Walla Walla Public Schools Hosts Ribbon Cutting Ceremony For New Blue Devil Stadium (Photo) - 09/03/25

WALLA WALLA, Wash. — Walla Walla Public Schools proudly celebrated the grand opening of the newly completed Blue Devil Stadium on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, held at Walla Walla High School, marked the official completion of the district’s historic Capital Levy program and a major milestone for students, staff and the community.

The event opened with a Presentation of Colors by Walla Walla High School JROTC cadets, led by Command Sergeant Major Anthony Marrero, and a moving rendition of the national anthem performed by Choir Teacher Sarah Thomson and the Chamber Singers.

Superintendent Dr. Ben Gauyan welcomed the crowd, emphasizing the importance of the day.

“This is not only the opening of a state-of-the-art stadium, it is the fulfillment of our community’s vision,” said Dr. Gauyan. “The first-ever capital levy in district history—approved by 58 percent of local voters—made this transformation possible. These improvements were completed on time, on budget, and will be paid off in less than five years.”

The $15 million Outdoor Athletic and Activity Facilities Capital Levy, approved in February 2024, funded essential upgrades at Walla Walla High School, Pioneer Middle School, and Garrison Middle School. Completed projects include:

• Blue Devil Stadium – Elevated ADA-accessible bleachers, new restrooms and changing facilities, high-quality turf, and modern low-glare stadium lighting
• Murr Sports Park – Lighting for varsity baseball and softball fields
• Wa-Hi Tennis Courts – Replacement of aging courts with eight new competition-level courts, fencing, bleachers, and landscaping
• Pioneer Middle School – Installation of an all-weather track
• Garrison Middle School – Repairs to tennis courts and resurfacing of its track
• JROTC Obstacle Course – New Raider course for student training and first responder exercises

The ceremony also included remarks from former Superintendent Dr. Wade Smith, who led the levy planning and project implementation, and Citizens for Schools Co-Chair Lawson Knight, whose grassroots advocacy played a vital role in the levy’s passage. Walla Walla High School Athletic Director Chris Ferenz closed the program by sharing the impact the new facilities will have on student-athletes and the community.

Dr. Gauyan presented Dr. Smith with the Superintendent’s Coin of Excellence, recognizing his leadership in ensuring the levy’s success.

The celebration concluded with the official ribbon cutting, followed by tours of the new Blue Devil Stadium.

“These facilities will inspire pride, create opportunities, and strengthen community spirit for generations,” Dr. Gauyan said.

For more information about Walla Walla Public Schools’ facility improvements, visit: www.wwps.org

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