Where Are They Now Wednesday? | Fair Haven Union High School Alumna Spotlight
Nikiah (Vincent) Viger, Class of 2005
From the halls of Fair Haven Union High School to a career dedicated to helping students navigate their college journeys, Nikiah Viger’s path is a powerful example of leadership, service, and lifelong learning.
Nikiah graduated from FHUHS in 2005 (then Nikiah Vincent) and went on to complete her undergraduate studies at the College of St. Joseph, earning a B.A. in Psychology (2005–2009). She continued her education at Suffolk University, where she earned a Master of Education in School Counseling with a Certificate in Admissions Counseling (2009–2011).
While her original goal was to become a guidance counselor, Nikiah quickly learned how competitive the field could be. Rather than giving up, she pivoted—and found her calling. In July 2012, she returned to her alma mater, the College of St. Joseph, as a Financial Aid Counselor, where she spent more than four years helping students understand and access federal, state, and institutional financial aid.
“CSJ meant a great deal to me,” Nikiah shared. “It’s where I met my husband and a large group of friends who are now family. I was able to give back to a place that gave me a great education and helped shape the person I am today.”
In November 2016, Nikiah took the next step in her career, joining Castleton University as Senior Financial Aid Officer. Now nine years into her time with Vermont State University, she has continued to grow professionally, navigating evolving federal regulations and the challenges of a university merger while keeping student service at the center of her work. Most recently, Nikiah earned a promotion to Financial Aid Specialist, a milestone she is incredibly proud of.
When asked about a teacher who left a lasting impact, Nikiah immediately pointed to Mr. Bruce.
“He always had fun ways to teach history,” she recalled. “His passion made it easy to listen and learn—and I’m certain no one who had him will ever get ‘We Didn’t Start the Fire’ out of their heads.”
Beyond the classroom, she credits Mr. Bruce with creating a safe, supportive space for students and maintaining meaningful connections long after graduation—especially special for the Class of 2005, who were among his very first students.
Nikiah was deeply involved during her time at Fair Haven Union High School, successfully balancing academics, leadership, and a wide range of activities. She participated in Field Hockey for three years, Winter Cheer for four years, and Softball for four years as a catcher. In addition, she was active in the National Honor Society, SMILE, Community Service Club, Chorus, KeyNotes, Yearbook Club, Marching Band, and Jazz Band, and served as Class Treasurer all four years.
Her involvement, she says, helped shape the confidence and leadership skills she carries into her career today.
Nikiah met her husband, Chadd, during their college years at CSJ, and the couple recently celebrated 15 years of marriage. After completing their graduate studies in Boston, they returned to Vermont, settling in Nikiah’s hometown of Fair Haven.
They have two children: Max (13), a 7th grader at FHUMHS who plays sports year-round, and Maylee (10), a 5th grader at FHGS and a competitive dancer. Their household also includes two Boston Terriers, Sammie and Ollie, and a cat named Luna. Chadd currently serves as a Selectman in Fair Haven.
When they’re not at a ball field or dance auditorium, the Viger family enjoys spending time with friends and family and heading out on new adventures together.
Her advice for current Slate Valley students is to stay curious and engaged. She stated, “Get involved and explore opportunities. Try a new club, sport, or role you might normally shy away from. The more you engage and challenge yourself, the more you’ll grow. And always be kind—small acts can make a big difference. You don’t have to have everything figured out right now. Just keep showing up, stay curious, and be good to others.”
We’re proud to celebrate Nikiah Viger and the meaningful work she continues to do in support of students and families. Once a Slater, always a Slater!
Nikiah (Vincent) Viger, Class of 2005
From the halls of Fair Haven Union High School to a career dedicated to helping students navigate their college journeys, Nikiah Viger’s path is a powerful example of leadership, service, and lifelong learning.
Nikiah graduated from FHUHS in 2005 (then Nikiah Vincent) and went on to complete her undergraduate studies at the College of St. Joseph, earning a B.A. in Psychology (2005–2009). She continued her education at Suffolk University, where she earned a Master of Education in School Counseling with a Certificate in Admissions Counseling (2009–2011).
While her original goal was to become a guidance counselor, Nikiah quickly learned how competitive the field could be. Rather than giving up, she pivoted—and found her calling. In July 2012, she returned to her alma mater, the College of St. Joseph, as a Financial Aid Counselor, where she spent more than four years helping students understand and access federal, state, and institutional financial aid.
“CSJ meant a great deal to me,” Nikiah shared. “It’s where I met my husband and a large group of friends who are now family. I was able to give back to a place that gave me a great education and helped shape the person I am today.”
In November 2016, Nikiah took the next step in her career, joining Castleton University as Senior Financial Aid Officer. Now nine years into her time with Vermont State University, she has continued to grow professionally, navigating evolving federal regulations and the challenges of a university merger while keeping student service at the center of her work. Most recently, Nikiah earned a promotion to Financial Aid Specialist, a milestone she is incredibly proud of.
When asked about a teacher who left a lasting impact, Nikiah immediately pointed to Mr. Bruce.
“He always had fun ways to teach history,” she recalled. “His passion made it easy to listen and learn—and I’m certain no one who had him will ever get ‘We Didn’t Start the Fire’ out of their heads.”
Beyond the classroom, she credits Mr. Bruce with creating a safe, supportive space for students and maintaining meaningful connections long after graduation—especially special for the Class of 2005, who were among his very first students.
Nikiah was deeply involved during her time at Fair Haven Union High School, successfully balancing academics, leadership, and a wide range of activities. She participated in Field Hockey for three years, Winter Cheer for four years, and Softball for four years as a catcher. In addition, she was active in the National Honor Society, SMILE, Community Service Club, Chorus, KeyNotes, Yearbook Club, Marching Band, and Jazz Band, and served as Class Treasurer all four years.
Her involvement, she says, helped shape the confidence and leadership skills she carries into her career today.
Nikiah met her husband, Chadd, during their college years at CSJ, and the couple recently celebrated 15 years of marriage. After completing their graduate studies in Boston, they returned to Vermont, settling in Nikiah’s hometown of Fair Haven.
They have two children: Max (13), a 7th grader at FHUMHS who plays sports year-round, and Maylee (10), a 5th grader at FHGS and a competitive dancer. Their household also includes two Boston Terriers, Sammie and Ollie, and a cat named Luna. Chadd currently serves as a Selectman in Fair Haven.
When they’re not at a ball field or dance auditorium, the Viger family enjoys spending time with friends and family and heading out on new adventures together.
Her advice for current Slate Valley students is to stay curious and engaged. She stated, “Get involved and explore opportunities. Try a new club, sport, or role you might normally shy away from. The more you engage and challenge yourself, the more you’ll grow. And always be kind—small acts can make a big difference. You don’t have to have everything figured out right now. Just keep showing up, stay curious, and be good to others.”
We’re proud to celebrate Nikiah Viger and the meaningful work she continues to do in support of students and families. Once a Slater, always a Slater!
This morning, Wednesday, January 7th, all Slate Valley schools are on a two hour delay due to the weather.
Trivia Tuesday - Did you know? 🎳
Slater sophomore Aiden Goyette made history by rolling the first perfect game (300) in Slater Bowling history—and just the second 300 game ever in Vermont high school bowling!
This incredible achievement happened on Saturday, January 3, at Rutland Bowlerama during the qualifying round of the Vermont State Bowling League. Congratulations, Aiden! 👏🎉
Slater sophomore Aiden Goyette made history by rolling the first perfect game (300) in Slater Bowling history—and just the second 300 game ever in Vermont high school bowling!
This incredible achievement happened on Saturday, January 3, at Rutland Bowlerama during the qualifying round of the Vermont State Bowling League. Congratulations, Aiden! 👏🎉
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday – January Spotlight
This month we’re excited to highlight Tina Rampone, who is celebrating her 16th year with Slate Valley Unified Union School District!
Before joining SVUUSD, Tina spent four years at Christ the King in Rutland, where she taught 6th, 7th, and 8th grade science.
Outside the classroom, Tina enjoys reading, knitting, counted cross-stitching, gardening, and cooking, and she makes time to walk every day. She also loves to travel and has explored destinations across the U.S. and abroad, including Italy, Germany, France, Spain, Belgium, Luxembourg, London, and St. John’s.
One of Tina’s proudest adventures was hiking the Camino de Santiago across Spain, carrying everything she needed on her back. The journey covered an incredible 300 miles—a true testament to her determination and sense of adventure!
We’re grateful for Tina’s many years of dedication to our students and school community.
This month we’re excited to highlight Tina Rampone, who is celebrating her 16th year with Slate Valley Unified Union School District!
Before joining SVUUSD, Tina spent four years at Christ the King in Rutland, where she taught 6th, 7th, and 8th grade science.
Outside the classroom, Tina enjoys reading, knitting, counted cross-stitching, gardening, and cooking, and she makes time to walk every day. She also loves to travel and has explored destinations across the U.S. and abroad, including Italy, Germany, France, Spain, Belgium, Luxembourg, London, and St. John’s.
One of Tina’s proudest adventures was hiking the Camino de Santiago across Spain, carrying everything she needed on her back. The journey covered an incredible 300 miles—a true testament to her determination and sense of adventure!
We’re grateful for Tina’s many years of dedication to our students and school community.
FHU Band Bottle Drive - Help our Slaters get to Orlando, FL!
Friendly reminder that our next CAC Meeting will be held on January 5 at 5:45 p.m. in the Central Office Conference Room.
View the agenda here: https://aptg.co/Bl3bss
All are welcome—we hope to see you there!
View the agenda here: https://aptg.co/Bl3bss
All are welcome—we hope to see you there!
As we wrap up the calendar year, we wish our Slate Valley community moments of peace, joy, and time well spent with those you love. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to school on Monday, January 5, 2026.
Slate Valley District Newsletter for December 19, 2025:
https://mailchi.mp/fdd31f394700/slate-valley-district-newsletter-dec-19th-edition
https://mailchi.mp/fdd31f394700/slate-valley-district-newsletter-dec-19th-edition
Friendly reminder - our December break begins next week!
💐 Celebrating Terri Demasi 💐
After nearly 25 years of dedicated service, we extend our deepest gratitude to Terri Demasi as she prepares for retirement. From being the welcoming voice and friendly face in the Fair Haven Grade School front office to her incredible leadership with Applefest and years of guiding students through Sewing Club, Terri’s professionalism, generosity, and calm presence have touched every corner of our school community.
Thank you, Terri, for the countless hours, care, and heart you’ve given. You will be truly missed, and we wish you all the best in this well-deserved next chapter!
After nearly 25 years of dedicated service, we extend our deepest gratitude to Terri Demasi as she prepares for retirement. From being the welcoming voice and friendly face in the Fair Haven Grade School front office to her incredible leadership with Applefest and years of guiding students through Sewing Club, Terri’s professionalism, generosity, and calm presence have touched every corner of our school community.
Thank you, Terri, for the countless hours, care, and heart you’ve given. You will be truly missed, and we wish you all the best in this well-deserved next chapter!
Board Meeting - December 15, 2025
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/yij-wmxa-hpe
Or dial: (US) +1 218-288-2598 PIN: 302 314 435#
Please note: To participate in conversation virtually and/or ask a question virtually, please use the “raise hand” icon in Google Meet. Typing responses or questions in chat is not an option.
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Fair Haven Union Middle & High School Band Room.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/yij-wmxa-hpe
Or dial: (US) +1 218-288-2598 PIN: 302 314 435#
Please note: To participate in conversation virtually and/or ask a question virtually, please use the “raise hand” icon in Google Meet. Typing responses or questions in chat is not an option.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: December 12, 2025
https://mailchi.mp/1ca25391063e/slate-valley-district-newsletter-december-12-2025
https://mailchi.mp/1ca25391063e/slate-valley-district-newsletter-december-12-2025
Elks Hoop Shoot: December 21, 2025
Due to the inclement weather, all after-school activities are cancelled for today, Wednesday, December 10th. This includes athletics, clubs, and any other school-sponsored events along with Boys and Girls Club.
Thank you for your understanding. Please stay safe.
Thank you for your understanding. Please stay safe.
Board Meeting - December 8, 2025
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Benson Village School Gym.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/zax-xtsz-dcp
Or dial: (US) +1 413-398-0531 PIN: 998 151 118#
Please note: To participate in conversation virtually and/or ask a question virtually, please use the “raise hand” icon in Google Meet. Typing responses or questions in chat is not an option.
You’re invited to the Slate Valley Unified Union School District Board Meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Benson Village School Gym.
This meeting will be in person. Virtually connect by going to:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/zax-xtsz-dcp
Or dial: (US) +1 413-398-0531 PIN: 998 151 118#
Please note: To participate in conversation virtually and/or ask a question virtually, please use the “raise hand” icon in Google Meet. Typing responses or questions in chat is not an option.
Slate Valley District Newsletter December 5th Edition: https://mailchi.mp/de3f115536de/slate-valley-district-newsletter-december-5th-edition
Friday Focus: Falcon News at Fair Haven Grade School
For this month’s Friday Focus, we’re shining a light on one of Fair Haven Grade School’s most beloved traditions—their lively morning broadcast, Falcon News. This daily newscast is the creative brainchild of Principal Deb Infurna, who, more than four years ago, envisioned a way to bring the entire school community together each morning. Her idea took flight, and today Falcon News is a staple of FHGS culture.
Each morning, once students settle into their classrooms, teachers tune in to the live broadcast on their Smart TVs. Principal Infurna will kick things off, but the true stars of the show are the students themselves. Every month, a classroom teacher can sign up to have their students serve as the lead anchors, taking on important roles such as announcing birthdays, sharing the daily lunch menu, highlighting upcoming activities, delivering general announcements, and giving the local weather forecast. And of course—no episode is complete without the traditional joke of the day, a favorite among students and staff alike.
Falcon News is viewable only within the school, making it a safe, supportive environment for students to practice public speaking, build confidence, and take pride in contributing to their school community. The broadcast has become a point of excitement and accomplishment for students across all grade levels.
Principal Infurna’s vision has also inspired others. Her morning broadcast model has now taken root at two additional Slate Valley schools. Principal Paquette at FHUMS has created her own version of a morning show, and Principal Danyow has brought the tradition with him to Castleton Elementary School. Fittingly, both previously worked at FHGS—proof that great ideas often spread far and wide.
Falcon News is more than a broadcast—it’s a daily reminder of connection, belonging, and student voice. A big thank you to Principal Infurna for sparking an idea that continues to brighten many mornings across Slate Valley.
For this month’s Friday Focus, we’re shining a light on one of Fair Haven Grade School’s most beloved traditions—their lively morning broadcast, Falcon News. This daily newscast is the creative brainchild of Principal Deb Infurna, who, more than four years ago, envisioned a way to bring the entire school community together each morning. Her idea took flight, and today Falcon News is a staple of FHGS culture.
Each morning, once students settle into their classrooms, teachers tune in to the live broadcast on their Smart TVs. Principal Infurna will kick things off, but the true stars of the show are the students themselves. Every month, a classroom teacher can sign up to have their students serve as the lead anchors, taking on important roles such as announcing birthdays, sharing the daily lunch menu, highlighting upcoming activities, delivering general announcements, and giving the local weather forecast. And of course—no episode is complete without the traditional joke of the day, a favorite among students and staff alike.
Falcon News is viewable only within the school, making it a safe, supportive environment for students to practice public speaking, build confidence, and take pride in contributing to their school community. The broadcast has become a point of excitement and accomplishment for students across all grade levels.
Principal Infurna’s vision has also inspired others. Her morning broadcast model has now taken root at two additional Slate Valley schools. Principal Paquette at FHUMS has created her own version of a morning show, and Principal Danyow has brought the tradition with him to Castleton Elementary School. Fittingly, both previously worked at FHGS—proof that great ideas often spread far and wide.
Falcon News is more than a broadcast—it’s a daily reminder of connection, belonging, and student voice. A big thank you to Principal Infurna for sparking an idea that continues to brighten many mornings across Slate Valley.
🏀🏃♀️➡️❄️ Throwback Thursday! ❄️🤼♂️📣
We’re kicking off our 2025–2026 winter sports season with a blast from the past — a look back 20 years to the unforgettable 2005–2006 Fair Haven Union High School winter teams!
From buzzer-beaters on the basketball court and powerful wrestling wins to high-flying cheer routines and standout indoor track achievements, our Slaters brought the energy all winter long!
Here’s to the athletes, coaches, and memories that built the foundation of today’s Slater pride — and to an amazing season ahead!
We’re kicking off our 2025–2026 winter sports season with a blast from the past — a look back 20 years to the unforgettable 2005–2006 Fair Haven Union High School winter teams!
From buzzer-beaters on the basketball court and powerful wrestling wins to high-flying cheer routines and standout indoor track achievements, our Slaters brought the energy all winter long!
Here’s to the athletes, coaches, and memories that built the foundation of today’s Slater pride — and to an amazing season ahead!
Where Are They Now Wednesday: Tim Rogers, Class of 1998
For this month’s Where Are They Now? feature, we’re excited to highlight Tim Rogers, a proud member of the FHUHS Class of 1998 whose life path is a testament to hard work, resilience, and following what you love.
After graduating from Fair Haven Union High School, Tim entered the workforce immediately—an experience that shaped his strong work ethic and set him on a path of steady growth and accomplishment. He began his career at Timberwolf Manufacturing, where he worked in every department before eventually becoming the Parts and Inventory Manager. In 2010, he made the jump to GE Aerospace, where he has spent the past 15 years. Tim started as an L12 in the broaching area and worked his way into gage inspection, a highly technical role ensuring the accuracy and safety of components used in GE’s jet engines.
During his years in Slate Valley schools, Tim found encouragement from several teachers who made a lasting impact—especially Mr. Blodget (Science), Mr. Doran (Social Studies), Mr. Hier (Social Studies) and Mr. Patterson (Wood Shop). Their message of perseverance and goal-setting continues to guide him today: never give up and to never stop trying, set goals and work hard to achieve them.
Although Tim didn’t join school sports or clubs, he found his competitive outlet in local bowling leagues at Fairwood Lanes and Rutland Bowlerama. From 1996–1998, he earned numerous titles, including state champion in both teams and doubles competition. In 1998, he won a televised youth tournament on PEG-TV and later claimed the Junior USA Gold Tournament, qualifying for Reno to attempt to make the Junior Olympic team. He climbed as high as 50th place out of 350 competitors before an injury slowed him down—but not before leaving his mark.
Tim’s achievements extend beyond athletics and career. In 2003, he was featured on the reality TV show Monster Garage with Jesse James, where his team transformed a car into a functional log splitter using equipment he once helped build. The episode aired in March 2004 on the Discovery Channel.
In the last 15 years, Tim has also become a force in the competitive cooking world. He has competed in the Poultney Chili Cook-Off 11 times—winning an impressive 7 championships—and is part of the professional BBQ team UP-2 BBQ with teammate Curran LaFarge. Together, they have claimed multiple category wins, a Grand Championship, and a Reserve Grand Championship, becoming the first Vermont team in over 30 years to win a Masters division contest. Their Grand Championship earned them a spot in the prestigious Jack Daniel’s World Invitational BBQ in Tennessee (finishing 46th of 89 teams), followed by competition at The American Royal, the largest BBQ contest in the world.
On the personal side, Tim met the love of his life, Dainyell, in 2012, and the two married in 2015. They are proud parents to two daughters, Jiy and Jazzlyn, who attend Castleton Elementary School, along with their much-loved Saint Bernard, Marcus.
Tim’s Advice to Today’s Slate Valley Students:
“Make goals that are obtainable. Obtain them and make new ones. If you never quit, you never fail. And if you do fall down, get back up and keep fighting.”
Thank you, Tim, for sharing your journey and for reminding us all what determination, passion, and hard work can achieve. Your Slate Valley family is proud of you!
For this month’s Where Are They Now? feature, we’re excited to highlight Tim Rogers, a proud member of the FHUHS Class of 1998 whose life path is a testament to hard work, resilience, and following what you love.
After graduating from Fair Haven Union High School, Tim entered the workforce immediately—an experience that shaped his strong work ethic and set him on a path of steady growth and accomplishment. He began his career at Timberwolf Manufacturing, where he worked in every department before eventually becoming the Parts and Inventory Manager. In 2010, he made the jump to GE Aerospace, where he has spent the past 15 years. Tim started as an L12 in the broaching area and worked his way into gage inspection, a highly technical role ensuring the accuracy and safety of components used in GE’s jet engines.
During his years in Slate Valley schools, Tim found encouragement from several teachers who made a lasting impact—especially Mr. Blodget (Science), Mr. Doran (Social Studies), Mr. Hier (Social Studies) and Mr. Patterson (Wood Shop). Their message of perseverance and goal-setting continues to guide him today: never give up and to never stop trying, set goals and work hard to achieve them.
Although Tim didn’t join school sports or clubs, he found his competitive outlet in local bowling leagues at Fairwood Lanes and Rutland Bowlerama. From 1996–1998, he earned numerous titles, including state champion in both teams and doubles competition. In 1998, he won a televised youth tournament on PEG-TV and later claimed the Junior USA Gold Tournament, qualifying for Reno to attempt to make the Junior Olympic team. He climbed as high as 50th place out of 350 competitors before an injury slowed him down—but not before leaving his mark.
Tim’s achievements extend beyond athletics and career. In 2003, he was featured on the reality TV show Monster Garage with Jesse James, where his team transformed a car into a functional log splitter using equipment he once helped build. The episode aired in March 2004 on the Discovery Channel.
In the last 15 years, Tim has also become a force in the competitive cooking world. He has competed in the Poultney Chili Cook-Off 11 times—winning an impressive 7 championships—and is part of the professional BBQ team UP-2 BBQ with teammate Curran LaFarge. Together, they have claimed multiple category wins, a Grand Championship, and a Reserve Grand Championship, becoming the first Vermont team in over 30 years to win a Masters division contest. Their Grand Championship earned them a spot in the prestigious Jack Daniel’s World Invitational BBQ in Tennessee (finishing 46th of 89 teams), followed by competition at The American Royal, the largest BBQ contest in the world.
On the personal side, Tim met the love of his life, Dainyell, in 2012, and the two married in 2015. They are proud parents to two daughters, Jiy and Jazzlyn, who attend Castleton Elementary School, along with their much-loved Saint Bernard, Marcus.
Tim’s Advice to Today’s Slate Valley Students:
“Make goals that are obtainable. Obtain them and make new ones. If you never quit, you never fail. And if you do fall down, get back up and keep fighting.”
Thank you, Tim, for sharing your journey and for reminding us all what determination, passion, and hard work can achieve. Your Slate Valley family is proud of you!
🎨 Trivia Tuesday – Did You Know?
Did you know that December 2nd is the birthday of Georges Seurat, the French painter who revolutionized art with a technique made entirely of tiny dots?
Seurat, born December 2, 1859, is best known for developing Pointillism, where thousands of precise dots of pure color blend together in the viewer’s eye to create a full image. His most famous painting, “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte,” shown here, is one of the best examples of this technique — and one of the most recognizable works in art history.
So today, on December 2nd, we celebrate Seurat’s artistic genius and the colorful impact he left on the world! 🎂🎨✨
Did you know that December 2nd is the birthday of Georges Seurat, the French painter who revolutionized art with a technique made entirely of tiny dots?
Seurat, born December 2, 1859, is best known for developing Pointillism, where thousands of precise dots of pure color blend together in the viewer’s eye to create a full image. His most famous painting, “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte,” shown here, is one of the best examples of this technique — and one of the most recognizable works in art history.
So today, on December 2nd, we celebrate Seurat’s artistic genius and the colorful impact he left on the world! 🎂🎨✨
