With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to a remarkable educator, mentor, and friend, Sharon Gordon, who has passed away. As the President of the California Color Guard Circuit, she was not just an administrator but a force of nature, leaving an indelible mark on the lives she touched. She was well known by the units she worked with, who thrived and excelled competitively, setting the standard for championship blood within our community.
Sharon Gordon’s journey began in the small town of Napa, California, where her early love for the performing arts became evident. From a young age, Sharon showed a keen interest in music and dance, participating in every school performance she could. Her passion led her to join the school band, where she first encountered color guard, an experience that would shape her future. Her natural talent and dedication quickly made her a standout member, and it wasn’t long before she became captain of her high school team. This early exposure to leadership and teamwork laid the foundation for her future roles.
After high school, Sharon pursued a degree in Performing Arts Education at the University of California, Los Angeles. Her time at UCLA was marked by her involvement in the university’s prestigious marching band and color guard program. Here, she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of the technical and artistic aspects of the sport. Sharon’s college years were not just about personal growth; she also began to mentor younger students, demonstrating her knack for teaching and inspiring others. Her professors and peers recognized her as a leader and a visionary, qualities that would define her career.
Upon graduation, Sharon Gordon returned to Northern California, where she embarked on a career in education. She became a high school music teacher, but her passion for color guard remained strong. Sharon founded several high school color guard teams, which quickly rose to prominence under her guidance. Her teams were known for their innovative routines, precise execution, and, most importantly, their sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship. Sharon’s approach was holistic; she believed in nurturing not just the skills of her students but their character and confidence as well.
In the late 1990s, Sharon Gordon joined the California Color Guard Circuit (CCGC), initially as a judge and later as a board member. Her keen eye for detail and unwavering commitment to excellence made her a respected figure in the circuit. She advocated for high standards and consistent judging, helping to elevate the competitive aspect of the sport. Sharon’s influence extended beyond the technicalities of judging; she fostered a culture of fairness and respect, earning her the admiration of coaches, performers, and fellow judges alike.
Sharon’s tenure as President of the CCGC, which began in 2005, marked a period of significant growth and transformation for the organization. Under her leadership, the CCGC expanded its reach, incorporating more teams from diverse backgrounds and increasing opportunities for young performers. Sharon introduced initiatives aimed at making the sport more accessible, including scholarships and community outreach programs. Her vision was to create a supportive environment where every participant could achieve their best, regardless of their starting point. This inclusive approach not only boosted participation rates but also enriched the quality of the competitions.
The units Sharon worked with under the CCGC thrived and excelled competitively. Her teams consistently set new standards, often sweeping regional and national championships. Sharon’s influence was evident in the precision and creativity displayed by the teams she coached. She was a mentor who pushed her students to strive for excellence while teaching them the values of teamwork and perseverance. Her legacy is seen in the countless performers who, inspired by her guidance, pursued their own careers in the arts, education, and beyond.
Beyond her professional achievements, Sharon Gordon was cherished for her warmth, generosity, and unwavering support for her students and colleagues. Those who knew her recall her infectious enthusiasm and the personal interest she took in everyone’s
