'The Most Incredible Career I Could Have Asked For'

Sunrise Rotarians acknowledged Alice Lipson today as representative of the Rotary's call of duty — service above self.

For 35 years, Lipson has served as the Staples High School choral director, leading the music department, the Orphenians and molding a music education for nearly 13,000 students over the course of her tenure.

As the club's guest speaker today at Bobby Q's, Lipson recalled the start of her careeer fresh out of Hartt School of Music in West Hartford, as a music teacher at Long Lots Junior High – the one level she didn't want to teach. She ignored a mentor's advice, smiled at her students, "built relationships of mutual respect... and learned that kids will do anything if you just believe in them," and came away thoroughly enjoying those years.

Lipson moved to Staples in 1988 , "starting a new adventure," when she took over Staples' Orphenians choral ensemble from its beloved founder and Director Dr. George Weigle. 

Many Rotarians told Lipson that she has made a difference – not only with Orphenians, but also for every music student at Staples, and many more. Lipson had warm words for Justin Paul and Ryan O'Neill and her successor, Justin Miller — all Staples graduates whom have pursued music in their professional lives.

When Lipson runs into former students, she said they always remember the moments they shared with her from their first solo in the choir to musical productions with Orphenians.

"Teaching has been the most incredible career I could have ever asked for myself," Lipson said. "Kids will do anything, all you have to do is believe in them and encourage them. I can't even tell you how special it has been for me to work with your kids. Thank you."

The Rotary thanked her as well and gave a standing ovation at the end of her talk.

Rotarian Roy Fuchs contributed to this report.