Clover Park School District

Current career/job:

Director of E-Learning at UW Tacoma

Describe the path you took from high school graduation to where you are today:

After graduating from Lakes High School, I received a basketball scholarship at Tacoma Community College, where I earned two AA degrees. I enrolled in UW Tacoma in 1992, and my student job eventually turned into a permanent position. In 1999, I moved to the IT department as a Computer Analyst. I stayed in IT for many years and eventually earned my Master's in 2002. When Academic Technologies became its own department, I became the Manager of E-Learning. Today, I am in the process of completing a doctoral program at IU. I also teach an online digital skills class to UW students, and I have a son who just started his freshman year at Lakes!

How did your experiences in Clover Park School District help prepare you for this path?

I had teachers and coaches who instilled great values and demonstrated respect, confidence and genuine concern toward me and my classmates.

Who was the most influential teacher or administrator to you as a student in the district? Why?

There were many teachers, administrators, coaches and staff. Some of them, in no particular order, were Bill Hansen, Dave Miller, Scott Logan, Gil Rigell, Jan Levensellar (Zurfluh), Dick Zatkovich, Jim Snyder, Lyle Attebery, Dexter Clark, Mr. Wooster, Mr. Sowers, Don McPherson, Barry Crust, Mr. Nevers, and Dan Santos.

Do you have any favorite memories from when you attended school in Clover Park School District?

I played Volleyball, Basketball and Softball all three years and made a lot of wonderful lasting memories. It is great to see my son beginning his own journey at Lakes. Today was his first day of 9th grade, and he said it was the best day of school in his entire life.

What opportunities exist in your career sector for new graduates? Is postsecondary education required for this field?

I am always happy to chat with students who are interested in working in higher education or educational technology. You create opportunities and you take advantage of those that present themselves. I would encourage any student to pursue education beyond high school but I also encourage them to explore careers, internships and volunteer opportunities while still in high school, to not only gain experience but also build a network of people who can support them in their journey.