Solomon USD 393
SOLOMON - As the 2025-26 school year begins anew, USD 393 takes time to reflect on the achievements and significant contributions made by our esteemed Gorilla Family community.
We are excited to announce the fourth annual Hall of Fame ceremony taking place on Friday, September 5th at halftime of the first home football game against Rural Vista.
Organized by the USD 393 Board of Education, nominated by the Solomon community and voted in by the Hall of Fame committee, a select group of individuals are recognized for their achievements in academics, activities, athletics and community stewardship. These select few receive the honor of joining the Gorilla Hall of Fame.
This year's inductees include:
Gorilla Family honorees Delos and Judy Brown for Community achievement
Linda Klucas for Years of Service achievement
Wyatt Thompson Class of 1974 for Post Graduation achievement and
Jim Atkisson for Staff achievement
The class of 2025 embodies the characteristics we hope all Gorilla students will aspire to be over time. This class understands how service to a community and school can impact generations over time.
Delos & Judy Brown
Our first recognition goes to Delos and Judy (Willis) Brown, New Cambria natives, who have been pillars of support for USD 393 and the Solomon community. Judy served eight years on the School Board, while Delos helped establish the Solomon Recreation Board and contributed to launching the district's first Safe After Prom. Delos has driven buses for Solomon Schools for over 20 years, faithfully transporting students to games and meets.
Together, they've cheered on countless teams and supported students in every activity. They are a three-generation Gorilla family; Delos (Class of 1961) & Judy (Class of 1964), their children: Lori Brown 1982, Deb Brown/Robertson 1987, & Darin Brown 1990 and their grandchildren: Ely Creach 2006 and Dara Robertson 2019. The Browns never miss an opportunity to support students in their extracurricular activities. Their legacy of service and school spirit runs deep.
Linda Klucas
The next recognition is for Linda Klucas who began her service to USD 393 in 1973 and started part-time in the kitchen later before becoming full-time manager. She introduced innovations like a salad bar, self-service station, and even an ice cream machine-bringing joy to generations of students. If you ate a meal at an alumni banquet, Linda probably prepared it with her kitchen co-workers.
Linda launched the district's breakfast program and served on numerous committees such as:
State Board Nominating Committee, the committee for the after-school program, the High School Parent Advisory Board and was the County Treasurer for District 5 Food Service.
She also contributed to the community through roles on the library Board, Senior Center Board, and St. Ann's Catholic Women’s Auxiliary. After retiring, she continued serving by transporting students to Salina until her full retirement in 2024.
Linda's legacy is one of care, dedication, and lasting impact.
James Atkisson
Third up is 1961 alumni of Solomon High School, James Atkisson who has dedicated over 35 years to education and 25 years to the food and health industries. His ties to the community began with his parents, Virgil and Virginia (Vertner) who were also graduates of Solomon High School. He earned his first degree in Business Education in 1965 with multiple degrees to follow.
James was honored in Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges in 1965. A finalist for Kansas Teacher of the Year in 1975, James was also named USD 393 Staff Member of the Year in 2019 and 2021. He has a robust history of service with roles as Athletic Director for 7 years, substitute teacher for 3 years, and School Board Representative on the Solomon Rec Board for 5 years. He also dedicated time within the community where he served on the Dickinson County Election Board for 8 years.
He officiated high school and NCAA basketball for 15 years and coached middle school basketball for 2 years. His commitment to education and athletics continues to inspire. There are not enough words to describe the impact Jim has had in the years since he moved back. Our coaches and our students thank you for always showing us what having PRIDE means! Once a Gorilla-Always a Gorilla!
Wyatt Thompson
Our last recognition goes to Wyatt Thompson, Solomon High School Class of 1974, who built a distinguished career in broadcast journalism. After early roles at Fort Hays State and Colorado State, he became the Voice of the Kansas State Wildcats in 2002. A six-time Kansas Sportscaster of the Year, Wyatt was inducted into the Kansas Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2022.
During his time at SHS, he was active in FFA and livestock judging. Wyatt's passion for sports and storytelling has made him a role model for Solomon students and athletes. He remains deeply grateful for his roots in Solomon. We are very proud of where this Gorilla started and what he has accomplished in his career. His voice rings over the airwaves during each Wildcat game! Hearing that voice each time on the radio makes us GORILLA PROUD.
Each inductee will be honored with a commemorative plaque, displayed in the school's Hall of Fame. The Solomon School District extends its heartfelt congratulations to the 2025 inductees and invites the entire community to join in the celebration at the football game this Friday night.
Congratulations to our soon-to-be members of the Gorilla Hall of Fame; we are so excited to induct you this fall. We extend our gratitude to all the community members who submitted their nominations and made this possible.