Honored Alumni Awards 2020 and 2021
2021
Craig Darnell
Attended Cuesta: 1998-2000
Craig started his studies at Cuesta College in 1998 and became deeply involved in the Cuesta experience, serving as the Vice President for Associated Students Cuesta College in 1999 and then as President in 2000. He graduated with an associate degree in General Science. He then transferred to Cal Poly obtaining his bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Global Strategy and Law. Through the connections he made a Cuesta College, Craig was offered an internship with Blakeslee & Blakeslee, later returning to the company after graduation. Craig, a Certified Financial Planner is the Vice President of Blakeslee & Blakeslee, Inc. and the Chief Investment Officer of Blakeslee & Blakeslee Financial Advisors, Inc. Craig says, "Cuesta is where I grew up" and he credits his successful career to the deep connections he made and his experiences at Cuesta College.
Colleen Vecchetti
Attended Cuesta: 2001-2006
Raised on the Central Coast, Colleen began her post-high school academic career at Cuesta College, where she was a student-athlete on the title-winning softball team for two years. She graduated with her Associate of Arts degree and transferred to Cal Poly, receiving her bachelor's degree in 2007 in Biological Sciences. While obtaining her BS, Colleen worked as a Physical Therapy Aide at Movement for Life in Morro Bay. Colleen received a Master of Physical Therapy from Fresno State in 2010. Upon graduation, Colleen returned to the Central Coast and to work at Movement for Life, completing an orthopedic residency program in 2013. Shortly, after that, she received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the Evidence in Motion Institute of Health Professions. Additionally, she is a Clinical Specialist in Orthopedic Physical Therapy. In 2020, Colleen became a Co-Clinic Director at Movement for Life Physical Therapy in Morro Bay.
Steve McGrath
Attended Cuesta: 1986-2011
Glasgow, Scotland native Steve McGrath immigrated to the US in 1977 first, settling in Cambria where he eventually moved into the construction field. As life moved on, so did Steve’s success with his companies, McGrath Construction and McGrath Associates, an environmental construction firm. Passionate about job site sustainability practices, he found himself helping write policy for the City of San Luis Obispo and speaking at national conferences on earth-friendly practices. Steve was also Co-Host and Producer on the syndicated radio talk show Build America. After retiring from the construction business, Steve became the Facilities Manager for Port San Luis Harbor District, then Harbor Manager before becoming General Manager for San Mateo County Harbor District before full retirement. While raising his family and growing two successful businesses, Steve quenched his thirst for knowledge by attending classes at Cuesta College, earning his Associates degree, and graduating in 2011.
2020
Jenny Mulks
Attended Cuesta: 1985-1986
Jenny Mulks is a mom, CEO, TEDx Speaker, international author, cancer coach, cancer survivor, advocate, humanitarian, and philanthropist. She is the Founder and CEO of Along Comes Hope®, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing support for families of children with cancer through financial assistance for travel, emotional support for the family unit, advocacy work on Capitol Hill, and education and awareness programs at both the local and national levels.
Russ Levanway
Attended Cuesta: 1996-1999
As founder and CEO of TekTegrity Russ Levanway has focused on company strategy, finance, and human resources to build a successful and sustainable business while providing incredible value for clients and a great workplace for his team. A native of upstate New York, Russ moved to San Luis Obispo in 1996 and started his journey with Cuesta College, first as a student (he earned an Associates of Science degree in 1999) and then as an employee of the IT Department, where he eventually became Network Administrator. Founded in 2005, TekTegrity was acquired by Santa Barbara based CIO Solutions in 2018; Russ currently serves as President of the combined companies.
Laurie Sinton
Attended Cuesta: 1964-1965
Laurie Sinton has a 56-year friendship with Cuesta College, first attending classes in 1964-1965, and then as a Foundation Board member for the past 30 years. She has fond memories including excellent instructors, friendly staff and those "old barracks" while dodging cows that wandered between buildings. She transferred to Cal Poly for a degree in English, married her husband Jack, and ranched for a decade near Shandon where their two children were born. In the 1980's, they transitioned into the Sinton Helicopter business in Paso Robles, which they still operate today along with their son Scott.