Medina PAC stage dedicated to late band director Gary Cuilla

During the Sept. 16 Board of Education meeting, Dr. Kris Quallich presented the official naming of the main stage at the Medina Performing Arts Center as the Gary Cuilla Main Stage, honoring the legacy of the late Gary Cuilla, beloved former marching band director at Medina High School. The board voted to approve the naming, and a dedication ceremony will be announced later.

The naming of the stage followed a collaborative process by a committee comprising district administrators, staff members, Board of Education representatives and community members. The group sought to honor an individual whose impact on the arts and generations of students continues to resonate throughout the district and the wider Medina community.

Cuilla’s leadership and passion for music left a lasting imprint on countless students during his tenure. Under his direction, the Medina High School Marching Band flourished, earning recognition across the state and inspiring a culture of excellence, dedication and creativity that continues today under the direction of Jason Locher.

“Gary Cuilla’s influence can still be felt in the hearts of his former students and in the traditions that continue within our music program,” said Dr. Kris Quallich, assistant superintendent of Medina City Schools. “Dedicating the main stage in his name is a fitting tribute to his legacy and his lasting contributions to the performing arts in Medina. As the recommendation for naming indicated, Gary cultivated a ‘Tradition of Excellence’ culture within the Medina Musical Bees organization, which is still felt today.”

The Gary Cuilla Main Stage will serve as a permanent reminder of Cuilla’s dedication to music education and his profound impact on the Medina community, the school district said in a statement.