The former longtime principal of Perry High School was recognized at a special event this past Friday.

During Perry’s basketball games against Grand View Christian, Dan Marburger was honored posthumously with the Iowa Character Champion Award from Drake University. Emily Brown, who is the Director of Events of the Robert D. and Billie Ray Center, said that the award recognizes an individual who displays six characteristics of trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. She reveals that Marburger exuded all of those qualities.

“Principal Dan Marburger believed all students deserved access to high quality education, and he supported each student that walked the halls of Perry High School. He knew everyone had value and purpose. He was a great symbol of leadership and his impact that will continue for generations.”

Public Address Announcer Gary Overla then spoke about Marburger’s commitment to the Perry School District, as he served as high school principal from 1997 to 2024. Overla officially stated that Perry High School’s gymnasium will now be known as the “Dan Marburger Court.” He explained that a plaque for Marburger is located on the northwest corner of the gymnasium to signify his impact on the community. Marburger was killed, along with two others, during a school shooting on January 4th, 2024.