Graduates of East Alton Wood River High School’s Class of 2026 will receive more than a diploma during this year’s commencement ceremony. Each graduate will also be presented with a limited-edition Oiler Challenge Coin designed specifically to commemorate their accomplishment and connection to EAWR.
The commemorative coins were designed and created by EAWR Board of Education Member Mark St. Peters, with funding generously donated by Mike Fahnestock, Will Miller, Slayden Glass, and John Barnerd.
Challenge coins have a long and respected history dating back more than a century. Traditionally associated with the military, challenge coins were used to recognize service, commitment, achievement, and membership within a unit or organization. Over time, the tradition expanded beyond the military into law enforcement, fire service, schools, businesses, universities, and leadership organizations across the country.
Today, challenge coins are often presented to individuals to symbolize accomplishment, pride, perseverance, teamwork, and belonging. Many recipients keep them for life as reminders of important milestones and experiences.
The EAWR Oiler Challenge Coin was created to serve as a lasting symbol of the graduates’ journey through high school and their connection to the Oiler community. One side of the coin features the iconic Oiler oil derrick logo surrounded by East Alton–Wood River Oilers branding. The reverse side includes the message “Remember To Do Great Things,” intended to serve as a lifelong reminder to graduates as they move into the next chapter of their lives.
District officials believe the addition of the challenge coin helps make commencement even more meaningful by providing graduates with something tangible that represents not only academic completion, but also the memories, relationships, challenges, growth, and pride associated with their time at EAWR.
Unlike a diploma that may eventually be framed or stored away, challenge coins are often carried, displayed, or passed down as keepsakes. The coins are designed to become lifelong reminders of where graduates came from and the expectations and opportunities that lie ahead.
The Class of 2026 will be the first graduating class to receive the commemorative Oiler Challenge Coin as part of a commencement ceremony.