A GOLDEN LEGACY

Antonio Benitez

Director, Lake Tahoe College Promise Program
AA Commercial Music 2016

Antonio graduated from LTCC in 2016 He then transferred to the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies with an emphasis in Peace and Conflict in 2019. In May 2025, Antonio received a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies with a focus on Higher Education Leadership from California State University, Sacramento. Antonio’s career has primarily focused on student services within higher education. He currently serves as the Director of the Lake Tahoe College Promise program at Lake Tahoe Community College. Prior to this role, he worked as the Residence Director of Broadway Residence Hall at Portland State University.

Aylaliyah (Liyah) Assefa Birru-Johnson

Administrative Manger, S&P National, Co-Researcher, University of California Sentencing Project
AA Social Science 2018 & AAT Sociology 2020

Since graduating from LTCC, Liyah earned a BA in Sociology from California State University, Sacramento, where she was awarded the President’s Medal of Honor and the Dean’s Award for the College of Social Sciences and Interdisciplinary Studies. Shortly after graduating, she began working full time at S&P National as the Administrative Coordinator and Manager, while also engaging in policy advocacy focused on domestic and sexual violence survivors and prison reform. In March 2025, Liyah co-authored an academic journal article titled Disrupting the Abuse-Prison Nexus: The Gendered Violence of Prosecution and Abolitionist Feminist Approaches to Social Care Work, based on a pilot study of the UC Sentencing Project. The piece was published in Social Sciences. In addition, Liyah works with the Project Rebound Outreach Program (PROP), where she facilitates workshops on higher education at California state prisons. She is currently preparing for the LSAT and will soon begin her studies toward obtaining a JD.

Cameron Allen

Scientist, Los Alamos National Laboratory
AA Natural Sciences, Liberal Arts, & Mathematics 2013

After completing studies at LTCC, Cameron transferred to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where he earned a B.S. in Physics in 2015. Following a brief break, he began a Ph.D. program in Physics at the University of Nevada, Reno, graduating in 2023. Cameron is currently completing a postdoctoral appointment at Los Alamos National Laboratory and will transition to a permanent position there in October. His research focuses on high-energy-density physics, using some of the world’s most powerful lasers to recreate tje inside of stars and planets.

Carlos Trujeque

Supervisor, South Tahoe Refuse
AA Spanish 2017

After graduating from LTCC, Carlos attended San Francisco State University, where he played NCAA Division II soccer and competed in the USL2 semi-professional soccer league. He later moved to San Diego to play professional indoor soccer. Following his playing career, Carlos became a salesman for a tequila company. He eventually returned to Tahoe to attend the fire academy at LTCC, where he graduated and went on to work at Fallen Leaf Fire Department for three years. Two years ago, Carlos founded his own soccer academy, combining his passion for the sport with youth development. He currently works as a supervisor at South Tahoe Refuse.

Chad Laurence

High School Teacher (AP Calculus and Physics), South Tahoe High School
AST Mathematics 2013

Since graduating from LTCC, Chad has earned a Bachelor's degree and two Master's degrees in education from Western Governors University. He has dedicated the past nine years of his career to serving the South Lake Tahoe community as a high school math and science teacher. In addition to teaching, Chad has been deeply involved in athletics, serving as the head hurdles coach each year at both South Tahoe Middle School and South Tahoe High School. Under his coaching, athletes have achieved remarkable success, including a three-time state champion in the women’s 100m hurdles and the current boys state champion in the 110m hurdles. Chad also gives back to the community through his long-time volunteer work with the SOS Outreach Learn to Ride ski and snowboard program, where he has served for the past eight years.

Chris Lucas

Battalion Chief, Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District
XC Fire Science & AA Fire Science 2005

Earning an Associate’s Degree in Fire Science from LTCC was the pivotal step that launched Chris’s career in the fire service. The program provided him with the technical knowledge, practical skills, and confidence needed to enter the field, ultimately leading to his current role as a Battalion Chief with the Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District, where he oversees Emergency Medical Services. In addition to his degree from LTCC, Chris holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Saint Mary’s College and a Master’s in Organizational Leadership from Waldorf University. He credits LTCC with opening the door to a fulfilling and impactful career in public safety.

Christopher Sidell

Owner, Sidellis Lake Tahoe Brewery and Restaurant
AA Business, Liberal Arts, Natural Science, and Social Science 2013

After graduating from LTCC, Christopher earned a full-ride scholarship to UC Davis, where he studied Viticulture and Enology. Following graduation, he partnered with his friend Steve Canali to open Sidellis Brewery in South Lake Tahoe. Now operating for over 10 years, Sidellis has become a beloved local establishment, where Christopher takes pride in creating a welcoming space for the community to gather and connect in the heart of the mountains.

Cindy Martinez

Principle, South Tahoe Middle School
AA Liberal Arts 2002

Cindy holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and has dedicated her career to advancing bilingual education and student success. She has served as a Dual Language Teacher, Early Intervention Coach, and spent 10 years as a teacher and principal at Bijou Community School. Cindy is an experienced presenter at the Association of Two-Way & Dual Language Education (ATDLE) Conference and has been recognized with a 40 Under 40 award for her leadership and impact in education. She has also contributed to her community through service as a former board member of the Family Resource Center (FRC) and as a member of the Tahoe Miracle Fund.

Claudia Manzano

Transition Navigator, Advance
AAT Spanish 2018

Since enrolling in her first class in 1996, Claudia has considered LTCC as a cornerstone of her personal and professional journey. As a single mother, she earned certificates in areas such as court interpreting and crisis intervention, which helped launch a career focused on bridging gaps for underrepresented populations. With the support of LTCC faculty and counseling staff, Claudia completed both her associate’s and bachelor’s degrees. Her experience at LTCC strengthened her skills and community connections, eventually leading her to join Advance as a bilingual Transition Navigator. In this role, she has supported hundreds of individuals affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, mental health challenges, substance abuse, homelessness, and language barriers

Deanna Brothers

Dentist, Deanna Brothers DDS
AA Social Science 1987

Deanna continued her education beyond LTCC and earned her doctorate, going on to practice dentistry for 33 years in South Lake Tahoe. She also dedicated 15 years of service to the Lake Tahoe Community College Foundation Board, contributing to the growth and support of the local educational community.

Debbie Jakubowski

Director of Oncology Biostatistics, Natera
AA Liberal Arts & AA Mathematics 2006

Since graduating from LTCC, Debbie earned a B.A. in Mathematics from UC Berkeley, an M.S. in Biostatistics, and a Ph.D. in Genetic Epidemiology. Her career has evolved with a focus on molecular diagnostics in the biotech industry. She has played a key role in bringing cutting-edge tools to market that support early cancer detection, guide targeted therapies, and monitor for recurrence—advancing patient outcomes through noninvasive, genomic-powered, data-driven solutions.

Elvia Felix

Accounting Manager, Associated Students of California State University Sacramento
AA Liberal Arts & AA Business 2001

Since graduating from LTCC, Elvia has earned a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting and a Master's Degree in Finance from California State University, Sacramento. She began her professional journey as a student assistant with Associated Students at Sac State and now serves as the Accounting Manager of the organization. Elvia credits LTCC as the gateway to the many opportunities and experiences that have shaped her educational and professional career. She remains grateful for the foundation LTCC provided.

Jeff Braun

Maxis Software
LTCC 1978

In 1987, Jeff co-founded the video game software company Maxis, where he served as CEO. Maxis rose to international fame in 1989 with the release of SimCity. The studio later solidified its legacy in 2000 with The Sims, which went on to become one of the most successful video game franchises of all time. The Sims was inducted into the World Video Game Hall of Fame in 2016, followed by SimCity in 2024—further cementing Maxis’s lasting impact on the gaming industry.

Jeff Cowen

Public Information Officer, Tahoe Regional Planning Agency
AAT History 2003

LTCC launched Jeff into a highly rewarding career in environmental protection and community relations. He graduated with honors from the University of Nevada, Reno, earning a double major in environmental history and journalism. Jeff went on to land his dream job as the spokesperson for the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency—the bi-state agency responsible for protecting and restoring Lake Tahoe. His work has earned both national and regional public relations awards, and he recently achieved professional accreditation through the Public Relations Society of America. LTCC has remained a meaningful part of Jeff’s life. His children grew up attending the college’s Child Development Center, and his entire family continues to participate in classes and Community Connect camps. In 2014, Jeff was elected to the LTCC Board of Trustees as a way to give back to the college and the community. He has served as a trustee ever since. His nine years on the board have been a truly remarkable experience, allowing him to grow personally while helping support students on their own educational journeys—just as he was supported during his time at LTCC

Jeffrey Orr

Orthopedic Surgeon, Barton Memorial Hospital
LTCC 1998-2006

Jeffrey began his academic journey at LTCC while still in high school. He went on to attend the University of California, San Diego for his undergraduate studies and later earned his medical degree from Georgetown University. After completing his residency and a fellowship in sports medicine, Jeffrey returned to the Tahoe area, where he has been practicing medicine for the past eight years.

Jena Scarborough

Deputy District Attorney, San Diego County
AAT Sociology 2014

Jena graduated from Lake Tahoe Community College in 2014 with a degree in Sociology, then went on to earn dual degrees in Sociology and Anthropology from UC Santa Barbara in 2016. She was accepted into the University of San Diego School of Law, where she earned her JD in 2019. During law school, Jena interned with the Children’s Law Center and Free to Thrive, advocating for abused children and survivors of human trafficking. Since being admitted to the bar, Jena has served as a Deputy District Attorney, prosecuting felony cases ranging from domestic violence to murder. Her experience at LTCC played a key role in shaping her commitment to public service, and she remains a dedicated year-round visitor to Lake Tahoe.

Jessica Alley

IT Systems Administrator, Miyamoto International
AA Liberal Arts 2021 & AS CIS IT Technician Cybersecurity 2022

Since graduating from LTCC, Jessica has built a fulfilling career in technology and cybersecurity, supporting organizations that make a global impact. She has led projects aimed at modernizing systems, improving access, and promoting digital security, all while continuing to grow in a constantly evolving field. Jessica’s journey has been shaped by her passion for problem-solving, a commitment to ethical technology, and a drive to create positive change. LTCC helped lay the foundation for her path, and she takes pride in applying those roots to meaningful work that bridges people, purpose, and innovation.

Joelle Donofrio-Odmann

Associate Professor of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine, UCSD
AA Natural Science & AA Liberal Arts 2002

Since graduating from LTCC, Joelle has become a triple-boarded Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine and Pediatrics at UCSD and Rady Children’s Hospital. She directs pediatric emergency care for San Diego’s 911 system and leads cardiac arrest research, with over 30 peer-reviewed publications. Joelle has trained and collaborated with healthcare teams from Ecuador to Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka to Fiji. Through podcasts, national teaching, and protocol development, she helps paramedics save children’s lives. Whether mentoring students or snowboarding back home, Joelle brings Tahoe’s heart, grit, and purpose into every system she helps shape.

Joseph (Joe) Irvin

City Manager, City of South Lake Tahoe
AA Liberal Arts & AA Natural Science 2003

Since graduating from LTCC, Joe has earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science and Resource Management from California State University Channel Islands, as well as a Master’s degree in Public Administration from The Evergreen State College. He has built a 20-year professional career working with four cities: Sequim, WA; Marco Island, FL; Healdsburg, CA; and South Lake Tahoe, CA. One of Joe’s greatest accomplishments has been raising his talented 17-year-old daughter, Michaela, with his wife of 20 years, Kate. Throughout his career, Joe has had the honor of representing his colleagues and communities through service on various local, state, and national boards.

JT Chevallier

Co-Founder/Chief Strategy Officer, ECO-CLEAN Solutions LLC & Owner, Cutthroat Tavern
LTCC 2006-2021

Since graduating from LTCC, JT Chevallier co-founded ECO-CLEAN Solutions, leading efforts that removed waste from over 1 million square feet of Lake Tahoe shoreline. He also founded the Cutthroat Tavern in Markleeville, California, revitalizing a key community gathering space. JT has pursued further education in business administration and has worked extensively in conservation, public policy, and nonprofit management. His career reflects a deep commitment to sustainability, community development, and innovative environmental solutions throughout the Sierra region.

Julie Pettitt

Executive Director of University Admissions, Montana State University Billings
AA Natural Sciences & Math 1997

Since graduating from LTCC, Julie has dedicated her career to supporting students—especially those new to college—by helping them feel welcomed, connected, and confident. LTCC sparked her love of learning and inspired her to earn a doctorate focused on how grit principles empower women in higher education leadership to achieve extraordinary outcomes. Today, Julie oversees enrollment management for Montana State University Billings’ University and City College campuses, where she focuses on strategic growth, access, and student retention. She is especially proud of her work on statewide partnerships that are reducing barriers and improving outcomes for underrepresented students. Earning her associate degree at LTCC ignited Julie’s ambition to lead meaningful change and make a lasting impact on both students and the institutions she serves.

Kimberly Burton

Supply Chain Manager, Eagle Protect
AST Business Administration 2017

Since graduating from LTCC, Kimberly earned her Bachelor’s degree in Global Business Management through the Sierra Nevada College 4-year program offered on the LTCC campus. Shortly after graduation, she began her career at Eagle Protect, where she has spent the past six years advancing through the company—from an entry-level position to leading its supply chain operations. In 2023, Kimberly further expanded her expertise by earning the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) certification through APICS. She credits LTCC not only for the strong educational foundation it provided but also for encouraging her to pursue an internship with Eagle Protect—an opportunity that proved pivotal in launching her career.

Les Lovell

Retired El Dorado County Sheriff’s Lieutenant, Lake Tahoe Operations
XC Criminal Justice 2008 & AA Criminal Justice 2009

Les credits LTCC with preparing him for the challenges of a successful career in law enforcement. One of his first courses was an Administration of Justice class taught by an El Dorado County Sheriff’s sergeant, an adjunct faculty member at the college. Through that experience, Les gained insight into local policing and what it means to be an engaged community member. Inspired by what he was learning at LTCC, he tested for a deputy sheriff position with El Dorado County. He passed the exams and was hired as an entry-level deputy sheriff, launching a career that would span three decades. Les carried the lessons from LTCC throughout his 30-year tenure with El Dorado County, ultimately retiring at the rank of lieutenant after serving his final decade as the Lake Tahoe Operations Station Commander. LTCC also instilled in him the value of giving back. From 2000 through 2012, Les returned to the college as an adjunct faculty member, committed to teaching and mentoring the next generation of hopeful students.

Lisa Shafer

Executive Assistant to the Superintendent/President, LTCC
AA Social Science 2011

Lisa Shafer has lived in the South Shore community for almost 30 years. She has served on the Board of Directors for The Women’s Center (now Live Violence Free), the El Dorado County Mental Health Commission, and C.A.P.R.I. (Concerned Advocates for Perinatal Related Issues). She is a graduate of the Leadership Lake Tahoe class of 2018. Since 2008 Lisa has worked at LTCC, using her employment there to encourage and empower students from diverse backgrounds. She is a founding member of LTCC’s first LGBTQ student club. Recognizing the power of education to create strong, healthy families and a vibrant community, Lisa has been a supporter of numerous scholarships and scholarship selection committees as well as student-lead initiatives to serve the community via food drives, an annual Christmas giving tree, and participation in the Relay for Life, just to name a few. Lisa believes in the transformative power of non-profits to fill the service voids of the rural Tahoe Basin, and lift families out of addiction, poverty, and cycles of violence and abuse via education and empowerment.

Matt Hale

Executive Chef, Everline Resort and Spa
LTCC 1995-2004

Since graduating from LTCC, Matt has advanced from cook to Sous Chef to Executive Chef at three respected properties. He currently serves as the Executive Chef at Everline Resort and Spa, where he leads culinary innovation and team development. Every step of Matt’s journey has been driven by the strong foundation he built at LTCC.

Neftali (Eunice) Romero

Professional, Geosyntec Consultants
AST Mathematics & AA Natural Science 2013

Neftali Romero earned her A.A.S. from Lake Tahoe Community College in 2013 and a B.S. in Environmental Resources Engineering from Cal Poly Humboldt in 2017. Since then, she has worked in environmental consulting, supporting water resources, water quality, and stormwater projects. As an EIT, QISP, QSP/QSD, and CPESC, she specializes in BMP implementation, inspections, reporting, and SWPPP compliance under the Industrial and Construction General Permits. Outside of he professional career, she volunteers for the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers.

Nick Barclay

Business Analyst, LTCC
AA Liberal Arts 2003

After graduating from LTCC, Nick transferred to Humboldt State University (now Cal Poly Humboldt), where he earned a B.A. in Economics and an M.B.A. He is married and has one daughter who attends Bijou Community School. Nick has worked at LTCC for the past decade, during which he has served as president of the Classified Employee Union and as a past president of the Classified Employee Senate. He currently serves on the Lake Tahoe Unified School District Citizen’s Bond Oversight Committee. Nick is a former head coach of girls' track and field and assistant football coach at South Tahoe High School. He has also coached for High Sierra Softball, South Tahoe Little League, the Heavenly Ski Foundation, and flag football camps at LTCC.

Sally Neitling

Retired
AA 1976

Sally worked at the South Lake Tahoe Branch Library for 29 years before retiring 12 years ago to enjoy time with her three grandchildren. After retiring, she continued to serve her community by volunteering at Barton Hospital and the Presbyterian food pantry. Sally and her husband, Mike, have been married for 53 years and have lived in Tahoe for just as long. When they first moved to Tahoe, Sally was determined to finish her AA degree and was thrilled when the college opened its doors at the Gerken Lodge. Seeing how Lake Tahoe Community College has grown over the years fills her with pride, and she extends her congratulations to everyone who has graduated throughout the years.

Savannah Fraijo

Dual Enrollment Advisor, LTCC & Therapist; Daycare Owner, Sierra Child and Family Services
AAT Psychology 2014

Since attending LTCC, Savannah has earned two master’s degrees and become a successful business owner. She is passionate about giving back to her community, especially by supporting youth in overcoming barriers—whether those challenges are related to education or mental health. Savannah frequently shares her own journey to inspire young people to pursue higher education, often encouraging them to consider LTCC by highlighting how it helped shape her success. She finds particular joy in connecting with teen moms, showing them that continuing their education while parenting is possible. Savannah began her time at LTCC at just 18 years old, while raising her 3-year-old child, and she has always felt incredibly supported by the LTCC community.

Sonya Laddon Rahders

Associate General Counsel, Planned Parenthood
LTCC 2005-2007

Sonya Laddon Rahders (she/her) is a healthcare compliance attorney and social justice advocate with over a decade of experience protecting access to abortion, gender-affirming care, and other stigmatized health services. Her journey in advocacy began as a student at Lake Tahoe Community College and staff member at the League to Save Lake Tahoe. She went on to graduate summa cum laude from UCLA and earned her J.D. from UC Law San Francisco. Sonya also teaches in the University of Minnesota’s CCAPS graduate program in human sexuality and serves on the board of directors for SIECUS: Sex Ed for Social Change.

Sue Novasel

Retired El Dorado County County Supervisor
LTCC 1998-2009

Sue’s connection to LTCC began in 1984, when she served as the Student Representative to the Board of Trustees and proudly ran the Olympic Torch. Her commitment to public service continued with 12 years on the South Lake Tahoe Board of Education and eight years as a County Supervisor. Over the years, Sue has contributed her leadership to numerous regional and state boards, including the California Tahoe Conservancy, the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA), South Tahoe Refuse, the California State Association of Counties (CSAC), and the Tahoe Transportation District (TTD). In recognition of her decades of service and impact, Sue was honored as the California Legislature’s 2019 Woman of the Year.

Thurman Roberts

Tribal Navigator, Nevadaworks
AA Liberal Arts 2002

After transferring from LTCC, Thurman earned a degree in Social Science Secondary Education from Humboldt State. He later returned to the Lake Tahoe area and began working in Tribal workforce development through a non-profit focused on forestry and fire management. He served on the U.S. Forest Service Region 5 Tribal Advisory Board and was part of the inaugural Sierra Corps Forestry Fellow program through the Sierra Nevada Alliance. Currently, Thurman works for northern Nevada’s workforce development board, Nevadaworks, where he partners with 22 Tribal communities to develop and support both state and Tribal workforce initiatives. He also serves on the Nevada Clean Energy Fund’s Tribal Advisory Board and has presented on national panels, sharing best practices for Tribal engagement and innovative strategies for integrating Local Workforce Boards and WIOA Titles with Tribal programs and strategic plans.

Tita Anderson

Retired President & CEO, Fromarc Insurance Agency, Inc.
LTCC 1995-2002

Tita Anderson opened Fromarc Insurance Agency in 1985 and recently celebrated its 40th year in business with offices in South Lake Tahoe, CA and Gardnerville, NV with nine employees. As a family owned and operated business, Fromarc haas provided exceptional property and casualty insurance services to a wide variety of clients, including home and auto insurance for individuals and commercial insurance for businesses through the region. In addition to still being active in the business, Tita spends her free time with her horses, riding and raising Rocky Mountain horses on her ranch in the Carson Valley.

Wendy David

Community Advocate
AA Social Science