Dane L. Woytek, graduate and president of the SHS Class of '68, furthered his education by earning an A.S. Degree at the Wentworth Military Academy in 1970, a B.A. in sociology at the University of Rhode Island in 1972 and a M.S. in Operations Management from the University of Arkansas in 1983. His 22-year career in the United States Army began in 1972 when he was commissioned out of college as a Second Lieutenant. He went on to serve as an Infantry Officer in several overseas stints in Germany, Panama and then state-side. In his last post before retirement Dane was the Director of Plans, Training and Operations at Fort Dix, NJ.
During this time Dane received numerous military awards and commendations. The next phase of Dane's career was in education. He established the Junior ROTC Program at Riverside High School in New Jersey in 1994. Under Dane's leadership the program went from 30 to over 200 cadets and was accorded the highest recognition of Honor Unit with Distinction. In a farewell article written for Dane it was said that, "Few teachers can do what Lt. Colonel Dane Woytek has done for not only the Riverside JROTC program but also the high school and surrounding communities." The Deputy Mayor of Riverside wrote that the local VFW would invite Dane and the cadets to the State Convention to march with the veterans. They were recognized for their outstanding job, "but that is a result of one thing ... Dane Woytek."
After moving to the Delsea Regional School District in 2008 Dane again improved the JROTC Program, maintaining the Honor Unit with Distinction and expanding enrollment. A former student wrote in a letter about Col. Woytek, "I am so thankful for the influence of this officer, teacher, and gentleman." Dane's affinity for community service has shown itself repeatedly throughout the years both during his tenure in education and after his retirement when he returned to Sidney.
Dane was appointed chairman of the committee formed to design a monument to honor Sidney's veteran alumni at the Sidney Veterans Memorial Park. A fellow member stated, "I witnessed close up Dane's leadership skills and administrative experience." He also undertook the fundraising campaign for the park in which he spent countless hours soliciting donations. The vast amount of funds he raised surpassed all goals. His involvement in both the planning and execution of the grand opening ceremony was further evidence of his overall devotion and service to young people, his country, Sidney alumni, veterans and the community at large.