The Paris Independent School District is proud to announce the recipient of the prestigious Distinguished Graduate Award for 2025. This accolade, the highest honor the district can bestow, celebrates Paris High School and Gibbons High School alumni who have achieved national or international recognition for their career accomplishments, setting themselves apart as leaders and role models.
Dalen Bunch, a Paris, Texas native and 2000 graduate of Paris High School, excelled both in academics and extracurriculars, lettering in baseball, football, band, and choir while staying active in student organizations. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Development from Texas A&M University, where he was a member of the Corps of Cadets and the Corps of Cadets Club Baseball team, serving in multiple leadership roles. After graduation, Dalen was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps, serving as an infantry officer in Iraq during the Battle of Ramadi. His leadership earned him the rank of Captain along with numerous awards, including the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Valor.
Following his military service, Dalen transitioned to federal law enforcement, serving as a Federal Air Marshal and later as a Special Agent with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service before joining the U.S. General Services Administration, Office of Inspector General, where he continues his service today. Over his career, he has received multiple honors for his leadership and dedication, while also giving back through Scouting, veterans’ organizations, and the Masonic Lodge. An Eagle Scout and active Assistant Scoutmaster, Dalen remains committed to serving both his country and his community. He is the son of Randy and Lucia Bunch of Paris, Texas, and the proud father of Gabriel R. Bunch of Peru, Illinois.
His portraits will be proudly displayed on the Wall of Honor at Paris High School, serving as an inspiration for current and future students.
Special Presentation and Homecoming Pep Rally
The award ceremony will take place on Friday, September 19, at 1:00 p.m. in the Commons Area at Paris High School. Following the ceremony, the award recipient will be presented to the PHS student body during the Homecoming pep rally at 2:00 p.m.
Former students, staff, and friends of Paris ISD are warmly invited to attend. Community members who wish to join the 1:00 p.m. presentation should call 903-737-7473 ext. 4018 by September 15 to make reservations.
How to Nominate a Distinguished Graduate
If you know a Paris ISD graduate who has made significant contributions and deserves recognition, you can nominate them for the Distinguished Graduate Award. Visit our website at https://www.parisisd.net/distinguished-graduate-award-progra, Paris ISD Distinguished Graduate Award Program, to download the nomination form at the bottom of the page. Submissions are due by May 1st of each year.
Paris ISD looks forward to celebrating the achievements of Mr. Bunch and welcoming the community to this special event.
