We are proud to recognize our alumni!   Please send candidate nominations to Email Alumni Spotlight.  The nominee should submit a current photo and complete the following questionnaire via email or mail to: PEASD  P.O. Box 901  Palmyra, WI 53156  Attention: Public Relations

What year did you graduate from Palmyra-Eagle High School?

2003

What journey did you take after high school? Please include all college, military, trade experiences and work experience. 

After graduating from Palmyra Eagle High School, I began to work in the building trades. I enjoyed learning a trade/skill, spending most of the days outside and physically working hard. I knew I was not cut out to work in an Office setting, so the trades initially worked well for me.

  Around 2006, and 2007 the global economy began to slow, and work seemed to dry up. I was still living at home, and had been laid off several weeks in the winters. I made the decision to go back to college, and pursue a career in Law Enforcement. A goal which always seemed unattainable in my younger years. 

 I attended night school at Gateway Technical College for two years in Elkhorn, WI. I was subsequently hired by the Town of Delavan Police Department, to work on their water safety boat. Which was a very good fit for me, with my extensive history in competitive water skiing.  After completing the field training program, I was rapidly promoted to a part-time position as a Patrol Officer. Ultimately, the Town sponsored me through the Police Recruit Academy at Black Hawk Technical College. Upon graduation, I held several different part-time law enforcement positions, before being hired full time by the Village of Pewaukee. 

What and where is your current profession/occupation?

Currently, I am a Patrol Sergeant for the Village of Pewaukee Police Department. My main responsibilities include supervising three Patrol Officers, a Student Resource Officer Assigned to the Waukesha County Technical College, and ten additional part-time Officers assigned to summer and winter patrol of Pewaukee Lake. 

Moreover, I supervise our Waukesha County Drug Task Force Detective, I am Badger Tracs Administrator, manage our Reserve Officer Program, and I am responsible for fleet maintenance. Working within the confines of a smaller Department, there are multitude of collateral duties as well as volunteer opportunities. 

How did Palmyra-Eagle positively impact your future?

I believe the most significant way Palmyra – Eagle Area School District impacted my future was to allow me to make mistakes, and learn in a way unique to me. I believe that empowerment comes from trust, cultivated in the classroom.

What year did you graduate from Palmyra-Eagle High School?

2003

What journey did you take after high school? Please include all college, military, trade experiences and work experience.

After high school I went to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater where I also participated as a member of the football team while pursuing my degree to teach physical education and coaching.  I was blessed to have been surrounded by great people just like at Palmyra-Eagle High School which allowed me to win the National Player of the Year in football along with a 2017 National championship.

What and where is your current profession/occupation?

Currently, I'm teaching at Sun Prairie West High School.

(He also recently was inducted to the UW-Whitewater's Hall of Fame!)

How did Palmyra-Eagle positively impact your future?
  I attended Palmyra elementary school where I had great support to deal with a variety of troubles at home.  During high school there were a few amazing teachers that impacted my life and without those teachers I wouldn't be where I am today.  Some of them gave me tough love that I didn't realize I needed until much later.  Others built a rapport with me that I still cherish today.  Lastly, the friendships through sports that I gained at Palmyra-Eagle high school I still cherish today and I can't be more thankful for.   I will look for a picture and please let me know if there is anything else you need.

What year did you graduate from Palmyra-Eagle High School?

2002

What journey did you take after high school? Please include all college, military, trade experiences and work experience.

After HS I wanted to stay close to home as my grandfather was battling cancer, so I headed down highway 59 to UW-Whitewater. This led me to a Political Science and Business Law degree, 4 fun years of track and a semester of rugby.

What and where is your current profession/occupation?

I am an entrepreneur. I own an event planning company called Swarmm Events, a coworking spot called The Hive and silently involved with 2 bars, a restaurant and 2 food trucks. I recently ran for Mayor of Milwaukee not expecting to win but to prove to myself that I could hold the stage with career politicians. It was a great experience.

How did Palmyra-Eagle positively impact your future?

The level of support that myself and others received in our smaller classrooms were crucial to my success. There is something great about knowing all of your teachers and them knowing you as well.

What journey did you take after high school?  Please include all college, military or trade experiences.

Upon graduating, I attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I continued to pursue my running career as a Division I student athlete in both Cross Country and Track. Unfortunately, an unexpected injury caused me to cut that career short during my Junior year.  I graduated from UW in 2009 with a Bachelor of Arts in History and focused studies in Spanish.  During my final semester, I gained full time employment with KEVA Sports Center as the Event and Project Manager for the indoor/outdoor sports complex.  For two and a half years, I gained valuable experience in hiring and managing staff, processing payroll and organizing large corporate events. During this time, I made the decision to further pursue my education and was accepted at William Mitchell School of Law in St. Paul, Minnesota.  During my time at William Mitchell, I became heavily involved in the the Elder Law program and was the project manager for a mobile app called SAFE MN. The app was geared towards use by law enforcement and the general public to stop abuse and financial exploitation of vulnerable adults
throughout the state.  Working directly with a colleague, we created a mobile app platform for both Android and Apple. In addition, I also began exploring the world of prosecution and was a law clerk for Attorney General, Lori Swanson. During my third year of law school, I became a certified student attorney and worked exclusively at the St. Croix County District Attorney's Office. I was a member of the pilot externship program that allowed me to work 30 hours a week during my last semester of law school at the District Attorney's Office, rather than attend classes. I chose to return to Wisconsin after graduating with honors in May of 2014 from William Mitchell and took the Wisconsin Bar Exam in July of 2014.  I was subsequently admitted to practice in Wisconsin and obtained employment with the Marathon County District Attorney's Office as an Assistant District Attorney. After two and a half years of practice, my husband's job led us to make a move to Omaha, Nebraska where I am currently practicing law.

What and where is your current profession/occupation?

I am currently a Deputy County Attorney with the Douglas County Attorney's Office in Omaha, Nebraska. Within this office, we are responsible for the prosecution of all felony crimes that occur within Douglas County, as well as all misdemeanor domestic violence offenses.

How did Palmyra-Eagle positively impact your future?

The experience I gained while at Palmyra Eagle led me to become a Division I Student Athlete. I had so much support from faculty and staff who helped push me to continue to pursue my running career. I had the benefit of being coached by Sue Fischer during my time in track, as well as the wonderful coaching and mentoring from Joel Tortomasi in both cross country and track.  Also, my experience in my last year of high school, attending college courses at the University
of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, also allowed me to ease into my first year and to have a better understanding of what the experience would entail. Without the experience as a student athlete at PEHS and the educational support I received, I would not have been prepared to take on the daunting task of attending college full time and training twice a day while at Madison. Those experiences in college led me to pursue my future career in both project management as well as the legal profession.  PEHS provided the strong base that was necessary to allow me to build on each experience, which ultimately led me to my current
profession, one that I truly love.

What journey did you take after high school?  Please include all college, military or trade experiences.

Post-Secondary Education

•  Associates Degree (Liberal Arts), Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato, MN

•  Bachelors Degree (Secondary Broad Field Social Studies and Health Education), University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, in La Crosse, WI.

•  Masters in Education (Type 75 Administrative Degree), Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, IL

• Administrative Specialist Certificate (Superintendent Certificate), University of Southern Illinois Carbondale, Carbondale, IL

• Currently enrolled in the Education Doctorate Degree Program, McKendree University, Lebanon, IL

 Work Experience and Professional Organizations

•  High school teacher (U.S. Government, U.S./World History & Geography, Sociology) and coach ( (assistant men’s basketball, assistant softball) at Riverton High School in Riverton, IL (1995-2000)

• High school teacher (U.S. Government, U.S./World History & Geography, Psychology) and coach (assistant men’s basketball, head women’s coach, head baseball coach, head cross country coach) and career counselor/dean of students at Norris City-Omaha-Enfield High School in Norris City, IL (2000-2003)

• Building Principal & Director of Athletics at Vienna District Public School District #55 in Vienna, IL (2003-2010)

• Superintendent/Principal/Director of Athletics at Vienna Public School District #55 in Vienna, IL (2010-current)

• Vice President of the SIJHSAA (Southern Illinois Jr. High Athletic Association)

What and where is your current profession/occupation?

Superintendent/Principal/Director of Athletics at Vienna Public School District #55 in Vienna, IL

How did Palmyra-Eagle positively impact your future?

There are so many outstanding PEHS alumni – really outstanding people and professionals who continue to make a significant impact within their respective fields, organizations and communities. Every day is a great day to be and have been a PEHS Panther!  Beyond the academic and social-emotional foundations provided to think and work forward, my PEASD experience truly expanded my capacity to lead and develop my growth mindset.  Reflecting back, we were blessed with excellent professional educators (teachers, coaches, and staff) who guided us with high expectations, continuous accountability, and who were passionate about making our growth intentional.  This was also true of the communities that we lived in.  This “winning” culture set the stage for a great deal of success during our time at PEHS and continues to be a key ingredient for our all of accomplishments today and tomorrow.  

What journey did you take after high school?  Please include all college, military or trade experiences.

• Graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in 2001 with major in Wildlife Ecology and minor in Biology.

• While working as Biologist and Agronomist for The Monsanto Company (‘02-‘08) they funded my graduate work at the University of Illinois in the field of Crop Science.

What and where is your current profession/occupation?

I am currently the “Sr. Biologist and Founding Partner” of Hageman Reserve, which is the most elite private sporting club in the country.  I’ve lived on this 15,000 Reserve for the last 10 years while developing the project from the ground up.  I simultaneously oversee my land management and consulting business which is doing club work and habitat developments across the country, specializing in waterfowl.

How did Palmyra-Eagle positively impact your future?

Palmyra-Eagle enabled me to excel as a leader, with the confidence to excel in every facet of personal and professional life.  I was lucky to be surrounded by coaches, teachers, and administrators who truly cared about every one of us and our families.  Their pride and confidence in us is the thing I’ll always carry with me, which instills my core belief in the value of relationships.

What journey did you take after high school?  Please include all college, military or trade experiences.

• UW-Whitewater -  graduated in 1995 with a Psychology Major & Music Minor

• UW-Madison Law School – graduated in 1998 – J.D.

• Alpine Valley Music Theater – worked in the concert business

What and where is your current profession/occupation?

I am currently the Vice President of Operations for House of Blues Entertainment, a division of Live Nation, and based in Chicago, Illinois.

How did Palmyra-Eagle positively impact your future?

Palmyra-Eagle gave me a really strong intro to music, starting with my teacher, John Whitney.  I still play saxophone professionally and have a career in the concert business.  The small size of Palmyra-Eagle High School allowed me to participate in many different extracurricular activities which allowed me to figure out what was good and passionate about.

What journey did you take after high school?  Please include all college, military or trade experiences.

Following graduation in 1998 from Palmyra-Eagle, I attended the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh from 1998 to 2004.  Part of my draw to Oshkosh was the recruitment to participate on their track and field team starting my freshmen year, along with my initial plan to gain a Bachelors degree in Business.  I was on the track and field team for four years and earned 8 All-American titles and was the National Champion in the triple jump in 1999.  After two years of taking business courses I changed my major to become a teacher.  I always remember Sue Fisher telling me, in physics class, that I should go into education.  While in college I realized Sue was right and changed my major!  Initially my focus was to become a math teacher and then I switched to science with a focus around Earth Science (geology).  I graduated in the spring of 2004 with a Bachelors Degree in Secondary Science Education.  In the fall of 2004 I began teaching Earth Science at Burlington High School and was a science teacher for eight years.  In 2010 I completed my Masters in Educational Leadership through Cardinal Stritch University in which I obtained a principal and curriculum & instruction license.  In the fall of 2012 I was given the opportunity to serve as an Assistant Principal at Burlington High School where I enjoyed the challenge and new learning.  In the summer of 2016 I started the path of completing my Ph.D, Doctorate in Leadership for the Advancement of Learning and Service, through Cardinal Stritch University as I always promised myself I would have my doctorate before I turned 40 years old (currently 37)!  Right after starting my classes I was given the opportunity to serve the Burlington Area School District as the Middle School Principal starting the fall of 2016. 

I am currently in my third year serving as the Middle School Principal, along with assisting the district with curriculum and instruction.  My goal is to obtain my Ph.D during the summer of 2018.  I always say, an educator is the rock that creates the ripples.  I truly love the world of education and enjoy working with staff to continuously improve and grow our practices in order to enhance the learning environment for all our students.  The ability to work in a setting where the focus is to help develop and grow our youth… I don’t know what profession makes a bigger ripple and I am proud of the work we do within education.

What and where is your current profession/occupation?

Middle School Principal at Karcher Middle School in the Burlington Area School District. 

How did Palmyra-Eagle positively impact your future?

Being in a smaller school district was beneficial as I had the ability to get to know all of my classmates and all of my teachers.  A smaller school has a sense of community where people look out for one another.  I also remember having the ability to participate in numerous extra-curricular activities because it was a smaller school and the staff and coaches were flexible and willing to “share” between each other.  For example, I remember participating in track while also having to go to musical practice and the coaches and directors were all supportive and encouraged all of us  to participate and put ourselves out there.  What I truly remember the most about school was Sue Fisher.  She was my math teacher, physics teacher, volleyball coach, and track & field coach.  She continuously would tell me she believed in me and having someone believe in your abilities is what builds ones’ confidence moving forward, Sue Fisher created a ripple.  She ignited my passion for education and has assisted with who I am as a person.  The ripple educators have on others extends much farther than one realizes; an educator is the rock that creates the ripples.  I am grateful for the experience I gained within the Palmyra-Eagle School District as my experience provided me with the start of my ripple.

What journey did you take after high school?  Please include all college, military, and trade experiences.

I attended the U.S. Military Academy at West Point from 1990 to 1994 before beginning an active duty military career that lasted until 2009. I attended graduate school at the University of North Carolina before returning to West Point as a member of the faculty in the History Department. I left active duty in 2009 to join the faculty of the University of Wisconsin-Madison but continued to serve as an Army Reserve officer. I was just recently recalled to active duty and work in the Joint History Office in the Pentagon. 

What and where is your current profession/occupation?

I am the Ambrose-Hesseltine Associate Professor of U.S. Military History at the University of Wisconsin (on leave), currently serving as a historian on the Joint Staff in the Pentagon. 

How did Palmyra-Eagle positively impact your future?

Palmyra-Eagle provided me with dozens of role models--teachers, coaches, administrators--who inspired me to pursue my dual career in the military and in higher education. It took a few years to soak in, but my classmates and teammates taught me that there is much more to life than individual achievement. If I am decent person today, as I strive to be, I have my family and PEHS to thank for it.

What journey did you take after high school?  Please include all college, military, and trade experiences?

Following graduation from PEHS, I was admitted to the United State Military Academy, West Point, New York.  We arrived on 01 July 1987 and after 4 years (01 Jun 199), I was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Field Artillery.  While at West Point, I received a degree in Economics and played small forward on the Women's Basketball Team.  During those four years (1987 - 1991), our team went to the Sweet 16 - Division II, ranked nationally for scoring defense 1989, 1990, and 1991.  In 1990 the Academy was given a bid for NCAA Division I, instantiation of the Patriot League and the inaugural season hosted a record of 20 wins, 10 loses.  My assignments included:

Fort Sill, Oklahoma: (1992 - 1995)

• 2nd Lieutenant: Battery Executive Officer,

• 1st Lieutenant: Battalion Adjutant,

• 1st Lieutenant: Battery Commander

Fort Monmouth, New Jersey (USMA Preparatory School) (1996 - 1999)

Captain:  Women's Athletic Director, Physical Education Instructor, Volleyball and Basketball Coach

Fort Carson, Colorado (1999 - 2001)

Captain: Detachment Commander - World Class Athlete Program; there were 15-17 sports considered by the program for competition during the Sydney           2000 Games

Monterey, California (Naval Postgraduate School)  (2001-2003)

Major: Received a degree - MS in Operations Research

Fort Belvoir, Virginia (Center for Army Analysis)  (2004 - 2005)

• Major: Operations research analyst for Northeast Asia/Korean Peninsula

• Major:  DEPLOYMENT - Operation Iraqi Freedom (Camp Victory / 2004)

Alexandria, Virginia (Human Resources Command) (2005-2008)

Major:  Responsible for branching and posting all new accessions/recruits following Basic Training

Vicenza, ITALY (US Army Africa) (2008 - 2012)

• Lieutenant Colonel: Fires Director

• Lieutenant Colonel: Effects Division Chief

• Lieutenant Colonel: Secretary of the General Staff

Brussels, BELGIUM (North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Headquarters (2012 - 2014)

• Lieutenant Colonel: Executive Officer to the US Military Representative to NATO

• Lieutenant Colonel: Land Planner for Kosovo

• Colonel: Chief of Staff, United States Military Delegation

Fort McNair, Washington DC (National Defense University) (2014-2015)

Colonel: Student at Eisenhower School, War College

Pentagon, Washington DC (Joint Staff) (2015 - present)

Colonel: Joint Requirements Assessment Division Chief

What and where is your current profession/occupation?

I am currently still in the military and serving at the Pentagon as a Colonel.  My current assignment is as the Joint Requirements Assessment Division Chief and my team is responsible for the Department of Defense Joint Requirements System, policy and validation.  I have served 26 years.

How did Palmyra-Eagle positively impact your future?

Palmyra-Eagle's positive impact came from the close, small, tight-knit community support during both my high school years and while at West Point.  This same support has continued during my military career during deployments and while posted outside the United States.

What journey did you take after high school? Please include all college, military, and trade experiences.

Prior to graduation from Palmyra-Eagle High School in 1982 I applied, was nominated and received an appointment to the United States Navel Academy at Annapolis, Maryland. While excited about the opportunity to attend Annapolis, the Navy was not my 1st or even 2nd choice of branch of service so I turned down the nomination and decided to attend UW Whitewater. While at Whitewater I knew I still wanted to serve our Nation and was lucky enough to run into Captain Cosgrove of the UW Whitewater ROTC program. In 1984 I went to basic training and subsequently joined the ROTC program at Whitewater. From 1984 to 1986 I was a member of the National Guard and US Army Reserves and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant of Infantry in May 1986 after graduating from the University of Wisconsin, Whitewater with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science degree.

While on active duty in the Army I served myriad of troop, command and staff assignments including deployments as a Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment (HHD) Commander in 2nd Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment (Forward), United Nations Protection Force (UNPROFOR) and OPERATION ABLE SENTRY, TASK FORCE ABLE SENTRY (TFAS), Camp Able Sentry, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) from 1984 to 85; Assistant Chief of Staff (ACOFS), Chief of Plans, 3rd Infantry Division (Forward), OPERATION JOINT FORGE, TASK FORCE EAGLE, Bosnia and Herzegovina from 2000 to 01; Battalion Executive Officer, 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment (Forward), 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM, Kuwait and OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM, Iraq from 2002 to 03; Garrison Commander, Camp Doha and Deputy Commander, Area Support Group-Kuwait, 3rd Army, with additional duty as Garrison Commander, Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM and OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM from 2005 to 07. I also served as a Special Assistant and the Lead Speech Writer to the Chief of Staff, Army, Washington, D.C. and was the Southwest Asia Branch Chief, CCJ5-Plans, and then the Deputy Chief of Staff, Theater Plans and Synchronization Element (TPSE), NIKE Working Group, United States Central Command, Tampa, Florida and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from active service on 1 January 2011.

While on active duty I attended and graduated from the Infantry Officer Basic and Advanced Courses at Fort Benning, Georgia; the Combined Arms and Services Staff School (CAS3) at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas; the United States Army Command and General Staff College (CGSC), Fort Leavenworth; the School of Advanced Military Studies (SAMS), Fort Leavenworth; and the Joint and Combined Warfare School (JCWS) at Norfolk, Virginia and was a Senior Service College (SSC) Selectee. In addition to my Bachelor's Degree, I have a Master of Military Arts and Science degree.

My awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal with oak leaf cluster, Meritorious Service Medal with 5 oak leaf clusters, Joint Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal with 3 oak leaf clusters, Army Achievement Medal with 2 oak leaf clusters, National Defense Service Medal with bronze star, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal with bronze star, Iraqi Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary medal with bronze star and Global War of Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon with numeral 5, United Nations medal, NATO medal with bronze star, Army Presidential Unit Citation, Joint Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Army Staff Identification Badge, Airborne and Pathfinder Badges, the Expert and Combat Infantryman's Badges and the Order of St. Maurice.

What and where is your current profession/occupation?

I am currently an independent military consultant providing advice on operational and strategic planning, broad and complex multi-national, interagency and inter-service operations, collective training, strategic communications, liaison and negotiations.

How did Palmyra-Eagle positively impact your future?

While I believe the future is always uncertain, I also believe one’s foundations and convictions will ensure success. Palmyra-Eagle Area School District and its teachers imparted to me life’s lessons and the desire and will to succeed that were and are applicable in any situation I have found myself in. The teachers, friends and family of Palmyra and Eagle are all vested in the future and success of each and every individual of the Palmyra-Eagle family. Fine teachers and coaches like Coach Chmiel, Beardsley, Riddell, Frazza, Wilde, Mr. O’hern and Ms. Pyle and Beschta prepared me without me realizing they were doing it for the challenges of the future. They gave me the foundations and desire for learning and the will to persevere in any situation that continues with me to today.  The learning environment and smaller classroom size of PEHS both challenged and intrigued me and presented the opportunity to stretch my creativity and zest for learning without being just another number. I know that countless students and I would not be where we are today without the preparation for the future given to us by the entire PEHS community.

What journey did you take after high school? Please include all college, military, and trade experiences.

After high school I enrolled at UW-Madison and wasn’t too sure what I wanted to do with my life.  I decided to major in Agriculture Journalism with an emphasis in radio because I have never been shy so it seemed like a natural fit.  My favorite teacher, Ms. Oliver, always said that I would probably continue talking even after I was dead, and well…she’s probably pretty right on that one.   While at the UW I was in the marching band and a little sister at Delta Theta Sigma.  I spoke with Doc Crawley, Palmyra’s favorite veterinarian, who said “go see my daughter Katie.  She’s working at Z104 in Madison”.  So, I stopped by the radio station and asked to see Katie…who was of course surprised to see me because Doc didn’t tell her I was coming!  But Katie showed me around and introduced me to the Farm Director, Pam Jahnke.  

I interned for Pam in the summer of ’91 traveling all over the state talking to farmers, students, politicians and more and getting the chance to report on the air on WTSO in South Central Wisconsin. In 1993 a friend who interned with me in ’91 was now full time and called saying she needed help for the summer.  She ended up quitting at the end of the summer which gave me the chance to get the Promotions Director job full time and I went for it.  I dropped out of college (which was a super fun call to the folks to explain that one) and started my full time radio career at 20 years old.  Ultimately I still blame/credit Doc Crawley and his daughter Katie for me dropping out of college and kick starting my lifetime career!  

After working in Madison for two years, I got the chance to move to Milwaukee and work at 94 WKTI.  At first I was the Assistant Promotions Director then got to be on the Traffic Reporter on air every day with Reitman and Mueller and Jim “Lips” LaBelle.  Lips decided to call me Barnyard Bonnie as homage to my upbringing and rural knowledge.  It always takes me back a bit when people say they remember me as the traffic reporter, but I still never get lost driving around Milwaukee.    

After a couple years of riding around in an airplane for 6 hours a day, I moved back to Madison and took over the 10am-2pm air shift and was Promotions Director again for Z104.  Then, 14 years ago, the opportunity came up to move to Mid-West Family Broadcasting to do events for all seven of their radio stations.  I haven’t looked back since.  

What and where is your current profession/occupation?

I work at Mid-West Family Broadcasting in Madison as the Events Director.  Our seven stations include WJJO, Q106, Magic 98, 93.1 Jamz, La Movida, The Zone and WHIT. I plan everything from a small 50 person networking event, to golf outings, a two day festival in Janesville called Sonic Boom with 30,000 people, to managing three stages and over 40 bands at Taste of Madison.  It’s different every day and I absolutely love it!

In my spare time I work for the UW-Madison Athletic Department as the PA announcer for women’s basketball, volleyball and softball.  

How did Palmyra-Eagle positively impact your future?

Sounds crazy but at least two times a week I say I’m so glad I grew up where I did when I did.  Having a small community that cares about not only who are but the kind of person you will become was completely invaluable.   You knew that you could talk to the teachers when you needed help, and half the time they would approach you first because they could figure out something was up.  Ms. Oliver was an amazing sounding board and a teacher who would always let me cry or laugh whenever  I needed her.  She gave me advice that I still repeat to people today.   

The size of the school allowed me to play volleyball, basketball and softball, yet still take part in band and choir and any other extra-curricular that would come up.   You could try new things and spread your wings, something that is hard to do in larger schools.  I knew everyone’s name when I walked through the halls and can’t imagine a world where I grew up any differently.  The friendships I cultured at Palmyra-Eagle still stick with me today, and finding someone who went to Palmyra-Eagle or was in the same conference is always something that brings a smile to my face.  I wouldn’t be where I am today without my family, amazing teachers and friends that molded me into what I have become.  And for that I will always be grateful!

What journey did you take after high school?  Please include all college, military, and trade experiences.

As a high school senior, I was accepted into the Medical Scholars Program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison – a combined undergraduate and medical school program that was created to retain high-achieving high school students in the state for their medical education.  As an undergraduate at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, I earned dual degrees in French and biology while graduating with highest distinction – the top 5% of the graduating class.  Prior to starting medical school, I spent a year completing a research fellowship at the Pasteur Institute in Paris, France while also taking classes at the University of Paris.  I then received my medical degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison where I was elected a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society.  I completed my general surgery internship at Cornell University/New-York Presbyterian Hospital, and then completed an orthopaedic surgery residency at the #1 ranked Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City.  After residency, I received additional hand surgery education at Oxford University and the Pulvertaft Hand Centre in England.  Finally, I completed my training with a hand and upper limb surgery fellowship at Stanford University.  I have travelled extensively lecturing on orthopaedic and hand surgery, with over 20 peer-reviewed publications and 50 presentations at various national and international surgery meetings.  I currently work in private practice, at Raleigh Orthopaedic Clinic in Raleigh, NC where I specialize in surgery of the hand, wrist and elbow.

What and where is your current profession/occupation?

Hand surgeon in Raleigh, NC

How did your experience at Palmyra-Eagle impact your future?

I have very fond memories of my educational experiences at the district.  From early on, I remember teachers such as Mrs. Cobb, Mr. Hassler, and Mr. Cole at Eagle Elementary fostering a love for learning in myself through creativity in the classroom, testing and pushing my abilities, and rewarding a job well done.  I felt both challenged and intrigued, and being at a smaller school felt like a family more than an institution.  Everyone knowing everyone else can sometimes be a very good thing. 

Palmyra-Eagle High School presented new and valuable challenges in the classroom and outside.  Teachers and coaches alike provided me with endless learning opportunities at school and life lessons that were learned outside of school.   Mr. Wilde taught me patience, planning, and dealing with adversity on the golf course while Mr. Parker instructed on working as a team, leadership, and accountability on the football field.  All of these lessons have helped me get to where I currently am and remind me how impressionable kids can be.

So many teachers (Ms. Coe, Mr. Cobb) pushed me to achieve in their classrooms and really encouraged me to be ambitious in my career goals.  I truly feel that my teachers cared about my education, my progress, and tried to harness their students’ potential.  I received so much from my education at the Palmyra-Eagle school district – skill development, problem-solving skills, lessons of responsibility, and instilling self-confidence.  I honestly believe that anything is possible for present and future students from the district.  They should shoot for the stars, and I would encourage all teachers and administrators to further culture optimism and cultivate the potential that exists.  

What journey did you take after high school?  Please include all college, military , and trade experiences.

My journey after graduation was directly impacted by an experience my senior year when Principal Chmiel asked me to tutor a middle school student who needed assistance with his learning.  This opportunity confirmed my interest  in pursuing a career in education.  As a three sport athlete in high school, I had multiple options to continue my athletic career into college, and something was telling me that Marian College ( now Marian University) was the place that I wanted to take my next academic and athletic steps.  For any high school graduate, I would highly recommend the small town feel that colleges like Marian, St. Norbert, Ripon, and others can provide.  I quickly found out that special something at Marian was that within the first month on campus, I met a young lady who I eventually married and have spent the last 27 years with.  I ended up playing two years of college basketball, and eventually settled at UW-Oshkosh, where I graduated with a Bachelor's degree and gaining licensure to teach Special Education for grades K-12.  Upon graduation, I obtained my first teaching position at Kiel High School in Kiel, WI where I still live my wife and three school aged children.  Early in my teaching career, I was approached by a seasoned teacher who encouraged me to pursue additional degrees.  With this nudge, while moving through my 8 years teaching at Kiel High School, I obtained my Master's Degree in Administrative Leadership from Marian University, allowing me to be licensed as a principal for students in grades K-12.  Still with a desire to work closely with students, I left the classroom and took my first principal position of a charter high school for at-risk students in Oshkosh.  After two years watching students graduate that others had given no chance to accomplish this feat, I moved into a traditional principal position at Mishicot High School.  I had a very rewarding 4 years at Mishicot, and was encouraged to apply for the principal position of Kettle Moraine High School in Wales, WI.  Now in my 6th year as principal of Kettle Moraine High School, I can confidently say that I have the best high school principal position in Wisconsin!  This spring, I will also obtain the necessary benchmarks through UW-Milwaukee to be licensed as a superintendent.

What and where is your current profession/occupation?

Kettle Moraine High School Principal in Wales, WI

How did your experience at Palmyra-Eagle impact your future?

My 18 years of growing up in Palmyra, and my 12 years in the Palmyra-Eagle School District will always be remembered as a time where I built my story, both in the person I have become as well as the professional that I am in giving back and serving the students of today.  My journey would not be what it has been without the many people that impacted me during my childhood, including Mr. Chmiel, Mr. Wilde, Mr. Beardsley, Mr. Riddell, Mr. and Mrs. Fraaza, Mr. and Mrs. Frehner, and so many more.  These individuals taught me not how to compete on a court, a field, or a diamond, but how to compete in life, and for that, I will be forever grateful!  I also had the greatest group of friends one could ask for, having the unique opportunity to have spent 12 straight years with the same close friendships. Thanks Scott, Tommie, Earl, JT, and Tracy for the lifelong impact, and may we always be thankful that Palmyra gave us the opportunity to be Back in Black!

What journey did you take after high school?  Please include all college, military, and trade experiences?

I majored in Film Production and minored in French at the University of Minnesota.  I worked at Hyatt Hotels throughout my college studies where I earned free hotel nights every year which allowed me to begin exploring the world (France, UK, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland).  My Hyatt experience also put me next to many music artists and actors as I was coordinating their itineraries, room blocks, and VIP requests.  This began my fascination with the music world and allowed for many free concerts where I was able to photograph and interview the artists.

Straight out of college, I got a job in Marketing at KSTP-TV/ABC.  I loved the television environment and worked there for many years coordinating commercial schedules, PR events, local castings and marketing campaigns.  I naturally was still leaning into the music world and began connecting local Twin Cities artists with commercial producers and news segment producers at ABC for commercial background music and morning news band interviews.  I eventually moved over to WCCO-TV/CBS and brought my music connections to that newsroom.  I was also interviewing and photographing a lot of national artists on the side and writing for an east coast music publication called Planet Verge.  I decided to pursue a career in music and, on a whim, sold all of my belongings and moved to Los Angeles in 2008.
I scored my first gig in LA working for the head music agent at one of the largest talent agencies in the country, CAA.  I was one of two talent assistants - yes, two - there was so much work that my boss needed two assistants and, even then, we couldn't get it all done.  I catered to American Idol artists Carrie Underwood, Chris Daughtry, and Jordan Sparks.  Additional talent included: Gavin DeGraw, Annie Lenox, and David Beckham.  We even dabbled in some things with Michael Jackson.  It was exciting but intense - 14 hour days, no lunch breaks and every weekend!  I decided that the talent agency side perhaps wasn't for me and moved over to artist management.  My first management gig brought me to 3AM/Red Light Management where I coordinated everything for The Crystal Method, Henry Rollins, Dresden & Johnston, Paul Van Dyk, Static Revenger, Jason Lytle/Grandaddy, DJ Rap, and Robyn Hitchcock.  It was an EDM/DJ focused client list and the artists were all really great to work with!  I was lucky enough to not only have two of my artists perform at the Coachella Music Festival, but I was also able to join The Crystal Method at the Grammy Awards during their nomination in 2009!  I was eventually offered a job with Nicole Scherzinger just as the X Factor was starting season 1 in the US.  It was such an adventure but the schedule threw me back to my CAA days and I got burnt out very quickly.  Just as I was debating giving music a break, I was offered a job at a photo/film studio in Hollywood called Quixote Studios (formally Smashbox Studios).

Quixote Studios offered a friendly, family vibe and normal working hours!  It was such a welcomed change.  I was Marketing, PR, and Events Producer for a couple of years (and loved it) but I hadn't checked off one thing I was dying to do in music - and that was a full bus tour.  In 2013, I was offered to work for EDM artist Morgan Page as his Marketing/PR Manager.  He was preparing for the first ever 3D EDM tour across the country (using 3D technology from Michael Jackson's Vegas show).  It was a 50+ city bus tour, I was the only woman on that bus with a crew of 12 others.  We had many sold out shows and long nights but it was the best adventure!

What and where is your current profession/occupation?

Quixote Studios (photo/film studio in Hollywood) welcomed me back after the Morgan Page tour was complete.  The studio assisted my journey to Bora Bora in 2015 where I volunteered at a sea turtle sanctuary and became an adoptive parent to an injured sea turtle name Hope!  I have continued to work in Quixote Marketing, PR, and Events for the past few years.  

How did your experience at Palmyra-Eagle impact your future?

The smaller, cozier school size really affected my overall experience.  I felt that we collectively were able to take advantage of a more personal relationship with teachers and extra curricular activities, as we weren't just a number.  We were treated as individuals and taught in a more intimate setting that catered to expansive learning.  I was bullied for a couple of years but was encouraged to find my confidence and my voice through teachers like Jorelle Coe, Sue Fisher, Karen Hubert, and James Demler.  I think it's really important, especially during high school years, to have the support and positive influence from your teachers. 

What journey did you take after high school?  Please include all college, military and trade experiences.

I studied film studies and comparative literature at the University of Minnesota (BA) and creative writing at Arizona State University (MFA). Also at ASU I took courses in the nonprofit management graduate program and almost completed my degree.

What and where is your current profession/occupation?

I direct the Writers' Program at UCLA Extension in Los Angeles. We are one of the oldest and largest adult education programs in creative writing. I'm also a poet, and have four chapter books and a full-length poetry collection published.  My first book, The First Risk, was a finalist for a 2010 Lambda Literay Award.  Prior to my current position, I served as Director of the Writer’s Center in Bethesda, Maryland; was the assistant director at the Virginia G. Piper Center for Creative Writing at Arizona State University; and was Communications and Events Manager at Arts for LA.  I have several years of experience teaching writing and cinema at several schools including the University of Denver.

How did your experience at Palmyra-Eagle impact your future?

At PEHS, my English teacher Ms. Oliver worked with me all four years both in independent studies and as an unofficial mentor, helping me become a better creative writer. It is because of her guidance I am where I am today, both as a writer and as someone who cares deeply about the opportunities education can provide.

What journey did you take after high school?  Please include all college, military and trade experiences.

My journey truly began when I graduated from PEHS in 1998.  I played basketball at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point my freshman year, then transferred and played basketball for the Warhawks at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. In December 2001, I graduated from UW-Whitewater with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, having had the pleasure of learning from phenomenal professors in that department.  

After graduation, my goal was to attend law school but my heart was pointing me to Nashville, Tennessee.  Growing up I had always had two dreams: country singer and lawyer.  After returning home with all of my belongings packed in boxes, I drove to Nashville to start my adventure in the music business. During the day, I worked as a Legislative Aide to Tennessee State Senator Micheal Williams, which enabled me to network with other politicians and lawyers, attend committee hearings and full senate hearings, give State Capitol tours to constituents, meet Governor Don Sundquist and Governor Phil Bredesen, attend the Inaugural Ball of Governor Phil Bredesen, and participate in many other exciting events.  I spent my nights and weekends networking in the music industry, which enabled me to get back stage at the CMA Awards 2 years in a row, party with Wynona Judd, Billy Dean, Hank Williams, Jr., Gretchen Wilson, Phil Vassar, Joe Nichols, Eddie Montgomery, the artists from She-Daisy, Lonestar, and Rascal Flatts, and meet Toby Keith, Tracy Lawrence, and Jessica Andrews.  I even snuck into a CMA Awards after party by walking into a restaurant with Kenny Chesney’s entourage.  I played a gig at the famous Bluebird Café and won a talent contest at Douglas Corner.  Through years of networking, I was able to write songs with hit songwriters Gary Hannan (who wrote Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off), Dean Miller (A Little Gasoline), Roger Cook (I Believe in You), Don Pfrimmer (My Front Porch Looking In), and others.  Lonestar’s band cut a 4 song demo for me and then in 2006, I cut a full 12 song professional CD.  With the help of my business manager, producer, and manager, we set up a website and began promoting my CD.  My first real show was the most exciting experience.  I was flown out to Utah where I opened for Eric Heatherly (who sang Flowers On the Wall), standing at the base of a mountain on a crisp evening looking up the incline at thousands of people.

Of course, like most journeys, I experienced low moments just as devastating as the good moments were amazing.  After I returned from Utah, I discovered that my business manager was embezzling money and I had signed a bad contract with my producer and that pretty much ended my career in music.

I decided to go to law school and in 2014, I graduated from the Nashville School of Law with a Doctor of Jurisprudence.  Since 2015, I have been working as In-House Counsel for a general contractor where I practice corporate law as it relates to the construction industry.

In 2016, I invented a camping product anticipated to hit the market in 2019

What and where is your current profession/occupation?

In-House Legal Counsel at Construction Enterprises, Inc.-  a general contractor located in Franklin, Tennessee, ranked number 1 in building multi-family housing (mostly student housing at Universities) throughout the United States

How did your experience at Palmyra-Eagle impact your future?

I was fortunate to learn from a great staff of teachers and coaches who supported and encouraged me, challenged me, and fostered a comfortable atmosphere of creativity and learning.  I was truly influenced by Becky (Fine) Rychlak, Sue Fisher, Tim Collins, and Nancy Naze, and cannot thank them enough for their patience and involvement in my development.  Of course, I was most influenced by my mom, Diana Gess, who taught at Eagle Elementary for decades until she retired.  She had even taught some of my classmates.  My mom was a teacher at work and at home.  She fed my curiosity and stressed the importance of being a lifelong learner.  She was a true ‘school marm’ in the classic sense, who brought creativity and flare to her classrooms, hope to her struggling students, and knowledge and experience home to me.

Because of the small school size, I was able to able to perform in plays and musicals, go on trips with the choir, participate on the volleyball, basketball, and track teams, and take part in other school activities, including the ski club and student counsel.  I believe that by having the opportunity and access to such wide a variety of interests, I was able to stay interested and engaged in school as well as define my talents and goals.  Also, having participated in so many different activities has helped me be more rounded which has helped me network with many different kinds of people.

Palmyra-Eagle specifically impacted my future in connection with college.  I took math classes through pre-calculus, Spanish 5, and 2 AP courses.  Because of my education, I was able to skip and test out of several classes in college and obtain a Bachelor of Arts degree in 3 ½ years.

I am proud to have grown up in Palmyra and to have been educated in a small town/school atmosphere.  I grew up riding my horse to Mary Ann's for frozen custard and my snowmobile to the gas station; playing basketball in Clinton with the support of our town who followed the buses to away games; meeting up with teachers outside of school who took me to see Broadway musicals in Chicago; and being comforted by teachers after rough games, trauma, and the death of Pat Oliver, a beloved English teacher.  How many other places in the nation could I have experienced all of that while growing up safely tucked in a state forest?