The Central Lee Community School District has inducted three new members to its Fine Arts Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2024.
This year, the Hall of Fame honors a dedicated educator and two accomplished alumni who have channeled their creative talents into thriving careers. Each of these inductees has left a lasting impression on the greater Central Lee community.
”It is an honor to pay tribute to this distinguished group and welcome them into the Fine Arts Hall of Fame,” said Dr. Andy Crozier, Central Lee Superintendent. “Each individual has made a meaningful impact on our district, and their work continues to inspire as a testament to artistic excellence.”
C. David Rutt, whose career in music education spans over 40 years, is celebrated for nearly a decade of service as Central Lee’s band director. During his tenure, he built a thriving band program, leading students to earn the school’s first State Division 1 rating in marching band and All-State honors.
In addition to his time at Central Lee, Rutt directed the Forest City High School band for 24 years and spent five years helping to rebuild Waldorf University’s band program. In retirement, he continues to inspire student groups across the U.S. as a Bob Rogers Travel Tour Director and guides international concert tours with the Iowa Ambassadors of Music.
Rutt holds a bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Upper Iowa University and a master’s degree in Music Education from the University of Northern Iowa. He resides in Iowa with his wife and is the proud father of two daughters and a grandfather to an eight-year-old grandson.
Gary Wagner, a 1980 graduate, is a lifelong musician with a passion for bluegrass. Known for his skill on guitar, mandolin, and upright bass, Wagner has performed at venues across the country, from local festivals to the renowned stages of Silver Dollar City and Dollywood. He has also recorded with acclaimed artists and performed at numerous benefit events.
In addition to his musical accomplishments, Wagner has built a 40-year career as a welder. As he nears retirement, he looks forward to continuing his musical pursuits and is proud to see his daughter, Amber Wagner, carry on his legacy as a talented vocalist.
Sarah Bergman, an inductee from the Class of 1998, is an accomplished professional in film, media, and communications. After graduating from Central Lee, Bergman earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Iowa, where she worked as a camera operator for a local TV station and performed as a voice-over artist. She later received a Business and Management of Entertainment Certificate from UCLA.
Bergman’s career includes numerous accolades, with her work recognized by prestigious film festivals such as Sundance, Santa Cruz, and Sedona. Currently, she is the director of The Tulsi Gabbard Show, where she continues to showcase her versatility and passion for storytelling.
The Fine Arts Hall of Fame was established as a platform to honor, preserve, and celebrate Central Lee's rich history and its tradition of fine arts. It highlights the significance of high-achieving graduates and former staff members who left a lasting impact on the school community during their time at Central Lee.
Community members, families, staff, and alumni are encouraged to nominate individuals for Hall of Fame recognition. To be eligible for nomination, individuals must have graduated from Central Lee schools or have been a staff member and should be at least five years removed from their association with the district. A committee reviews all nominations and determines each year's inductees. Central Lee also has Academic and Athletic Halls of Fame.
The Central Lee Community School District's Hall of Fame ceremony to honor the 2024 inductees will take place in the Spring of 2026 celebrating 2024 & 2025 inductees. The district has yet to announce the date of the ceremony.