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Alumni Spotlight

10 Questions with Dominique Rowell

Cover graphic for Alumni Spotlight featuring Dominique Rowell, Berthoud High School graduate
Dominique Rowell at a university environmental outreach booth under a tent, smiling with educational materials displayed on a table.

1. What is your name, which TSD schools did you attend, and what year did you graduate?

My name is Dominique Rowell, and I attended Berthoud High School. I graduated in 2018.

2. What have you been doing since graduation, and what is your proudest accomplishment?

I attended CU Boulder where I graduated with an Environmental Engineering degree. During college, I worked both for the United States Geological Survey (USGS) as a water analyst and for CU’s environmental center in various roles. Since graduating college, I have been working for the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) as an air pollution engineer.

My proudest accomplishment has been working to advance environmental justice in both my current job and as a member of the group Foundations for Leaders Organizing for Water and Sustainability (FLOWS).

Dominique Rowell and another student performing on stage, smiling and holding hands, dressed in vibrant show choir costumes

3. What is your best memory of school?

My best memory of school was when my AP environmental teacher, Ms. Wold, took our class on a field trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, where we snowshoed and learned about the park’s ecosystem during winter.

4. What was your biggest challenge during school?

My biggest challenge during school was juggling AP classes and all the extracurriculars I did (band, show choir, theatre, robotics, and even soccer one year), but I wouldn’t have changed a thing!

5. What do you know now that you wish your younger self had known?

I wish my younger self had known that working yourself too hard does not make life easier in the long run.

A group of college students and elderly women in CU apparel, smiling together outdoors during a campus event

6. What advice would you give to students in school now?

My advice to students now would be that your school days are only temporary so try to enjoy them as much as you can, that’s what you’ll remember most!

7. Name one person who changed your life for the better during school and how they did it.

One person who changed my life for the better during school was my AP human geography teacher, Mrs. Rendall. She was someone I could confide in with any sort of dilemma, and her classroom was always a safe space for me, even after I was no longer in her class.

Dominique Rowell and two other graduates in caps and gowns, holding diplomas and smiling outside a building with a window backdrop

8. If you could wave a magic wand and change something about your school years, what would it be?

If I had a magic wand, I would bring back the students and friends we lost during my time at Berthoud High. Those were difficult times and I hope students never have to go through that in the future.

9. How did school prepare you for what you are doing now?

I was a participant in the STEM program at Berthoud, which immensely helped form a solid baseline background for the career I chose after graduating. The project I did as a part of that program also helped me land my job with the USGS that I had during college.

10. What do you hope to accomplish in the future?

I am hoping to pass my Professional Engineering (P.E.) exam this spring and will hopefully use that to advance my career with the CDPHE, where I ultimately hope to help make Colorado a healthier and more equitable place to live.

10 Questions with Wyatt Suit

Cover graphic for Alumni Spotlight featuring Wyatt Suit, Mountain View High School graduate
Wyatt Suit wears an honors stole and medal, giving a thumbs up in the CSU Oval

1. What is your name, which TSD schools did you attend, and what year did you graduate?

My name is Wyatt Suit, and I attended Mary Blair Elementary School, Conrad Ball Middle School, and Mountain View High School, graduating class of 2019.

2. What have you been doing since graduation, and what is your proudest accomplishment?

I earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering at Colorado State University. Since then, I have been working at an engineering firm named Burns & McDonnell, helping design and build power plants. My proudest accomplishment is having sustained my 4.0 GPA throughout my high school and college careers.

Wyatt Suit in a musical theater performance of "Crazy for You," dancing with costumed performers on stage

3. What is your best memory of school?

My favorite memories of school are from the theater program, getting the chance to work and perform with my friends each semester.

4. What was your biggest challenge during school?

My biggest challenge during school involved balancing schoolwork, extracurriculars, and my social life — finding time and energy to do everything I wanted to without losing steam.

Wyatt Suit and friends wearing purple graduation gowns, smiling in a high school gym

5. What do you know now that you wish your younger self had known?

I wish that my younger self had known the importance of taking time to breathe and enjoy my classes instead of focusing so heavily on attaining a good grade. Nourishing a healthy relationship with education and a general love for learning takes you much farther in life than a GPA.

6. What advice would you give to students in school now?

Take courses you are genuinely interested in, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Humans are creatures built for continuous learning – look for subjects that make you excited to learn more.

Wyatt Suit with two colleagues at a Burns & McDonnell booth, smiling in blue company shirts

7. Name one person who changed your life for the better during school and how they did it.

There are many figures that helped light my way through school. One such person is my high school speech teacher, Mr. Hall, who instilled within me a love for public speaking, helping me find success in performing arts, extracurriculars, and even my career.

8. If you could wave a magic wand and change something about your school years, what would it be?

Nothing — any hardship I faced eventually transformed into lessons that I still carry with me today. I enjoyed all the time spent with friends and will always look back on it fondly.

Wyatt Suit in safety gear, smiling on-site at a power plant with mountains and wind turbines in the background

9. How did school prepare you for what you are doing now?

Above all else, school taught me how to be a better learner. Complex subject matter and difficult assignments pushed me to stay organized and find a learning style that works best for me. This aids me even today as I am constantly learning new things as part of my job that will help me become an ever-better engineer.

10. What do you hope to accomplish in the future?

Whether it be via community service or by helping design a new power plant that reduces global warming emissions, I hope to continuously make the world a better place in every small way that I can.

10 Questions with Kelly Marsh

Cover graphic for Alumni Spotlight featuring Loveland High School graduate Kelly Marsh
Kelly Marsh laughs during a live outdoor report while the anchor speaks from the studio, both appearing on split screens.

1. What is your name, which TSD schools did you attend, and what year did you graduate?

Kelly Marsh, Lucile Erwin Middle School, Loveland High School, class of 2019

2. What have you been doing since graduation, and what is your proudest accomplishment?

I earned my bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism from Metropolitan State University of Denver. In 2023, I began my career as a reporter at WSLS 10 News, an NBC affiliate in Roanoke, VA. My proudest accomplishment has been all the friendships I’ve kept and continue to make as I grow up!

Kelly Marsh and friends, dressed in school spirit gear, pose for a photo at a high school event in a crowded gym

3. What is your best memory of school?

Some of my greatest school memories are tied to events, games, dances, and my involvement in theatre.

4. What was your biggest challenge during school?

Basically, everything related to school. I was a very average student, so the classes were the hardest part. But if it was anything related to extracurriculars, put me in coach.

5. What do you know now that you wish your younger self had known?

I wish my younger self would know that, at the end of the day, everything works out.

Kelly Marsh and a friend raise their arms to celebrate in customized overalls with school spirit designs during a high school football game

6. What advice would you give to students in school now?

To current students: Don’t stress — enjoy the moment! Those four years will pass by quickly.

7. Name one person who changed your life for the better during school and how they did it.

So many people shaped who I was through my time in school, but to list a few, my parents, Karen Bieser, Nicole Stek, and all my friends. They laid the groundwork for my future success.

8. If you could wave a magic wand and change something about your school years, what would it be?

I wouldn’t change a thing. I made lifelong friends and had an incredible time.

Kelly Marsh and a colleague smile behind the news desk in a professional broadcast studio, with cityscape visuals in the background

9. How did school prepare you for what you are doing now?

I was a yapper in school and now I get paid to yap on TV. School gave me the confidence to talk with people and end up telling their stories.

10. What do you hope to accomplish in the future?

I aim to continue in reporting and eventually host a lifestyle TV show, focusing on uplifting news.

10 Questions with Monica Yee

Cover graphic for alumni spotlight featuring Mountain View High School alum Monica Yee
Monica Yee in overalls and Canon camera in hands stands in front of sunflowers

1. What is your name, which TSD schools did you attend, and what year did you graduate?

My name is Monica Yee. I attended New Vision Charter School K-8th grade, went to Mountain View High School all 4 years, and graduated in 2023.

2. What have you been doing since graduation, and what is your proudest accomplishment?

Since graduation, I have been focusing on my photography education at New York Institute for Photography and my photography business. My proudest accomplishments would be being the owner/photographer for Monica Jean Photography and having pictures I have taken on the covers of magazines.

Monica Yee in Mountain View High School band uniform stands next to fellow musician after sporting event

3. What is your best memory of school?

My best memories of school would be marching band or anything band related.

4. What was your biggest challenge during school?

My biggest challenges during school were procrastination and test taking.

5. What do you know now that you wish your younger self had known?

I wish my younger self knew that good things come when least expected and it is important to stay in the present rather than the past or future.

6. What advice would you give to students in school now?

To students that are in school now, I encourage them to do what makes them happy in life. Never take the little things for granted.

Surrounded by family, Monica Yee wears Mountain View High School graduation robes in front of field with trees

7. Name one person who changed your life for the better during school and how they did it.

I have many mentors in my life. I would say my family has always been my biggest support. They have always encouraged me to follow my dream and have given me opportunities to do so.

8. If you could wave a magic wand and change something about your school years, what would it be?

I am not sure that I would change anything from my school years besides having more confidence in myself on an academic level.

Smiling Monica Yee holds dog and leans into significant other

9. How did school prepare you for what you are doing now?

I was in the LISA program at MVHS, so I was able to focus on art the majority of the time. I was also a part of the LINK Leadership program which taught me how to be a leader and get out of my comfort zone.

10. What do you hope to accomplish in the future?

In September 2025, I should receive my diploma and professional photography certification from New York Institute of Photography. Also, to continue to grow my photography business and be a full time photographer.

10 Questions with Wendy Thompson

Alumni Spotlight featuring Loveland High School graduate Wendy Thompson
Wendy Thompson, with family, poses in front of nature trail

1. What is your name, which TSD schools did you attend, and what year did you graduate?

Wendy (Neb) Thompson, Stansberry Elementary School, Conrad Ball Middle School, Loveland High School, class of 1994.

2. What have you been doing since graduation, and what is your proudest accomplishment?

I went to CSU, got my bachelor’s degree in Exercise Sport Science, married my high school sweetheart, and have two amazing kids who are currently in college. I have been teaching at LHS since 2000, where I have coached gymnastics and track, as well as done mental skills training and team building with most of the athletic teams, sponsored FCA and student council. My proudest accomplishment besides my family is all of the state champion athletes I have had the opportunity to coach and work with!

3. What is your best memory of school?

My best memories center around gymnastics and the lifelong friendships built from the sport! I also cherish my friends!

Wendy Thompson stands with students in front of wintry landscape with stone cabin in the background

4. What was your biggest challenge during school?

Math – however, I did have AMAZING teachers!

5. What do you know now that you wish your younger self had known?

I wish I would’ve taken advantage of more opportunities and tried more things. I also wish I would’ve put a little more effort into challenging courses and learning study techniques because the first year of college was ROUGH!

6. What advice would you give to students in school now?

Be grateful for everything, try new things and put yourself out there, work hard in everything, and be kind to EVERYONE – you never know who you will encounter in the future who can either be an ally or enemy in your life!

7. Name one person who changed your life for the better during school and how they did it.

Gary Glover – he was my gymnastics coach and teacher, but as I became an adult so much more than that! He guided me emotionally, physically and spiritually and mentored me in coaching and teaching!

Wendy Thompson, in black robes, stands with Loveland High School graduates in red graduation robes

8. If you could wave a magic wand and change something about your school years, what would it be?

I really wouldn’t change much except I wish I wouldn’t have been so shy and would’ve tried new things.

9. How did school prepare you for what you are doing now?

As a teacher, school prepared me to like school! Also, the teachers inspired me to want to make a difference in the lives of others and give back!

10. What do you hope to accomplish in the future?

I am actually leaving the world of public education and transitioning into a second career in real estate at the end of this school year! In this new adventure, I look forward to impacting people in a new positive way!

10 Questions with Deanna Sloat

Cover graphic for alumni spotlight featuring Deanna Sloat
Deanna Sloat receives 2022 Affiliate of the Year award

1. What is your name, which TSD schools did you attend, and what year did you graduate?

Deanna C. (Perrine) Sloat, St. John’s Catholic School, Conrad Ball Junior High School, Loveland High School. I graduated in 1991.

2. What have you been doing since graduation, and what is your proudest accomplishment?

I worked in banking for 30 years and now I work for the Loveland Chamber of Commerce. I would say my greatest accomplishment is being able to connect with so many people. The role I am in now at the Chamber of Commerce is perfect for me as a connector.

3. What is your best memory of school?

My best memory was working on the yearbook committee for 1989, 1990 and 1991; deadlines and photographs working behind the scenes to get the yearbook ready.

4. What was your biggest challenge during school?

I sure wish they had Geometry in Construction when I was in school. I would have learned a trade and been able to pass and understand geometry.

5. What do you know now that you wish your younger self had known?

Have confidence and believe in yourself.

6. What advice would you give to students in school now?

Put in the work now. You may seem bored or frustrated with life now but it is so much easier to reach for the stars when you work for it.

7. Name one person who changed your life for the better during school and how they did it.

I would say Ms. Sharon Olson. What an amazing leader she was. I sure miss her. She taught history and psychology. After high school we became friends. She always had such confidence in herself, and I always admired that about her. She was always poised and professional. I wanted that for myself and feel I have finally reached that.

8. If you could wave a magic wand and change something about your school years, what would it be?

Math — that was just not my thing. Who would have thought that I would become a banker for 30 years not loving math? Certainly not me!

9. How did school prepare you for what you are doing now?

Networking, connections, and friendships. All throughout my banking career, I learned that networking was the key to getting to where you wanted to be. I am forever grateful to my banking mentors who allowed me to follow in their footsteps to help me achieve my goals.

10. What do you hope to accomplish in the future?

I truly enjoy working for the Loveland Chamber of Commerce. I plan to be a part of this team and continue to support Loveland. I am blessed to be part of such an amazing and dynamic team. I am a cheerleader for Loveland businesses and non-profits, connecting them to other people is what I love. I am thankful to still call Loveland my home after 50 years.

10 Questions with David Powell

Cover graphic for alumni spotlight featuring LHS graduate David Powell

1. What is your name, which TSD schools did you attend, and what year did you graduate?

2. What have you been doing since graduation, and what is your proudest accomplishment?

After college, I got my real estate license, and I have been a realtor for almost 27 years, serving clients in Northern Colorado. My proudest accomplishments are my three sons (Zach, Adam, Kyle), two stepsons (Walker and Will), and meeting my wife Lisa, who works with me at The Group, Inc. My proudest career achievement is the honor of helping people time and time again with one of the biggest decisions they will make in life, which is buying and selling a home.

3. What is your best memory of school?

Friends are the best memory! I was very lucky to have a great friend group to run around with. I still keep in touch with many lifelong friends from school and my best friend (David Stephenson); we met in preschool, and we both still live in Loveland. I also have many great memories of competing on the Loveland High golf team.

4. What was your biggest challenge during school?

Junior high was a bit of a challenge. Leaving elementary school and the realization of growing up, facing puberty, and a good friend moving away all contributed to a rough couple of years. I have always said from my experiences, and now, having raised my own kids, the middle school years are trying times in a kid’s life. God bless middle school teachers; they deserve a pay raise!

5. What do you know now that you wish your younger self had known?

The one thing constant in this world is change! I wish I would have learned to adapt quicker to the fact the world is constantly changing and moving in many different ways. I’m a firstborn who over-processes, which is sometimes a good trait to have and other times a challenge, so adapting to change doesn’t come easy.

6. What advice would you give to students in school now?

I probably sound like a dad now: You can always have good manners [and] show respect to others (even if you disagree with them) no matter their skin color, age, or how much or little money they have. My advice is to learn the true value of relationships and how to be a good friend and don’t sacrifice your character to try and impress others.

7. Name one person who changed your life for the better during school and how they did it.

I had a lot of great teachers and coaches over the years. My fifth-grade teacher, Mr. Heydt, was my first male teacher. I had a lot of growing up to do, and at the time, I didn’t care for him challenging me, and I didn’t really care for his firm approach! Looking back as I’ve gotten older, I truly appreciate him and the lessons he taught me.

A little over a year ago, I sold a home and then a piece of land to my elementary school principal, Mr. Ken Rethmeier. It was an absolute blast to reminisce about the past with him and his wife, Judy, and represent them. Mr Rethmeier is witty and has plenty of hilarious comments to share. Our relationship has come a long way since I was once in his office for getting in trouble in kindergarten!

8. If you could wave a magic wand and change something about your school years, what would it be?

I wouldn’t change much but I wish we would have had an open campus at lunchtime during our high school years. I also wish I wouldn’t have hit my second golf shot in the water on hole #7 at the Olde Course during regionals. It cost me a chance to qualify for state.

9. How did school prepare you for what you are doing now?

School taught me how to deal with success and failure, how to take responsibility for my own actions, and how to persevere during challenging times. What you put into school and life is what you get back. There are no shortcuts to achieving your goals and dreams!

10. What do you hope to accomplish in the future?

I hope to continue to be a positive role model to people I come in contact with. Whether that be in real estate, coaching with our youth, or the Loveland community, I hope I am looked upon as someone who gave back for the greater good.

David Powell with his wife
David Powell wearing red pants, red and white striped tie, and star spangled suit jacket
David Powell with his wife on patio
David Powell with his wife in front of lake
David Powell wearing Oklahoma Football cap and T-shirt

10 Questions with Jennifer Kingston

Cover graphic for alumni spotlight featuring TVHS alumni Jennifer Kingston

1. What is your name, which TSD schools did you attend, and what year did you graduate?

My name is Jennifer Kingston. I moved to Loveland in 1988 and attended Walt Clark and Thompson Valley High School, graduating in 1994.

2. What have you been doing since graduation, and what is your proudest accomplishment?

My life has been full since high school. I attended college, married, and have two amazing children. I started out as a substitute teacher, then was hired and started working at Monroe Elementary School. I ended my ten years at Monroe as the secretary when I was offered an opportunity to work at the district office in Learning Services. Eventually, I moved to my current role in Safety and Security. This is my 18th year in TSD. My proudest accomplishment is my kids!

3. What is your best memory of school?

Some of my best memories of school were at Thompson Valley High School. The staff and students made it so much fun to attend school.

4. What was your biggest challenge during school?

MATH!!!!! I have since overcome the fear, but it was a struggle.

5. What do you know now that you wish your younger self had known?

That I was capable of so much more than I ever thought. Life is about balance. Once you learn how to balance what is important in your life, things become easier.

6. What advice would you give to students in school now?

Never stop! If you get frustrated, that is okay, but failure is NOT an option. Take care of yourself and be kind to yourself. Hold yourself accountable. The saying, show me your friends, and I will show you your future — it’s true! Everyone in this world needs support; choose wisely.

7. Name one person who changed your life for the better during school and how they did it.

I had a ton of mentors while in school. My family and my friends always supported me and my goals. My parents helped me succeed by giving me grace and wisdom and also teaching me accountability.

8. If you could wave a magic wand and change something about your school years, what would it be?

I would make it last a little longer. I wish I would have cherished the time more; it was a wonderful experience for me.

9. How did school prepare you for what you are doing now?

Schooling has helped me be accountable and successful. What I learned the most is to have self-pride, work hard, and help all.

10. What do you hope to accomplish in the future?

I hope to accomplish a sense of pride and success in the young students in our district. Our district is amazing, and I hope to accomplish the simple goal of inspiring students to love learning. Time goes fast — enjoy!!

10 Questions with Samantha Poirier

1. What is your name, which TSD schools did you attend, and what year did you graduate?

My name is Samantha Poirier. I grew up in Berthoud where my parents still live. I went to Ivy Stockwell Elementary, Turner Middle School and Berthoud High School. I graduated in 2005.

2. What have you been doing since graduation, and what is your proudest accomplishment?

I have been going nonstop since I graduated! I went to CSU for two years where I thought I wanted to be an equine veterinarian. Then I moved to Galena, Illinois to become a professional horse trainer. I absolutely loved that job, and did very well at it, but I wanted to pursue a career in Aviation. I moved back to Colorado and began flight school. Working two jobs, I achieved my private fixed wing license from Colorado Contrails in Loveland. I moved to Alaska and then attained my rotorcraft ratings, and gained experience for the next 6 years. I got my commercial license in McMinnville, Oregon and my instrument license in Costa Mesa, California. From everything to drying cherry trees, flying people from their weddings, air tours, wildlife survey and capture, I lived all over gaining hours and experience. In March of 2019, I began my career with REACH Air Medical/UCHealth LifeLine 1 at Medical Center of The Rockies. This is by far my proudest accomplishment: Flying a medical helicopter with a lifesaving crew, to help people.

3. What is your best memory of school?

Some of my best memories of school were riding the bus home with my best friends, doing the sack mask parade at Ivy, and playing in band in high
school.

4. What was your biggest challenge during school?

Fitting in. I never really had a certain group of friends. From playing soccer to being in band to being a horse girl, I always had a challenge finding a certain group of friends to fit in with.

5. What do you know now that you wish your younger self had known?

That I was capable of so much more than I ever thought I could be. I never ever thought as a young girl that I would be capable of being a pilot, let alone fly a lifesaving helicopter.

6. What advice would you give to students in school now?

Never stop following your dreams. Dream big, and follow your dreams. Be your own biggest supporter. Hold yourself accountable. Being persistent and never giving up is most important. Don’t get discouraged, because life will throw you curves. Dust yourself off, and keep looking forward.

7. Name one person who changed your life for the better during school and how they did it.

It was my dad. He is the hardest working, kindest, most selfless person I know. He always worked hard, provided for our family, supported my sister and me, and pushed us to be good people.

8. If you could wave a magic wand and change something about your school years, what would it be?

If I could change something about my school years, I wish I had worried less about figuring out the future and focused more on enjoying that unique time of life. At the same time, I don’t regret studying well and trying hard.

I honestly don’t think I would change much. I truly loved my school years.

9. How did school prepare you for what you are doing now?

Berthoud was a small town and it taught me that it doesn’t matter if you lose or win every soccer or football game – It’s the friendships and relationships that matter.

10. What do you hope to accomplish in the future?

I am helping Larimer County Sheriff’s Office develop an Air Unit for search and rescue operations in northern Colorado on the side of flying EMS. Being a member on the team to help develop this program means a lot to me, and also gives back to the community. I hope to move up in my company management-wise too. I also hope to always keep my helicopter, crew and myself safe on every mission we fly.

10 Questions with Andria Hautamaki

Banner graphic for alumni spotlight featuring TVHS alumni Andria Hautamaki

1. What is your name, which TSD schools did you attend, and what year did you graduate?

My name is Andria Hautamaki. I attended Walt Clark Middle School and I graduated from Thompson Valley High School (TVHS) in 2003.

2. What have you been doing since graduation, and what is your proudest accomplishment?

After high school, I took a gap year in Costa Rica. Next, I attended Wheaton College in Illinois where I majored in English Literature. After finishing my undergraduate degree, I taught high school English as a Second Language (ESL) in Los Angeles, California for two years. Later, I completed my Master’s degree in International Agricultural Development at the University of California, Davis. I currently work as a freelance photographer and writer. As a journalist, it’s rewarding to meet people from different walks of life and share the nuances of their experiences through text and photos. Publications I’ve freelanced for in recent years include Smithsonian Magazine, NPR, National Geographic, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and Western Horseman.

3. What is your best memory of school?

I ran cross country all four years of high school, and our TVHS team was really united. We had a lot of fun together during training, traveling to competitions, and many memorable traditions, such as spaghetti dinners the night before a race.

4. What was your biggest challenge during school?

One of my biggest challenges during school was balancing my various interests! A huge thanks goes to my parents who were present at everything from sporting events to horse shows; they prioritized making time for me and my brother’s school work and extracurricular activities despite their busy work schedules.

5. What do you know now that you wish your younger self had known?

I wish I’d put less pressure on myself to “know what I wanted to do with the rest of my life.” Some people know exactly what they want to do, and that’s great! But a lot of folks, including myself, need time to experiment with different classes or jobs, be honest about what they like and don’t like, and adapt and change course to match their interests. When I was in high school, I felt like there was only one “right” college and degree program out there, and was afraid I’d make the “wrong” choice. In in reality, there were probably a variety of good options. I wish I’d stressed less on making the perfect choice, and focused more on stepping towards what I was naturally interested in, good at, and enjoyed.

6. What advice would you give to students in school now?

Focus on building quality relationships with your peers and with teachers, coaches, or mentors who you connect with and respect. Steer clear of negative friendships or relationships. Spend time with people that encourage you, believe in you, draw out your talents, and help you be your best self.

7. Name one person who changed your life for the better during school and how they did it.

My photography teacher, Scott Sprain, gave me my start in photography and he encouraged me to explore the world with my camera. With Mr. Sprain, I took Photo 1, Photo 2, and then repeated Photo 3 as many times as I could. His classes gave me a strong foundation in photography and I use the skills he taught me every time I’m on an assignment.

I’d also like to thank our cross country and track coaches from 1999-2003 for their support and encouragement, especially Bernadine Knittel, Ernie Derrera, and Jay Klagge. I remember them saying that it’s great if we do well at the next competition, but the biggest success is that we learn how to incorporate exercise into our daily routine for the rest of our life.

8. If you could wave a magic wand and change something about your school years, what would it be?

If I could change something about my school years, I wish I had worried less about figuring out the future and focused more on enjoying that unique time of life. At the same time, I don’t regret studying well and trying hard.

9. How did school prepare you for what you are doing now?

Growing up in Loveland, I had the opportunity to explore various activities, from arts and academics to music and sports. I’m also grateful for local clubs, like my 4-H club, and community events such as the Larimer County Fair. Engaging in these different activities allowed me to discover my passions. Looking back, I see that my early interests in literature, art, and agriculture still frame the work that I do today.

10. What do you hope to accomplish in the future?

I want to continue using my photography and journalism to share stories at the intersection of the environment, agriculture, and rural life. Recently, I’ve learned how to use a border collie to herd cattle — border collies have incredible herding instincts! — and I’d like to hone my ability to communicate better with my dogs.

10 Questions with Erin Sanfeliz

Alumni Spotlight graphic featuring Erin Sanfeliz

1. What is your name, which TSD schools did you attend, and what year did you graduate?

My name is Erin (Schenck) Sanfeliz. I started my Thompson School District school career at Centennial Elementary kindergarten through sixth grade. I went to Bill Reed Junior High School for seventh and eighth grade. Bill Reed at the time was transitioning from a junior high school to a middle school, so the ninth graders had recently began going to high school buildings and sixth graders hadn’t yet left the elementary buildings in Loveland. I graduated from Loveland High School in 1995. This happened to be Loveland High School’s centennial year.

2. What have you been doing since graduation, and what is your proudest accomplishment?

I attended Colorado State University (GO RAMS!) and graduated in 1999 with a degree in Food Science and Human Nutrition. After graduation I took a brief hiatus for a year and then attended a Dietetic Internship at University of Michigan. After graduating from this program, I returned to my beloved home state of Colorado (also had a little something to do with a handsome dude!). I have been a registered dietitian for just over 20 years working in skilled nursing facilities and most recently for the past 13 years in acute care at Banner McKee Medical Center.

My proudest accomplishment is being a Mom; while I don’t always rock it, I always try really hard! And I love my kids fiercely!

3. What is your best memory of school?

I submerged myself in the social life of high school and deeply treasure those memories. I would say my friends are my best memories from high school. Many of us are still in close contact and get together often! I also have wonderful memories of participating in cheerleading and pom, along with anchoring/field reporting for the KLHS broadcasting club.

4. What was your biggest challenge during school?

This is a great question. I think my most honest response would be balancing being a teenager and wanting to have fun, with the responsibilities that came with schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and employment. I recall having to make some “tough” decisions between these compartments of my life.

5. What do you know now that you wish your younger self had known?

I would tell myself to slow down, enjoy being a kid/teenager!

“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”

Ferris Bueller

6. What advice would you give to students in school now?

The same thing I want my kids to know. Have the time of your life, study hard, play hard and ALWAYS BE KIND! You never know what someone is struggling with.

7. Name one person who changed your life for the better during school and how they did it.

I could not narrow it down to one person, so here is a short list and a quick recap of how each inspired me during high school.

  • Becky Langford: I never thought history could be fun, she showed me it could.
  • Gary Light and the DECA marketing club taught me about charisma and how to showcase yourself in a professional setting. I have pulled inspiration from these experiences for the many important “interviews” of my life so far.
  • Ms. Connie Einfalt was such an inspiration to me during KLHS, and my art classes when it was hard to let go of my Type A personality and just let the creative juices flow.

8. If you could wave a magic wand and change something about your school years, what would it be?

I don’t think I would change anything specifically. I think I would instead wave a magic wand to go back to high school in 1995 for one more day!

9. How did school prepare you for what you are doing now?

I loved science always, so I would say that may have guided me toward my current career.

10. What do you hope to accomplish in the future?

I have dabbled in the science/healthcare world all of my adulthood so far. I would like to explore my artsy and creative side again. I always enjoyed my art classes in high school from drawing to sculpture, and jewelry.

Congratulations, Thompson School District graduating classes of 2023.

Graduation ceremonies are a culmination of students’ hard work, dedication, and achievements. As a district, we celebrate this time-honored tradition that every student looks forward to. 

Graduation time is filled with a sense of optimism and excitement, and we want to honor each student as they step into the next phase of their lives.  

Join us in celebrating this major milestone by watching the ceremonies as they are streamed on Thompson School District’s YouTube account.

Graduation Schedule:
5/26 Harold Ferguson High School @ 3 p.m.
5/27 Mountain View High School @ 8:30 a.m.
5/27 Berthoud High School @ 9 a.m.
5/27 Thompson Valley High School @ 12 p.m.
5/27 Loveland High School @ 3:30 p.m.

Again, Congratulations Class of 2023. We are so very proud of you. 

10 Questions with Mike Ball

Alumni Spotlight graphic for Mike Ball, Loveland High School graduate

1. What is your name, which TSD schools did you attend, and what year did you graduate?

I’m Mike Ball. I attended Conrad Ball Jr. High and graduated from Loveland High School (LHS) in 1991.

2. What have you been doing since graduation, and what is your proudest accomplishment?

After graduation from Loveland High School, I attended Colorado State University (CSU), during which time I came back and coached basketball at LHS. Straight out of CSU, I was offered an opportunity to enter the golf industry and turned pro in 1997. I spent the next 17 years playing golf, teaching golf, and managing Ptarmigan Country Club in northern Colorado. I married my wife Kris in 2000, and we have since had three boys, Landon, Kellen, and Braylon. I left the golf industry to spend more time with my family in 2014, and now I work as the State Director for FNIC, the insurance arm of FNBO banks here in northern Colorado.

3. What is your best memory of school?

Mud volleyball tournaments. Ha!

4. What was your biggest challenge during school?

I was a late bloomer, so believing in myself and recognizing my own potential was something I struggled with.

5. What do you know now that you wish your younger self had known?

The world needs all types of people to make it go around. We should spend our time pursuing the things that move us and not worry about trying to be someone we are not.

6. What advice would you give to students in school now?

In high school, and really through your 20s, you should be focused on trying and failing … and trying again, not perfecting. Use this time to find out who you really are and enjoy the process. Life gets serious soon enough!

7. Name one person who changed your life for the better during school and how they did it.

My mom, Jane. While we battled during those years as I tried to establish my independence, she always loved, supported, and encouraged me… and still does.

8. If you could wave a magic wand and change something about your school years, what would it be?

No question, I’d erase the day my friend Dave took his own life. I think often about the man he would be today, coaching his kid’s sports and being a rockstar in the business community. He had no idea how great life was going to be!

9. How did school prepare you for what you are doing now?

LHS was both a competitive and social environment for me, and the development of those skills has served me well in my business and personal life. People often lose sight of how important social skill development is as part of the high school experience, but it is the first thing I now look for in a potential team member at FNIC.

10. What do you hope to accomplish in the future?

I have been fortunate to be involved in many philanthropic endeavors over the years, but I still have a desire to do more. I plan to be a part of something significant in the near future… I just don’t know what that is yet! We shall see.

10 Questions with Heather Hach Hearne

Graphic for Alumni Spotlight with Heather Hach Hearne

1. What is your name, which TSD schools did you attend, and what year did you graduate?

Heather Hach Hearne, I went to Monroe Elementary, Conrad Ball Junior High, and Loveland High School, Class of 1989

2. What have you been doing since graduation, and what is your proudest accomplishment?

I graduated from the Journalism School at the University of Colorado – Boulder in 1993. I worked for the New York Times Denver Bureau as a research assistant and also for Sports and Fitness Publishing in Boulder. I performed for years with Comedy Sports in Denver’s Wynkoop Brewery. I left Colorado for Los Angeles after a horrid (thankfully young) divorce, anxious for a fresh start, intending to try my hand at screenwriting. I won the Disney Screenwriting Fellowship in 1999, which led to writing Freaky Friday. My proudest accomplishment was serving as librettist on Legally Blonde the Musical, opening on Broadway and receiving a Tony nomination.

3. What is your best memory of school?

Getting involved with forensics (speech and debate competition) changed my life. Mr. Roulier was a great teacher, and I found my comedic voice competing in Humor, and I even got to go to State.

4. What was your biggest challenge during school?

I’m not a good math student (that’s putting it mildly!), and it was difficult to excel in writing but be profoundly terrible at math. It was hard to reconcile my brain, how I could feel gifted creatively but persistently do so awful in math class.

5. What do you know now that you wish your younger self had known?

That I’d have my whole life to be an adult and don’t worry so much about being older — it’ll happen soon enough. Enjoy that collagen and youth!

6. What advice would you give to students in school now?

I would tell students to find the people who truly make you feel like yourself and be open to being friends with lots of different people. Don’t waste your time with people who make you feel less.

7. Name one person who changed your life for the better during school and how they did it.

Again, I would credit Mr. Roulier, my Forensics teacher, who encouraged me to explore my funny side. He knew I should switch from the Lincoln Douglas debate to the Humor competition, and he was right. I found my confidence and had a blast performing and meeting like-minded weirdos.

8. If you could wave a magic wand and change something about your school years, what would it be?

I would have gotten a math tutor! Also, I wish I’d tried to become an exchange student in some exotic pocket of the world.

9. How did school prepare you for what you are doing now?

I think Loveland was a grounded, humble place to come from — I’ve never lost my roots. Decency mattered.

10. What do you hope to accomplish in the future?

My novel is going to be published next year (“I Am You”), and I hope to transition to books. I’d also like to continue being curious about the world and people, keep laughing and reading, and traveling and walking my dogs. Not necessarily in that order.

10 Questions with Dr. Jeffrey Ebel

Alumni Spotlight graphic for Dr. Jeffrey Ebel

1. What is your name, which Thompson School District schools did you attend, and what year did you graduate?

Jeff Ebel, I attended Big Thompson Elementary, Walt Clark Middle School, and Mountain View High School. Graduated in 2004

2. What have you been doing since graduation, and what is your proudest accomplishment?

I went to college at Pacific Lutheran University, took two years after graduating to figure out I wanted to go into medicine. After all my medical training, I practice Sports Medicine at the Orthopaedic and Spine Center of the Rockies at our Greeley and Loveland locations. My biggest accomplishment is graduating from medical school.

3. What is your best memory of school?

My best memory from my time in Thompson School District was all the time spent with friends playing sports and winning a baseball state championship at Mountain View High School.

4. What was your biggest challenge during school?

My biggest challenge in school was fracturing my ankle senior year and missing out on football playoffs.

5. What do you know now that you wish your younger self had known?

I wish my younger self had known there are no shortcuts in life. Anything worth achieving or maintaining requires hard work, taking responsibility, and consistency. This includes relationships, your faith, your vocation, and hobbies.

6. What advice would you give to students in school now?

Life can be hard, but it’s still a gift and blessing. There is always time to change it for the better.

7. Name one person who changed your life for the better during school and how they did it.

Jason Klatt was a coach and P.E. teacher who made life fun. Challenged us to be better and grow in all aspects of our lives. He is terrible at badminton, though!

8. If you could wave a magic wand and change something about your school years, what would it be?

I would love to go back and put more time into certain relationships from my time in school. People are always worth investing in.

9. How did school prepare you for what you are doing now?

Thompson School District set the groundwork for teaching me how to learn. Whether it’s medical school or any profession, knowing how to learn is important.

10. What do you hope to accomplish in the future?

I hope to provide high-quality care for our community for years to come and continue to give back to the Thompson School District sidelines with sports coverage since it’s where my passion for sports started.