Robert Wasiluk
By Eric Erickson, Social studies teacher
Capitol Division Principal of the Year
Como Park Senior High School principal Dr. Diana Brown has been named the Capitol Division Principal of the Year by the Minnesota Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP).
There are eight divisions within the MASSP. The Capitol Division includes St. Paul and the entirety of Ramsey, Washington, and Dakota Counties. In January of 2025, the MASSP will select one high school principal as the state’s Principal of the Year.
The nomination in support of Brown recognized her work as a leader in developing an equitable and engaging educational environment while also highlighting her characteristics and attributes. “Showing up unapologetically authentic, as a strong black woman she brings work ethic, compassion, joy, and trust to the Como community.”
The nomination also noted that Brown is a lifelong learner and teacher, “strongly believing that you get out what you put in.”
While surprised by receiving this honor after her first year, Brown is enthused for her school. “I am very happy to bring this honor to the Como Community because we are doing great things here. Our students are my priority, and I will continue to work on making this an environment where everyone belongs, succeeds, and flourishes.”
Tennis Courts donated by Kathy Dumas
Construction of eight brand-new tennis courts at Como Park High School was completed in late August thanks to a $400,000 donation from retired teacher and coach Kathy Dumas.
The girls’ team is thrilled to be playing on the pristine surface this fall – a massive improvement from the dilapidated courts of recent years. A dedication ceremony is scheduled for Sept. 13 with Dumas in attendance.
Since the announcement of her gift, Kathy’s former colleagues, students, and athletes have been reminded of the dedication and unselfish service she displayed daily.
“I’m fortunate. I have a little bit of money we saved. I always told the kids, someday when you have money you can give back,” Dumas said. “If you give to something, you really have to believe in the cause to which you’re giving.”
Dumas’ belief in the Como tennis programs stretches back to the fall of 1980 when she began coaching the Cougar girls team. In the spring of 1982, she started coaching the Cougar boys team, as well. Dumas led both programs through 2007 when she retired from a total of 40 years teaching English in St. Paul Public Schools.
Her coaching partner during all those years was her husband, Dick Dumas. He was a mathematician and software engineer at UNISYS for his entire professional career. Dick passed away in 2009.
The courts are being named in honor of the coaching duo – the Kathy and Dick Dumas Tennis Courts. The current members of the Como girls and boys teams, along with alumni and Como staff, will gratefully gather for the dedication.
The community has been united and inspired by the generosity and selfless spirit of the Dumas duo. Their extraordinary gift will benefit an entirely new generation of Como tennis players.
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