At its August 14 meeting, the Whitewater Unified School District Board unanimously voted to rename the Whitewater High School auditorium after the late James Stewart.

Stewart served on the School Board for nearly 27 years, from 1981 to 2002 and again from 2016 until his passing on November 26, 2021. During his service to the district, he was board president and treasurer—each for six years—and vice president for two years. 

“Jim was a dedicated public servant and a true champion for public education,” said WUSD Superintendent Dr. Caroline Pate-Hefty. “His unwavering commitment to our district and his passion for education have shaped our educational community. The James M. Stewart Auditorium will serve as a tribute to his service and will carry on his legacy for many years to come.”

Stewart’s commitment to serving others extended well beyond his role on the Board of Education. Following his graduation from UW-Madison in 1959, he served in the military for 20 years, touring in France, Vietnam, and South Korea before moving to the ROTC program at UW-Whitewater. Additionally, he served the people of Wisconsin as state assemblyman for the 32nd district and the community of Whitewater as a member of the Common Council and the Whitewater Police and Fire Commission. 

Stewart’s legacy also includes an instrumental role in founding the Whitewater Banner, an essential source of local news and information for the Whitewater community since its inception in 2006. The website has played a crucial role in connecting the community.

Stewart’s memory and service will remain an integral part of WUSD, and the James M. Stewart Auditorium will serve as an ongoing testament to his enduring legacy.