Meet the CHAA Board
Jim Berry – Class of 1985
Kayla Fisher – Class of 2016
Vice President
Linda Jean Sexton-Fobian – Class of 1974
Secretary
Brad Seaton – Class of 1994
Treasurer
Patty Grabinski – Class of 1970
Events Chair
Jane (Webster) Green – Class of 1971
Rodney Anderson – Class of 2007
Bill Blanchard – Class of 1964
Bob Dane – Class of 1966
Colbin Erdahl – Class of 2000
Dick Evans – Class of 1973
Alma Greene – Class of 1953
Jill Humston – Class of 1998
Brian Kirschling – Class of 1991
Paul Roesler – Class of 1994
Past President Molly Dietz – Class of 1997
CHAA Board Meetings & Goals
The City High Alumni Association Board meets on the first Wednesday of every month, usually in the Jim Sangster Alumni Box overlooking Bates Field. When the weather is colder, we will sometimes meet inside the school building in the Old Commons (we try not to take offense from the name). We typically take July off, and meet the other 11 months of the year.
The Board meets to discuss how best to keep CHS Alumni engaged and build a stronger City High Community. We focus our efforts on the outstanding traditions laid in place since the formation of the CHAA: Graduation Banner Carriers, Scholarship Awards, the Hall of Fame event, and the Homecoming Parade.
Led by the sonorous voice of current president Jim Berry, we also end every board meeting with a rendition of our school’s Alma Mater
Jim Berry – Class of 1985
Why is the City High Alumni Association important to you?
I have been on the board since 2019, and 2024 is my first year as President.
I am serving on the City High Alumni Association Board of Directors to give back to my Alma Mater, but also to make sure that our great school traditions continue. Hopefully the work we do impacts the school as a whole, but more specifically students as individuals. Helping them to see that alumni of City High are successful and proud of the school and willing to help mentor students in any way we can.
What were you involved in during your high school career?
I was involved in Band, Drum Major of the Marching Little Hawks, Jazz Band, Pep Band, Concert Choir, 4th Avenue Jazz Company, Musical, Ambassadors Club, Student Council, Sophomore Football and I was a Varsity Letterman in Track coached by the legendary John Raffensperger.
Current Involvement/Interests:
After a successful teaching career in Vocal Music, I am now the CEO of Berry Insurance and Financial Services. I help people in the education field get their Financial House in Order by advising them on their insurance and retirement needs.
Favorite City High memory:
My favorite memory of my student years at City High would be winning the gold medal with the Concert Choir in 1983 in Washington DC under the direction of Larry Monson. My favorite memory as an adult was teaching my son and the incredibly talented students at City High from 2013-2016.
How did your time as a student at City High affect where and who you are today?
Teaching high school vocal music was a very fun career and I would recommend it to anyone who is inclined to teach music. It prepared me in many way to be a business man and own my own business. Teaching students about life, through music was rewarding. But now I teach educators about their insurance and retirement needs. Never be afraid to change what you are doing to make a difference in people’s lives!
Has (or will) any of your family also attend City High?
I am the last of six children to graduate from City High and one of my sons graduated in 2014 and the other in 2024.
Kayla Fisher – Class of 2016
Why is the City High Alumni Association important to you?
After carrying the “class of 2016” banner at the graduation ceremony in 2022, I was introduced to the Alumni Association and their mission to connect alumni and support students (past and present) and positive initiatives at City High. I enjoy getting to meet fellow alumni and learn about how traditions have been created and maintained over the years. Although we all may have experienced different things at different times – one thing will always connect us; our Little Hawk pride.
What were you involved in during your high school career?
Art classes (glass, ceramics, photoshop, video production, etc), show choir, stage management, Silver Cord, and of course – school spirit days!
Current Involvement/Interests:
I am a full time Realtor, and am proud to say that I love my career. Getting to assist buyers and sellers who are moving in, out, or around the greater Iowa City area brings me joy. I chair the Iowa City Area Association of REALTORs Young Professional Network. I am passionate about organizing and helping to operate Holiday Lights at the Lake, a mile long light show benefiting The Bird House; Hospice Home of Johnson County.
Favorite City High memory:
I was recognized for having the most school spirit in the senior superlatives section of the yearbook. I enjoyed wearing very bold outfits and encouraging others to celebrate homecoming week and the special dress-up days such as neon day, pajama day, extreme red and white day. I also was sure to always wear red every Friday!
How did your time as a student at City High affect where and who you are today?
My time at “The School That Leads” really encouraged me to succeed. I was surrounded by teachers and staff who believed in me and allowed me to be myself. Growing up in Iowa City, beginning as a Shimek Shark then to South East and finally graduating from City High provided me with so many opportunities to learn and grow.
Has (or will) any of your family also attend City High?
My dad Doug (class of 1979) and my sister Krystal (class of 2019).
Linda Jean Sexton-Fobian – Class of 1974
Why is the City High Alumni Association important to you?
The CHAA is important to me as it helps to keep and hopefully continues to share City High School information among the many alumni. The choices we make as a group to help others out warms my heart.
What were you involved in during your high school career?
Although my time at City High was more of a social event for me, I enjoyed attending as many events as I could from Opstad to the gym and football field. I was involved in stage production and drama for a bit – and that was something I would strongly encourage others to try.
Current Involvement/Interests:
My time now involves more family time, as I follow my 5 grandkids and all of their events. I love being a part of a now extinct Iowa Ladies Football Academy (did it for 5 years) and now participate in the Iowa Ladies Wrestling academy. They are both fundraisers.
Favorite City High memory:
Being with my friends each and every day!
How did your time as a student at City High affect where and who you are today?
My time at City High made me appreciate the best side of town – the East side, and just how lucky we are to have graduated from one of the best high schools. In the fall of 2023 I received the “Jim Sangster Alumni of the Year Award” and am so humbled and honored by this recognition. I help to organize the 1973 and 1974 class reunions and will always try to persuade people to attend their reunions!
Has (or will) any of your family also attend City High?
City High has been the graduating school for my two siblings, my husband and his 3 siblings and our 3 kids and 5 of our nieces and nephews!
Brad Seaton – Class of 1994
Why is the City High Alumni Association important to you?
This is my second stint on the board. I believe that I have served on the board for approximately 10 years. I have served as the treasurer in the past – and have begun serving in this role again in 2024. This organization is important to me, because I have very fond memories of my time at City High. I want to help ensure that future Little Hawks also have a similar experience during their time in high school. Being a part of this organization helps me stay connected to the school that means so much to me.
What were you involved in during your high school career?
4-sport letter winner in my time at City High – participating in football, basketball, soccer, and baseball.
Current Involvement/Interests:
Both of my boys will be City High graduates – 2022 and 2024 grads. We have spent the last several years enjoying watching and supporting them in their activities at City High. I am currently the Clinical Department Administrator at the University of Iowa Health Care in the Department of Pathology.
Favorite City High memory:
In 1993, I was a member of the football team that won the Class 3A state title. In the title game, I caught 2 touchdown passes.
How did your time as a student at City High affect where and who you are today?
I learned many life-long lessons in my time at City High, but probably most impactful was learning to be a hard worker, respectful to others, and a great teammate. Those skills have helped me be successful in my everyday life and in my career. I still have many great relationships with classmates, teachers, parents, and coaches from my time at CHS.
Has (or will) any of your family also attend City High?
Both of my sons will be City High graduates – Carter (2022) and Cale (2024)
Patty Grabinski – Class of 1970
Why is the City High Alumni Association important to you?
I have been involved with the CHAA since its inception in 1996. The Association is important because, after all, alumni is who our students will become. Tradition never graduates. From the moment we enter City High, decades of high standards pull us up to be our best. That feeling of pride and honor we feel as students never really leaves most City High grads. City High has a history that goes back generations. The association helps to connect our graduates. We help take care of our school, its physical structure, its history, its traditions, students and staff and help secure its future. When you build a community and connect people, good things happen. City High is a very good thing, and so is our Association.
What were you involved in during your high school career?
I have no one favorite City High memory, as a third generation City High graduate I have a lifetime of them – going to events with my dad, my time as a student, sharing times with my kids as they attended, volunteering, class reunions, and perhaps most importantly – so many special friendships.
Has (or will) any of your family also attend City High?
My grandfather, father, and uncle all graduated from City High as well as my two brothers. All three of my children and my niece and nephew also graduated from City High.
Jane (Webster) Green – Class of 1971
Why is the City High Alumni Association important to you?
Board member since 2010 to present. I love City High & I love being on the alumni board. I care about students and teachers, and I want to help everyone succeed in achieving their dreams!
What were you involved in during your high school career?
Orchestra was my main activity. I played violin and went to all-state and participated in solo contests. I truly enjoyed playing basketball in GRA and Rec Center contests.
Current Involvement/Interests:
I’ve been teaching at City High for 23 years. I’ve taught Government, Behavioral Science,General Psych, Abnormal Psych and during the last few years at City High I started an AP Psych class too!
Favorite City High memory:
I truly enjoy creating floats for the Homecoming Parade. I also enjoyed the bonfire in the parking lot, too!
How did your time as a student at City High affect where and who you are today?
City High has always had an outstanding music department. After graduating from City High in 1971, I attended the University of Iowa and was a music major at first (3 years) when I decided to combine my love of music for psych. That way I could possibly do music therapy down the road.
Has (or will) any of your family also attend City High?
My mom Betty McNabb, sister Sue Janssen, and brother Rich Webster.
Rodney Anderson – Class of 2007
Why is the City High Alumni Association important to you?
Info about Rodney coming soon!
What were you involved in during your high school career?
Info about Rodney coming soon!
Current Involvement/Interests:
Info about Rodney coming soon!
Favorite City High memory:
Info about Rodney coming soon!
How did your time as a student at City High affect where and who you are today?
Info about Rodney coming soon!
Has (or will) any of your family also attend City High?
Info about Rodney coming soon!
Bill Blanchard – Class of 1964
Why is the City High Alumni Association important to you?
I have served on the Board from 2014 to present. I have stayed connected to City High through my class reunions and my development of an email database for my class. I still do that, but I feel I owe more to the school that helped me be who I am today.
What were you involved in during your high school career?
I played sophomore through varsity baseball and recreation league basketball all three years. I went out for track one season.
Current Involvement/Interests:
I play bass clarinet in four bands. I serve on the Johnson County Veterans Commission. I have been involved in martial arts since 1991 and recently was promoted to 5th Dan (Shihan). I am a past president of both the Iowa Park and Recreation Association and the Iowa Amateur Softball Association. I have been inducted into the Marshalltown 16” Softball Hall of Fame and the State 16” Softball Hall of Fame. I am also in the State Hershey Track and Field Hall of Fame as an event administrator. I served in the U.S. Army from 1970-71. I was deployed to South Korea for over 14 months.
Favorite City High memory:
I was presented with the sportsmanship award in the recreation basketball league.
How did your time as a student at City High affect where and who you are today?
The foundation built through my classes, sports, friendships and observations of City High leadership helped me in all my post City High ventures.
Has (or will) any of your family also attend City High?
Brother Tom (1965), sister Becky (1969), brother Calvin (1971).
Bob Dane – Class of 1966
Why is the City High Alumni Association important to you?
Joined the board during the formation of the AA to create the DB format. I used FileMaker Pro. It can be moved into and out of Excel Spreadsheets. I stepped away for a few years, but was invited back when Jim Sangster became ill. CHAA can be a vital link between the past and present activities of CHS and its alumni. We provide support for CHS on an on-going basis: in finance, activities, political, and moral support.
What were you involved in during your high school career?
Sports, choral, clubs, musicals.
Current Involvement/Interests:
Retired, but still involved in college and USA wrestling, CHS plays and musicals, Old Threshers, Appalachia Service Projects. I was on the Board of Directors for the Hawkeye Area Wrestling Klub (HAWK) for 37 years supporting fans with activities, travel, and accommodations (1978-2014). I was in the Army Reserves for 18 years.
Favorite City High memory:
Enjoyed my time at City, probably because of my variety of activities. Favorite? Student body: 10-12 (back then) all the way through. Great students and a caring staff! Later, I became known at City as ‘Bob the video guy’ beginning in 1991 for recording 8 different sports, orchestra, choral, musicals, plays, graduations, awards assemblies, championship receptions, recital and audition videos for some students. Some of my Fine Arts videos were used as part of the application process for our Grammy Awards and selection to advance to state and regional events for musicals and plays.
How did your time as a student at City High affect where and who you are today?
Encouraged me to be involved in many activities, try to give back to others, used my education in business (math and english) tried to stay reasonably fit over the years, tried to earn the respect of others
Has (or will) any of your family also attend City High?
City High History: 4 aunts, (starting in 1928), my Mom in ’42, 2 siblings (’64 & ’68), 2 daughters (’95 & ’99), myself in ’66.
Colbin Erdahl- Class of 2000
Why is the City High Alumni Association important to you?
There is a feeling I get walking across the front lawn and through the halls of City High that always feels like home. Being a lifelong resident of Iowa City, I know that our school is a fantastic place to learn, but also the backbone of our community. The CHAA strives to keep Little Hawks connected to our roots, and show us we are all part of a welcoming and caring community beyond our time as students. I hope to help the CHAA further the work of reaching out to former Little Hawks, keeping them informed of happenings at our school, and the school informed of happenings with alumni, and grow our community ever closer and stronger.
What were you involved in during your high school career?
I was in the Little Hawk Marching Band for 4 years as a member of the Drumline, including Winter Indoor Drumline my senior year. I also played percussion in the Concert Band/Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra, and played in the pit for both the musical Oklahoma, as well as for graduations at Hancher. I wore the red coat of a City High Ambassador for my Junior and Senior year. As a Junior, I was privileged enough to travel for two weeks to Spain through our Spanish class, staying with a family in Cádiz for one week. I was also a member of the Calculus Señors (I still have the T-shirt)
Current Involvement/Interests:
I work as a Cyclotron Engineer for the P.E.T. Imaging Center at the U of I Hospitals and Clinics. I have been President of the Alexander Elementary PTO, where my kids attend (opened in 2015 South of Wood Elementary). Though I never played sports as a Little Hawk, I enjoy pick-up basketball, ultimate and indoor soccer around the Iowa City area, and have coached innumerable of my kids’ rec teams on the East Side. I am also a bass-drummer in the Hawkeye Alumni Band, marching on-and-off for 10 years in the U of I Homecoming parade.
Favorite City High memory:
My favorite memory has to be marching and playing Sturdy Little through the main hallway of the school en route to a pep assembly in the gym, which they let us do once or twice per year. Along with blasting “Lamb Thrash” in the entrance to the library once or twice.
A second memory is the end of Senior Year, when our calculus teacher gave us a take-home, open-book final, encouraging us to work together. The entire class met that evening in the basement of the IMU on the U of I campus, and toiled for hours, finally solving what were definitely college-level problems. This was unconventional on our teacher’s part, but I believe it gave us the chance to practice truly collaborative learning, and made an impression on me, continuing to impact my approach to problem solving to this day.
How did your time as a student at City High affect where and who you are today?
Some of my best lifelong friendships are those I made at City High. Also, a major reason for staying in Iowa City to start our family was that my wife and I knew we wanted to raise our kids here, partially because of the fantastic schools, and the experience I had while growing up. My particular niche job at UIHC was found as a result of a friendship that started in the City High band room, and I ended up as a colleague of that friend’s mom for 15 years.
Has (or will) any of your family also attend City High?
My stepmother is a City High grad (class of ’67). I attended along with my sister (’98), and have two step-brothers who also went to City (’95 and ’00). I have three kids, the oldest of whom is registered to start as a Little Hawk in the Fall of 2024!
Dick Evans – Class of 1973
Why is the City High Alumni Association important to you?
In 2003 I was invited to take Ellen Lee Andino’s place on the board to represent the class of ‘73, she was a founding member of the CHAA. I am honored to be a part of this board and believe it is important to give back to the school that helped to shape me and my family’s life. We have great leadership & teamwork!
What were you involved in during your high school career?
I was mainly involved in a lot of sports including cross country, track and basketball.
Current Involvement/Interests:
I am a retired physical therapist after working at UIHC for 40 years. I was on many boards and a member of the Physical Therapy Association. While working as a physical therapist, I had the opportunity to work with many of my past teachers and mentors who needed my services. I currently help with the boys and girls track meets at City High.
Favorite City High memory:
Going to state in basketball, and the support that the school and student body gave to us.
How did your time as a student at City High affect where and who you are today?
My time as a student provided me with a sound educational, social and cultured foundation to build on.
Has (or will) any of your family also attend City High?
Two older sisters, Janis (1966) and Peggy (1970) and my two children, Kara (2003) and Ben (2006).
Alma Greene – Class of 1953
Why is the City High Alumni Association important to you?
My name is Alma Hartley Greene and I graduated from City High in 1953. My aunt Marge Henderson was proud to have graduated in 1940, the first graduating class at the “new school”. I learned from her that City High was a great school. I joined the alumni association in 2006 after moving home from Des Moines. It is with a sense of pride that I have served as a long time member. My City High education has been invaluable during my long life. Beside higher learning, I learned about pride, friendship and a sense of belonging to a community.
What were you involved in during your high school career?
I learned to use manners and respect that I was taught at home. Teachers were well educated and conducted classrooms in a learning atmosphere. I have fond memories of school dances, pep rallies and assemblies. Football and basketball games were fun as I was a cheerleader for two years. I liked drama class and I was in one play “Father of the Bride”.
Current Involvement/Interests:
I am now retired after 63 years working as an RN in California, Des Moines and Iowa City. I write stories about my family, attend sports games and spend time with family and friends.
Favorite City High memory:
I am so very proud to have attended and graduated from City High, the school that leads!
How did your time as a student at City High affect where and who you are today?
Second Husband: Gaylin “Skip” Greene, class of 1953 – whom I started to date after reconnecting at our 50th class reunion.
Has (or will) any of your family also attend City High?
Cousins: Marge Henderson (1940), Mary Putnam-Louis, Jane Putnam-Klitzka, Lisa Lewis, Chris Lewis, Tamra Lewis, Michael Klitzka, Adam Klitzka
Jill Humston – Class of 1998
Why is the City High Alumni Association important to you?
I love the traditions that the Alumni Association has maintained. I moved back to Iowa City to teach at City High and so that my kids could attend and be City High alums in 2028 and 2031!
What were you involved in during your high school career?
Soccer, Ambassadors, and a variety of clubs.
Current Involvement/Interests:
I taught chemistry for 15 years – at UNI, Hawkeye Comm College, Hudson and most recently, Iowa City. In fall 2023, I transitioned to working for the Iowa State Education Association as a UniServ Director. My job now is to support teacher unions in local school districts to guarantee and promote the best working conditions for teachers which means the best learning conditions for students. Most of my community work has revolved around the schools.
Favorite City High memory:
Homecoming games and dances, Proms, Mr. Wilson jumping up on his desk to describe how an electron moves between energy levels in the atom. He’s the reason I majored in chemistry and went on to get my Ph.D. in a scientific field.
How did your time as a student at City High affect where and who you are today?
I became a science major, I attended graduate school and became a teacher because of the science education I got at City High. My siblings and I all earned PhDs in different branches of chemistry.
Has (or will) any of your family also attend City High?
My siblings graduated in 2000 and 2003 and my sons will graduate in 2028 and 2031.
Brian Kirschling – Class of 1991
Why is the City High Alumni Association important to you?
Served on board from 2004-13 (president 2008-2012) and back again 2017 to present. City High is the anchor for East Iowa City, and a healthy school keeps the community strong. I believe that the banner carrier tradition and homecoming activities are critical connectors between students and the community. I like to support students and activities at CHS, and give back to my alma mater while connecting students with alumni.
What were you involved in during your high school career?
Band, 4th Ave, Jazz Band, Orchestra, Ambassadors, Student Government
Current Involvement/Interests:
Optometrist at McDonald Optical in Iowa City. Iowa City Elks Lodge Trustee Chairman. Foundation for the Trades Board of Directors. Iowa State Board of Optometry. Past President of Iowa Optometric Association. Former ICCSD Board of Directors 2013-2017.
Favorite City High memory:
Boycotting the use of Styrofoam in the cafeteria on Earth Day 1990 by having lunch on the lawn I also enjoyed all the performances at Opstad Auditorium.
How did your time as a student at City High affect where and who you are today?
Gave me an excellent educational foundation and taught me to work to bring people of different opinions together to work for a common goal.
Has (or will) any of your family also attend City High?
My wife Jennifer, 1992 and our two children; Cooper 2021 and Grace 2024.
Paul Roesler – Class of 1994
Why is the City High Alumni Association important to you?
Being a lifelong resident of Iowa City I have always had strong ties to the schools and the city. Working to continue the great traditions and education that City High has offered so many students is important to me. Continuing to have a strong East Side school will ensure that future generations will get the same great experience from the School that Leads.
What were you involved in during your high school career?
At City High I played both basketball and baseball. I was a proud CHIPPO recipient in Physics.
Current Involvement/Interests:
Currently the head JV and varsity assistant girls’ basketball coach at City. I also previously coached Sophomore volleyball at City High and continue to work multiple sporting events as an event manager. For the last three years I have been at South East Jr High as the Engagement and Intervention Strategist. Prior to working in the district, I worked for 22 years at SCHEELS and I also served four years as a member of the ICCSD School Board.
Favorite City High memory:
There are so many memories, The Rowdy Crowdies, the athletic dominance our teams had in this state during the 90’s, the City/West rivalry, the Hall of Fame worthy teachers, and meeting my future wife here. The list doesn’t stop with just the time I was at City. It continues today through coaching, watching my daughters go through the school, finally getting a real arena/gym for our athletic teams, the list goes on and on.
How did your time as a student at City High affect where and who you are today?
Being at City High, especially under Howard Vernon’s leadership taught me a lot about taking pride in your environment, trying your best and finding ways to lead and give back. Many of the teachers have had a lasting impact on me to this day. For example, I still think about Mrs. Brashier’s classes when I am writing or expressing myself and I often credit her for the success I have had in those areas. Mr. Brown was always encouraging in PE and because of that my self confidence grew, and made me want to try things that I didn’t think I was capable of doing. After 22 years in retail I still held onto that dream of giving back to the younger generations to ensure they had a similar experience to me and I think that is what gave me the courage to change careers midway through my life to pursue that educational dream.
Has (or will) any of your family also attend City High?
Sisters: Michelle ’91 and Julie ‘92
Fun Fact:
Wife: Brandi (Villhauer) ‘96 My record as a JV softball coach at City High is 1-0 Daughters: Jaiden ‘22 and Emerson ‘25 with a victory over West High… A game I was asked to coach that same day.