Generous and caring is just the way Sime is

Pat Sime (center) was surprised, but pleased, to receive a Child Advocacy Award, March 25, for all he does toward making the Cornell School District a good place, with opportunities and experiences, for students and staff. Sime was nominated for the honor by, left to right, Erica Ruf, Rachel Sproul, Chris Pickerign and Ashley Rosentrater. Submitted Photo

By Ginna Young

Most everyone in Cornell, knows Pat Sime and what he does for the community, in particular, to the Cornell School District. Whether it’s through scholarships to students pursuing higher education, financial contributions to various programs and activities, or ensuring students have a learning experience, Sime is at the heart of it.

His generosity also extends to providing treats two or three times a year, in the form of doughnuts for the students, as well as hot dogs at the annual spring picnic. Sime also makes it possible that a sense of patriotism is instilled in students, by providing busing to the Highground Veterans Memorial in Neillsville, for a field trip.

Beyond that, Sime makes each and every student feel special, joking with them and giving them attention, making the start of their school day a fun one.

That’s why staff at the Cornell Elementary School thought it was high time he was recognized for what he does. Nominated by Chris Pickerign, Ashley Rosentrater, Erica Ruf and Rachel Sproul, Sime was the recipient of the Bert Grover Child Advocacy Award, through the WASDA Child Advocacy Committee.

The award was presented to Sime, March 25, in a surprise ceremony, when he brought in the aforementioned doughnuts. Sime was “shaken up” when he found out what was happening, but is grateful to the staff and administration for thinking of him.

“ I was very pleased and proud to get it,” he said. Sime doesn’t work alone, as he gives credit to his wife, Ann, who quietly supports him in all he does, behind the scenes.

“Everybody says behind a successful man, is a good woman and that’s true, in my case,” said Sime.

As for the recent award, Sime doesn’t need his name in lights or to be shouted from the rooftops, he just wants to do what he can to give back.

“I don’t do things for recognition, I do it because I love kids and I love helping people,” he said. “It’s just the way we are.”