Honoring Our Inaugural Class Of Visions Distinguished Alumni
On August 12th, Visions In Education had the privilege of honoring our very first class of Alumni Hall of Fame inductees at our all-staff Back to School gathering. Two of five honorees attended in-person to receive their Visions Distinguished Alumni of the Year awards and share their stories.
“I am incredibly humbled,” shared Hall of Fame inductee Tanner Zumwalt. “I’ve done a few things in my life, but when I look around this room of educators and I think about my time with Visions, I am so excited for future students and our community. Thank you to the entire incredible Visions team.”
Also in attendance were several of our inductees’ credentialed teachers – dedicated educators who have been with Visions for over 20 years. These impactful changemakers, including University Prep Academy Vice Principal Andy Vanden Akker, Home School Academy teacher Donelle O’Brien, and Independent Study Academy teachers Shauna Buchanan and Suzanne Myers, were honored on stage for their lasting contributions to countless student lives.
Meet Our Inductees
Our distinguished alumni come from diverse backgrounds, yet each one embodies the impact of a personalized education. Explore their stories below to see how they reflect Visions’ core values and serve as powerful role models for our students.
Brian Abrigana
Jessica Chavez
Alyssa Edens
William Lynch
Tanner Zumwalt
Impact Beyond Education
Our Alumni Hall of Fame program exemplifies the profound and lasting impact a school like Visions can have on its students and the communities we serve. Gathering in person to honor our inductees was a powerful reminder that our mission goes far beyond grades and diplomas – it’s about shaping lives and celebrating success in all its forms.
“We have been looking forward to this moment for nearly three years,” shared Superintendent Olmos. “It’s an honor to celebrate these distinguished alumni – they truly represent what Visions is all about.”
About the Visions Alumni Hall of Fame
The Alumni Hall of Fame recognizes Visions In Education alumni who have excelled in higher education, their careers, or through meaningful contributions to their communities. Through the Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award, Visions will honor these individuals and highlight their journeys as a reflection of the positive impact our programs can have.
Do you know a former student who would be a good candidate for our Alumni Hall of Fame? Nominations for the 2025-26 Hall of Fame class are now open, and we are asking our community for recommendations of former Visions students who positively reflect the values of our school. Learn more and submit your nominees here!
