Jefferson High School Hall of Fame - 2003
The biographies listed here were current at the time the honoree was inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Jane Brock-Wilson
1974

Jane graduated among the top ten students of her Jefferson High School class. While at Jefferson Jane was an active member of the Student Association Council, the Honor Society, A Cappella Choir and the Jefferson Guard. She was also on the Cheerleaders Advisory Board, Block Section and Sunshine Society Board. Jane also lettered in volleyball and was selected to participate in Girls State.

Jane graduated with High Distinction from Purdue University in 1978 with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Management. While at Purdue Jane was involved in Beta Gamma Sigma (National Business Honorary), Mortar Board, Iron Key (Presidential Advisory Board), and Omicron Delta Kappa (National Leadership Honorary). In addition, she was President, Rush-Chairman and Scholarship Chairman of Kappa Kappa Gamma; Communications Director and a representative to the national convention of the Association for Women Students; a working member of the University Senate Financial Aids Committee. While at Purdue, her awards included Outstanding Management Senior Award 1978; Outstanding Senior Woman – honorable mention, 1978; and Outstanding Young Woman of America Award, 1979, 1980. Jane presently sits on the Dean’s Advisory Board of the Krannert School, Purdue University’s School of Business.

Jane worked for Raytheon Data Systems from 1978 to 1981 as a production and Material Control Supervisor, before heading to Harvard Business School receiving her Masters in Business Administration in 1983. While at Harvard, Jane was an elected representative to the Woman’s Student Association.

Upon graduating from Harvard, Jane joined and eventually became partner at Bain and Company – one of the world’s leading management consulting firms specializing in the development and implementation of corporate strategy. Jane has worked with her colleagues at Bain to improve the market value of a number of high-profile U.S. and international companies.

Since 1991, Jane has served as Managing Director of Berkshire Partners, a private equity firm managing approximately $3.5 billion of equity capital. Berkshire has consistently performed within the top quartile of all firms managing similar funds.

Her leadership and dedication are evident in her community and philanthropic work. As co-chair of Boston’s United Way 2001 Women’s Leadership Breakfast, Jane led the United Way to its largest and most successful fundraising event in their annual campaign. She was inspired by the organization’s program Today’s Girls…Tomorrow’s Leaders – an initiative that provides resources to help young girls develop the skills, self-esteem, and courage they will need to succeed. Jane has also participated in bringing more diversity to the United Way’s Private Equity Breakfast committee and has actively solicited others to join her as an Alexis de Tocqueville Society member. Jane is also on the Board of Trustees for the Windsor School.

Thomas Kent
1972


Thomas graduated from Jefferson High School in 1972, where he participated in track and football, earning All-conference designation in both sports in his junior and senior years. He also earned State Honorable Mention designation in football in 1971 and 1972. In 1971 Thomas won NCC and sectional long jump titles and was state runner-up in long jump. He was voted Jefferson High School’s MVP in football and track in 1971. In 1972, Thomas was the Indiana state long jump champion. He was awarded a full scholarship in track to the University of New Mexico.

White attending the University of New Mexico, Thomas earned admittance to two Academic Honor Fraternities, Phi Eta Sigma Freshman Honor Fraternity and Vigilantes Sophomore Honor Fraternity. He was also selected to Who’s Who in American Universities and Colleges two years in a row, 1974-75 and 1975-76. As a member of the sprint medley relay track team, he broke the world record at the Pocatello, Idaho Relays in 1974. Thomas earned a Bachelors degree in Political Science and the Student Achievement award for outstanding achievements and contributions to the University of New Mexico in 1976. In December 1978, he earned a Master of Arts degree in Public Administration from the University of New Mexico.

Thomas’s career in business began with a position as Account Manager with DunHill of Chicago where he was responsible for sourcing professional candidates to fill vacancies in corporations throughout Chicago. He then joined Kemper Financial Services as a Corporate Recruiter and focused on hiring systems and accounting professionals into the company. Thomas joined Allstate Insurance Company at their corporate headquarters in a Professional Recruiter capacity. He was promoted up to the position of Human Resources Manager.

Later, Thomas joined Carrington & Carrington, Ltd, a retained executive search firm, as their Senior Director, where he earned an award for being their top salesman. Thomas returned to the corporate arena when he joined Knightsbridge Solutions, a data management consulting firm, as their Director of Employee Relations & Recruiting. He was then recruited to be Director of Human Resources for ThinkFast Consulting, Inc., a business intelligence consulting firm. He was promoted to Vice President responsible for managing and directing activities in six regions throughout the United States.

Since college, Thomas has been active in various community organizations and social activities and has received special recognition. Some of these include the following: Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Man of the Year Award for Community Service; Board of Directors for Hispanic Alliance for Economic Growth; MERC (Minority Economic Resource Council); Career Job Fair; Keynote speaker at the Alpha Phi Alpha Save Our Youth Day; President of the Thornridge Community Block Club; and one of Ebony magazine most eligible bachelor’s in the United States.

Michael Lynn Brooks
1961


While at Jefferson High School Mike was active in extra-curricular activities. He was a member of A Cappella choir, Booster staff for two years, Sophomore and Junior Hi-Y, and the N.F.L. He also participated in the Red & Black Revue.

Mike attended Indiana State and received his B.S. in Communications in 1965. In 1963 and 1964, he was in Who’s Who Among Students in Universities and Colleges. While a student at Indiana State, Mike was involved with radio and television and journalism. In 1965 he was editor of the student newspaper and was named Outstanding Senior Journalist. He was active in the Memorial Union Board, Press Club, and Social Affairs. He also served as a residence hall resident assistant, treasurer of Alpha Phi Gamma, and Fine Arts Festival co-chairman for convocations. Sigma Delta Chi named him Man of the Year in 1965.

As a journalist, Mike worked at the Indianapolis News as a special assignment reporter from 1965 to 1967 and at the South Bend Tribune. Michael was co-owner of Clay Recreation Enterprises – merging with Clay City News in 1971. Eventually he and his partners created CRE, Inc., an advertising company in Indianapolis, and he became its president in 1972. In 1976 Mike was in Outstanding Young Men of America, and he was recognized by Who’s Who in the Midwest and Who’s Who in Finance & Industry. In 1987 as an ambassador to South America for the Partners of America Organization, Mike taught the principles of establishing a small business.

Community service was an important aspect of Mike’s life. From 1968-1972 he was director of the Vigo County Community Blood Program. He was also director of the Clay City Mental Association in 1972-1973. He also served on the board of directors of the Kathryn Hamilton Mental Health Center in Terre Haute. Before his death he established the Michael L. Brooks/CRE Charitable Trust for the benefit of education in Indiana and for the arts in Indianapolis. The trust has provided donations to Lafayette’s Long Center and Civic Theater.

Donald D. Masse’, M.D., A.C.O.G.
1952


Don attended Lincoln Grade School and graduated from Jefferson High School in 1952. At Jeff, Don was a member of the marching band for four rears, Student Council, and Radio Club. He lettered in track and football and was secretary-treasurer of his senior class.

Don attended Purdue University and received a Bachelor of Science degree in Pre-medicine in 1956. After serving three years in the US Army in the Medical Corp 1957-1960, Don entered Marquette University School of Medicine in 1960, receiving his Doctor of Medicine degree in 1964. Don went to Detroit, Michigan and served as Medical Intern at Receiving Hospital in 1964-65 and Resident in Obstetrics & Gynecology 1965-1969, serving as Chief Resident in 1969.

Don joined a renowned group of prestigious black physicians in 1969 that became known as “Vincent, Combs, Masse’, and Shade, MD, PC”. Don because a fellow in The American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology in 1970 and certified as a Diplomat, American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology in 1971. Don was appointed to the faculty at Wayne State University School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology as Adjunct Instructor on completion of his residency and subsequently was appointed Clinical Assistant Professor working with students, interns, and residents. Don’s hospital staff appointments included seven hospitals, and he served as Chairman, Department of OB/GYN at three, Kirwood General Hospital, Southwest Detroit Hospital, and St. Joseph’s Mercy Hospital. Don actively participated in several medical societies: Wayne County Medical Society (member medical service board), Michigan State Medical Society, Detroit Medical Society (officer and board member), Wolverine State Medical Society and National Medical Association. Don took time to speak to junior high students on Career Day and to classes at Oakland Community College and Detroit College of Business. Don served on the Board of Directors of Catholic Social Services of Wayne County. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Phi Chi Medical Fraternity, NAACP, DMC Men’s Guild, and several local organizations.

Although he is retired from practice, Don spends 12-16 hours per week instructing residents in training.

Ralph E. Mayerstein
1958


While Ralph “Buffy” was at Jefferson he was involved in the Spanish Club, president for two year; freshman class treasurer; Performance Club; Hi-Y and Hi-Y Council; debate team; Key Club, vice president two years; J-Club three years; golf 4 years; Junior Achievement president two years, and Boys State. Buffy was one of Jeff’s outstanding high school golfers. His golf career was highlighted by qualifying for the USGA Junior Amateur in 1955, 1957 and 1958.

He started his college career at Northwestern University by qualifying for the 1958 U.S. Amateur. He was fortunate enough to represent Northwestern University as an individual when Purdue hosted the NCAA men’s golf championships. During his tenure at Northwestern, he was a member of the varsity golf team and very active in campus affairs. The Northwestern yearbook in 1962 was in part dedicated to Buffy for his contributions to the school as an undergraduate.

Following graduation from college he spent two years on active duty with the U.S. Navy as an officer on a destroyer that operated in the Mediterranean. After his Naval tour he entered the insurance business with the local agency Mayerstein-Burnell Company and has been a partner since the mid 1960s. As a local insurance agent in Lafayette for over 35 years, Mayerstein has always been involved in his profession as well as in community affairs. He obtained the CPCU professional designation in 1971 and was elected President of the Independent Insurance Agents of Indiana in 1981. In 1975, the Independent Insurance Agent of America selected Mayerstein to be the tournament chairman of their national junior golf tournament. Under Buffy’s leadership and direction, the event is now the largest junior golf tournament in the world involving over 6500 qualifiers each year. He continues to serve as its tournament chairman. In addition, he is a past president of the local chapter of the American Red Cross and has since been involved as an officer of the Chamber of Commerce as well as a director of the Lafayette Bank and Trust Company. He has served four terms as a director of the Greater Lafayette Community Foundation as well as being on the advisory board of Lafayette Neighborhood Housing Association.

Mayerstein’s long-time interest in golf led to his involvement in golf administration. In 1975, Mayerstein began his career with the Indiana Golf Association as a district director, and he served as its president in 1998 & 1999. Also, under the leadership of Mayerstein and his wife, the Indiana Junior Golf Association (now a part of the IGA) became one of the premier junior programs in the U.S. In 1998, both Mayerstein, a past recipient of the Clifford Wagoner Award from the IGA, and his wife were inducted into the Indiana Golf Hall of Fame. In addition, he is active in the United States Golf Association and Western Golf Association. Mayerstein is one of the most well-respected rules official with the USGA and has been a member of the USGA Junior Amateur committee for over 25 years. In 2001, the USGA recognized Buffy by awarding him the prestigious Grainger Award for his volunteer efforts – the first player participant in the committee structure to win the award. His involvement with the Western Golf Association started in 1981 when Mayerstein was selected to be the local house chairman for the Purdue chapter of the Evans Scholars. In 1990, the WGA selected Buffy as it's chairman of the Western Open Golf Tournament – a position he held until 1997. In 2002, Mayerstein was elected as President of the Western Golf Association and was reelected for a second term in 2003. He is the first president in the association’s 103 year existence to be from the state of Indiana.

John B. Scheumann
1967


While at Jefferson High School, John participated in football, wrestling, golf, Key Club and served as “J” Club president. During his senior year, John was co-captain of Jeff’s undefeated football team, selected first team All-State and defensive tackle, and played in the first Indiana high school All-Star Football game.

After graduation, John accepted a football scholarship from Ball State University where he played defensive tackle. Graduating with a degree in accounting, he joined National Homes Corporation, John’s first affiliation with the housing industry, which would provide his career opportunity.

As co-founder, Chairman, and CEO of Crossmann Communities, Inc. John guided his company’s remarkable growth from small local beginnings to a position of national prominence in the home building field. In 2001, Crossmann became America’s 12th largest home builder. Crossmann was acquired by Beazer Homes in 2002. Crossmann was recognized by Forbes magazine for three consecutive years as one of the “Best 200 Small Companies in America.”

While CEO of Crossmann Communities, John saw to it that corporate philanthropy was a major part of the company’s focus. Crossmann and its affiliated tradesmen and suppliers sponsored 15 Habitat homes, and Crossman partnered with Habitat for Humanity in the development of Bristol Park Subdivision in Lafayette. The company also funded scholarship programs at many central Indiana school corporations as well as participated in the 21st Century Scholars program.

In addition to directing these corporate philanthropic efforts, John has made many personal contributions within his local and collegiate communities. Programs to assist the homeless and those in need of educational assistance and affordable housing have benefited from John’s generosity. John has also established the Scheumann Family Foundation, which will continue to provide charitable contributions for generations to come.

John is actively involved in this community through his service as director of the Golden Bronchos, Lafayette Parks Foundation, Family Services Asset Management, Trinity Church, and Habitat for Humanity in Indiana. John is a recipient of the Ball State University Distinguished Alumni Award and the Ball State College of Business Award of Distinction.

Catherine Weaver Beauchamp
1922


Catherine graduated from Jefferson High School in 1922. While at Jefferson she participated in the senior play, girls basketball, Booster and Glee Club. She was in a journalism class that originated the Booster (school’s first newspaper).

Catherine graduated from Purdue University in 1926 and was named outstanding senior woman. Then she taught home economics for years in Warsaw, Indiana. During World War II Catherine married and moved to Washington, D.C., where both she and her husband had government careers. Catherine wrote radio scripts for the Dept. of Agriculture and became editor of the “Extension Service Review” that went to the Cooperative Extension offices throughout the United States. Catherine also edited the ” Industrial Hygiene Newsletter” for the U.S. Department of Health.

In 1957 Catherine moved with her husband to Kissimmee, Florida where he founded Orange Gardens, a retirement community of more than 200 homes. Catherine became a real estate broker. In 1960 with other members of the community, Catherine founded the Footlight Theater Guild, where she performed as an actress. With the support of the community Catherine organized and was a primary fund-raiser for the Osceola County Art and Culture Center that featured art, history, drama and music. Its theater is named for Catherine W. Beauchamp. Catherine also wrote and published a local history, Look What’s Happened in Osceola County and a book of family memoirs, Family Ties and Tales.

In 1974 Catherine was named First Lady of Osceola County. At the age of 86, after her husband’s death, Catherine organized a support group in Kissimmee for the deaf and hearing impaired. Throughout her life Catherine traveled widely including a round-the-world tour in 1968 and an archaeological dig in Israel in 1986. Catherine enjoyed entertaining and was an outstanding hostess.
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