The Durango community will come together on Saturday to celebrate the remarkable legacy of Ron Keller with the launch of a new scholarship in his name and the official dedication of the Durango High School track as the Ron Keller Track. The celebration will take place during the Ron Keller Invitational Track Meet at Durango High School.
The Ron Keller Scholarship honors the decades-long impact of Keller – an enduring figure in Durango School District history.
This scholarship will support graduating Durango High School seniors who participate in cross country or track and field and who exemplify the values that Keller modeled throughout his career: hard work, strong character, honesty, leadership, respect for others and initiative.
“The uniqueness of Ron Keller was his ability and willingness to coach his assistant coaches on any and all phases of cross country and track and field,” longtime coaching colleague and scholarship organizer Steve Thyfault said. “Ron Keller felt that anyone, male or female, could be successful in his program with hard work and determination, regardless of ability level.”
Keller led Durango High School’s cross country and track programs to eight state championships, seven runner-up finishes, and more than 33 team qualifications. His most lasting legacy, however, lies in the lives he has influenced – through mentorship, leadership, and a commitment to personal and team excellence.
Coach nominations and a review process conducted by the DHS cross country and track coaches in partnership with the Durango Education Foundation (DEF) Scholarship Committee will determine the one DHS student-athlete to win the scholarship. The award is nonrenewable and supports the recipient’s first year at a four-year college. The final amount will be determined by the level of community contributions received.
The launch of the scholarship and the naming of the track will take place as part of the Ron Keller Invitational Track Meet on April 19 – an event expected to draw students, families, alumni, and community supporters in celebration of Keller’s contributions to athletics and education in Durango.
Community members are invited to support the Ron Keller Scholarship Fund, ensuring the values and leadership Coach Keller instilled in generations of student-athletes continue into the future.
To make a tax-deductible donation, click HERE.
