Leroy Gerdes gives a celebratory speech after the new Dahlstrom Middle School Leroy Gerdes Fine Arts Wing is unveiled. During the dedication ceremony on Oct. 4, prominent figures, such as Hays CISD Superintendent Dr. Eric Wright and Hays CISD Performing Arts Center Auditorium Namesake Gerald Babbitt spoke highly of the twice-retired director. The dedication comes after Gerdes was named head band director of DMS in 1985 when it opened its doors. Since then, Gerdes has spent the last 38 years dedicating his time to improving the fine arts portion of the district. Students of all ages, some who now have children of their own in band, stood to congratulate the retiree.
