Class Notes
Alumni

Jennifer M. Rand (Master of Arts in Education, '24) has been recognized in Marquis Who's Who for her outstanding contributions to safety and risk management in the education field. With nearly two decades of experience, she currently serves as a risk management specialist for Academy District 20 in Colorado Springs, and is building a lasting legacy of impactful contributions to education and public service. Congratulations to Jennifer for this well-deserved recognition!

Click here to read more about Jennifer's accomplishments! 

Ingrid Foutz (Exercise Science, '05) has landed a new job as a certified Pilates instructor at Tomsic Physical Therapy. With over 25 years of experience in fitness training, adventure programs and women's outdoor fitness,  Ingrid brings a wealth of knowledge as a Pilates instructor. 

Read more about Ingrid and her new role here...

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...

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...

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...

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)

Chris Bilbrey (Business Administration - Marketing '11) has been appointed as the new director of the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center. His journey into the snow and avalanche industry began during his time at Fort Lewis College, where he developed a passion for backcountry skiing and avalanche studies. As the first permanent full-time leader at the center Bilbrey is set to improve forecasting operations and support the growth of avalanche safety education. 

Continue reading more here...

Gus Westerman (Environmental Biology '11) has been named the interim director for the San Miguel Basin Colorado State University Extension Office. With 10 years of experience as director of the Dolores County CSU Extension, Westerman brings expertise in agriculture, community development, and youth programs. 

Continue reading more here...