The Sequim School District is moving closer to realizing its long-envisioned vocational center, thanks to an extraordinary local donation. Marylaura Ramponi committed $1 million to the Career and Technical Educational (CTE) center soon to be built on the Sequim High School campus. Once constructed, the building will be called The Ramponi Center for Technical Excellence, honoring Louie Ramponi, Marylaura’s late husband.
The donation was unanimously accepted by the Sequim School Board, marking a significant milestone in the district's efforts to expand vocational education opportunities. The Board recognized Ms. Ramponi's generosity as a visionary contribution that will benefit generations of students.
Both Louie and Marylaura Ramponi shared a deep commitment to supporting technical trades, a passion rooted in their own experiences. The couple ran a television store in Sonoma, California, with Louie focusing on technical work and Marylaura managing sales. After selling their business, the Ramponis pursued their love of travel, eventually settling in Sequim in 1999.
Recently in November, Marylaura visited Sequim Middle School to observe the energy and creativity thriving in the school’s new Industrial Arts class. Many of the students enrolled are anticipated to be among the first to enroll in classes held in the new CTE center during their future high school years. Students were hard at work constructing two sheds and several picnic tables, showcasing the type of hands-on learning opportunities that align with her vision for the vocational center. This visit gave Mrs. Ramponi an opportunity to meet the students and discuss their current projects. The onsite experience reaffirmed her commitment to helping young people explore and excel in technical careers.
The Ramponi Center for Technical Excellence represents a new chapter for the district’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. The project gained momentum in 2024 when state legislators allocated $4.9 million in a Local Community Project capital grant award. Community support also has come both in advocacy and funding from the Sequim Sunrise Rotary. This collective funding effort will support the construction of a 10,000-square-foot facility, featuring two large bays and classrooms for automotive and construction classes. The design envisions flexible spaces that will enable hands-on learning, such as building cross-sections of houses or automotive repairs.
The Ramponi Center is not just a building project; it represents an investment in the future workforce of Sequim. With Phase 1 underway, and strong community partnership at its roots, the district is one step closer to providing students with the skills and opportunities they need to excel in technical careers.