Rivermont Collegiate announces the retirement of 3 respected and beloved faculty/administrators at the end of this school year: Suzanne Johnson, Assistant Headmaster and Early and Lower School Head (40 years at Rivermont), Katherine Topalian, First Grade Teacher (32 years at Rivermont), and Linda Hampton, Middle & Upper School Science Faculty (29 years at Rivermont).
Suzanne Johnson began her career at Rivermont (then known as St. Katharine's-St. Mark's) in 1973, the same year the School moved from its original location in Davenport to the historic Bettendorf Mansion. Sue began teaching Middle School Science, Math, and Physical Education. She also taught 5th Grade for 19 years before moving into her current position as Assistant Headmaster and Early and Lower School Head. She has been recognized as a recipient of Rivermont's Waterman Chair of Distinguished Teaching.
Katherine Topalian has taught over 500 Rivermont first graders to read, having held the position of First Grade Teacher for 32 years! The beloved "Mrs. T" has been recognized as a recipient of Rivermont's Golden Apple Award for Exceptional Teaching and Waterman Chair of Distinguished Teaching. Always involved in the life of the School, Kathy served as Chair of Grandparents' & Special Friends' Day for over 12 years and Chair of ISACS (Independent Schools Association of the Central States) Evaluation Committees 4 separate times.
For 29 years, Linda Hampton's passion rubbed off on everyone around her as she inspired Rivermont students to take an interest in science. Though students have consistently taken top science fair honors under her guidance, Linda made a habit of treating every student as an award winner and valuing each project. She has been the recipient of Rivermont's Golden Apple Award for Exceptional Teaching and Waterman Chair of Distinguished Teaching, as well as numerous outside awards, including Outstanding Mentor at both the Hawkeye Science and Engineering Fair and the State Science and Technology Fair of Iowa.
The dedication of these retirees is a direct reflection of their belief in Rivermont and our mission. Rivermont is the Quad Cities' only private college prep school, dedicated to academic excellence and maximizing the potential of each student. We congratulate Sue, Kathy, and Linda on all they have accomplished and thank them for the difference they've made in the lives of students they taught and faculty who were privileged to work with them.
