10/9/2023 - Five Webster Groves High School graduates have been named 2023 inductees to the Wall of Fame. These inductees have made remarkable contributions to their communities and beyond, leaving an indelible mark in their respective fields. Here's a closer look at the 2023 Wall of Fame Inductees:
Dr. Stephen Barenkamp (Class of 1969): Dr. Barenkamp was a distinguished pediatrician and researcher, known for his groundbreaking work in infectious diseases. His journey began with a magna cum laude graduation from Carlton College in 1973 and continued with a medical degree from the Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, in 1977. Notably, he was elected into the Beta Illinois Chapter of Alpha Omega Alpha for his outstanding achievements. Over his illustrious career, Dr. Barenkamp's research was funded by the National Institute of Health, focusing on a vaccine for haemophilus influenza. With over 85 articles in high-impact medical journals and eleven related patents, he was celebrated as a 'triple threat' in academic pediatric medicine.
Dr. Marty K. Casey (Class of 1989): A trailblazer in the arts and community advocacy, Dr. Marty K. Casey broke barriers by becoming the first African American woman to receive a music scholarship at Missouri Baptist University. With over three decades as a performing artist, she's graced global stages. In 2020, Dr. Casey founded the UnGUN® Institute, showcasing the therapeutic power of the arts. Recognized as one of the Top 25 Most Influential Businesswomen in St. Louis, she also received the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from President Joseph R. Biden in 2021.
Steve Ewing (Class of 1988): Steve Ewing, renowned locally and nationally, is the lead singer of The Urge, a band that originated during his time at Webster Groves High School. Beyond his musical talents, Ewing is a successful entrepreneur, known for Steve’s Hot Dogs. His restaurant has gained national recognition, being featured on The Food Network, Travel Channel, and Cooking Channel. Steve's entrepreneurial spirit extended to sports arenas, with his hot dogs being served at St. Louis City Soccer Club's Centene Stadium and the Enterprise Center, home to the St. Louis Blues.
Linda Young Nance (Williams) (Class of 1973): was the first African American female to serveas president of the Webster Groves School Board 1993-2002. She was a member of the Missouri School Board Association and served in the district’s employ as a substitute teacher, intervention specialist and as the Coordinator of the Drug Free Schools program. Her service to non-profit organizations is explementary. She was the Director of Resource Development for Catholic Services for Children and Youth, The Harris House Foundation and The Annie Malone Children and Family Service Center. In that capacity she coordinated the oldest and second largest African American parade celebration in the country and opened two themed restaurants, the Annie M. Café and the 7 th Story Café to promote operations. Linda is the Founding President of the Annie Malone Historical Society educating audiences from 8 to 80 in mobile museum exhibitions like the St. Louis Lambert International Airport and classrooms K-12. She is a Co-Founder of the Call to Conscious Interactive Theatre Group, National Historian for the National Association of Colored Women’s Clubs and continues to uplift her community with service to a variety of organizations like the Mildred Thimes Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer.
John "Mark" Nations (Class of 1981): John "Mark" Nations, a prominent civic leader in St. Louis, boasts a diverse and impactful career. He served as Mayor of the City of Chesterfield for three terms and was the President of the St. Louis Municipal League. Additionally, Nations founded the St. Louis Regional Freightway and has played vital roles in various civic boards, including the East West Gateway Council of Governments, the Board of Freeholders, and the Missouri History Museum Board of Commissioners. He continues to serve the region through his legal practice in Chesterfield.
These recipients will be recognized on Friday, November 3, at WGHS and at an evening dinner.
The Webster Groves High School Wall of Fame was created in 1989 to recognize the accomplishments of its graduates. Learn more about the Wall of Fame here.
