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.

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.

Arleen (Muldowney) Casey grew up as the youngest of six children, experiencing a rich and vibrant childhood. Her parents built their home in 1948 on what was then the edge of town near Seminole Highway and Highway 12/18. Arleen attended Nakoma Grade School and Cherokee Junior High before graduating from West High School in 1974.

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.

Madison Memorial class of 2013 alumna Paige Decent grew up on the west side of Madison, attending Huegel and Akira Toki for elementary and middle school, respectively. Her early education within the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) laid a strong foundation for her academic and personal growth, setting her on a path toward future success.

Rooted in Madison: Anthony Kiefer’s Journey from MMSD Student to Community Advocate

Anthony Kiefer grew up on the east side of Madison, attending Elvehjem Elementary and Sennett Middle before graduating from La Follette High School in 2006. Sill rooted in Madison, Anthony currently manages an R&D team at IFF, focusing on the physiology of probiotic bacteria—a role that merges his passion for science with a commitment to innovation. He is heavily involved in the community outreach efforts at IFF, spearheading the Adopt-a-School partnership with Sennett Middle School, where he relishes the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of young scholars, paying forward the support and guidance he received during his formative years in the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD).

Unexpected Path, Fulfilling Destination

From navigating through the uncertainties of post-grad life to finding her calling at Summit Credit Union, Hannah Altwegg's journey came full circle to empower others and shape futures.

Dr. Ramon Ortiz Jr.’s Journey of Achievement

Dr. Ramon Ortiz’s journey from Madison East High (Class of ’91) to his current esteemed position as dean of continuing education at Madison Area Technical College is a testament to the transformative power of education.