The longtime principal of Perry High School is being recognized posthumously for his commitment to the local community.

The 2024 Iowa Character Awards is honoring Dan Marburger for his dedication to the Perry community. According to a press release, 12 Iowa individuals are apart of the ceremony as the awards observe people for their exceptional character. Marburger passed away following the January 4th shooting at Perry High School, where he became the principal in 1997. 

He began many initiatives including “High Schools that Work,” Project CRISS (Creating Independence through Student Owned Strategies), Data-Driven Leadership, Outcomes-Based Education, and 40 Developmental Assets. Perry Superintendent Clark Wicks says the school is renaming the gymnasium the “Dan Marburger Court,” since athletics and graduation were amongst his favorite events. 

Marburger displayed selflessness on January 4th as he shielded other students and staff members, leading to several saved lives. The Iowa Character Awards will be held at the Prairie Meadows Event Center, in Altoona, tomorrow. A special primetime show will air on Fox on Wednesday, August 7th.

• Fox 28 (Cedar Rapids) on August 7th from 8-9pm.
• Fox 17 (Des Moines) on August 7th from 8-9pm.