Medina City Schools honors longtime band director with stage naming

MEDINA — Community members gathered at the Medina High School Performing Arts Center to honor the life and legacy of longtime educator and band director Gary Ciulla, whose 35-year career impacted students and the district's music program. During the event, the main stage in the Performing Arts Center was named in Ciulla's honor. According to assistant superintendent Kristine Quallich, the naming followed a formal committee process used by the district. "Our committee received an incredible recommendation, and it is very fitting that students are performing on the very stage that will carry his name," she said. Ciulla, who retired in 2015, spent more than three decades building Medina's band program and mentoring students. He was known not only for musical excellence but for fostering a sense of belonging among those he taught. Jason Locher, a colleague and former student, said Ciulla's influence extended far beyond the classroom. "It was not just what the band sounded like. It was how people felt being part of it. He understood this was never just about music, but about people and belonging," he said. Locher said Ciulla inspired his career in music education and how a high school class shaped his future. Ciulla's oldest son, Nick, expressed how much this recognition meant to their family. "We lost him in a really sudden way, and these moments of celebration mean so much to our family," he said, adding that his father took pride in his students and their accomplishments. The ceremony included the unveiling of signs with Ciulla's name, which will be displayed on the main stage. Ciulla received the Medina Schools Distinguished Service Award, along with recognition from the Ohio Senate and House of Representatives, during his career. His legacy continues through the thousands of students he taught with many going on to become musicians, educators and directors. "Every performance will carry his legacy forward, every student who walks on to that stage will be part of something he helped build," Locher said. Contact reporter Sam Russ at (330) 491-6962 or sruss@medina-gazette.com.