The Lawrence Lions Alumni Association on Friday announced six inductees into the Hall of Honor this year.
“The LLAA Hall of Honor recognizes graduates of Liberty Memorial High School and Lawrence High School who have distinguished themselves in their professions and/or made significant contributions to society on a state, national, and/or international level,” according to a news release from the association. “Honorees may also include individuals who, while not alumni, have contributed significantly to the success of the two schools and their graduates.”
Here’s some information about this year’s inductees and their graduation years from LHS, as provided by the Lawrence Lions Alumni Association:
• Dr. Russell L. Blackbird (1968) — “Educator, tribal leader, and cultural advocate who served over 40 years in education, including as a classroom teacher, principal, and Dean at Haskell Indian Nations University, while preserving and teaching Omaha Indian traditions.”
• Ron Commons (1967) — “Longtime teacher, coach, and athletic director at LHS whose decades of leadership included 9 state football championships, a state golf title, and a career dedicated to supporting student-athletes.”
• John H. Spearman, Jr. (1968) — “Retired healthcare executive recognized for transforming organizational cultures, advancing patient-centered care, and leading international initiatives to improve emergency medical systems.”
• Michael S. Spearman (1970) — “Former Washington State Court of Appeals judge, public defender, mediator, and civil rights advocate committed to ensuring fairness and eliminating bias in the justice system.”
• Kannon K. Shanmugam (1989) — “Nationally recognized appellate attorney, Chair of the Supreme Court and appellate litigation practice at Paul, Weiss, and one of the nation’s most accomplished Supreme Court advocates.”
• Jaunelle Hamilton White (1996) — “Record-setting Auburn University volleyball player and trailblazing athletic administrator, currently serving as Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics and Chief Student Development Officer at Point University.”
“We are thrilled to honor these six remarkable individuals whose contributions span education, athletics, law, healthcare, and public service,” LLAA President Jessica Larsen said in the release. “Each inductee has demonstrated extraordinary achievement and an enduring commitment to excellence, and we look forward to celebrating them with our community.”
The induction ceremony is set for 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5 at the high school, 1901 Louisiana St. The event is free to attend, and all are welcome.
See a list of previous inductees online at lawrencelionsalumni.com/hall-of-honor.
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