Ali Zuba (right) poses with her fellow organizers, celebrating the success of the West High Class of 2004’s 20th reunion.

Crafting a Life of Purpose

After graduating from West High School, I left Madison to attend UW-Eau Claire, where I initially pursued my college education. However, it didn’t take long for me to realize how vibrant and dynamic the City of Madison truly is, prompting my return after graduation. My early career at UW-Madison included roles in student services and IT project management, where I honed my skills and explored various professional pathways. During this time, I also earned my MBA from the Wisconsin School of Business, which further enriched my understanding of business dynamics and leadership.

Eventually, I decided to pivot my career towards a field that has always been my passion: holistic health and wellness. I now manage my own business, offering yoga classes that emphasize the mind-body connection and promote overall well-being. This transition allowed me to combine my love for wellness with my desire to support others in finding balance in their lives.

Reflecting on my high school experience, I recognize how instrumental it was in shaping my future endeavors. It was actually after graduation that I truly appreciated the importance of extracurricular activities and creative play. Balancing my academic responsibilities with my involvement in arts and sports taught me valuable lessons about finding equilibrium in life. This "ebb and flow" has guided me throughout my career, helping me navigate the challenges of work while ensuring I make time for personal fulfillment.

I owe much of my creative inspiration to my time at West High, particularly the influence of my teachers. I fondly remember Mrs. and Mr. Woeckinzski, who taught pottery and computer design, respectively. Their enthusiasm for creativity and technology made a lasting impact on me. I often think back to our classes in the early 2000s, where we were encouraged to explore our creativity using emerging technologies—a foundation that I still leverage in my work and play today.

Living in Madison has kept me connected to my alma mater. I often drive past West High School, which evokes nostalgic memories of my high school days. I love hearing updates about school activities, like the annual Super Bowl pottery sale, and seeing students enjoying their lunch breaks in the area. It brings a smile to my face and reminds me of the vibrant community we had.

When it came to organizing our 20-year reunion, my desire to connect with classmates motivated me to take the lead. I believe that amazing things happen when we come together for a purpose. The reunion felt like a trip down memory lane, and it was heartwarming to celebrate how far we’ve all come in two decades. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many attendees expressing their desire to gather again in five years. It was truly a successful event that reaffirmed the bonds we share as a class.

I look forward to seeing what the future holds for us all and continuing to foster these connections within our West High community!