Scholl-Nabulsi, Hoback honored by FMHS

FORT MADISON - Fort Madison school officials honored Sharon Scholl-Nabulsi and Thomas Hoback Tuesday evening as its newest members of the Fort Madison High School Hall of Honor.
Hoback is a member of the class of 1965 and excelled in fields of transportation and railroads.
After graduating from FMHS, Hoback pursued higher education at Golden Gate University, where he earned a degree in transportation and economics. His career trajectory soared as he held senior marketing positions with major rail carriers in San Francisco and Chicago. Thomas's expertise led him to serve as an economic analyst and director of marketing for the Western Pacific Railroad and Illinois Central Gulf.
In 1986,  Hoback made a significant mark on the industry by founding Indiana Rail Road, initially focusing on regional routes before expanding to acquire the Canadian Pacific Railroad. Today, the Indiana Rail Road Network Development (IRND) is a leader in transportation, moving commerce between Asia and various points across North
America through its impressive 505-mile rail system.
Hoback's remarkable contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades and honors. He received an honorary doctorate from the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and was named a Chieftain of the Council of the Sagamores of the Wabash, the highest civilian award in Indiana, by Governor Mike Pence.
His dedication to the community and historical preservation is evident through his leadership roles on the Indiana Historical Society board of trustees and as chairman in 2011, as well as his co-founding of the Midwest Railroad Research Center in 1997.
A philanthropist at heart, the Fort Madison native's generosity is showcased through his involvement with the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, where his leadership and a sizable donation resulted in the establishment of a permanent curator to celebrate the Native American influence on the settlement of North America.
His passion for railroad history is further demonstrated by his active participation on the John W. Barriger III National Railroad Library's editorial advisory board.
Hoback was also instrumental in creating the "Encyclopedia of North American Railroads" project with Indiana University Press. He continues to co-edit the "Railroads Past and Present" series of books at the press, soliciting and editing manuscripts each year.
Recognized as a Railroad Industry Leader by the National Railroad Hall of Fame,, Hoback's legacy in the transportation industry is unparalleled. Fort Madison High School also nominated Sharon Scholl-Nabulsi into the prestigious Alumni Hall of Honor.
A graduate of FMHS in the class of 1961, Scholl-Nabulsi has exemplified dedication and excellence in her professional endeavors and community service.
She boasts an impressive array of professional achievements, including owning her own realty company from 1975 to 2015. Her pioneering spirit led her to become the first woman to serve on the board of the Lee County Economic Development Group, and she contributed her expertise to the 8th Judicial Nominating Committee under Terry Branstad. Sharon's outstanding contributions were recognized when she was honored with the Citizen of the Year award by the Chamber of Commerce in 1989.
Beyond her professional success, Scholl-Nabulsi has been deeply involved in her community for more than 45 years, serving on various service clubs and organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce, Potowonok Circle of Kings Daughters and Sons, Catfish Bend Casino, Southeastern Community College, Fort Madison Community Hospital, and the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Auxiliary. Her philanthropic efforts have positively impacted numerous community organizations, including establishing a scholarship through Southeastern Community College for a returning woman of the college.
Scholl-Nabulsi's commitment to her alma mater is evident through her instrumental role in establishing her graduating class website and honoring a classmate by purchasing a new time clock for the FMHS track programs.
Her 40-year ownership and leadership of a successful business in Fort Madison have further demonstrated her dedication to the local community.
Born and raised in Fort Madison by parents who also graduated from FMHS, Scholl-Nabulsi embodies the spirit of giving back and making a difference in her community. Her induction into the Fort Madison High School Alumni Hall of Honor is a testament to her remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to service.
The high school is currently accepting applications for the next Hall of Honor nominees. The next ceremony will be held during Homecoming of 2025.