Alumni of Distinction
Each year, Columbia Heights Public Schools recognizes a former Columbia Heights High School (CHHS) graduate as the "Alumni of Distinction" for their professional achievements and/or for their service to the community and the school district. The "Alumni of Distinction" is the highest award presented by CHHS to Alumni.
The award is announced each spring during the high school's commencement ceremony and the recipient is honored at the Alumni Foundation Dinner each fall.
Past Recipients
2025
Trevor Major
2024
Suzy and Mark Vescio
2023
Molly Lewis
2022
Jim Scalise
2020/2021
Pete Heryla and John Rockwell
2019
John Larkin
2018
Jim Hemak
2017
All Past Recipients
2016
Pfc. James LaBelle
2015
Vern Hoium
2014
John Alt
2013
Trish Van Pilsum
2012
Earl Bakken
2011
Pat Proft
2010
Joseph Lahti
2009
Connie Bakken
2008
Matt Miller
The Columbia Heights High School Alumni Scholarship Foundation
The Columbia Heights High School Alumni Scholarship Foundation is a non-profit corporation whose sole purpose is to raise funds and provide scholarships for CHHS graduates.
Since 1998, the Foundation has provided over $1,000,000 in scholarships to Hylander graduates. Please join us in furthering the education of our worthy students. The Columbia Heights High School Alumni Scholarship Foundation is designated as a 501c3, tax-exempt organization.