Tyrone High School Principal Tom Yoder will jump from education to politics this spring. Yoder was elected mayor of Huntingdon this November and has announced that he will retire from TASD in March to devote his full attention to his new elected position.

Yoder defeated incumbent Huntingdon Mayor David Wessels by only 22 votes, 727-749, in the general election on November 2, 2021.

A lifelong resident of Huntingdon, Yoder has previous experience in Huntingdon local politics, having served on the Huntingdon Borough Council for 12 years, from 1988 to 2000. He was the president of the borough council for his final four years.

Yoder has been the principal at Tyrone High School for the past 15 years. Prior to coming to Tyrone, he was an English teacher at Southern Huntingdon High School and Bellefonte Area High School, where he was also an assistant principal.

Yoder is excited for this new chapter in his life and said that as mayor he hopes to focus on tourism and economic development of downtown Huntingdon.

“The borough has so many beautiful historic buildings and such a rich history to share. In order for us to entice visitors, our town must be welcoming and attractive,” said Yoder.

Pointing out that over 1.5 million people visit Raystown Lake each year, Yoder said that it is important for Huntingdon to draw more visitors into the town to provide jobs and economic development to the borough.

“Downtown revitalization and economic development are crucial to a welcoming, thriving business district. Downtown Huntingdon is at the heart of the community, where people come together for events, shopping, and dining out,” said Yoder.

Current Huntingdon Borough Manager John “Chris” Stevens thinks Yoder will be a perfect fit for the mayor’s job and is looking forward to working with him.

“Tom has been a valuable member of our town for many years and I know he will continue his community service and positive leadership,” said Stevens. “Having worked with [him] while he was on Council, and during my career as a police officer, I know the positive energy and work ethic that Tom brings to the table. I am sure that Mr. Yoder’s love of Huntingdon will help us continue to make Huntingdon a great place to live and do business.”

Students and staff at Tyrone said they are sad to see Yoder leave, but are excited for him in his new job.

“I think Huntingdon is lucky to have him representing their community; he will do a fabulous job in this new position,” said Tyrone High School administrative assistant Brooke Yaudes.