Diplomat Elementary Principal Chuck Vilardi has been awarded the 2024 University of South Florida College of Education Dean’s Lifetime Alumni Award.offered
A Lee County School District-educated principal has been named the recipient of the 2024 University of South Florida College of Education Dean's Lifetime Achievement Alumni Award.
This award recognizes individuals graduating from the USF College of Education who have demonstrated long-term contributions, accomplishments, and service in education or related professions.
“This honor came as a huge surprise. I am very honored and humbled. For me, it honors all the teachers, staff, and colleagues I have worked with over the years who have taught me so much. It represents.” Diplomat Elementary School Principal Chuck Vilardi said: “I am grateful to USF for giving me this award. This is the highest and most prestigious honor a university can bestow on a graduate. I am grateful for the education I received at USF.”
At a reception held Wednesday night at the University of South Florida's College of Education, students had the opportunity to meet many faculty and former faculty members, as well as other award recipients.
“It’s inspiring to be around other educators who share the same passion and work ethic.” Bilardi said.
He is a native of the school district, attending Pelican Elementary School, Gulf Middle School, Cape High School, and graduating from Mariner High School in 1989.
As a child, he wanted to be a movie star, but that changed after the city of Cape Coral gave him his first job working with elementary school children at age 16.
“When I was 18, I realized overnight that acting can have an impact on people. Teaching can have a lifelong impact on people. It's a noble profession. I think it's the best job in the world. No two days are the same.” Bilardi said.
Now in his 31st year as a district employee, he has been principal of Diplomat Elementary School for four years. He began his career as a teacher at Gulf Elementary School and later became assistant principal at North Fort Myers Academy of the Arts. Over the years, he also served as principal at Pine Island Elementary School, Skyline Elementary School, and Sanibel School.
“The children, teachers and staff at all these schools have been an inspiration to me.” Bilardi said. “I see my career as a gift. It's something I don't take for granted.”
In 1993, Vilardi received his bachelor's degree from USF. He also earned his master's degree in educational leadership from USF in 1997.
He has received many awards over the years, including Golden Apple Outstanding Teacher and District Teacher of the Year. Mr. Vilardi was also named Principal of the Year by the Lee County Counselor Association and the Lee County Teachers Association.
During his time as principal of Skyline Elementary School, the school was named a National Model School, and during his tenure at Sanibel School, he was named a Florida School of Excellence.
Since becoming principal of Diplomat Elementary School, the school has been recognized as one of the best elementary schools by U.S. News and World Report.
“All of these accolades are due to the amazing teachers and staff I have had the pleasure of working with.” Bilardi said. “They keep me motivated to do better and continue to find ways to help my students. I am grateful that USF has given me the guidance and tools to succeed. I'm proud to have given it to you.”
The children and wonderful people he works with remain his favorite part of his job.
“Helping students learn or get through even the toughest times fills my heart. My work makes their world a better place and helps them succeed and achieve their best. It's about helping them get to that point.” Bilardi said. “My goal is to let them know they can be anything they want to be. The best gift I can give them is a high five to give them confidence. I believe all children can learn. believe.”
