Lake Wales – The Lake Wales History Museum has named Sharon Horton Kurschner the 2025 Pioneer of the Year, recognizing her decades of service and extensive civic involvement. A lifelong resident and key figure in the community, Mrs. Kurschner, who was married to the late Jurgen Kurschner, has one son, Bo Boyte, and is a proud grandmother to two granddaughters, Kamryn and Taylor.
Born on September 30, 1946, at Lake Wales Hospital, she is the daughter of Jean Fordham Horton and 1992 Pioneer of the Year, Lee Roy Horton. A second-generation Lake Walean whose grandparents arrived in 1920, Mrs. Kurschner has deep roots in the community that shaped her lifelong commitment to Lake Wales.
A graduate of Lake Wales High School’s class of 1964, Mrs. Kurschner’s professional journey began with a strong educational foundation, earning an Associate of Arts degree from Emory at Oxford, a Bachelor of Arts in English from Stetson University, and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Supervision from the University of South Florida. She dedicated more than three decades to Polk County Public Schools, beginning her career as an English teacher at Frostproof High School. After five years, she returned to Lake Wales to teach seventh grade English at Lake Wales Junior High, followed by ten years at Lake Wales High School teaching tenth grade English. Her leadership journey continued at Lake Wales High School as the Assistant Principal for Curriculum for 14 years. In 2001, she became the Principal of McLaughlin Middle School, where she inspired and led until her retirement in 2007.
According to a colleague from her teaching days, Mrs. Kurschner was known for her calm demeanor and exceptional leadership. “She had a remarkable ability to handle difficult situations with grace and professionalism,” the colleague stated. “I remember a time when she was able to defuse a tense confrontation just by calmly listening, which showed her incredible skill in managing challenging situations.”
Beyond her professional achievements, Mrs. Kurschner has been a cornerstone of the Lake Wales community. Her civic contributions include active involvement with the Rotary Club of Lake Wales, the Lake Wales Depot Commission, the Historic Lake Wales Society, and the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority. She has also served on both the Lake Wales Chamber Leadership II committee and the Chamber’s education committee, and has been a longstanding member and Sunday School teacher at the First Baptist Church.
“Sharon has touched the lives of so many people in Lake Wales, as a teacher, a leader, and a neighbor,” said Brandon Alvarado, President of the Lake Wales History Museum Board of Directors. “Her dedication to our schools and her love for this community makes her a shining example of what it means to be a true pioneer. We are proud to celebrate her story and honor her legacy.”
With her deep-rooted history, lifelong commitment to the city’s youth, and unwavering civic dedication, Mrs. Kurschner truly embodies the spirit of a pioneer and is a most deserving recipient of this honor. The Pioneer of the Year award will be presented to Mrs. Sharon Kurschner at the 49th Annual Pioneer Days Festival during Pioneer Hour on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 10:00 AM. This beloved community tradition celebrates the rich heritage and history of Lake Wales, and the public is warmly invited to attend and honor her as she receives this recognition. The Lake Wales History Museum is honored to recognize Mrs. Kurschner for her lasting contributions to our community.
