Summit Academy CEO John Guyer (left) and Summit Academy Board Chair Tony Malorni (right) presented a Proclamation of Recognition and Appreciation on behalf of Sensei Charles Rickard (center), who was promoted as a martial arts Shihan, or teacher of teachers.

The Summit Academy Management Board of Directors issued a proclamation recognizing Sensei Charles Rickard’s promotion to the position of Shihan, a martial arts “teacher of teachers.” Summit Academy CEO John Guyer and Summit Academy Board Chair Tony Malorni presented the proclamation to Rickard at the board’s Sept. 19, 2023 meeting. Shihan Rickard oversees Summit Academy’s signature therapeutic martial arts program. He has been with Summit Academy for more than two decades and has held a black belt in martial arts for the past 30 years.

Rickard was awarded his prestigious advancement by the Shihan Board and Sensei Council of International Kwanmukan on August 5, 2023.

The therapeutic martial arts program is a cornerstone of Summit Academy Schools. As part of their curriculum, Summit Academy students receive therapeutic martial arts instruction, which benefits both their academic and personal success.