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Beverly Hills, CA (June 11, 2025) – On June 10, 2025, the Beverly Hills Unified School District Board of Education voted (5-0) to approve the appointment of Steve Lawson as the new Director of Athletics and JPA, along with Devon Saxon as Assistant Director of Athletics and JPA. This key leadership decision reflects the Board of Education’s ongoing commitment to athletic excellence and to ensuring that every student-athlete in BHUSD is supported, challenged, and celebrated. “These are the right people at the right time,” said Board of Education President Mrs. Rachelle Marcus. “Steve and Devon bring the experience, vision, and dedication needed to take our athletics program to the next level.” As part of their roles, Lawson and Saxon will also support oversight of the Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) between BHUSD and the City of Beverly Hills. The JPA governs the shared use, maintenance, and scheduling of city and district facilities, a critical partnership that enhances access, safety, and programming for students and the broader community. Having athletic leaders in these positions ensures strong alignment between school needs and city resources. A respected leader and former U.S. Army soldier, Steve Lawson brings decades of high-level experience in coaching, program development, and athletic administration. He is a U.S. Open Champion, Pan American Games Bronze Medalist, and Olympic Festival Silver Medalist, and has served as Head Wrestling Coach at El Dorado High School for more than 27 years. During his tenure, he led teams to multiple league and CIF titles and coached 18 individual CIF champions, including a California State Champion.
Lawson is also the founder and director of SCWAY (State of California Wrestling Alliance for Youth), one of the state’s most impactful youth athletics organizations. SCWAY currently serves over 2,800 athletes and 75 clubs, and under Lawson’s leadership, has become a model for youth development, athletic safety, and coach training. Known for his disciplined yet student-centered approach, Lawson combines military precision with a deep belief in the character-building power of sports. “Steve’s background is extraordinary,” said Superintendent Dr. Alex Cherniss. “He is not only a champion athlete and a veteran, but a visionary builder of programs who has proven time and again that he knows how to lead teams, inspire young people, and drive excellence at every level. His leadership will elevate BHUSD Athletics for years to come.” Working alongside Lawson is Devon Saxon, a decorated cheer coach and educator who brings energy, creativity, and proven results to the role of Assistant Director. Saxon has led Birmingham Community Charter High School’s cheer program to six CIF-LA City Division I titles, two CIF State Runner-Up finishes, and consistent national recognition. Named the 2024 California Coaches Association Cheerleading Coach of the Year, Saxon is also a CIF-LA Cheerleading Co-Coordinator, overseeing logistics and competition planning for more than 80 school teams. Saxon’s strong background in education, school operations, and hospitality leadership rounds out this dynamic team, providing a sharp focus on systems, equity, and student experience. Together, Lawson and Saxon represent an ideal blend of high-performance coaching, operational excellence, and shared purpose. Their partnership promises to advance every element of BHUSD’s athletic vision, from competition and compliance to community and culture. BHUSD is proud to welcome Steve Lawson and Devon Saxon to this new chapter of athletic leadership, where their combined expertise will shape a future of opportunity, confidence, and excellence for all students.
Contact: Colby Gilardian
Communications Media Specialist
[email protected]
(310) 871-8246 Mobile
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