The Hall of Fame
About
On August 16, 1901, Los Nietos Valley Union High School opened as the eleventh high school in the Los Angeles County School system. In 1904, its first graduating class numbered four students. This early institution eventually became Downey High School.
Over the next 100 years, our graduates—who literally number in the thousands—have made their way into society and have made an impact on America and the world with their individual accomplishments. The Hall of Fame committee, under the direction of Principal Tom Houts, hopes during the next few years to recognize as many of our distinguished graduates as possible.
The Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony is designed to provide a motivational activity that will engender school and community pride. Further, it will emphasize our school’s continuum of high achievers by honoring outstanding and noteworthy alumni of Downey High School.
Fun Fact!
Did you know that Metallica’s James Hetfield attended Downey High School as a sophomore?
Selection Guidelines
Honorees may be recognized for outstanding or noteworthy contributions or achievements in one or more of the six specified (or related) categories:
- Arts
- Athletics
- Business
- Education
- Civic/Community/Government
- Professional
The nominee will be a graduate of Downey High School (except under special circumstances to be determined by the selection committee)
Since leaving Downey High, the nominee will have maintained himself/herself in a manner that reflects positively on Downey High and on the Hall of Fame
Except under special circumstances as determined by the selection committee, a candidate shall wait a minimum of ten (10) years after leaving Downey High School before s/he becomes eligible for induction into the Hall of Fame
Jim Stecklein, Class of 1946
While a student in Downey schools, and during his college years and his years of military service, James Stecklein excelled in athletics and...
Steve Tapia, Class of 1973
Steve Tapia is a 1973 graduate of Downey High School. While at Downey High, he served as Student Body President, Editor of The Norseman...
Blanca Nieves Pacheco, Class of 1993
Blanca Pacheco is the first Latina elected to the Downey City Council. She is the current Mayor Pro-Tem for the City, becoming the first Latina to...
Leslie R. Murray, Class of 1986
Leslie Murray is a graduate of 1986 from Downey High School. When Leslie was a senior, she served Downey High as the beloved spirit leader...
Dr. Cynthia Lum, Class of 1992
Dr. Cynthia Lum is Professor of Criminology, Law and Society and Director the Center for Evidence-Based Crime Policy at George Mason University. She...
Johana Hernandez, Class of 2004
Johana Hernandez is not only the Fashion Designer of GLAUDI haute couture bridal and evening gowns but a fashion critic for the hottest...
2013 Hall of Fame Inductees
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2012 Hall of Fame Inductees
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2010 Hall of Fame Inductees
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2009 Hall of Fame Inductees
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2008 Hall of Fame Inductees
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2007 Hall of Fame Inductees
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