HONORABLE EDWARD H. WARD ‘54

Posthumous

Nominated by: Laura Ward

Achievement/Excellence

The Honorable Edward H. Ward (“Ed”) is most deserving for consideration for the Clay High School Distinguished Hall of Fame. The foundation that Ed received at Clay High School set the tone for what was a very distinguished life focused on service to others as a military officer, educator, judge, friend, husband and father. As a college student, Ed was involved in leadership in the service fraternity, Alpha Phi Omega, at Bowling Green State University. He was president of the men’s National Leadership Society and elected Outstanding Senior Man. Ed graduated from University of Michigan Law School and served our country by working as a Judge Advocate General while a Lieutenant in the United States Navy. Following his time in the U.S. Navy, he became a college professor and administrator at Bowling Green State University, taking great interest in mentoring students in their academic and career planning. Ed was recruited by the president of University of Tampa in 1971 to join the faculty and administration of the University. Ed was later appointed as a County Court Judge and was twice elected to the Circuit Court. He served on the bench with distinction and honor for nearly 20 years. As a judge he had the reputation of being fair and kind to all and always working to put everyone at ease. After he retired as a Judge, he worked as a mediator and arbitrator, helping people resolve disputes outside of court. Ed also spent countless hours helping many friends and people in the community with all kinds of legal issues. Even while he was sick with cancer, he attended court hearings to help and support some of his friends (including at least one repairman who worked at his home and one of his lawncare workers). Ed saw the good in everyone and always put others before himself. Ed Ward’s life of service to others had a lasting impact on his country, his community and his family.

Leadership/Dedication

Ed Ward led a life dedicated to service to others. As a Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy, he served our country as a Judge Advocate General. In that role, he prosecuted service members accused of violating military law. As a college professor, he spent countless hours mentoring students. One of his former students, who is the current mayor of Tampa, FL (city of Ed’s home for many years before his passing), in-part credits her success as former chief of police and now mayor to the encouragement and inspiration she received while under Ed’s tutelage. As a Judge, Ed was committed to mentoring and helping young lawyers develop in the practice of law. He guided and mentored numerous young lawyers in Hillsborough County, FL over the years. One such young lawyer, Ron Ficarrotta, went on to become a judge, then later, the Chief Judge of the 13th Judicial Circuit. He stated “Judge Ward was a major influence in my development as a lawyer and later on as a judge … His demeanor both on and off the bench displayed a natural empathy and caring for all who appeared before him, be they lawyer, litigant or courtroom personnel. He touched many lives and helped many people throughout his legal and judicial career.” Another former young lawyer mentored by Judge Ward is a current sitting judge. Judge Nick Nazaretian said “Judge Ward always exercised patience and treated both legal sides with the utmost respect … I learned many things working with Judge Ward. I utilize those traits today in my courtroom. In addition to me, Judge Ward passed his wisdom to many lawyers in Tampa.” After Ed retired, he stayed active helping others in the community in any way that he could. He spoke to civic groups about the role of the legal system and he helped anyone in need of legal advice or representation. Ed Ward's commitment to helping others throughout his lifetime left an indelible mark on the legal community and on the community at-large.

Impact/Legacy

While Ed relocated to Tampa, Florida, shortly after law school, the foundation he received from the teachers and community at Clay High School during his formative years there helped shape the man he became. Ed was the valedictorian of his Clay High School class and also an All-American basketball player. Throughout his lifetime, Ed remained a proud Clay High School Eagle. Ed was one of a kind and went out of his way every single day to help others and treat others the way he would want to be treated. Ed was a distinguished member of the military and served as a professor and mentor to students in the legal community. Ed also served the people of the state of Florida and Hillsborough County with distinction as a judge. He used his job as a judge to help young lawyers pave their way. He also invested time and interest in giving a second chance to those who were deserving who appeared before him. Additionally, Ed was a long-time supporter of Bay Area Legal Services helping to ensure those who were in need were able to receive pro bono legal services. In addition to all of his dedication and work in the community and time spent helping others, Ed was also a loving husband to his wife of 46 years and a beloved father and grandfather. The world we live in is a better place because of the daily selfless acts of Ed Ward. Selfless service to others is his legacy. Ed Ward would be honored to be considered for this award and we believe he is most deserving of this recognition. Thank you for your support.

SCOTT FISHER, PhD, MS ‘93

Nominated by: Denni Grant ‘93

Achievement/Excellence

Scott’s journey from Clay High School’s Class of 1993 to becoming a leader in pharmaceutical sciences is a testament to his exceptional dedication, expertise, and contributions to the medical field. After earning his Biology degree from the University of Dayton, Scott played a pivotal role in the development of Abraxane, a groundbreaking chemotherapy drug. Unlike traditional treatments, Abraxane allows for higher, more effective dosing with fewer side effects, helping extend the lives of thousands of cancer patients worldwide. His contributions to this breakthrough exemplify scientific excellence with a direct, life-saving impact.

Determined to further his expertise, Scott pursued advanced education, earning a Master’s in Pharmaceutical Sciences from The Ohio State University and a Ph.D. in Pharmacology from the University of Maryland. His research excellence was recognized through a prestigious NIH predoctoral fellowship in collaboration with Johns Hopkins University, where he contributed to cutting-edge advancements in drug development.

Scott’s commitment to research and innovation continued with a postdoctoral fellowship at the Baltimore VA Medical Center, where he became the first-ever Rathmann Family Foundation ORD fellow. His work has bridged the gap between scientific discovery and patient care, ensuring that research translates into real-world solutions.

Beyond his professional success, Scott’s achievements inspire the next generation of scientists. His career serves as a powerful example of how passion, perseverance, and excellence can lead to meaningful contributions to both science and humanity. As a Clay graduate, he embodies the values of hard work and innovation, making him an outstanding nominee for this recognition.

Leadership/Dedication

Throughout his career, Scott has exemplified exceptional leadership and dedication, playing pivotal roles in both scientific research and entrepreneurial ventures. As an entrepreneur, he has been involved with four startup companies, including GTx Therapeutics, Juventas Therapeutics, and Xogenex, and served as the CEO of CavoGene LifeSciences. His leadership has spanned a range of industries, from medical devices at Boston Scientific to healthcare electronic data capture at Medidata Solutions, and diagnostics at Exact Sciences. In each of these roles, Scott has not only contributed his expertise but has inspired teams to innovate, collaborate, and achieve common goals in advancing healthcare. Scott’s dedication to advancing science is evident through his extensive contributions to research. He has published over 25 papers and abstracts, and as the lead author or contributor to more than 50 clinical trials, Scott has driven progress in critical areas like prostate, breast, endometrial, lung, and colorectal cancers, heart failure, osteoporosis, alcoholism, and cystic fibrosis. As the inventor of seven patents, his innovation has been central to addressing real-world medical challenges. His commitment to collaboration and mentorship extends beyond his own accomplishments. Today, as the Head of Strategic Research Collaborations at Guardant Health, Scott leads efforts to bridge gaps between research and clinical application. He works closely with scientists, physicians, and healthcare leaders, guiding them toward impactful, patient-centered solutions. His ability to mentor, inspire, and elevate those around him has made him a respected figure in the healthcare and research communities. Scott’s leadership is marked by his ability to inspire innovation, empower teams, and create lasting contributions that extend far beyond his own work. His passion for science and dedication to improving lives through research and collaboration makes him a true leader in his field.

Impact/Legacy

Scott Fisher’s journey from Starr Elementary School to Clay High School and beyond is a testament to his lifelong commitment to science and his dedication to giving back to the community that shaped him. His passion for science was ignited in 5th grade by his teacher, Mr. Michael Stout, whose “Mr. Wizard”-style science experiments sparked a curiosity that would guide Scott throughout his academic and professional career. At Clay High School, Scott continued to be inspired by exceptional educators such as Mr. Jim Routson (Calculus), Mr. Skip McCullough (Biology), Mr. John Engle (Chemistry), Mr. Bob Fetter (Physics), and Mr. Jan Koenker (Anatomy), who deepened his love for science and math. Scott’s connection to Oregon City Schools is profound, as he is an Alpha to Omega graduate, having spent his entire K-12 education in the district. Today, he credits much of his professional success to the foundation laid by these educators and remains committed to ensuring that the next generation of students has the same opportunities to explore their potential. In March 2025, Scott will return to Clay High School to lecture students on alternative career paths for science majors, particularly those not pursuing medical school. This visit reflects his desire to inspire and mentor current students, just as his teachers did for him. Scott’s legacy is one of giving back to the community that helped him become the successful professional he is today. Through his career in biotech and pharmaceutical industries, as well as his dedication to mentorship, Scott has shown that professional excellence can go hand in hand with community service. By sharing his experiences, he hopes to guide students in finding their own paths to success and leaving a positive impact on the world.