BY ANALISE SAINVIL
Copy Editor
On Monday, October 5, Old Bridge High School honored alumni LeTísha Shaw and Eric R. Christian during its Wall of Fame ceremony, recognizing their accomplishments and contributions beyond the classroom.
The Old Bridge High School Wall of Fame, started in 2008, recognizes graduates who demonstrate career success, leadership and community involvement. “It is a recognition of extraordinary achievement, exemplary character, leadership, and meaningful contributions to one’s profession, community, or society,” said Principal Sally Fazio.
Shaw graduated as a member of Old Bridge High School’s first graduating class and participated in its first drill team. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Stevens Institute of Technology in 1999, a master’s degree from Stanford University in 2001 and an MBA from the University of Michigan in 2009. “Throughout her academic and professional careers, LeTisha Shaw has taken risks and continually embraced change,” said Mrs. Karen Foley, Principal of Southwood Elementary School, who nominated Shaw.
Shaw held leadership positions at Merck, Disney, Evernote and UserTesting and became a named inventor on a U.S. patent. “She leads with integrity, compassion, and authenticity, valuing the people around her,” said Foley.
Christian earned a bachelor’s degree in physics and astronomy from the University of Pennsylvania in 1982 before earning his master’s degree and doctorate in physics from the California Institute of Technology. He began working at NASA after completing his doctorate in 1989. “His numerous degrees and years of experience working at NASA made him a great candidate for the Old Bridge Wall of Fame,” said Leo Hwang, who nominated Christian.
Christian contributed to several NASA missions, including the Parker Solar Probe and the Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe. He also spent seven years working at NASA headquarters as a program scientist. “Many of us who are interested in science dream of working for NASA and Dr. Christian achieved that dream,” said Hwang.
Caleigh Espinosa, a National Honor Society representative, noticed similarities between the honorees’ high school experiences and those of current students. Shaw participated in athletics and clubs, while Christian pursued independent study with his physics teacher during lunch. “One thing that stood out to me the most is when they talked about who they were as high schoolers,” said Espinosa.
The ceremony influenced how Espinosa viewed her own future and the opportunities available to students. “It made me see that hard work and perseverance can open so many doors,” said Espinosa. “It also made me realize that it doesn’t matter where I come from; I can make my mark anywhere if I put my mind to it.”
Selorm Amekudzi, National Honor Society President, reflected on the honorees’ accomplishments and their impact on the school community. “Watching these individuals receive recognition made me feel really proud, especially seeing how their hard work and dedication were being celebrated,” said Amekudzi.
The Wall of Fame ceremony celebrated the achievements of two graduates and offered current students examples of how their interests and efforts can lead to future opportunities. “It made me realize that success is about more than just achievements; it’s about being someone who makes a positive impact and gives others something to be proud of,” said Amekudzi.
Posted on October 20, 2026
Photos by Analise Sainvil
