By Mary Owen
Phil Uffelman calls himself “normal,” but those who know him think he is far more than that.
“He is the type of person who makes an everyday commitment to make the school a better place,” his letter of nomination cited.
Uffelman was named Regis High School’s Future First Citizen after a lengthy selection process by staff.
“One reason Phil was nominated is that he’s involved in activites at school and in the community,” said Principal Dan Ierardi.
“Phil is a hometown kid who will most likely be an active participant in his community for many years to come.”
Nominators described him as “a silent leader,” one who leads by example.
“He gives completely of himself and enjoys everything he participates in,”staff members relayed in the nomination letter.
“He has an absolute willingness to help,” Ierardi added. “If a project needs to be done or someone needs a hand, he’s right there.”
Uffelman’s nature may have come in part from growing up with five sisters and four brothers, most of whom still live in the area.
He lives with his parents, Joe and Marcia Uffelman.
“I like getting to know people,” he said of what motivates him to help others. “And it makes me feel like a better person.”
His list of accolades include: a varsity athlete in football and baseball, an Encounter retreat leader, a Regis Open House ambassador and a Eucharistic minister at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.
Uffelman has worked at the annual Regis and Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation auctions and the school’s Fat Tuesday dinner.
He has helped at football camps for the Catholic Youth Organization.
He is also active in Boy Scouts, helping at area events and volunteering for car washes and other activities.
In his free time, Uffelman likes to play sports and hang out with his friends, he said. He hasn’t decided what to do for his future, but joining the military might be an option he embraces, he said.
“I don’t have a clear idea of what kind of career I want to pursue,” Uffelman said.
He does know that he’d like to help out with the Regis High football team during summer months and perhaps during their playing season, he said.
Of his earning Future First Citizen, Uffelman was surprised.
“When I found out, I thought that someone was playing a trick on me because it sounds like something that would be to a person in the National Honor Society,” he said.
“It’s not something I truly saw coming to me.”
Modestly, he added, “I’m glad I won.”
