Thurgood Marshall Secondary School Celebrates Centennial (Photo – Felita Kealing)
The Thurgood Marshall Secondary School community came together on Friday, May 9, to mark an extraordinary milestone: its Centennial Celebration.
By Rena Kurlander
The event, which saw alumni from as far back as 60 years ago return to their alma mater, was a heartfelt tribute to a century of educational excellence and the rich history of the school.
Principal Lori Touloumian expressed her pride and excitement in a message to the school community, congratulating everyone on a fantastic celebration. “It was such a joy to see so many Marshall alumni from 5, 10, 20, even over 60 years ago on campus to celebrate with us,” Touloumian shared. “We are so grateful to have had our amazing former administrators, former ASB Presidents, Royal Court Princesses and Queen, PUSD Board Members, Superintendent Dr. Blanco, Pasadena City Council Member Rick Cole, and representatives from State Senator Sasha Rene Perez’s office and Assemblyman John Harabedian’s office with us to celebrate.”
The evening’s festivities highlighted the long-standing connections that have shaped the school’s legacy. Performances by current students were a major highlight of the event, with Touloumian specifically recognizing the outstanding efforts of teachers Mr. Pappalardo, Ms. King, Ms. Espinosa, and Ms. Naganuma. “Our student performances were outstanding!” Touloumian praised, acknowledging the dedication of both the students and their teachers.
A particularly special element of the event was the acknowledgment of the Centennial Committee, headed by Dr. Stevens, along with the school’s administration, custodial staff, classified team, and the Associated Student Body (ASB) for their hard work in making the event a success. Touloumian expressed her gratitude to everyone who played a part in bringing the centennial celebration to life. “Without them, the event would not have been possible.”
The Centennial Celebration also served as the backdrop for a historic announcement: Marshall Fundamental Secondary School was officially renamed Thurgood Marshall Secondary School, a decision that reflects both the school’s rich legacy and its evolving identity. The Pasadena Unified School District Board of Education voted unanimously to approve the name change at the board’s meeting on April 17th.
This new name honors the late Thurgood Marshall, the first African American Supreme Court Justice and a trailblazer for civil rights, reinforcing the school’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and academic excellence for generations to come. Touloumian noted the significance of the change in her message, emphasizing how it aligns with the school’s values and aspirations for the future.
The evening culminated with a sense of community and pride, and Principal Touloumian summed it up perfectly: “The evening was a true testament to the community that Marshall builds, spanning over 100 years, and onward to 100 more! Eagles SOAR!”
Thurgood Marshall Secondary School Celebrates Centennial (Photos – Felita Kealing)
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