“Once a Don, Always a Don,” rang true as Santa Barbara High School staff and alumni proudly gathered to celebrate the 150 year anniversary.
The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution on Sept. 9 in celebration of the school’s 150-year anniversary and the 50-year anniversary of the Santa Barbara High School Alumni Association.
Supervisor Laura Capps acknowledged the legacy and history of the school and said it makes her feel proud to be a Don.
“(I am) so proud to do this on behalf of the county,” she said.
Principal Ed Gomez and Alumni Association President Talli Richards Versola accepted the resolution. Capps encouraged all the Dons in the meeting crowd to join them in celebration at the podium for a photo.
“I am truly honored to be the steward of such a historic institution,” Gomez said.
The 150th anniversary celebration will continue at the All Dons Reunion on Oct. 11 with a free and public event including music, school tours, student performances, silent auction and kids activities.
The county ceremonial resolutions donned a new look as well. At the Tuesday meeting, leaders unveiled a new ceremonial resolution certificate design. Local artist Aiden Khuiphum’s design was chosen from over 40 applicants.
“I decided to look into what Santa Barbara meant to me and how I can incorporate my experience with Santa Barbara,” he said.
The artwork was inspired by illuminated medieval manuscripts, Khuiphum said. It features Santa Barbara wildlife such as butterflies and quails, and iconic imagery such as the coastal and agricultural regions of Santa Barbara, the Santa Ynez Mountains and the county’s courthouse.
