Ron Turner Receives National Recognition

A presence on campus since 1988, Ron Turner has made his mark on the community for generations. Now, his impact is being recognized across the nation. Turner is the 2022 recipient of the Booker Kilgore Award for being the country’s top high school athletic equipment manager.

 

“To be recognized by your peers is such an incredible honor,” Turner said. “I don’t take it lightly.”

 

The Booker Kilgore Award is among the highest honors bestowed by the Athletic Equipment Managers Association (AEMA). Turner was presented with the award at the AEMA national conference in Las Vegas earlier this year.

 

“I have known Ron for almost 20 years as a colleague and friend,” said Stephen Spada of Charlotte Country Day School, who presented the award to Turner. “He was most deserving.”

 

Turner started his career here managing the print shop and quickly got involved with school athletics. He coached JV basketball, JV and varsity football, Middle School football and tennis. Turner was offered the role of athletic equipment manager in 2000.

 

“When I joined the Athletic Department, Doc Browning was my mentor and helped me navigate through my first year as equipment manager,” Turner said. “I want to thank former Athletic Director Mark Sullivan for allowing me to grow as an equipment manager, attending workshops and conferences, and continually improving in my field. Thank you to Sean Lissemore for your continued support every day.”

 

When reflecting on his time at 10600 Preston Rd., Turner said, “What makes St. Mark’s unique is the tight-knit community among faculty and staff and the interest we take in each boy, to instill character and respect for their fellow human beings.”