2005 Inductees

Whether they are a past Sidney High School graduate,
a former staff member, or someone who has had a significant impact on our community, the achievements of these inductees are a source of pride for Sidney City schools and our community.

William Covill was a native of England who resided in Sidney only briefly but whose presence has been felt since his passing in 1843. Covill saw the emerging need for a school system and donated a 148 acre farm in his will to yield revenue to support local schools. By the 1950's the farm was on the southwest edge of town and gradually became the site of all the school buildings and facilities now bounded by Fair, Fourth, and Campbell. William Covill is also commemorated outside Sidney Memorial Stadium.

Rob Pottorf (SHS 1977) Even in high school talent shows, it was obvious that his gift of music could take him well beyond his hometown. Though he was an outstanding performer, Rob also studied music to facilitate his music communications skills with other artists. His career then headed off-stage to composition and production. He later founded his own production company and has scored the music for many notable films including Bobby Jones Stroke of Genius.

Sheila Slyh Robinson (SHS 1983) She graduated magna cum laude from Ohio University's school of broadcast journalism in just three years before embarking on a successful radio and tv career. Known professionally as Sheila Gray, she received wide acclaim for her work in both West Virginia and Ohio. In mid-2003 the Cincinnati Enquirer summed up her presence on FOX-19's weekday morning news with the headline "Gray Brightens Mornings."

Robert L. Zielsdorf (SHS 1961) as a member of the first class of graduates to attend the new high school on Campbell Road. In 1977 he came home to an executive position with Peerless Machinery Corporation and began to establish a positive imprint on his business, the baking industry, and his community. He introduced President Ronald Reagan to a huge crowd during his 1984 re-election stop in Sidney.

Fletcher E. Zimpfer II, MD (SHS 1955) As a Navy medic, he flew 77 rescue missions during the Vietnam conflict and was decorated six times. He returned to the states to specialize in skin cancer and moved to Arizona where the disease was common. He became a pioneer in specialized skin cancer treatment techniques and has also been recognized as a civic leader in the Phoenix area.