The Shaler Area School District is delighted to announce that this year’s Distinguished Alumnus is Ingrid Kalchthaler, class of 1989. Dr. Bryan O’Black, Superintendent of Schools, expressed, “Miss Ing’s lifelong dedication to literacy, learning, and community engagement embodies the very spirit of a Shaler Area Titan. Through her leadership at the Shaler North Hills Library, she has inspired generations of students to explore, imagine, and discover. We are proud to honor her as a Distinguished Alumnus and celebrate the impact she continues to make on our community every day.”
Embodying a life of service, Kalchthaler, or “Miss Ing” as she is affectionately known, works as the Assistant Director and Head of Youth Services for the Shaler North Hills Library; Pastor of Mt. Nebo Presbyterian Church; and Chaplain at Fair Oaks Senior Living of Pittsburgh.
Denice Pazuchanics, Project Manager for WQED Multimedia, shares, “With over 20 years of service as a Children’s Librarian and a lifelong connection to the library dating back to her teenage years, Ingrid has made an indelible impact on her community. Ingrid creates a safe and inclusive environment where families of all kinds feel supported and valued. The library thrives under her leadership, bustling with activities that span from infants to adults. Her programs are filled with fun, learning, and community bonding—whether through dance, crafting, or reading. One of her unique offerings is the morning dance parties, held before the library opens, promoting both mental and physical wellness through companionship and movement. During the pandemic, Ingrid became a lifeline for families, keeping them connected through educational and entertaining livestreams featuring puppets, stories, music, and dance.”
In Shaler Area schools, Kalchthaler introduced and curates a deeply popular annual Battle of the Books and makes frequent visits for greatly anticipated story time. Her care extends beyond students to staff and she can often be found supporting educators well-being through dance parties and acts of appreciation.
The contributions of Kalchthaler have been recognized with numerous accolades for her work, including Dementia Friends of Pennsylvania Champion (2022); Next Pittsburgh, one of 16 Pittsburghers You Should Know (2018); Young Adult Library Association, National Symposium Presenter (2016); and Kidsburgh’s Top Five Early Childhood Educators in Pittsburgh (2015).
Kalchthaler will be honored as part of the National Honor Society Induction Ceremony, 7:00 p.m. on November 20th at the Shaler Area High School Auditorium.
