Posts by Heidi Lanier

Michèle Crider, internationally acclaimed soprano and Quincy Senior High School alumna, will be honored with the Distinguished Alumni Award by the Quincy Public Schools Foundation at the organization’s signature gala, A Night to Dream Big, on Friday November 7, 2025. Crider first discovered the magic of music as a young child—a spark that would ignite…

Tom Burnett served as QHS Theater Director and English teacher from 1973 to 2010, inspired generations of students through his creative vision and unwavering dedication to mentorship. He cultivated both confidence and community, creating a stage where every student could shine. Alumni often reflect on the lessons they carried beyond the A-Building—crediting Burnett’s influence for…

Les Fonza is a proud 1963 graduate from Quincy High School. Returning in 1986 to lead the band program, he elevated the Marching Blue Devils and concert ensembles to new heights of excellence. Known for his powerful “Voice of God” at basketball games and QHS performances, he became a fixture of Blue Devil Pride. His…

Dan Sherman directed the Quincy Senior High choir and choral programs from 1969 to 2009 and built a tradition of vocal excellence recognized across Illinois and beyond. Under his leadership, QHS choirs consistently earned top honors, and countless students credit him as a formative influence in their musical journeys. Support A Night to Dream Big!…

Clyde Bassett joined Quincy Senior High in 1989, directing both the school orchestra and the Quincy Symphony Orchestra until his passing in 2005. A passionate educator, he revitalized the string program and inspired countless students with his love of performance. Bassett’s gift for connecting school and community musicians-built bridges that enriched Quincy’s cultural life and…