History of the Vesey/Munson Art Show

The Dan Vesey/Deb Munson Art Awards are presented in honor of veteran art teachers Dan Vesey and Deb Munson. Both taught in the Puyallup School District for many years, inspiring both students and other teachers. They were well loved, served as mentors and both held the highest standards for creativity and originality. Dan and Deb both shared their gifts by visiting classes throughout the district, organizing events, and furthering the arts in the community.

The Dan Vesey Awards begin in 1998, as a memorial to his outstanding teaching career and creativity. Mr. Vesey taught in the Puyallup School District for 30 years. He was a gentle, upbeat, generous, energetic, and creative soul who inspired nearly everyone he met. “Dan exemplified creativity and never hesitated to share his talent, time and energy with students young and old, colleagues, friends, and most importantly, his family.”

Deb Munson began teaching at Governor John R. Rogers High School in 1974 and continued Dan Vesey’s legacy. In addition to her lifelong career as an educator she served as an active leader in the arts community. She volunteered for everything from Valley Arts United, Arts Downtown, the Farmers Market, all parades, and the Puyallup Fair Student Art Show. The best word used to describe Deb was joy – for her life, family, and community.

Deb and Dan’s love for the arts has spread to so many; we want to celebrate today their passion and love for life in the creativity of the students of the Puyallup School District.