The Biddeford Education Foundation (BEF) will honor longtime mathematics teacher The Late Robert “Bob” Davies and MaineHealth Sports Performance & Physical Therapy at its Ninth Annual Pillars of Pride Dinner and Silent Auction. The event, which recognizes longtime contributors to Biddeford schools, will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at The Lincoln Hotel in Biddeford.
The annual event recognizes individuals and organizations whose service has strengthened Biddeford schools and made a lasting difference for students. Davies’ family will be in attendance to accept the honor on his behalf, while representatives from MaineHealth Sports Performance & Physical Therapy will accept the organization’s award.
Davies devoted nearly 25 years to the Biddeford School Department. He began teaching mathematics at Biddeford Junior High School in 1966 and transferred to Biddeford High School in 1975, where he also served as a class advisor. Throughout his career, he was known for his patience, thoughtful instruction, and genuine commitment to helping students of all ability levels succeed. Davies retired in 1990 and passed away on September 13, 2024. A commemorative plaque honoring his service will be permanently displayed at Biddeford High School.
MaineHealth Sports Performance & Physical Therapy is being recognized for its longstanding support of Biddeford student-athletes. Through its partnership with the School Department, MaineHealth provides athletic training services, rehabilitation, injury recovery care, and connections to specialists when additional treatment is needed. Its team also supports students through the emotional challenges of an injury, helping them rebuild confidence and return to the activities they love safely.
“Bob Davies and MaineHealth Sports Performance & Physical Therapy represent two different forms of service, but both have placed students at the center of their work,” said Jeremy Ray, Superintendent of Schools. “Bob helped students believe they could succeed, even when learning was difficult, while MaineHealth helps our athletes recover, regain confidence, and safely return to competition. We are proud to recognize the lasting impact they have made on Biddeford students.”
In addition to celebrating this year’s honorees, the Pillars of Pride Dinner and Silent Auction serves as the Foundation’s primary annual fundraiser. Proceeds directly support Biddeford students and families with needs that fall outside the regular school budget, including food, clothing, and housing assistance. The Foundation also awards teacher mini-grants that create innovative, hands-on learning opportunities for students throughout the district, which would not be possible without community generosity and support of the Foundation’s mission.
Tickets are now on sale for $50.00 per person, which includes entry to the event, heavy hors d'oeuvres and one drink ticket. Limited space is available, and tickets can be purchased at Give Butter https://givebutter.com/c/Pillars2026.
For more information on the Pillars of Pride event and the Foundation, visit the Biddeford School Department’s website or contact Foundation President Shelley Kane at 207-391-6885 or skane@biddefordschools.me.