A new institute has been launched in memory of the Perry High School Principal who died protecting students in a tragic shooting.

Central College’s Marburger Leadership Institute is a semester-long leadership development program designed to cultivate the next generation of courageous, compassionate and community-focused educators. Eleven students have been selected for the program’s inaugural cohort this spring.

The institute is named in memory of Principal Dan Marburger, 1989 Central graduate, whose selfless sacrifice saved the lives of his students at Perry High School in January 2024 – embodying everything a leader is supposed to be: Brave, selfless and wholly committed to the people in his care. Central College created the program through a generous gift from an anonymous donor who wanted to ensure Marburger‘s example lives on in the educators it sends into the world.

Julianne Taylor, senior lecturer of education, co-director of the institute and former public-school administrator, is glad to be part of building the institute in Marburger’s memory.

“The Marburger Institute expands their leadership capacity, whether it’s leadership in life, volunteerism, extracurricular opportunities, the classroom and in education as a whole. The joy for me is helping to build this institute in memory of a man who literally made the greatest sacrifice, and to be able to help cultivate more of those strong leadership characteristics and qualities with our students. I know Seth and his wife, Morgan, both were Central alums. I was a former principal as well. Being able to do this and honor Seth’s family, the Marburger family, brings such joy.”

The institute will be offered in spring semesters. Students are nominated and selected by Education Department faculty based on their leadership potential, integrity and dedication to the profession.

Guest speakers from across education, community service, athletics and volunteerism will lead sessions alongside members of the Marburger family, who will share personal reflections on Dan’s life and the values that guided him.

Seth Marburger, 2016 Central graduate, son of Dan Marburger and Pella Community School District special education teacher, shared his family’s thoughts.

“Dad truly loved visiting campus to connect with future educators. We are thankful for the leaders from all walks of life who will inspire students through this institute. The establishment of the Dan Marburger Leadership Institute exemplifies one of several ways Central has demonstrated their commitment to dad’s legacy. Our family is eternally grateful to Central College and the Education Department for honoring dad in this way.”

Marburger served as principal of Perry High School in Perry. He died on January 14, 2024. He is remembered across Iowa and the nation as a model of servant leadership, devotion to family and unconditional love for his students and community.