wish that my dad was here to see me carrying on the tradition that he started for our city.” She highlighted the joy of continuing this legacy and the positive experiences it brings to the students.

The partnership with Nations Classroom, a company that offers flexible payment plans, has simplified the logistics of the trip. Himmer and Foley plan fundraisers throughout the year, with an upcoming event scheduled for March 14, 2024. This family-friendly line dancing fundraiser will be held at the Eagles Club on Litchfield Street from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Granite State Stomp will lead the event, which will include various raffle prizes.

Himmer expressed gratitude towards the Leominster Eagles #477 for their support, stating, “We are so grateful for them for supporting us and letting us use the hall for this event.” Last year’s event saw over 150 attendees, and Himmer is hopeful for an even greater turnout this time. Tickets are available for $15 in advance or $20 at the door.

The Bill Macdonald Memorial Washington D.C. Fund aims to provide between four to six scholarships annually, each valued at $600. Himmer noted that DeCarolis Insurance Agency has contributed by offering one scholarship each year, which has been instrumental in sustaining the fund.

Reflecting on her personal connection to the trip, Himmer shared that her daughter participated in the D.C. trip two years ago, and her youngest will have the opportunity in two years. She reminisced about the timeless experiences that the trip offers, such as visiting national monuments and museums.

Recently, someone contacted her on Facebook, sharing a picture from their own eighth-grade trip to the Capitol in 1998. Himmer expressed how heartwarming it is to witness the enduring impact of her father’s legacy on countless students. “Anyone who knows me knows that my dad was my hero,” she said, underscoring the values he instilled in her and her commitment to continue his vision.

She concluded, “It meant a lot to him to have this trip continue so that students can visit our nation’s capital, create lasting memories, and have fun at the same time.”