Where Mountain School Graduates Make Their Mark
Discover the remarkable journeys of The Mountain School alumni as they lead lives of purpose, curiosity, and service.
From medical researchers and environmental justice advocates to award-winning authors and community organizers, Mountain School graduates are making meaningful contributions across diverse fields. These alumni profiles showcase how a transformative semester in Vershire, Vermont, continues to shape leaders and changemakers through TMS's core values of collaborative learning, deep connection to place, and intentional community. Explore their journeys to see how The Mountain School experience inspires graduates to think critically, lead with empathy, and work toward a more just and sustainable world.
Our Graduate Profiles
Isabel Tribe F’20: Adventuring and Advocacy
Brown University student, Isabel Tribe f’20, discusses her evolution in advocacy work, the importance of exploring the world in new ways and how her time at TMS has impacted her along the way.
Lea Koonce Ogundiran S’90: The Provenance of a Distinguished Jewelry Appraiser
Distinguished jewelry appraiser, Lea Koonce Ogundiran S’90, shares her career path in gemology and discusses how her studies at TMS show up in her work today.
Vivien Qiao S’18: Discovering Your Unique Path
Scientist, Vivien Qiao S’18, shares her unique journey towards an MD/PhD and explains how there can be many paths to one goal.
Eddie Lin F’92: From Solo to Seattle City Council
A lawyer now running for Seattle City Council, Eddie Lin F’92, models what it looks like to prioritize community and service.
Janice Nimura F’87: Telling True Stories That Explain the World
Award-winning author and college professor, Janice Nimura, discusses her passion for creative nonfiction and shares how TMS impacted the trajectory of her writing career.
Courtney Bowen S’14: Chase Your Curiosity (Even When It’s Scary)
Brown medical student, Courtney Bowen, discusses the non-linear path of following your interests and how TMS impacted her along the way.
Izzy Lowell S’97: Expanding Access to Gender-Affirming Care
As a physician who advocates for access to gender-affirming healthcare across the country, Izzy Lowell embodies the TMS value of “taking care.”
Sandra Comstock F’86: People-Centered Paths to Dignity and Belonging
In Vershire, Sandra Comstock saw the transformative power of collaborative decision-making and genuine listening. Now, she channels those skills into community advocacy alongside unhoused neighbors in Portland.
Corey Bassett F’08: Lessons from an Urban Forester
At TMS, Corey Bassett loved Wood Crew. Now, she’s an urban forester working to bring sustainable futures to cities across the country.
Billy Parish S’99: Looking Closely at the Stories We’re Told
How TMS encouraged Billy Parish to connect with the land, connect with others, and connect with himself
Michael Romano S’89: A New Paradigm for a More Just World
How lessons from TMS inspired Michael Romano to move beyond conventional wisdom in criminal justice reform
Maxine Burkett F’92: Perceiving the Crisis and the Possibilities
How a semester at TMS prepared Maxine Burkett for a career in environmental justice