The Heritage Community School District #8 is thrilled to announce its Alumni Achievement Hall of Fame Banquet, a grand event that marks 35 years of academic excellence, innovation, and community spirit. This year’s ceremony, set to take place on Wednesday, April 10th, at 6:00 p.m., promises an evening filled with nostalgia, celebration, and inspiration, as we honor four distinguished alumni and five remarkable superintendents who have played pivotal roles in the district’s success.
The banquet, a cornerstone event for the Heritage community, will commence with a dinner at 6:00 p.m., followed by the induction ceremony. This gathering is not just an event but a testament to the legacy of achievement and leadership fostered by Heritage Community School District #8. We warmly invite all community members to join us in this celebration, to extend congratulations to the inductees, and to reconnect with the visionary superintendents who have steered our schools towards greatness.
Meet the 2024 Inductees
Mr. Joshua Gorman, PhD (1996)
Joshua Gorman’s illustrious journey from a bright student at Heritage High School to the esteemed position of Executive Director at the Harvard University Collection of Historic Scientific Instruments is a story of passion, perseverance, and intellectual pursuit. After graduating in 1996, Gorman embarked on an academic and professional voyage that took him to the crossroads of history, science, and museum studies, culminating in a PhD in United States History with a focus on the ethical use and preservation of museum collections. His work has spanned various prestigious institutions, where he has played a crucial role in curating and preserving the tangible legacies of scientific endeavor and exploration.
At Harvard, Gorman oversees one of the most significant collections of historic scientific instruments in the world, a role that marries his deep knowledge of history with a fervent commitment to preserving scientific heritage. This position is not just a job but a continuation of Gorman’s lifelong mission to make history accessible and engaging to the public. Under his guidance, the collection has become a vital resource for researchers and enthusiasts alike, offering insights into the evolution of scientific thought and the tools that have propelled human understanding forward.
Ms. Mary Happ, PhD (2013)
Ms. Mary Happ’s journey from the halls of Heritage High School to the forefront of bioinformatics and agricultural science is a compelling narrative of ambition, academic excellence, and innovative research. Graduating in 2013, Happ embarked on an academic career that took her from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to obtaining a Ph.D. in Crop Sciences focused on Plant Breeding and Biotechnology. Her scholarly journey is distinguished by prestigious scholarships and active engagement in research, both domestically and abroad, showcasing her commitment to advancing agricultural sciences and global food security.
During her doctoral studies at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Happ was not only a researcher but also an ambassador for science, fostering connections across continents and disciplines. Her work at the Huazhong Agricultural University in China and participation in the Norman Borlaug Summer Institute on Global Food Security underline her global perspective on agricultural challenges. Happ’s leadership roles within academic societies, coupled with her efforts to engage the public in science through initiatives like SCImPLE, highlight her dedication to bridging the gap between scientific research and community understanding.
Now as a Bioinformatics Scientist at Inari in West Lafayette, Indiana, Happ is at the cutting edge of agricultural technology, leveraging her expertise in genetics to develop sustainable farming solutions. Her work, aimed at enhancing crop efficiency and resilience, is pivotal in the face of climate change and growing global food demand. Through her innovative research and public engagement, Mary Happ exemplifies the role of science in solving real-world problems, making significant strides towards a more sustainable and food-secure future.
Commander Darin R. Riggs, USN (Ret.), BS (1999)
Commander Darin R. Riggs, a distinguished graduate of Heritage High School’s class of 1999, exemplifies a life dedicated to service, leadership, and innovation. His journey from a Naval ROTC scholarship recipient at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to a commanding officer in the U.S. Navy is a testament to his exceptional dedication and skill. Riggs’s academic and professional achievements in the demanding field of Nuclear Submarine Operations, where he excelled as a Main Propulsion Assistant and Quality Assurance Officer, underscore his technical acumen and leadership qualities. His tenure in the Navy is marked by significant accomplishments, including strategic international collaborations and the successful management of complex engineering challenges aboard nuclear submarines.
After an illustrious 20-year career in the Navy, Riggs transitioned to civilian life with the same zeal for excellence and innovation he demonstrated in military service. His venture into the brewing industry, propelled by a newfound passion for craft beer brewing, led to the co-founding of Riggs Beer Company in Urbana, Illinois. This venture not only signifies a successful shift from military to civilian entrepreneurship but also reflects Riggs’s commitment to community and sustainable farming practices. By incorporating locally sourced ingredients and emphasizing quality, Riggs Beer Company has grown into a significant player in the regional brewing scene, contributing to the local economy and agriculture.
Mr. Matt Riggs, BS (2002)
Mr. Matt Riggs, a proud graduate of Heritage High School’s class of 2002, has charted a unique and inspiring course from military service to entrepreneurial success in the brewing industry. His journey began with a Naval ROTC scholarship at the University of Illinois, leading to a commission as a Second Lieutenant in the Marine Corps, where he served with distinction as a Combat Engineer Officer. Riggs’s transition from military life to the brewing world was driven by a passion for craft beer and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His pursuit of brewing knowledge took him to the heart of Bavaria, Germany, where he honed his craft at the prestigious Doemens Academy, earning the title of German Certified Brewmaster. This rigorous education laid the foundation for what would become a flourishing business venture rooted in tradition and innovation.
Returning to Champaign County with a vision to blend agricultural heritage with brewing excellence, Matt Riggs, alongside his brother Darin, established Riggs Beer Company in 2016. The company is a testament to the Riggs brothers’ dedication to quality, sustainability, and community engagement. By prioritizing locally sourced ingredients and leveraging their agricultural background, the Riggs have created a brewery that not only produces exceptional beer but also contributes to the local economy and fosters a deeper connection to the land. Riggs Beer Company has quickly become a staple in the Illinois craft beer scene, known for its German and American-style beers and its commitment to environmental stewardship and agricultural education.
Matt Riggs’s entrepreneurial journey reflects a broader narrative of innovation, resilience, and community service. His accolades, including the Glen “GB” Brandt Prize for Ag Entrepreneurism and the Young Alumni Achievement Award, highlight his significant contributions to agriculture and business.
Honoring Superintendents
The banquet will also pay tribute to Mr. Robert Chinn, Mr. Oris Bunn, Dr. Allen Hall, Mr. Andrew Larson, and Mr. Tom Davis, five superintendents whose visionary leadership and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in the district’s development and achievements.
