Celebrating Alumni Achievement: 2024 Hall of Fame Inductees Announced

Recognizing Excellence and Leadership

Nominations were collected last fall by the committee that oversees CTC’s Hall of Fame. Many individuals who made significant contributions to their professions and communities were nominated. This year’s ten inductees are torchbearers of excellence, carrying forward CTC’s values into their schools, professions, and communities.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the accomplishments of our outstanding alumni through the Hall of Fame induction. This honors their achievements and inspires current and future students to strive for excellence in their careers and communities,” said Michelle Patrick, Superintendent.

Meet the 2024 Hall of Fame Inductees

The ten Hall of Fame inductees for 2024 are:

• Kristen Clark - Cosmetology, Class of '11
• Doug Fields - HVAC, Class of '92
• Barb Marshall - Medical Assisting, Class of '78
• Jamie McKinnon - Dental Assisting, Class of '07
• Chris Powell - Computer Graphic Arts, Class of '13
• Ryan Ray - Computer Tech, Class of '96
• Heather Reisinger - Medical Assisting, Class of '01
• Devvan Sharp - Computer Aided Drafting & Design, Class of '12
• Stephen Walters - Auto Mechanics, Class of '78
• Jacob Woosley - Cybersecurity & Computer Networking, Class of '17

Honoring Legacy and Success

Each Hall of Fame inductee will be celebrated next week with a special induction ceremony at CTC. In addition, inductees will have a plaque prominently displayed in CTC’s cafetorium alongside the other 46 members of the CTC Hall of Fame.

“As a former student, current staff member, and previous inductee, it’s a privilege to be part of the committee that selects our Hall of Fame inductees. I have crossed paths with many inductees over the years. I am continually impressed by their personal and professional contributions,” shared Hall of Fame Committee Chair Michael Rice. To view a complete list of previous Hall of Fame inductees, visit SCCTC.org/HallOfFame.

Gratitude for Committee Contributions

CTC extends a heartfelt thank you to the 9-person committee that dedicated their time and energy to collecting nominations, gathering additional information, and finalizing the selections. Their commitment ensures that the Hall of Fame continues to honor those who exemplify the best of CTC’s values and mission. To view the committee list, visit SCCTC.org/HallOfFame.

Meet the 2024 Hall of Fame Inductees

Kristen Clark graduated from Shawnee High School and completed CTC’s Cosmetology program in 2011 under the mentorship of Ms. Quinn and Mrs. Hoover. Kristen's career path diverged into social work, where she has made significant community impacts through mentoring programs like Girls Experiencing Mentorship and Sisterhood (G.E.M.S). G.E.M.S has expanded to 3 schools, serves over 200 students, and has earned a Dance Stomp Shake Service Award. She is a long-time volunteer for National Alliance on Mental Illness, where she leads training, supports families, and assists with planning and executing events.

Kristen recently graduated with a Master's in Social Work from Case Western Reserve University. Kristen attributes her success in social work to the foundational skills learned in the Cosmetology program, which included customer service, empathy, and patient care—essential qualities that transcend industries. “CTC gave me the option to explore and learn a trade that I was interested in. It provided job security, because having my cosmetology license, I knew I could find work instantly. I still keep my license active even though I don't practice the trade.”

Doug Fields graduated from Springfield North High School and completed the Heating and Air Technology program at CTC in 1992. Under the guidance of instructors Bill Dobyns, George Combs, and Kenny Adams, Doug embarked on a successful career in HVAC maintenance. His journey began with Danco Enterprises, and has included local businesses such as Delong Air, Clarks A/C, Stevenson Heating and Air, and Premier Health.

On top of the solid foundation of skills Doug gained at CTC, he has sought additional training certifications in EPA refrigeration, computer controls, and various HVAC systems. “CTC definitely helped launch my career. My first employer actually contracted me through the school and hired me before graduation. My education helped me to be successful in the field and allowed me opportunities that I wouldn’t have received otherwise,” he shared. Married with six children and four grandchildren, Doug is grateful for the start he received at CTC and continues to give back and support the next generation of HVAC professionals.

Barbara Marshall, CTC’s Medical Assisting instructor since 2006, graduated from the same program in 1978. Before becoming an instructor, Barb’s distinguished career included working at Mercy Hospital, Medical Professional Resources, and Family Health Care. Her commitment to education earned her the Teacher of the Year award in 2023 and the Larry Zerkle Award twice. Barb has organized numerous blood drives and senior breakfast events during her tenure at CTC.

Reflecting on her journey, Barb fondly recalls how CTC helped her get ahead, "My family couldn't afford to send me to college, so I knew that CTC, JVS at the time, was where I needed to go. I did OK at my home school but needed something to challenge and motivate me. Medical Assisting wasn't my first choice but the program had just started and my home school counselor suggested it. I am so glad he did. I loved it! I've loved working as an MA and had no interest in moving on to nursing, etc, although it was suggested to me many times. I have no regrets about attending CTC/JVS and still find it amazing that I had the opportunity to return here to teach."

Jamie McKinnon completed CTC’s Dental Assisting program in 2007 under the guidance of Mrs. Ritzenthaler. Jamie’s career in dentistry began at North Spring Dental, where she continues to practice as a dental assistant and is very involved in the Dental Assisting Program Advisory Committee. Jamie, who is married and has 8-year-old and 5-year-old children, enjoys giving back to the community through her volunteer roles with the Northwestern Elementary PTO and Northwestern Youth Soccer program.

Jamie’s passion for dentistry has led her to complete additional professional training on phlebotomy and dental hygiene and become an Expanded Functional Dental Assistant. Reflecting on her time at CTC, Jamie credits her time at CTC as the leading foundation of her success, stating, “Not only did it provide me with the trade skill for employment, but it also provided me with the confidence and passion to continue to grow. I would not be where I am today if I hadn’t chosen CTC.”

Chris Powell completed his education in the Computer Graphic Design program at CTC in 2013 under the guidance of Linda Cabalua. Known for his artistic talent, Christopher has excelled as a Tattoo Artist and small-business owner, winning the prestigious Best Of Springfield Award multiple times. He specializes in realism tattoos, especially black and grey, and tattoos featuring animals, skulls, and flowers.

Christopher credits his time at CTC as helping launch his career, stating, “The projects I completed during my time at CTC helped me stand out enough to get offered a position.” Married with two children, he continues to innovate and give back to his field through mentoring, speaking, collaborating, and leading seminars.

 

Ryan Ray graduated from Shawnee High School and completed the Computer Science program at CTC in 1996. Ryan is the founder of The Higher Rung, a marketing and branding business specializing in brand development focusing on local eateries. Before that, he worked at The Salvation Army as the Development Director. Ryan is well known for founding the Clark County Senior Citizens Task Force, a community group dedicated to enhancing the lives of senior citizens, and the Clark County Food Fiends, an active and upbeat online community that celebrates the local food scene.

Ryan attributes his professional acumen to his time at CTC, where he honed leadership, public speaking, and organizational skills through classes and involvement in Business Professionals of America. “I learned how to become a professional at CTC. It matured me in a way that I think only CTC could've accomplished. I learned life-long skills like public speaking, professionalism, and collaboration. CTC is a healthy community, as much as it is a school.”

Heather Reisinger completed the Medical Assisting program in 2001 under the guidance of Mrs. Cathy Fitzsimmons. She works at Communicare Healthcare as an LPN, and has also worked at Maxim Healthcare and Rocking Horse Center. Known for her community involvement, Heather volunteers for Be The Match and was recently honored as a Care Champion at her workplace. Married for 20 years to her high school sweetheart, also an alumnus of CTC, Heather has a 17-year-old daughter and is contemplating furthering her education to become an RN.

Reflecting on her time at CTC, Heather emphasizes, “1000% YES!! CTC was the absolute best decision I ever made. I was struggling in high school and had the opportunity to go into the Medical Assisting program and I took it. This started my love for working in healthcare. Without CTC, I’m not sure what route my life would have taken, but I know I wouldn’t have been as successful as I am now. I thank the teachers and staff for giving me the experience of a lifetime. CTC truly was the best opportunity I ever had and I am so thankful.”

Devvan Sharp completed the Computer Aided Drafting & Design program in 2012 under Mr. Eric Barge’s mentorship. Since then, Devvan has made significant strides in the field, serving as a Manufacturing Engineer at Tetra Mold & Tool Inc., specializing in mold design, CNC programming, and project management. He also runs his own business, Spinnovations, providing freelance design services and rapid prototyping.

Devvan's dedication extends beyond his professional career; he has been a pivotal member of CTC's advisory team for the Engineering & Architectural Design program (the current name for the CADD program he completed) for over a decade, actively participating in SkillsUSA competitions as a judge and coordinator. Married with two daughters, Devvan continues to pursue advanced certifications and training, over 150 to date, reinforcing the foundation laid during his time at CTC.

Stephen Walters completed the Auto Mechanics program in 1978 and now teaches Auto Services! After working in the auto industry at several area auto repair businesses, Stephen returned to CTC as an instructor in 1991. He has held leadership positions in various automotive clubs and community organizations, earning accolades such as the Excellence in Education Award for Clark County in 2017 and Teacher of the Year at CTC in 2009. Married with two adult daughters, Stephen continues to enhance his expertise through various trainings with General Motors, Ford, Chrysler, and other automotive manufacturers.

Reflecting on his career at SCCTC, Stephen emphasizes, "I could never replace Mr. Louis Cavallaro , and I never have attempted to. What I CONTINUE to do is uphold the PRIDE, TRADITION of EXCELLENCE and carry on passing this 'gift' I had received and cultivated over the years to benefit young people in the Clark County schools who wish to continue in the automotive service field by giving them the BEST that I have...every day. This is my 33rd year here and with a few years left, I want to keep doing what we all here do BEST-to show others hungry to learn and do, the way things should be done and why it remains important to do so."

Stephen's dedication to SCCTC is unwavering. "CTC is a place that just gets inside of you, never letting go. This is my home. Has been since 1976. My two daughters grew up around these halls; everybody knew them then and now. I am always proud to tell anyone I meet where I teach."

Jacob Woosley completed the Cybersecurity and Computer Networking program at CTC in 2017 under the guidance of Mr. Sean Fadden. Since then, he has thrived in the IT industry, working as a System Engineer at Booz Allen Hamilton. Jacob’s professional career has included working as a Client Service Technician, completing 21 college courses, and achieving the CompTIA Cloud+ and LPI Linux Essentials certifications. He credits CTC for equipping him with essential technical skills and industry certifications that have accelerated his career, stating, “Without CTC, I would have been potentially years behind in terms of my job scope, knowledge, and experience.”

Outside of work, Jacob is active in the community as a volunteer at his church, where he assists in the classroom and during vacation bible school. He and his wife, Hannah, enjoy parenting adventures with Max, their one-year-old son.