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Alumni

Raquel Beltzner '18

Raquel Beltzner, BHS grad from 2018, credits Mr. Deardoff, her favorite teacher, for his genuine compassion and dedication to his students. His support and the sense of community at BHS gave Raquel the confidence to step outside her comfort zone, explore the world, and pursue her dreams.

Favorite teacher?
There are so many amazing teachers at Bennington but my favorite teacher would probably have to be Mr. Deardoff. He truly cared about every single student and went above and beyond. I remember taking finals my senior year and was lightheaded, and Mr. Deardoff gave me a pillow to use to lay down. The compassion he showed as an educator was amazing and he is someone I will never forget.

Favorite Memory at BHS? 

My favorite memory from being a student at Bennington would have to be when I was on the football team in 7th grade. A bunch of guys bet me that I wouldn't last 2 weeks playing football and I ended up lasting the entire season. That team picture in the yearbook still haunts me...

 

Education & Career:

  • Signed with Drury University to run track 
  • Lived in various locations across the U.S, Currently resides in San Diego, California
  • Working toward a Bachelor's in Communication and an Associate's in Organizational Leadership
  • Works as the Production Director and Editor in Chief at PREMIER, a luxury real estate magazine in San Diego

 

Awards & Professional Affiliations:

  • Broke the Javelin school record during Freshman year on the Drury University track team
  • Named GEICO Academic All-GLVC as a student-athlete that same year

 

How did your education/experience at BHS prepare you for your life after graduation?

My experience at BHS gave me all the tools I needed to step outside of my comfort zone and be able to pursue any career path. Growing up in a small town like Bennington gave me the comfort of a small community and motivated me to explore the world more to truly see what else is out there. 

 

Advice for current students?

The biggest advice I would give is to don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. Growing up in a small town can make you very comfortable where you are, but take the risk and explore what the world has to offer. If you have the opportunity to travel, DO IT. I just got back from a last minute solo trip to London and it was the best possible decision I could have ever made because it forced me to step outside of my bubble to meet new people and learn about different cultures. 


 

Yellow pencils.

Our Impact This Year

  • Schools Served

    8

  • Focus Programs Served

    14

  • Students Empowered

    4,346

  • Teachers & Staff Supported

    612

  • Financial Impact

    $3M

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