BHUSD welcomes new athletic leadership

The BHUSD Board of Education approved the two new leadership appointments for the athletic department on June 10. (photo courtesy of BHUSD)

On June 10, 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 Joint Powers Agreement, along with Devon Saxon as assistant director of athletics and JPA.

“These are the right people at the right time,” Board of Education President Rachelle Marcus said. “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 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, 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,” Superintendent Dr. Alex Cherniss said. “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 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.

For information, visit bhusd.org.