Nick Lombardino and Zach Blumenfeld, Founders of CultureCon.

Memorial Alumni Redefining Workplace Culture

Some friendships are forged in high school and last a lifetime, while others take shape years later through shared passions. Although Zach Blumenfeld (’09) and Nick Lombardino (’06) overlapped at Madison’s Memorial High School, they didn’t truly connect until adulthood. Their experiences at Memorial helped shape their personal and professional identities, ultimately leading them to co-found CultureCon—a company dedicated to workplace transformation. Today, as best friends and business partners, they bring people together to inspire positive change in organizational culture, right in the heart of their hometown.

For Lynne Gruneberg, growing up on Madison’s west side meant more than just attending school—it meant building lifelong friendships, discovering new passions, and gaining experiences that continue to shape her today. A proud graduate of Memorial High School’s Class of 2008, she began her educational journey at Huegel Elementary and Toki Middle before making her mark as a Spartan.

Innovating the Electric Grid

Will Blanchard, a 2014 graduate of Memorial High School, has always thrived at the intersection of science, technology, and innovation. Now, as the founder and CEO of WattShift—a groundbreaking startup focused on modernizing the electric grid—he reflects on how his Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) education set the stage for his success.

Rosa and her family on the first day of school in MMSD, marking the start of the school year for four out of five Thompsons.

Empowering the Next Generation Through Education and Community Building

Rosa Thompson, a proud 2004 graduate of East High School, has remained deeply connected to her roots on Madison’s east side, a place she still calls home. From her early days at Lapham Elementary through her experiences at Marquette Elementary, O’Keeffe Middle School, and East High, Rosa’s journey has been shaped by determination, personal growth, and a dedication to supporting education and her community.

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.

Erin (right) with her husband, Jeramie, and daughter, Zuri.

Navigating Challenges, Embracing Potential

Erin Bailey, PhD, MS, is a 1999 graduate of Madison West High School and now serves as the Associate Director for Community Engaged Research for the Collective for Research Impact and Social Partnerships (CRISP) at UW-Madison’s College of Letters & Science. As the daughter of a white mother and a Black father, Erin’s educational journey through the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) was shaped by both triumphs and challenges, as she navigated a system where privilege and disadvantage often coexisted in the same classroom.

East Side Leader: Antonio Cruz-Rodriguez's Commitment to Educational Advocacy

Born in Mexico, Antonio Cruz-Rodriguez moved to the United States with his family when he was just a few years old. The Cruz-Rodriguez family settled on the east side of Madison, where Antonio's educational journey began. He attended Lapham Elementary for 4K, then moved to Hawthorne Elementary, and later to Sandburg Elementary due to new district lines. He continued his education at Sherman Middle School and graduated from East High School in 2010.

Sustaining the Family Impact at La Follette

Scott Swanson’s deep connection to the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) reflects his family’s long-standing history with the district. Growing up on the far east side of Madison, Scott attended Kennedy Elementary, Whitehorse Middle, and La Follette High School, graduating in 2002. His journey through MMSD was profoundly influenced by his parents, Paul and Ruth, both of whom were esteemed teachers and Athletic Directors at La Follette.

An Unexpected Path to Travel Influencer

No one grows up dreaming they’ll wear a giant piece of cheese on their head and tell people where to go for a living. But life has a funny way of surprising us. I graduated from Madison West Senior High School in just three years, transferring college credits back to join the class of 1985 instead of 1986. Back then, we didn’t have the internet, cell phones, or laptops—so it’s ironic that I now rely on all of those things as a travel influencer.

A Legacy Rooted in Education at MMSD

The Covarrubias family has deep roots in the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD), representing a multi-generational commitment to education and community service. From Maria Del Rosario Covarrubias, who dedicated three decades to teaching in the district, to her five children—Cinthya (Cindy), Jorge, Daniel, Hector, and Julie— who all attended Madison’s public schools, their story is one of enduring dedication and impactful contribution. Today, the legacy Maria built is carried forward by her children, many of whom have chosen careers within MMSD, continuing to nurture and support the academic and personal growth of students across the district.