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2016 Graduates of Distinction

District names Graduates of Distinction Honorees for 2016
Walla Walla Public Schools names this year’s honorees for the Graduates of Distinction program. They are: Jerry Zahl, Class of 1962; Gary Hanson, Class of 1976; and Mark Kajita, Class of 1987.

These individuals have distinguished themselves in their communities, professions, or careers and continue to bring honor to the district. Celebrate alongside these distinguished alumni at a reception in their honor on Tuesday, June 7 (details listed below). Listen to their stories and hear who helped shape their lives during their school years.

RECEPTION DETAILS
Date: Tuesday, June 7, 2016
Time: 5 to 6 p.m.
Place: Walla Walla School District Board Room

HONOREES

Jerry Zahl
According to his nominator, Jerry has a lifetime of history in the Walla Walla Valley as a “farm kid” and “giver” who sees good in all people. After college, he spent time in the Army then returned to Walla Walla to work in the farming/agriculture industry. Since retiring in 2012, his passion has been education and he, together with his fellow 1962 graduates, established a high school scholarship fund which now totals more than $50,000 and has benefited students from the class of 2013 forward. His nominator was Judy B. Holloway and his most inspirational staff member is James McKay, his high school agriculture instructor.

Gary Hanson
A three-sport athlete and long-time band member, Gary was a very active student at Wa-Hi. He earned a business degree from Eastern Washington University and came back to work in his hometown. He recently retired as co-owner of Abajian Toyota. His nominators praised his strong sense of community and active roles in many civic and sports organizations. He and his wife, Terri, chaired the successful Sharpstein School Bond Campaign in 1999. His nominator was daughter Megan Watts and his most inspirational staff member is Glen Mitchell, his high school band director/instructor.

Mark Kajita
In addition to being only the third non-family President and Chief Operating Officer of Baker Boyer Bank, Mark was praised by his nominators for “having his heart in the community” and balancing family time along with his career. He is currently involved with the Downtown Walla Walla Foundation and Whitman College Board of Overseers, but over the years has worked with Walla Walla Housing Authority, Fort Walla Walla Museum, Rotary and the American Cancer Society. His nominator was co-worker Susie Columbo and his inspirational staff members were Bill Jordan and Phil Rolfe, staff members at Garrison who helped when he transitioned from College Place School District.

WALLA WALLA PUBLIC SCHOOLS • 364 South Park St. • Walla Walla, WA 99362 • Phone: 509-527-3000 • Fax: 509.529.7713

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