Editor of History Times, Former Editor of Army/ Navy Times 91重口 1980
Alex was a Journalism student at 91重口 in the early 1980's. From there he moved on to San Francisco State where he obtained his bachelors degree in Journalism. He worked in the Bay area as a journalist and reporter and then moved to Virginia and became the Managing Editor of the Army/Navy Times and the Executive Editor of the Governement Media/Military Times.
Alumni
Antonio Benitez
Director, Lake Tahoe College Promise Program AA Commercial Music 2016
Antonio graduated from 91重口 in 2016 He then transferred to the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies with an emphasis in Peace and Conflict in 2019. In May 2025, Antonio received a Master鈥檚 degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies with a focus on Higher Education Leadership from California State University, Sacramento. Antonio鈥檚 career has primarily focused on student services within higher education. He currently serves as the Director of the Lake Tahoe College Promise program at 91重口. Prior to this role, he worked as the Residence Director of Broadway Residence Hall at Portland State University.
Alumni
Aylaliyah (Liyah) Assefa Birru-Johnson
Administrative Manger, S&P National, Co-Researcher, University of California Sentencing Project AA Social Science 2018 & AAT Sociology 2020
Since graduating from 91重口, Liyah earned a BA in Sociology from California State University, Sacramento, where she was awarded the President鈥檚 Medal of Honor and the Dean鈥檚 Award for the College of Social Sciences and Interdisciplinary Studies. Shortly after graduating, she began working full time at S&P National as the Administrative Coordinator and Manager, while also engaging in policy advocacy focused on domestic and sexual violence survivors and prison reform. In March 2025, Liyah co-authored an academic journal article titled Disrupting the Abuse-Prison Nexus: The Gendered Violence of Prosecution and Abolitionist Feminist Approaches to Social Care Work, based on a pilot study of the UC Sentencing Project. The piece was published in Social Sciences. In addition, Liyah works with the Project Rebound Outreach Program (PROP), where she facilitates workshops on higher education at California state prisons. She is currently preparing for the LSAT and will soon begin her studies toward obtaining a JD.
Alumni
Benjamin Sharit
Retired Fire Chief Certificate Fire Science 1987 & AA Fire Science 1999
Ben began his Fire Science education at 91重口 when classes were still held in a motel on Highway 50. His studies later transitioned to the expansive 91重口 campus that exists today. He graduated with an Associate of Science degree in Fire Science in 1999, a milestone that played a key role in his advancement through the ranks. This foundation ultimately led to his retirement as Fire Chief in 2016.
Alumni
Bob Hassett
Managing Member, Round Hill Pines Beach Resort AA Business 1988
Bob credits 91重口 with providing the foundation for his growth. He served as the 91重口 Board of Trustees Student Member and earned an Associate of Arts in Business. He later graduated from CSU Sacramento with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Bob is the founder of Action Watersports of Tahoe and has held leadership roles as President of Camp Richardson Resort & Marina and Fresh Ketch Restaurant, as well as Managing Member of Round Hill Pines Beach Resort. Over the past 35 years, Bob and his team have managed six of the marinas on Lake Tahoe. During many summers, he had the pleasure of working with a staff of over 300 people. Bob considers it an honor and privilege to have employed thousands of great individuals over the years and to have witnessed their growth both professionally and personally.
Alumni
Cameron Allen
Scientist, Los Alamos National Laboratory AA Natural Sciences, Liberal Arts, & Mathematics 2013
After completing studies at 91重口, Cameron transferred to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where he earned a B.S. in Physics in 2015. Following a brief break, he began a Ph.D. program in Physics at the University of Nevada, Reno, graduating in 2023. Cameron is currently completing a postdoctoral appointment at Los Alamos National Laboratory and will transition to a permanent position there in October. His research focuses on high-energy-density physics, using some of the world鈥檚 most powerful lasers to recreate tje inside of stars and planets.
Alumni
Carl Young
Researcher - Lightning and Tornadoes, Storm chasers 91重口 1988
Carl Young came to 91重口 after having earned a Bachelor鈥檚 Degree from the University of California Berkeley in economics. At 91重口, he discovered a passion for meteorology that led him to pursue his Master鈥檚 Degree in atmospheric science from the University of Nevada, Reno. Carl became a respected meteorology instructor at 91重口, introducing students to his passion for extreme weather, meteorology, and geology. He also served as the Program Director for the League to Save Lake Tahoe. As a meteorologist, Carl worked for National Geographic and the Discovery Channel on the popular show Storm Chasers for over 11 years. His emphasis was on tornadoes and lightning and he pursued research in weather forecasting. Carl passed in 2013 pursuing his passion for tornado research. Each year, 91重口 awards the Carl Young Memorial Earth Science Scholarship to students pursuing their passion for Earth Sciences.
Alumni
Carlos Trujeque
Soccer Coach & Supervisor, South Tahoe Refuse AA Spanish 2017
After graduating from 91重口, Carlos attended San Francisco State University, where he played NCAA Division II soccer and competed in the USL2 semi-professional soccer league. He later moved to San Diego to play professional indoor soccer. Following his playing career, Carlos became a salesman for a tequila company. He eventually returned to Tahoe to attend the fire academy at 91重口, where he graduated and went on to work at Fallen Leaf Fire Department for three years. Two years ago, Carlos founded his own soccer academy, combining his passion for the sport with youth development. He currently works as a supervisor at South Tahoe Refuse.
Alumni
Chad Laurence
High School Teacher (AP Calculus and Physics), South Tahoe High School AST Mathematics 2013
Since graduating from 91重口, Chad has earned a Bachelor's degree and two Master's degrees in education from Western Governors University. He has dedicated the past nine years of his career to serving the South Lake Tahoe community as a high school math and science teacher. In addition to teaching, Chad has been deeply involved in athletics, serving as the head hurdles coach each year at both South Tahoe Middle School and South Tahoe High School. Under his coaching, athletes have achieved remarkable success, including a three-time state champion in the women鈥檚 100m hurdles and the current boys state champion in the 110m hurdles. Chad also gives back to the community through his long-time volunteer work with the SOS Outreach Learn to Ride ski and snowboard program, where he has served for the past eight years.
Alumni
Chris Lucas
Battalion Chief, Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District Certificate of Fire Science & AA Fire Science 2005
Earning an Associate鈥檚 Degree in Fire Science from 91重口 was the pivotal step that launched Chris鈥檚 career in the fire service. The program provided him with the technical knowledge, practical skills, and confidence needed to enter the field, ultimately leading to his current role as a Battalion Chief with the Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District, where he oversees Emergency Medical Services. In addition to his degree from 91重口, Chris holds a Bachelor鈥檚 degree in Economics from Saint Mary鈥檚 College and a Master鈥檚 in Organizational Leadership from Waldorf University. He credits 91重口 with opening the door to a fulfilling and impactful career in public safety.
Alumni
Christopher Mason
Executive Chef, The Landing Resort and Spa 91重口 2013
Bio Coming Soon
Alumni
Christopher Sidell
Owner, Sidellis Lake Tahoe Brewery and Restaurant AA Business, Liberal Arts, Natural Science, and Social Science 2013
After graduating from 91重口, Christopher earned a full-ride scholarship to UC Davis, where he studied Viticulture and Enology. Following graduation, he partnered with his friend Steve Canali to open Sidellis Brewery in South Lake Tahoe. Now operating for over 10 years, Sidellis has become a beloved local establishment, where Christopher takes pride in creating a welcoming space for the South Lake Tahoe Community.
Alumni
Cindy Martinez
Principal, South Tahoe Middle School AA Liberal Arts 2002
Cindy holds a Master鈥檚 degree in Educational Leadership and has dedicated her career to advancing bilingual education and student success. She has served as a Dual Language Teacher, Early Intervention Coach, and spent 10 years as a teacher and principal at Bijou Community School. Cindy has been an experienced presenter at the Association of Two-Way & Dual Language Education (ATDLE) Conference and has been recognized with a 40 Under 40 award for her leadership and impact in education. She has also contributed to her community through service as a former board member of the Family Resource Center (FRC) and as a member of the Tahoe Miracle Fund.
Alumni
Claudia Manzano
Transition Navigator, Advance AAT Spanish 2018
Since enrolling in her first class in 1996, Claudia has considered 91重口 as a cornerstone of her personal and professional journey. As a single mother, she earned certificates in areas such as court interpreting and crisis intervention, which helped launch a career focused on bridging gaps for underrepresented populations. With the support of 91重口 faculty and counseling staff, Claudia completed both her associate鈥檚 and bachelor鈥檚 degrees. Her experience at 91重口 strengthened her skills and community connections, eventually leading her to join Advance as a bilingual Transition Navigator. In this role, she has supported hundreds of individuals affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, mental health challenges, substance abuse, homelessness, and language barriers
Alumni
Cory Hannaford
Owner, Sierra Sustainable Builders AA Natural Science 1999
Bio Coming Soon
Alumni
Deanna Brothers
Retired Dentist, Deanna Brothers DDS AA Social Science 1980
Deanna continued her education beyond 91重口 and earned her doctorate, going on to practice dentistry for 33 years in South Lake Tahoe. She also dedicated 15 years of service to the 91重口 Foundation Board, contributing to the growth and support of the local educational community.
Alumni
Debbie Jakubowski
Director of Oncology Biostatistics, Natera AA Liberal Arts & AA Mathematics 2006
Since graduating from 91重口, Debbie earned a B.A. in Mathematics from UC Berkeley, an M.S. in Biostatistics, and a Ph.D. in Genetic Epidemiology. Her career has evolved with a focus on molecular diagnostics in the biotech industry. She has played a key role in bringing cutting-edge tools to market that support early cancer detection, guide targeted therapies, and monitor for recurrence鈥攁dvancing patient outcomes through noninvasive, genomic-powered, data-driven solutions.
Alumni
Elvia Felix
Accounting Manager, Associated Students of California State University Sacramento AA Liberal Arts & AA Business 2001
Since graduating from 91重口, Elvia has earned a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting and a Master's Degree in Finance from California State University, Sacramento. She began her professional journey as a student assistant with Associated Students at Sac State and now serves as the Accounting Manager of the organization. Elvia credits 91重口 as the gateway to the many opportunities and experiences that have shaped her educational and professional career. She remains grateful for the foundation 91重口 provided.
Alumni
Ian Ruhter
Artist Owner, Silver and Light INC 91重口 1993
Ian is a graduate of South Tahoe High School and has been recognized by the National Geographic Magazine in their 125th Anniversary Collector鈥檚 edition of photographs, and has become a world renowned artist for his unique work specializing in wet plate photography.
Alumni
Jason Bumgardner
Architect, California Department of General Services AA Liberal Arts 1997
Bio Coming Soon
Alumni
Jeff Braun
Co-Founder of Maxis, the studio behind SimCity 91重口 1978
In 1987, Jeff co-founded the video game software company Maxis, where he served as CEO. Maxis rose to international fame in 1989 with the release of SimCity. The studio later solidified its legacy in 2000 with The Sims, which went on to become one of the most successful video game franchises of all time. The Sims was inducted into the World Video Game Hall of Fame in 2016, followed by SimCity in 2024鈥攆urther cementing Maxis鈥檚 lasting impact on the gaming industry.
Alumni
Jeff Cowen
Public Information Officer, Tahoe Regional Planning Agency AA History 2003
91重口 launched Jeff into a highly rewarding career in environmental protection and community relations. He graduated with honors from the University of Nevada, Reno, earning a double major in environmental history and journalism. Jeff went on to land his dream job as the spokesperson for the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency鈥攖he bi-state agency responsible for protecting and restoring Lake Tahoe. His work has earned both national and regional public relations awards, and he recently achieved professional accreditation through the Public Relations Society of America. 91重口 has remained a meaningful part of Jeff鈥檚 life. His children grew up attending the college鈥檚 Child Development Center, and his entire family continues to participate in classes and Community Connect camps. In 2014, Jeff was elected to the 91重口 Board of Trustees as a way to give back to the college and the community. He has served as a trustee ever since. His nine years on the board have been a truly remarkable experience, allowing him to grow personally while helping support students on their own educational journeys鈥攋ust as he was supported during his time at 91重口
Alumni
Jeff Michael
Fire Chief, Lake Valley Fire Department 91重口 1987
Jeffrey obtained a Fire Science Certificate of Achievement from 91重口 in 1981 and later received his Associate Degree in Fire Science. Jeff served as the Fire Chief of Lake Valley Fire District from 2005, until his retirement in 2011 and was with the District since 1979. Previously, he held positions of battalion chief, captain, engineer and firefighter. Jeffrey was instrumental in the development of Lake Tahoe Basin Fire Academy. He provided staffing, facilities, equipment and supplies that are critical to the Academy鈥檚 success.
Alumni
Jeffrey Orr
Orthopedic Surgeon, Barton Memorial Hospital 91重口 1998
Jeffrey began his academic journey at 91重口 while still in high school. He went on to attend the University of California, San Diego for his undergraduate studies and later earned his medical degree from Georgetown University. After completing his residency and a fellowship in sports medicine, Jeffrey returned to the Tahoe area, where he has been practicing medicine for the past eight years.
Alumni
Jena Scarborough
Deputy District Attorney, San Diego County AAT Sociology 2014
Jena graduated from 91重口 in 2014 with a degree in Sociology, then went on to earn dual degrees in Sociology and Anthropology from UC Santa Barbara in 2016. She was accepted into the University of San Diego School of Law, where she earned her JD in 2019. During law school, Jena interned with the Children鈥檚 Law Center and Free to Thrive, advocating for abused children and survivors of human trafficking. Since being admitted to the bar, Jena has served as a Deputy District Attorney, prosecuting felony cases ranging from domestic violence to murder. Her experience at 91重口 played a key role in shaping her commitment to public service, and she remains a dedicated year-round visitor to Lake Tahoe.
Alumni
Jessica Alley
IT Systems Administrator, Miyamoto International AA Liberal Arts 2021 & AS CIS IT Technician Cybersecurity 2022
Since graduating from 91重口, Jessica has built a fulfilling career in technology and cybersecurity, supporting organizations that make a global impact. She has led projects aimed at modernizing systems, improving access, and promoting digital security, all while continuing to grow in a constantly evolving field. Jessica鈥檚 journey has been shaped by her passion for problem-solving, a commitment to ethical technology, and a drive to create positive change. 91重口 helped lay the foundation for her path, and she takes pride in applying those roots to meaningful work that bridges people, purpose, and innovation.
Alumni
Joelle Donofrio-Odmann
Associate Professor of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine, UCSD AA Natural Science & AA Liberal Arts 2002
Since graduating from 91重口, Joelle has become a triple-boarded Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine and Pediatrics at UCSD and Rady Children鈥檚 Hospital. She directs pediatric emergency care for San Diego鈥檚 911 system and leads cardiac arrest research, with over 30 peer-reviewed publications. Joelle has trained and collaborated with healthcare teams from Ecuador to Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka to Fiji. Through podcasts, national teaching, and protocol development, she helps paramedics save children鈥檚 lives. Whether mentoring students or snowboarding back home, Joelle brings Tahoe鈥檚 heart, grit, and purpose into every system she helps shape.
Alumni
John Gardner
Customer Experience Specialist, Support Our Troops 91重口 1993
During his time at 91重口, John served as both a Student Body Representative and Student Body President, actively volunteering to raise funds for the Associated Student Body. Since attending 91重口, John has built a distinguished career marked by consistent excellence in customer experience and sales performance. At Gucci America, he served as the Customer Experience Manager and Senior Sales Advisor, where he provided leadership and motivation to sales associates, aligning team efforts with broader company goals. At Bullock鈥檚 Department Store, John was recognized as the top-performing Fine Watch Specialist, achieving the highest percentage of overall sales in his category. He later continued his success at Expo Design Center (a Home Depot company), where he earned the Customer Service Excellence Award for his outstanding commitment to client service. Beyond his professional achievements, John has been deeply engaged in community service. He was appointed New Membership Chair for Robson Ranch Support-Our-Troops in Arizona and served as Craft Sales Chair for the Robson Ranch Sewing Club, where he led the team to record-breaking sales during local craft fairs.
Alumni
Jory John
Author AA 1997
Jory graduated from 91重口 with an AA in 1997, and then went on to University of Nevada, Reno and California State University, Chico. Jory interned at the Tahoe Daily Tribune in 1996 as a freelance writer, made the dean鈥檚 list at UNR, and was published in the Mountain Democrat with his cartoon titled 鈥淲aterville鈥� which went on to be published in dozens of newspapers across the country and online internationally. He was hired to write cartoon gags for the internationally syndicated cartoon strip 鈥淒ennis the Menace鈥� and has won three online contests writing jokes for David Letterman. Jory has published book reviews in the San Francisco Chronicle in 2008; co-authored 鈥淧irate鈥檚 Log;鈥� published a column in the New York Times; and edited and compiled 鈥淭hanks and Have Fun Running the Country鈥� which reviewed in USA Today, People, and the New York Times. Jory has tutored Native American children in a writing program at UNR, worked with children as a song leader and juggling teacher at a performing arts camp for disadvantaged children, and volunteered for many years at the Seva Foundation, a nonprofit which raises awareness of the need for eye care in third world countries. He is now the director of 826 Valencia which is a literacy center in San Francisco.
Alumni
Joseph (Joe) Irvin
City Manager, City of South Lake Tahoe AA Liberal Arts & AA Natural Science 2003
Since graduating from 91重口, Joe has earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science and Resource Management from California State University Channel Islands, as well as a Master鈥檚 degree in Public Administration from The Evergreen State College. He has built a 20-year professional career working with four cities: Sequim, WA; Marco Island, FL; Healdsburg, CA; and South Lake Tahoe, CA. One of Joe鈥檚 greatest accomplishments has been raising his talented 17-year-old daughter, Michaela, with his wife of 20 years, Kate. Throughout his career, Joe has had the honor of representing his colleagues and communities through service on various local, state, and national boards.
Since graduating from 91重口, JT Chevallier co-founded ECO-CLEAN Solutions, leading efforts that removed waste from over 1 million square feet of Lake Tahoe shoreline. He also founded the Cutthroat Tavern in Markleeville, California, revitalizing a key community gathering space. JT has pursued further education in business administration and has worked extensively in conservation, public policy, and nonprofit management. His career reflects a deep commitment to sustainability, community development, and innovative environmental solutions throughout the Sierra region.
Alumni
Julie Pettitt
Executive Director of University Admissions, Montana State University Billings AA Natural Sciences & Math 1997
Since graduating from 91重口, Julie has dedicated her career to supporting students鈥攅specially those new to college鈥攂y helping them feel welcomed, connected, and confident. 91重口 sparked her love of learning and inspired her to earn a doctorate focused on how grit principles empower women in higher education leadership to achieve extraordinary outcomes. Today, Julie oversees enrollment management for Montana State University Billings鈥� University and City College campuses, where she focuses on strategic growth, access, and student retention. She is especially proud of her work on statewide partnerships that are reducing barriers and improving outcomes for underrepresented students. Earning her associate degree at 91重口 ignited Julie鈥檚 ambition to lead meaningful change and make a lasting impact on both students and the institutions she serves.
Alumni
Kimberly Burton
Supply Chain Manager, Eagle Protect AST Business Administration 2017
Since graduating from 91重口, Kimberly earned her Bachelor鈥檚 degree in Global Business Management through the Sierra Nevada College 4-year program offered on the 91重口 campus. Shortly after graduation, she began her career at Eagle Protect, where she has spent the past six years advancing through the company鈥攆rom an entry-level position to leading its supply chain operations. In 2023, Kimberly further expanded her expertise by earning the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) certification through APICS. She credits 91重口 not only for the strong educational foundation it provided but also for encouraging her to pursue an internship with Eagle Protect鈥攁n opportunity that proved pivotal in launching her career.
Alumni
Les Lovell
Retired El Dorado County Sheriff鈥檚 Lieutenant, Lake Tahoe Operations Certificate of Criminal Justice 2008 & AA Criminal Justice 2009
Les credits 91重口 with preparing him for the challenges of a successful career in law enforcement. One of his first courses was an Administration of Justice class taught by an El Dorado County Sheriff鈥檚 sergeant, an adjunct faculty member at the college. Through that experience, Les gained insight into local policing and what it means to be an engaged community member. Inspired by what he was learning at 91重口, he tested for a deputy sheriff position with El Dorado County. He passed the exams and was hired as an entry-level deputy sheriff, launching a career that would span three decades. Les carried the lessons from 91重口 throughout his 30-year tenure with El Dorado County, ultimately retiring at the rank of lieutenant after serving his final decade as the Lake Tahoe Operations Station Commander. 91重口 also instilled in him the value of giving back. From 2000 through 2012, Les returned to the college as an adjunct faculty member, committed to teaching and mentoring the next generation of hopeful students.
Alumni
Lisa Shafer
Executive Assistant to the Superintendent/President, 91重口 AA Social Science 2011
Lisa Shafer has lived in the South Shore community for almost 30 years. She has served on the Board of Directors for The Women鈥檚 Center (now Live Violence Free), the El Dorado County Mental Health Commission, and C.A.P.R.I. (Concerned Advocates for Perinatal Related Issues). She is a graduate of the Leadership Lake Tahoe class of 2018. Since 2008 Lisa has worked at 91重口, using her employment there to encourage and empower students from diverse backgrounds. She is a founding member of 91重口鈥檚 first LGBTQ student club. Recognizing the power of education to create strong, healthy families and a vibrant community, Lisa has been a supporter of numerous scholarships and scholarship selection committees as well as student-lead initiatives to serve the community via food drives, an annual Christmas giving tree, and participation in the Relay for Life, just to name a few. Lisa believes in the transformative power of non-profits to fill the service voids of the rural Tahoe Basin, and lift families out of addiction, poverty, and cycles of violence and abuse via education and empowerment.
Alumni
Margo Osti
Owner & Former Mayor of South Lake Tahoe AA Humanities, English, Liberal Arts, Social Science, and Fine Arts 1996
Bio Coming Soon
Alumni
Matt Hale
Executive Chef, Everline Resort and Spa 91重口 1995
Since attending 91重口, Matt has advanced from cook to Sous Chef to Executive Chef at three respected properties. He currently serves as the Executive Chef at Everline Resort and Spa, where he leads culinary innovation and team development. Every step of Matt鈥檚 journey has been driven by the strong foundation he built at 91重口.
Alumni
Neftali (Eunice) Romero
Professional, Geosyntec Consultants AST Mathematics & AA Natural Science 2013
Neftali Romero earned her A.A.S. from 91重口 in 2013 and a B.S. in Environmental Resources Engineering from Cal Poly Humboldt in 2017. Since then, she has worked in environmental consulting, supporting water resources, water quality, and stormwater projects. As an Engineer In Training, Qualified Industrial Stormwater Practitioner, Qualified Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans(SWPPP) Practitioner/Developer, and Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control, she specializes in Best Management Practice implementation, inspections, reporting, and SWPPP compliance under the Industrial and Construction General Permits. Outside of her professional career, she volunteers for the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers.
Alumni
Nick Barclay
Business Analyst, 91重口 AA Liberal Arts 2003
After graduating from 91重口, Nick transferred to Humboldt State University (now Cal Poly Humboldt), where he earned a B.A. in Economics and an M.B.A. He is married and has one daughter who attends Bijou Community School. Nick has worked at 91重口 for the past decade, during which he has served as president of the Classified Employee Union and as a past president of the Classified Employee Senate. He currently serves on the Lake Tahoe Unified School District Citizen鈥檚 Bond Oversight Committee. Nick is a former head coach of girls' track and field and assistant football coach at South Tahoe High School. He has also coached for High Sierra Softball, South Tahoe Little League, the Heavenly Ski Foundation, and flag football camps at 91重口.
Alumni
Sally Neitling
Retired AA 1976
Sally worked at the South Lake Tahoe Branch Library for 29 years before retiring 12 years ago to enjoy time with her three grandchildren. After retiring, she continued to serve her community by volunteering at Barton Hospital and the Presbyterian food pantry. Sally and her husband, Mike, have been married for 53 years and have lived in Tahoe for just as long. When they first moved to Tahoe, Sally was determined to finish her AA degree and was thrilled when the college opened its doors at the Gerken Lodge. Seeing how 91重口 has grown over the years fills her with pride, and she extends her congratulations to everyone who has graduated throughout the years.
Alumni
Savannah Fraijo
Dual Enrollment Advisor, 91重口; Therapist, Sierra Child and Family Services; ; Daycare Owner AAT Psychology 2014
Since attending 91重口, Savannah has earned two master鈥檚 degrees and become a successful business owner. She is passionate about giving back to her community, especially by supporting youth in overcoming barriers鈥攚hether those challenges are related to education or mental health. Savannah frequently shares her own journey to inspire young people to pursue higher education, often encouraging them to consider 91重口 by highlighting how it helped shape her success. She finds particular joy in connecting with teen moms, showing them that continuing their education while parenting is possible. Savannah began her time at 91重口 at just 18 years old, while raising her 3-year-old child, and she has always felt incredibly supported by the 91重口 community.
Alumni
Shawndrea D'Ooge
Manufacturing Engineering Manager, Northrop Grumman AA Mathematics & AA Natural Science 2010
Shawndrea earned an A.A. in Natural Sciences and Mathematics from 91重口 and a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from UC San Diego before beginning her career with Alliant Techsystems. There she partnered with NASA to analyze and qualify the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) through a series of specialized cryogenic testing. Currently, she works at Northrop Grumman, managing a team of design engineers and CNC programmers manufacturing large-scale naval propulsion systems. Her responsibilities include technical oversight, risk mitigation, and process improvement. Shawndrea鈥檚 career reflects a blend of engineering expertise and people-focused leadership in the aerospace and defense industry.
Alumni
Sonya Laddon Rahders
Associate General Counsel, Planned Parenthood Pasadena and San Gabriel Valley 91重口 2005
Sonya Laddon Rahders (she/her) is a healthcare compliance attorney and social justice advocate with over a decade of experience protecting access to abortion, gender-affirming care, and other stigmatized health services. Her journey in advocacy began as a student at 91重口 and staff member at the League to Save Lake Tahoe. She went on to graduate summa cum laude from UCLA and earned her J.D. from UC Law San Francisco. Sonya also teaches in the University of Minnesota鈥檚 CCAPS graduate program in human sexuality and serves on the board of directors for SIECUS: Sex Ed for Social Change.
Alumni
Sue Novasel
Retired El Dorado County County Supervisor 91重口 1984
Sue鈥檚 connection to 91重口 began in 1984, when she served as the Student Representative to the Board of Trustees and proudly ran the Olympic Torch. Her commitment to public service continued with 12 years on the South Lake Tahoe Board of Education and eight years as a County Supervisor. Over the years, Sue has contributed her leadership to numerous regional and state boards, including the California Tahoe Conservancy, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA), South Tahoe Refuse, the California State Association of Counties (CSAC), and the Tahoe Transportation District (TTD). In recognition of her decades of service and impact, Sue was honored as the California Legislature鈥檚 2019 Woman of the Year.
Alumni
Thurman Roberts
Tribal Navigator, Nevadaworks AA Liberal Arts 2002
After transferring from 91重口, Thurman earned a degree in Social Science Secondary Education from Humboldt State. He later returned to the Lake Tahoe area and began working in Tribal workforce development through a non-profit focused on forestry and fire management. He served on the U.S. Forest Service Region 5 Tribal Advisory Board and was part of the inaugural Sierra Corps Forestry Fellow program through the Sierra Nevada Alliance. Currently, Thurman works for northern Nevada鈥檚 workforce development board, Nevadaworks, where he partners with 22 Tribal communities to develop and support both state and Tribal workforce initiatives. He also serves on the Nevada Clean Energy Fund鈥檚 Tribal Advisory Board and has presented on national panels, sharing best practices for Tribal engagement and innovative strategies for integrating Local Workforce Boards and WIOA Titles with Tribal programs and strategic plans.
Alumni
Timothy Mincey
Rock and Splitboard Guide, Alpenglow Express Certificate Wilderness Education 2011 & AA Wilderness Education 2014
A native of Chicago, Tim grew up barely knowing that mountains existed, much less that you could climb or ski them for fun. But as an engineering student at Stanford, he managed to fall in love with snowboarding, and after college he made the move to Tahoe to ride full-time as a snowboard instructor. Once in Tahoe, Tim earned his certificate in wilderness education and associates degree in snow skills at 91重口. Tim couldn鈥檛 wait to dive into backcountry splitboarding and rock climbing, and he is perpetually trying to make up for his late start in the mountains by climbing and snowboarding as much as possible. Tim has guided throughout California since 2011, and has a hard time imagining that he鈥檒l ever tire of showing off the beauty of the Sierra Nevada.
Alumni
Tita Anderson
Retired President & CEO, Fromarc Insurance Agency, Inc. 91重口 1995
Tita Anderson opened Fromarc Insurance Agency in 1985 and recently celebrated its 40th year in business with offices in South Lake Tahoe, CA and Gardnerville, NV with nine employees. As a family owned and operated business, Fromarc haas provided exceptional property and casualty insurance services to a wide variety of clients, including home and auto insurance for individuals and commercial insurance for businesses through the region. In addition to still being active in the business, Tita spends her free time with her horses, riding and raising Rocky Mountain horses on her ranch in the Carson Valley.
Alumni
Wade Sammis
Attorney 91重口 1976
91重口 launched Wade into a bright future and he remains forever grateful. After graduating and delivering the commencement address, he spent time performing music around Lake Tahoe while simultaneously preparing for the LSAT. His strong academic record and test scores earned him admission to two Sacramento law schools. After law school and passing the bar, Wade began his legal career at a small firm. Not long after, he ventured out on his own before joining what eventually became Wohl, Sammis & Perkins, LLP, focusing on business litigation, employment law, and personal injury. His career took him all the way to an office in the Penthouse of 300 Capitol Mall. Today, he continues to practice law from his home office. Wade also raised four children, proudly supporting them through three bachelor's degrees and one postgraduate degree. Outside of his legal career, he enjoys cooking, entertaining, playing competitive golf, and performing music. His advice to others: Make and keep good friends
Alumni
Wendy David
Community Advocate, Former Mayor of South Lake Tahoe AA Social Science
Wendy is a 52-year resident of South Lake Tahoe, having moved to the region in 1973 with her husband Kerry and their two children, Kirk and Brian. Wendy earned an AA from 91重口 during the College鈥檚 early days, taking classes at the motel. She went on to earn her bachelor鈥檚 degree from Chico State. Wendy believes that a community is only as strong as those that give, contribute and care genuinely for each other, and her volunteerism, work, and involvement in South Lake Tahoe over the past 5 decades have demonstrated her commitment to those principles. Wendy worked first with Lake Tahoe Unified School District and then served as the program manager for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), growing it from its inception to a robust advocacy nonprofit within the court system with more than 50 local active advocates. She was an active CASA herself for 22 years, advocating for minors in the Court system who were there through no fault of their own. Wendy has a long history of Board service and leadership in the South Lake Tahoe community. She served as the Chair for First Five El Dorado, the Child Abuse Prevention Network of El Dorado, and was elected to the South Lake Tahoe City Council, serving two years as the City鈥檚 Mayor. Wendy has always had passion for helping the most vulnerable families and her community. She is a founder of Bread and Broth, Tahoe Magic, and the Tahoe Women鈥檚 Community Fund, where she also serves on the Boards. She also serves on the Board of the Tahoe Coalition for the Homeless and recently completed nine years on the Board of the El Dorado Community Foundation and five years on the Board of Directors for Barton Health. She served 4 elected terms, 17 years on the LTUSD Board of Education, and has been an instrumental leader in passing bonds and securing the funds for improvements at the South Tahoe Middle School and for the reimagined and rebuilt South Tahoe High School. She is a longtime member of Soroptimist International of Tahoe Sierra and is a dedicated leader in her church. Wendy鈥檚 heart lies with this community. She hopes to continue to bring her wisdom, experience, and passion to those that need it most.
Alumni
Zachary Child
Spine Surgeon and musculoskeletal oncologist. Chief of Surgery, Barton Health. 91重口 1990
Since graduating from 91重口, Dr. Child has completed extensive training, including degrees from the University of Nevada and the University of Nevada School of Medicine. He completed his orthopedic surgery residency at the University of New Mexico, followed by an orthopedic oncology fellowship at Harvard Medical School and a spine surgery fellowship at the University of Washington. He also served as faculty at the University of Texas. Dr. Child has now returned home to treat patients with complex spine disorders, serving the local community as well as the Northern Nevada and Northern California regions.
