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Leaving a Legacy

Day School educators Neil Saunders, Kathy Richardson, Marilyn Lankford and Rachel Sampson are all retiring at the conclusion of this school year.  With a combined 106.6 years of service, these individuals have worked tirelessly to create the phenomenal learning experience that EDS students now experience.  

Rachel Sampson (Primary School Library/Assistant) has decided to retire in June to spend more time with grandchildren and travel freely. Rachel has been a tremendous asset and her passion for children, her collegiality, and her flexibility are unparalleled. Rachel said, “EDS is a part of me” and we look forward to having her on campus as a substitute often.

For 24 years, Marilyn Lankford has been a vibrant part of the Day School community as Director of Music & Creative Dramatics. Her love of music is evident in the enthusiastic and energetic teaching she has brought to the experience of each child, from Jr. Pre-Kindergarten through Upper School. She has shared her passion for the arts with countless students, and has challenged and worked tirelessly with them on their path to becoming confident and proficient musicians. While Marilyn will be retiring, we are hopeful she can continue working with the Upper School Choir next year.

Kathy Richardson is retiring after 41 years at Evansville Day School.  She has taught Spanish, French, and Social Studies, been Department Chair, 8th grade advisor, Student Council advisor, and for 10 years was Head of Middle School.  Kathy’s passion, not only for language, culture, and history, but also for students can be seen on a daily basis. Even in her final year Kathy is showing leadership in her division and department and leaves both in terrific shape. Her retirement is spurred by her desire to spend more time with her grandchildren while, as she puts it, “it is still cool to hang out with your grandparents.”

This will also be the final year of Neil Saunders’ storied career at Day School. For over 32 years, Neil has been a teacher, coach, college counselor, Upper School Head, Interim Head of School, project manager, parent, and grandparent.  Neil and his wife, Brenda, a long-time educator with EVSC, are retiring together.  Neil is looking forward to working with the juniors this spring before transitioning families to a new college counselor. The Saunders family will stay heavily involved in Day School as Neil’s five grandchildren attend the Primary School and Neil has agreed to help with some ongoing projects.

Building a Legacy

As a distinct and enduring “thank you” to these dedicated professionals, Evansville Day School is introducing the 2015 Legacy Plaza.  The Plaza will be located directly in front of the main entrance to the school, in the area recently leveled and mulched, and will include recognition of the contributions these four individuals have made to the EDS community. Click here for some photos of the retirees throughout the years at EDS.

The Legacy Plaza, in front of the new Traylor Atrium, will be a reality with the assistance of the Day School community.  If you would like to make a donation in honor of Neil, Kathy, Marilyn, or Rachel, please click


Funds will be used to landscape and beautify this entryway as we acknowledge the impact these remarkable educators have had in the lives of Evansville Day School students and families.