PERRY, Iowa — Perry Community School District officially dedicates gym to former high school principal Dan Marburger during a basketball game.

A 17-year-old student opened fire inside the Perry High School cafeteria on January 4, 2024. The tragedy left multiple people injured. It also claimed the lives of two people, sixth-grade student Ahmir Joliff and Perry High School principal Dan Marburger.

Police say Marburger was protecting students from the shooter when he was shot. He died from his injuries on January 14, 2024.

Just months after the deadly shooting, the school and community focused on healing.

Last May, the school board voted to rename the gym after Marburger’s time spent within the school and on the court. Marburger wasn’t only a principal, he was also a basketball coach.

In August, Perry School superintendent Clark Wicks gave WHO 13 news a look at the gym where Marburger’s signature is imprinted on both sides of the court. It’s a signature that has been seen on the hundreds of diplomas he’s signed since 1997.

A dedication ceremony was held during the mega night basketball game Friday evening.

Emily Brown, Director of Events of The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center – Drake University presented the Iowa Character Award to Marburger posthumously. He was named one of the Iowa Character Award recipients last year.

Courtesy: Perry High School Facebook Page

His wife, Elizabeth Marburger accepted the award on his behalf. Along with his family, the community and spectators attended the ceremony during the game.

An official plaque is located on the northwest corner of the gym.