Supporters pay tribute to Thianda

At a festive event at Historic Penn Farm this month, friends and special guests heaped honors and praise for Thianda’s grit, grace and guidance as she built HFHK into one of Delaware’s recognized children’s health and education non-profits. Thanks to our sponsors and attendees, we raised more than $10,000 to continue her legacy in our work with kids.

New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer declared Oct. 9 “Dr. Thianda Manzara Day” in recognition of her impact on kids health in Delaware.

Toby Hagerott of Historic Penn Farm announced the Penn Farm garden would be renamed the “Thianda Manzara Teaching Garden" to recognize her work with kids in the Colonial School District and statewide.

"I was truly humbled and overwhelmed to receive these great honors." stated Dr. Manzara. "Thank you to Matt Meyer, who works tirelessly to enhance the quality of life in our county and to Toby and Colonial School District’s Farm to School Program for commemorating our work together creating the teaching garden."

Springer Middle School biology teacher Maureen Romeo and then Principal Michael Gliniak, who set up the first HFHK garden school, recounted those early beginnings.

More tributes poured in from teachers, students and Board members in a heartwarming video.

Dr. Manzara went on to say, "Listening to the speakers and watching the video tribute brought home how very lucky I have been to work with wonderful principals, teachers, nutrition services supervisors, farmers, and volunteers to build HFHK. None of this would have been possible without them, nor without a dedicated staff and board. As I retire, I know I am leaving HFHK in the best of hands with our new Executive Director Lydia Sarson, our Program Manager Jennifer Cipolla, and our devoted Board of Directors. The future is bright for HFHK!"