Friday, February 21, 2025 | Class of 2008 Dustin Held (Environmental Geology, '08), has been appointed as Environmental Division Manager at HRL. With over 15 years of experience in environmental compliance, he brings extensive expertise and strong industry connections to drive the expansion of the company's network and workforce. Learn more here...
Wednesday, February 19, 2025 Alumna Annette "Nettie" Turner was recently featured in Durango Herald "And the West is History" for her achievements as a pilot in the All-Woman Transcontinental Air Race. Photo courtesy of La Plata County Historical Society Photo Collections. Read more here...
Friday, January 31, 2025 | Class of 2014 Sky Izzo (Biology '14) is blazing a trail for Indigenous athletes! As a top-10 finisher at the USATF Cross Country National Championships, her journey is a testament to resilience, representation, and determination. Beyond competition, she inspires Native youth through running and fitness with Wings of America—all while balancing life as a full-time mom. Continue Reading more here...
Tuesday, January 28, 2025 | Class of 1996 Greg Caton (Political Science, '96) has been appointed interim city manager for Scottsdale, Arizona. With over 25 years of municipal government experience, including roles as city manager in Grand Junction, Colorado and assistant city manager in Durango, Greg brings a wealth of expertise to the position. Congratulations to Greg on this well-deserved opportunity! Read more about his impressive career and new role, here.
Monday, January 27, 2025 Rashinda Billie (Education & Gender Studies '14, Graduate Studies '24), who earned her Master of Arts in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education in 2024 from Fort Lewis College, has been awarded the prestigious national Milken Educator Award. This honor, often called the "Oscars of Teaching," includes a $25,000 cash prize and membership in the national Milken Educator Network. Rashinda is New Mexico's sole recipient this year, recognized for her unwavering commitment to her students and classroom. The Milken Family Foundation highlights her inspiring journey through a press release, photos and video clips - which can be viewed here. Congratulations, Rashinda, on this well-deserved recognition! Photo courtesy of the Milken Educator Awards.
Monday, January 20, 2025 | Class of 2013 Darrah Blackwater (Psychology '13) has been appointed as the new legal counsel for the Navajo Nation. Darrah’s journey of dedication, focus and commitment to excellence now shapes her legal career and her service to the Navajo Nation. Before returning to the Navajo Nation, Darrah led her own law firm, Blackwater Consulting. She specialized in broadband and spectrum rights. Her expertise and leadership are expected to bring significant advancements to the Navajo Nation Broadband Office, driving progress in critical initiatives.(Courtesy photo by Darklisted Photography)
Monday, January 20, 2025 | Class of 2005, Class of 2008 Local business owner and alumnus, Chase LaCroix (Business Administration, '08), is embarking on a new chapter as the Operations Director for the San Juan Mountains Association. Chase and his wife, Jen LaCroix (Sociology & Human Services, '05), co-founded Durango Outdoor Gear Exchange 11 years ago, building a business dedicated to making outdoor adventures accessible to all. Jen will now take on the role of President, leading the business into its next phase while Chase focuses on furthering their shared mission through his new role. Chase remains a co-owner of Durango Outdoor Exchange and will continue to contribute to its strategic direction, as the business navigates changes in the local retail landscape. He expresses deep gratitude for the relationships and community support that have made the shop a cornerstone of outdoor recreation in Durango. Read Chase's letter to the community here.
Wednesday, January 15, 2025 | Class of 1999 John D. Hall (Anthropology, '99) has been named Cultural Resources Director at SWCA’s Austin office, where he leads a team of over 30 archaeologists and architectural historians. With a B.A. in Anthropology from FLC and over 25 years of experience, John’s career has spanned projects across the U.S. Southwest and beyond, including roles at Mesa Verde National Park and Terracon Consultants. His expertise in archaeology, stone technologies, and Southwest history continues to shape the field. Read more about John’s incredible career and contributions to cultural resource management!