Elmira City School District to Rededicate Softball Field in Honor of Bee Stephens
The Elmira City School District is proud to announce the rededication of its newly opening softball field (spring 2024) in honor of the late Bee Stephens, a beloved educator, coach, and community advocate. The new field will be rededicated as Bee Stephens Field, paying tribute to her enduring legacy in local athletics and education.
Express Athletics enthusiasts, particularly past softball players, families, and supporters, as well as the community at-large, are invited to join us for the Elmira High School’s Softball Field for the Rededication Ceremony of “Bee Stephens Field”
• Friday, May 2, 2025
• 4:45 p.m. Ceremony
• 5:00 p.m. Game, Express Varsity Softball vs. Owego-Apalachin
• Elmira High School Athletic Complex, Softball Field
Bee Stephens, who passed away at the age of 98 in 2021, dedicated over 30 years of her life to Southside High School as a physical education teacher, coach, and mentor. Known for her fierce advocacy for women's sports, Bee was a trailblazer in promoting equality through her service on the NYSPHSAA executive committee and her unwavering support of Title IX.
She led with both compassion and discipline—equally capable of commanding a room with a glance or delivering laughter with her wit. Her impact on generations of students extended far beyond the classroom and playing fields. She was a tireless volunteer, giving back to her community well into her 90s.
Bee’s contributions earned her countless accolades, but it is her spirit, leadership, and love of sport that the Bee Stephens Field will celebrate for generations to come.