The Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award is awarded annually to an alumni from Woodland Hills who has made an impact on our current students and/or community. The ideal winner will have not only achieved excellence in their career but also has volunteered or given of themselves and their time in an exemplary way.
The honoree will be asked to attend the 2026 Starry Night Gala at Edgewood Country Club at 6 PM on Saturday, March 7, 2026. There, the awardee will be celebrated for their achievements with the opportunity to address Gala guests.
Right now, a committee consisting of our Host Committee (community members representing the District, parents, business owners, Rotary clubs, etc.) as well as Woodland Hills Foundation board members, are reviewing nominations and will select the 2026 Alumni of the Year.
The committee will choose the winner based on a rubric to award points to the top educator nominee based on, but not limited to the following:
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The nominee has displayed exemplary achievement in the nominee’s area of specialization
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The nominee has received recognition, honors, and/or awards on the local, regional, national or international level
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The nominee was nominated by another alumni
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The nominee has demonstrated service to the community in which they live or have lived
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The nominee currently lives in, works in or has a business located in Woodland Hills School District
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If the nominee has children, the children live in Woodland Hills School District
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The nominee has been actively involved in the Woodland Hills Foundation or has provided support for the Foundation (either through volunteerism, financial support, in-kind support or other acts of charity or guidance)
Best of luck to our 2026 Alumni of the Year Nominees:
Darrell Bell
Class of 1998
When I reflect on my journey, from the halls of Woodland Hills to boardrooms, university cabinets, national leadership roles, and community tables, what stands out is not the distance traveled, but the foundation that made every step possible. Woodland Hills did not just educate me; it shaped my identity, my values, and my understanding of leadership. It taught me that strength is found in service, that barriers are meant to be broken, and that the greatest measure of success is the number of people you lift along the way.
I do not believe I deserve this honor because of titles or accolades, though I am humbled by each of them. I believe I deserve consideration because my life’s work has been devoted to impact, real, measurable, community-centered impact and because I have never forgotten where I came from or the responsibility that comes with being a son of Woodland Hills.
Throughout my 24-year career, I have been fortunate to break historic barriers:
• becoming the first Vice President of color at multiple institutions,
• the first VP of color in advancement in Rochester’s higher education history,
• and the first professional of color to receive the AFP Outstanding Fundraising Professional Award in its 25-year history.
These “firsts” matter, not because they elevate me, but because they crack the door wider for every young person walking the same hallways I once did, young men and women wondering if their dreams are too big or their background too small. I want them to see, through my life, that they are capable of leading anywhere.
My work in advancement and philanthropy has helped raise hundreds of millions of dollars for scholarships, academic access, community transformation, and the support of students who remind me so much of myself. I have personally invested over $30,000 into higher education and community organizations, because I believe leadership requires more than advocacy, it requires sacrifice, commitment, and personal stake.
But the heart of my impact has never been in the dollars raised. It has been in the people:
• the students who receive opportunities they never imagined,
• the young professionals of color who now have a network and community because I helped build one,
• the families impacted by pediatric cancer who find hope and relief through the organizations I serve,
• the youth in Braddock and Woodland Hills who received scholarships because we chose to reinvest in them.
I have made it a priority to serve, not just professionally, but personally. Whether mentoring at-risk youth, leading DEI efforts that bring long-overdue change to historic institutions, or founding programs that uplift underrepresented professionals, I have committed my life to ensuring that advancement is never something I do alone, but something I bring others into.
And even as my career has taken me to universities and organizations across the country, my heart has never left Woodland Hills. It is the soil that grew me. It is the community that taught me resilience. It is the place that instilled in me the belief that greatness is not determined by circumstance, but by character.
If chosen as the 2026 Distinguished Alumni of the Year, I would not see it as a recognition of what I have accomplished, but as a reflection of what Woodland Hills prepares its students to do: rise, lead, and return to lift others. This award would honor not just my journey, but the teachers, coaches, mentors, and community members who helped shape it.
I believe I should be considered for this honor because my life is a testament to what Woodland Hills stands for, perseverance, service, impact, and a relentless commitment to leaving people and communities better than I found them. I have carried those values into every room I’ve entered, every team I’ve led, and every project I’ve championed.
And I will continue carrying them, for the students watching, for the leaders rising behind me, and for the community that shaped the man I have become.
Lamar "Day" Bracey
Class of 2000
Day Bracey took his passions, and his desire to improve the lives of those in his community, and combined them to make real change. He represents our school district in the best possible light and is deserving of this award.
Proud founder Barrel & Flow Fest, America’s #1 Beer Festival (as voted by readers of USA today), Day is dedicated to creating opportunities for Black brewers, entertainers, and small business owners through collaborative approaches and access to financial equity. He is a true Braddock kid born and bred, with his entertainment roots grounded in years as a stand-up comedian.
Years later, he would return to Braddock to interview the then Mayor (now United States Senator) John Fetterman. This interview was one of many that Day hosted on his award-winning and Pittsburgh-based podcast Drinking Partners. During this same time, he began hosting events that intentionally feature Black artists, comedians, musicians, deejays, visual artists, and performers. This intention was the founding concept in the creation of a Black-focused event planning business. Community building has always been a cornerstone of Day’s work - with 10 years experience in social service work providing a significant perspective and motivation.With his large podcast platform and an Emmy-nominated, Pittsburgh-focused television show (Ed and Day in the 'Burgh), Day built a large following that directly supports Black artists across Pennsylvania (and beyond).
Along with Barrel & Flow Fest, Day's organization stands committed to:
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Promoting and marketing Black artists
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Providing PAID employment/freelance opportunities to Black artists
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Supporting and promoting Black small businesses
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Offering workforce development and internship training programs with their partners
Day Bracey has used his hard earned platform to create a supportive and more equitable community for black artists, brewers and small businesses. His path to making change is unique but successful.
"I don't know who else is being nominated," he says. "I'm sure they are also very well deserving, given Woodland Hills' breadth of successful graduates. I was born in '82, and am part of the first class to complete K-12 in the fully integrated school district. The diversity & stellar education it provided has been an asset that I have grown to appreciate more as I age, travel, and realize how rare of an experience that combination is in the world. Even rarer still with the current regime's attacks on DEI and the Dept of Education. I've since used these experiences to fight for more equitable pay in the arts, build symbiotic relationships between artists and businesses, and provide opportunities for the Black community along the $1.7T global alcohol supply chain. In doing so, my company, Barrel & Flow, has generated millions of tourist dollars within the region, aided in opening the first three local Black owned fermenteries (Windy Bridges, TLC Libations, DOPE Cider House), and helped place Pittsburgh on the international map for arts, entertainment, and craft beverages."
Rasaun Brown
Class of 2019
Rasaun Brown embodies what it means to give back to the community that raised him. As a proud Woodland Hills graduate, he has dedicated his time, energy, and heart to uplifting the next generation. His work is rooted in compassion, connection, and commitment—qualities that make him not only an outstanding role model, but the perfect candidate for Woodland Hills Alumni of the Year.
Rasaun has built his life around supporting young people, especially those who feel overlooked, unheard, or lost. He meets kids where they are, offering guidance, encouragement, and a steady presence. Whether they’re struggling with personal challenges, needing a safe space to talk, or simply looking for someone who believes in them, Rasaun is that person. His impact goes beyond momentary interactions—he helps kids feel valued and seen, shaping powerful relationships that last.One of the most visible ways Rasaun supports youth is through his involvement with sports, particularly football. He takes photos for the Woodland Hills football team, capturing moments that matter—victories, growth, teamwork, and pride. But it’s not just about the pictures. It’s about showing up. His presence on the sidelines reminds students that someone is cheering for them, documenting their journey, and celebrating their achievements. His work strengthens school spirit and gives families memories to hold onto for years.
"I’ve been recognized locally for youth leadership, community media work, and creative contributions through the Braddock Youth Project and partner organizations," he says. "My work has been highlighted in community events, newsletters, and youth-focused initiatives, Recently the City of Pittsburgh Recognized my Work and I earned a Proclamation.
Danielle Colquitt
Class of 2010
Danielle Colquitt exemplifies the qualities of an extraordinary alumna whose professional excellence, leadership, service, and trailblazing vision make her a standout candidate for the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award. Over the past decade, Danielle has emerged as a respected and influential leader in funeral service, embalming, restorative art, anatomical science, and community engagement. Her career reflects a rare blend of elevating the standards of care within her profession.
With ten years of dedicated service in funeral directing and embalming, Danielle has built a reputation rooted in both exceptional skill and profound empathy. From the beginning of her career, she demonstrated an uncommon combination of technical precision, calm leadership, and genuine compassion. Qualities that quickly distinguished her among her peers. Families consistently praise her ability to bring comfort and dignity to some of life's most difficult moments, and colleagues recognize her as a standard- bearer for professionalism and excellence.
One of the most significant components of Danielle's professional identity is her advanced restorative art expertise. In 2025, she achieved national recognition when she was selected as one of only eight restorative artists in the entire country to compete in the NFDA Restorative Art & Restoration Technical Showcase. Widely regarded as the most prestigious and rigorous technical competition in the field. Her selection reflects her exceptional skill in complex restorative reconstruction, a discipline requiring creativity, anatomical expertise, and the emotional intelligence needed to help families who have experienced traumatic or unexpected loss. This national honor places Danielle among the top restorative technicians in the United states and highlights her commitment to mastering the most delicate and demanding aspects of death care.
Her leadership and pioneering impact extend far beyond funeral home walls. She serves as the first woman embalmer at Georgetown University in the Anatomical Donor Program. A groundbreaking achievement that underscores her excellence in anatomical preparation, donor stewardship, and medical education support. This historic role requires deep scientific knowledge, meticulous attention to detail, and an unwavering respect for individuals who selflessly donate their bodies to science. Her presence in this position not only advances the program's mission but also opens doors for future women pursuing careers in postmortem science, anatomical lab work, and academic anatomical preparation. Danielle is a trailblazer in spaces where representation has long been limited.
She is a proven leader with extensive experience managing funeral home operations, supervising cross-functional teams, and developing efficient, dignified systems of care. She has successfully overseen multi-location operations, strengthened workflow processes, mentored new staff, and implemented high- level quality standards in embalming, preparation, and restorative practice. She prioritized the well being of her team.
What truly sets Danielle apart ,is the spirit with which she approaches her work. She is consistently described as warm, authentic, uplifting, and deeply compassionate. She engages with people without judgement, supports others sincerely, and brings an atmosphere of grace into every environment she enters. Her commitment to serving individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of circumstance or identity is unwavering.
Her dedication to service reaches far beyond her professional responsibilities. Danielle remains actively involved in community inititives. Participating in 5k races, charitable fundraisers, wellness events, and outreach efforts supporting families and community development. Whether lending her time, cheer, expertise, or encouragement, Danielle consistently demonstrates that service is not simply part of her job, it is a personal calling.
Her educational and community impact continues to expand though her platform, Embody Grace by Danielle. It promotes public understanding of embalming, restorative art, healing, and dignity-centered care with hopes to destigmatize death care and inspire seasoned and emerging professionals.Danielle speaks proudly of how the supportive environment and dedicated educators at Woodland Hills laid the foundation for the professional and personal values she carries today.
Danielle's achievements, character, leadership, and service reflect a level of distinction that brings honor not only to her profession and her community, but also to the institution that helped shape her educational foundation.
Jennifer Hykes-Willson
Class of 1999
I am proud to nominate Jen Hykes-Willson for the 2026 Distinguished Alumni of the Year. Jen exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional leader, community member, and advocate for students and families.
In her full-time role as Chief of Staff at Instruction Partners, Jen brings dedication, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to improving educational outcomes. Her work consistently reflects professionalism, integrity, and a passion for supporting effective teaching and learning.
Beyond her career, Jen is a devoted mother to two Woodland Hills students. She approaches both her professional and personal life with compassion, balance, and an unwavering focus on doing what is best for the children. Her kindness, empathy, and willingness to support others make a meaningful impact on everyone around her.
Jen’s contributions to our district and community are genuine and significant. She leads with heart, collaborates with humility, and invests her time and energy into helping create a stronger, more supportive environment for all students.
While her connection to the district through her husband, the Assistant Superintendent, may present a unique dynamic, it does not diminish her accomplishments or the respect she has earned. Regardless of the outcome, she is highly deserving of recognition, and I am proud to cast my vote for her.Jen Willson’s dedication, character, and service make her a standout alumna, and I believe she embodies the spirit of this award.
A 1999 graduate, Jen holds a Bachelor’s in Mass Communication and Political Science from Towson University and a Master’s in Public Policy and Management from University of Pittsburgh. She currently serves as the Vice President of the Woodland Hills Performing Arts Guild and has served in the past on the Pittsburgh Presbytery’s Antiracism Transformational Team, as well as a Sunday School teacher at East Liberty Presbyterian Church. She is also a past volunteer with Turtle Creek and Dickson PTAs and Vex Robotics. She currently serve as coordinator for junior musical costumes and has been a volunteer for stage crew and costumes for the musicals since 2021.
"Woodland Hills shaped me in ways that I didn’t understand until I was raising kids of my own," she writes. "When I consider everything I want for them from their education – community, support, exposure to diverse cultures, experience, and people, and a deep and broad understanding of the world – I know those values were instilled during my time as a student here. You won’t find anyone who is prouder to be a Wolverine."
"I have dedicated my career to education, working behind the scenes in teacher preparation programs and currently serving as Chief of Staff for a nonprofit that focuses on providing school and system leaders in underserved communities with the resources and support they need to ensure every student in their care receives excellent instruction. I have seen a lot of schools all over the country, and I know what we have here is special and unique. I would be honored to be this year’s distinguished alumni."
Brian Kurtz
Class of 2004
Brian Kurtz has been a major influence in five cities since his internships that followed his education at Gannon University (Bachelor of Arts) and the University of Buffalo (Master of Urban Planning).
The first city was Erie, where he worked as International Programs Officer for the Erie County Industrial Development Agency. The second city to benefit from Brian's talents and creativity was Pittsburgh. Brian was the Director of Economic Development for the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, and before that, he was Research and Economic Development Manager. In the third city Buffalo, NY, he served in planning and economic development roles. After that, Brian served the fourth city--Tulsa, OK--as President & CEO of the Downtown Tulsa Partnership, a management organization at the intersection of people, place, and economy dedicated to championing and advancing a prosperous, vibrant, and inclusive urban neighborhood.
And very recently, The Mercury News, the major daily newspaper in San Jose and the primary news source for Silicon Valley, reported on San Jose's hiring of Brian Kurtz as the CEO of the San Jose Downtown Association, the fifth city that will experience his talents, his creativity, his attention to detail. This role puts him in a key position to influence the economic development of downtown San Jose for years to come.
Brian is professionally certified as a Leader in Place Management by the International Downtown Association where he also serves as a member of the Board of Directors. In Tulsa, Brian serves on the board of Center for Housing Solutions and is active with the Oklahoma chapter of Urban Land Institute.
Brian's specialties include Urban & Regional Planning, Economic Development, Sustainability, Business Development, Non-profit Project Development, Marketing and Sales, Project Management, Research and Analytics, Relationship Building, Organizational Leadership.
"WH holds a special place in my heart and I firmly believe my 12 years in the district gave me the life views that have led to my professional achievements," Brian tell us. "I know that there are many more deserving alums out there."
Brian Kurtz is the founding President & CEO of Downtown Tulsa Partnership, where he has led the organization since its establishment in 2021.
Brian first began overseeing Tulsa’s downtown management and Improvement District functions in 2018 as Executive Director of the City’s Downtown Coordinating Council within the Mayor’s Office. He later worked with a coalition of business and civic leaders to incorporate Downtown Tulsa Partnership (DTP) and secure its first contract with the City of Tulsa, creating a new model for delivering services funded by the Tulsa Stadium Improvement District.
Under Brian’s leadership, DTP has more than doubled its budget, expanded impact with a robust Clean & Safe program, provided business and economic development services, launched a formal policy and advocacy agenda, and advanced public-realm infrastructure investments, all working towards building a vibrant central neighborhood. He led the organization through startup operations, program expansion, and a growing portfolio of public-private partnerships reinvesting in quality public spaces.
DTP has received four International Downtown Association Awards of Excellence during his tenure, recognizing its innovative and community-driven programs and services.
Brian previously served in place management, urban planning, and economic development roles in Pittsburgh, PA and Buffalo, NY. He holds a Bachelor of Arts from Gannon University and a Master of Urban Planning from the University at Buffalo School of Architecture and Planning. He is professionally certified by the International Downtown Association, serves on its Board of Directors, and chairs IDA’s Education Committee. He is also a full member of the Urban Land Institute. In 2023, Brian was named an Achiever Under 40 by The Oklahoma Journal Record.
In Tulsa, Brian is a founding Board Director for the Center for Housing Solutions, the HUD-designated lead agency for the Continuum of Care and serves on the Board of Advisors for Tulsa Regional Tourism and as a Trustee of the Tulsa Community College Foundation.
Brian and his wife, Becky, have three daughters.
Joelisa McDonald
Class of 2008
I am a proud Woodland Hills graduate who has dedicated my life to serving the community that raised me. As Mayor of Rankin, a substitute teacher in the district, and a role-model to youth, I work every day to create opportunities, restore pride, and make sure our families feel seen, supported, and valued. I don’t seek recognition, but I hope my journey shows our students that their circumstances do not define their future. My leadership is rooted in service, equity, and love for Rankin and the Woodland Hills family.
While I am grateful for each award [I have received], my true reward is the trust of my community and the opportunity to serve them every day. I have been recognized throughout Western Pennsylvania for my community leadership, including: Top 100 Pittsburgh Beautiful Brown and Bold Women (2016), Unsung Mama of the Year (2018), Classic Events Honoree (2021), the Living History Awardfrom Bethlehem Baptist Church (2022), Western PA Rising Star by Get Involved! (2022), the Trailblazer Award from When She Thrives (2023) and most recently the 2025 Nutritional AccessGrant from the American Beverage Foundation which helped put food on families tables in Rankin . My work has been highlighted in the Pittsburgh Courier, City & State PA, Soul Pitt Magazine, WESA, KDKA, and other regional outlets.
My service has always centered families, youth, and access. I helped bring the Giant Eagle Food Truck to Rankin to address our food desert, organized key community events and holiday drives, and previously served as a 412 Food Rescue Ambassador. I advocate for infrastructure improvements, support literacy with Reading Ready Pittsburgh, while serving on the Early Literacy Council and partner with organizations that provide skills training, financial literacy, and community well-being. As a substitute teacher, the connection I have with Woodland Hills students is one of my greatest honors, they know I show up for them in and out of the classroom. I see and need or a void and I just act! Rather it be new socks, food or a ride. Even with a servant’s heart and a giving spirit, my journey has not been without challenges. The world hasn’t always smiled back at me, but resilience is the spirit of a Wolverine, to achieve, you must endure. In January , I began my 6th year as Mayor, continuing to focus on safety, opportunity,and revitalization.
The Foundation has been a consistent partner in helping bring resources, programming, and positive experiences to our district. As both an alumna and a community leader, I am committed to supporting their mission and strengthening the opportunities available to Woodland Hills students and families. I have helped raised funds in the past that supports the good work of this foundation. I have mastered bringing my class together to call attention to the work of this organization. One of my classmates recently said to me, “Giving money is easy but taking the initiative like you do is very impressive, thanks for being a kind and real leader”.
It’s important to use our voices to help elevate others and I have done just that but most importantly thank you for the work that you do also.
Michelle Naccarati-Chapkis
Class of 1988
Michelle exemplifies the Woodland Hills way. She is resilient, and she is passionate about building a better community for all. When she's not being a county councilwoman, Michelle is the executive director for Women for a Healthy Environment, fighting for a better environment for all. She makes herself accessible to constituents and she's not doing it for the credit.
Michelle was instrumental in key legislation to make eligible County real property published annually and require creation of a complete streets plan for municipalities to work cooperatively. She co-sponsored ordinances that streamline property assessment office practices, offer tax credits for volunteer first responders, update campaign regulations, prohibit fracking in county parks, and require a countywide climate action plan.
Michelle actively addresses economic development and blight, works on job creation initiatives, assists with long-term planning for volunteer firefighters, and advocates for improved public safety and mental health services. She attends many community meetings and programs throughout the Woodland Hills School District.
She also is executive director of a nonprofit organization, Women for a Healthy Environment (WHE). Through educational programming, technical assistance and advocacy, WHE addresses environmental exposures that impact public health, with an emphasis on working in and supporting environmental justice communities. By translating scientific information for general consumption, WHE empowers, educates and advocates for a better tomorrow. To date the organization has educated over 35,000 individuals and provided technical assistance to more than 300 schools and childcare facilities, ensuring they are healthier spaces for children to learn and thrive.
Michelle co-authored various public health reports, including the State of Environmental Health in PA Schools report, and co-founded several regional coalitions such as Lead Safe Allegheny. She has worked on passage of environmental and health legislation at the local, state and federal levels of government. Her over 25 years of experience includes working closely with communities; local, state and federal governments; non-profit organizations; foundations and corporations.
Ms. Naccarati-Chapkis holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh and is a graduate of Leadership Pittsburgh’s Class of XXVIII. She serves as the Chair of the Plum Zoning Hearing Board and the newly formed Allegheny County Housing Advisory Committee and sits on several nonprofit and government committees and task forces.
Maria Yezovich
Class of 1998
I am honored to nominate Maria Yezovich for the 2026 Woodland Hills Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award. Maria exemplifies what it means to be a Woodland Hills alumnus: dedicated to her profession, committed to her community, and always willing to give her time, talent, and heart to support others. Her career achievements, leadership, and unwavering support of the Woodland Hills School District make her an outstanding candidate for this recognition.
Professionally, Maria has built an impressive career in financial services. As a Senior Client Specialist and Group Manager, she serves as the first point of contact for clients, bringing compassion, clarity, and expertise to every interaction. Since 2017, she has worked alongside her brother, Financial Advisor Joe Yezovich, helping build a practice grounded in integrity and service. Maria is a Registered General Securities Representative, a role that requires both exceptional technical knowledge and the ability to communicate complex information with skill and care—qualities she embodies daily.
Before entering financial services, Maria dedicated part of her life to public education as a high school teacher, a testament to her passion for helping young people grow. Her breadth of experience also includes leadership in the Electronic Funds Transfer Department at BNY Mellon, where she served as the Compliance and Quality Assurance Manager. Across each career chapter, Maria has demonstrated a deep commitment to excellence, responsibility, and service—traits that reflect the values we hope to see in every Woodland Hills graduate.
Beyond her professional life, Maria is an extraordinary community leader. She is a devoted supporter of the Woodland Hills Performing Arts Guild, where she serves not only as a performer but also as an enthusiastic organizer and promoter of programs benefiting Woodland Hills students and alumni. She continually champions events across the district, using her voice—both literally and figuratively—to uplift others. Whether she is performing on stage or spreading the word about student initiatives, Maria brings contagious energy and unwavering commitment to strengthening the Wolverine community.
Her dedication to the Woodland Hills Foundation is unmatched. Maria and her firm have sponsored the Alumni Cabaret nearly every year for the past five years, helping ensure that the event remains a lively, successful tradition for the district. She also performs almost every year, giving her time and talent generously. Her band, Walkin’ Rosie, has performed at the Foundation’s Starry Night Gala, donating their services entirely to support the district. Additionally, Maria’s family consistently shows up—through sponsorships, ticket purchases, and volunteerism—to ensure the Foundation’s mission continues to thrive.
Maria’s community impact is not limited to the stage. She actively fosters connections among alumni, students, educators, and families, using her platform to promote Woodland Hills events, initiatives, and celebrations. She is someone who authentically believes in the strength of the community and works tirelessly to bring people together. Her support is not performative; it is heartfelt, sustained, and rooted in gratitude for the district that helped shape her.
Outside of her professional and volunteer accomplishments, Maria is simply an exceptional human being—warm, thoughtful, generous, and endlessly supportive. She brings joy and artistry into the world not only through her work with the Performing Arts Guild but also through her role as the lead singer of Walkin’ Rosie, spending her weekends sharing music with the community. She is devoted to her family and her three beloved dogs, often found exploring the outdoors with them in her spare time.
Maria represents the very best of Woodland Hills. She is a leader, an artist, an educator, a professional, and a deeply engaged member of the Wolverine community. Her sustained commitment to supporting district programs, her generosity through time and sponsorship, and her heartfelt dedication to uplifting students and alumni make her profoundly deserving of this honor.