Powder Valley athletic director Brad Dunten gives the credit for his success to family support and the community of North Powder.

POWDER VALLEY — Brad Dunten, athletic director at Powder Valley High School, made the trip to Sunriver this year, not just to catch up with other athletic directors from around the state and discuss Oregon high school athletics, but to also pick up his award as a NIAAA State Award of Merit honoree.

The National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association honors one person per state each year for “meritorious service to the state.”

Dunten is currently in his seventh year at Powder Valley High School after a stint at Baker High School. Raised in Drewsey, Dunten graduated as a Mustang from Crane High School. He then received his bachelor’s degree from Eastern Oregon University, going on to receive a master’s degree in teacher’s education.

In addition to his work as athletic director, the married father of three is also an official both in the high school ranks as well as youth sports and a coach.

“My life at times can get hectic,” Dunten said. “I could not get everything accomplished without the help of my family and the staff at Powder Valley. This award belongs to them also.”

Going back to 1988, Dunten is the first athletic director to receive the award from the eastern part of the state. In the previous five years, those departing the conference with the award have represented Portland, Bend, Oakland, Warrenton and Silverton.

In addition to his above-mentioned activities, Dunten has worked tirelessly on efforts for 1A schools in coordination with the Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA).

Dunten has no plans to depart the 1A ranks, even with the national recognition.

“My roots, my family and my goals are all here at Powder Valley,” he said. “No matter what has been accomplished here, there is still much more to do for our student athletes. Track and field season is in full swing and we have districts coming and we want as many Badgers advancing to the state meet as possible.”