District honors Graduates of Distinction

Walla Walla Public Schools recently honored this year’s Graduates of Distinction recipients. They are: Thomas L. Copeland, Class of 1942; Daniel J. Hess, Class of 1968; Paul H. Schneidmiller, Class of 1970; David Wagner, Class of 1993.

PHOTO: School board president Anne Golden presents Tom Copeland with his award.

HONOREES
Thomas L. Copeland
Thomas retired in 1994, but spent the majority of his career in public service and leadership, including 16 years as a Washington State Representative from the 16th Legislative District. He was nominated by his wife, Donna, and children, Tim Copeland and Brooke Copeland Saindon. His most inspirational staff member was his high school ROTC teacher Harold Mazony.

Daniel J. Hess
Dan is currently a founding partner of Hess Law Office and has served as a lawyer in Walla Walla for more than 30 years. He has been very active in local civic, educational and non-profit organizations such as the Walla Walla Mental Health Center and Goodwill Industries. He was nominated by his brother, Mark, and children, Peter Hess and Jennifer Mouat. His most inspirational staff member was his sixth grade teacher and coach Dave Klicker.

Paul H. Schneidmiller
Paul is currently the owner of World Wide Travel Service, Inc. and completed two erms (12 years) as Port of Walla Walla Commissioner in December 2013. He has been very involved in local non-profit organizations, including helping the Exchange Club establish a local child abuse council. He was nominated by Jim Kuntz. His most inspirational staff member was his high school chemistry teacher Eleanor Burgess.

David Wagner
David is a wheelchair tennis player ranked #1 in both Quad singles and doubles in the world based on International Tennis Federation rankings. He is a full time tennis player, wheelchair tennis camp volunteer and national speaker who encourages people to reach for their dreams. He was nominated by Earl Blackaby. His most inspirational staff member was his high school teacher and coach Gary Peasley.