Class Notes
Alumni

Hayley Kirkman (Graphic Design, '17) is working to compile and publish the first anthology of Colorado’s poets laureate. Kirkman is working with Durango's Turner Wyatt, and the project will be the first-ever dedicated poets laureate anthology to be published in the United States. Kirkman designed the book jacket and website, and she is managing the project's social media, marketing, and events. 

Learn more about the book at ColoradoPoets.org. 

Laura McClenny (Humanities '84) has been selected by U.S. Department of State for a prestigious English Language Teaching Fellowship in Chaitén, Chile. The 10-month fellowship project focuses on training teachers and teaching English in collaboration with Asociacion Gremial de Emprendedores Turisticos de Chaitén. McClenny was also an Instructor of Sociology at Fort Lewis College and most recently participated in the U.S Department of State Virtual Educator Program in collaboration with a university in Russia. 

Learn more about the English Language Fellow Program here. 

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...

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.