Neighbor News
Athletic Director Jerry Butler retires after four decades of service
Jerry Butler began his career at Oak Knoll as athletic director, teacher and coach in 1973, and led the program's growth and expansion
SUMMIT, NJ, December 10, 2015 – After more than four decades of leadership that led to sustained growth and expansion, Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child Athletic Director Jerry Butler has announced he will retire in June.
“No words of gratitude and praise are sufficient to convey our school community’s blessing by the work and presence of Jerry Butler throughout his tenure,” said Head of School Timothy J. Saburn. “He has been committed and dedicated to Oak Knoll School, and he has become a real friend during my own time here.”
Mr. Butler began his career at Oak Knoll as athletic director, teacher and coach in 1973. The program was modest at the time, consisting of just three teams playing on one small field that Mr. Butler himself lined before each and every game.
Find out what's happening in Summitfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The athletic program, largely due to Mr. Butler’s guidance and leadership, has since expanded to 14 varsity sports and 36 levels of play between grades 5 and 12.
In addition, Oak Knoll student athletes, many of whom are recruited for NCAA Division I play, now use the beautiful fields in the school’s athletic complex in Chatham, as well as the artificial turf field on the school’s campus in Summit.
Find out what's happening in Summitfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
“One person has overseen that transition over the years for one simple reason: to benefit student athletes and Oak Knoll School,” Mr. Saburn said. “There has never been an ounce of ego in it for Jerry; it has always been about the children. While I understand Jerry’s decision to retire, I am very saddened to see him go. His sense of fairness, justice and his personal integrity are exemplary. I will miss him and his common sense counsel and leadership.”
The Oak Knoll community will commemorate Mr. Butler’s 43 years of service later this spring.
Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child is an independent, Catholic school, coeducational in elementary school from kindergarten through grade six; and all-girls in middle and high school from grades seven through 12. There is no religious affiliation associated with our summer programs. For more information about Oak Knoll, please visitwww.oakknoll.org or call 908-522-8109.
