Bruce donates Mary Davis art for school auditorium

Tim Bruce was such a strong advocate of the arts during his 26 year tenure as superintendent of La Conner schools that the district’s auditorium has been named in his honor.

But the story does not end there.

His support for the arts on the La Conner campus continues five years after Bruce left the district to join the Western Washington University faculty.

La Conner School Board members on Monday accepted his donation of three pieces of art created by Mary Ennes Davis and valued at $10,000 for display in the Bruce Performing Arts Center.

“We’d like to thank Dr. Bruce for this generous donation,” said board member John Agen, whose sentiments were echoed by his colleagues during a brief 20-minute in-person study session that was also carried on the Zoom teleconferencing platform.

Board member Lynette Cram noted that Davis’ work is well known in the La Conner community.

“Mary,” Cram said, “was the one who helped create the beautiful history wall in the middle school and she did such a fantastic job.”

Bruce is committed to paying for lighting in the entry of the auditorium to enhance the Davis art display.

Board members, meanwhile, are hoping reduced COVID-19 restrictions in the fall allow a formal reception to honor Davis, whose art is exhibited nationally.

New art is also likely to be mounted at Landy James Gymnasium in honor of the late Mike Cladoosby following a request by Agen that is being forwarded to La Conner Schools Superintendent Rich Stewart for formal approval.

Agen said he would like to see a permanent reminder of Cladoosby – including a biography – put in place in the gym in what has long been known as “Mike’s Corner.”

“He was such a great supporter of La Conner schools and sports in particular,” Agen said of Cladoosby, who passed away in March. “I think it’s important that people know the level and type of support he gave and that’s why it’s called ‘Mike’s Corner.’”

Board president Susie Gardner Deyo suggested a photo of Cladoosby be included as part of the project.

Deyo also noted that there are 10 applicants for the district’s open business manager position.

And, the board officially approved the hiring of Will Nelson as the district’s next superintendent. He will start July 1.