Where Are They Now Wednesday – March Spotlight
Cassandra Murphy – FHUHS Class of 2010
March’s Where Are They Now Wednesday spotlight shines on Fair Haven Union High School alumna Cassandra Murphy, a 2010 graduate whose journey reflects determination, leadership, and pride in her roots.
After graduating from FHUHS, Cassandra continued her education at Castleton University, earning her bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems in 2016. During her college years, she also made the decision to serve her country. In 2011, she enlisted in the Vermont Army National Guard, where she served for eight years as a mechanic. It was during her time in the Guard that she met her husband, building both a career path and a lifelong partnership.
Cassandra credits two FHUHS educators for having a meaningful impact on her life. Mr. Bruce encouraged her to always be unapologetically herself—advice that continues to guide her personally and professionally. Mr. Wilson, her math teacher and soccer coach, instilled in her the importance of pushing beyond limits, working hard, and pursuing goals with determination. Those lessons carried far beyond the classroom and the field.
While at FHUHS, Cassandra was a three-sport varsity athlete, competing in soccer as well as indoor and outdoor track. She was part of an exceptional outdoor track team that earned four consecutive state championships from her freshman through senior year—a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to teamwork and dedication.
Today, Cassandra serves as a Senior Buyer at C&S Wholesale Grocers in Keene, New Hampshire—the largest wholesale grocery supply company in the United States. She plans to continue growing within the company and advancing her career.
Family remains at the heart of Cassandra’s life. She and her husband, whom she met in the National Guard in 2014, are raising their five-year-old daughter in New Hampshire. Together, they enjoy camping and frequently return to the Fair Haven area to spend time outdoors with family and friends.
When asked what advice she would offer today’s Slate Valley students, Cassandra shares a heartfelt reminder: enjoy every moment of high school. “These are truly the best years of your life,” she says. “They go by in the blink of an eye.”
From championship athlete to military service member to corporate leadership, Cassandra Murphy’s journey is a proud example of where dedication and hard work can lead.
Cassandra Murphy – FHUHS Class of 2010
March’s Where Are They Now Wednesday spotlight shines on Fair Haven Union High School alumna Cassandra Murphy, a 2010 graduate whose journey reflects determination, leadership, and pride in her roots.
After graduating from FHUHS, Cassandra continued her education at Castleton University, earning her bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems in 2016. During her college years, she also made the decision to serve her country. In 2011, she enlisted in the Vermont Army National Guard, where she served for eight years as a mechanic. It was during her time in the Guard that she met her husband, building both a career path and a lifelong partnership.
Cassandra credits two FHUHS educators for having a meaningful impact on her life. Mr. Bruce encouraged her to always be unapologetically herself—advice that continues to guide her personally and professionally. Mr. Wilson, her math teacher and soccer coach, instilled in her the importance of pushing beyond limits, working hard, and pursuing goals with determination. Those lessons carried far beyond the classroom and the field.
While at FHUHS, Cassandra was a three-sport varsity athlete, competing in soccer as well as indoor and outdoor track. She was part of an exceptional outdoor track team that earned four consecutive state championships from her freshman through senior year—a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to teamwork and dedication.
Today, Cassandra serves as a Senior Buyer at C&S Wholesale Grocers in Keene, New Hampshire—the largest wholesale grocery supply company in the United States. She plans to continue growing within the company and advancing her career.
Family remains at the heart of Cassandra’s life. She and her husband, whom she met in the National Guard in 2014, are raising their five-year-old daughter in New Hampshire. Together, they enjoy camping and frequently return to the Fair Haven area to spend time outdoors with family and friends.
When asked what advice she would offer today’s Slate Valley students, Cassandra shares a heartfelt reminder: enjoy every moment of high school. “These are truly the best years of your life,” she says. “They go by in the blink of an eye.”
From championship athlete to military service member to corporate leadership, Cassandra Murphy’s journey is a proud example of where dedication and hard work can lead.
Dear Slate Valley,
I am writing to share the results of the recent school budget vote. The proposed budget was not approved, with 952 votes in favor and 1125 opposed. The separate article to transfer funds into a reserve account was approved.
We recognize that this outcome is challenging. The budget was developed to largely maintain existing programs and services, while also responding to declining enrollment. As part of that adjustment, the plan included a reduction of 13 positions across the district. We understand that community members carefully weighed educational needs alongside the financial pressures facing taxpayers.
Although this was not the result we had hoped for, our commitment to our students and staff remains steady. We are now focused on identifying a responsible path forward. One that reflects community input while continuing to support high-quality teaching and learning within the constraints of state and federal policies and legislation.
The Board will meet in the coming weeks to review options, gather feedback, and determine next steps. We encourage community members to attend, ask questions, and stay engaged. Clear communication and collaborative problem-solving will be critical as we move forward together.
Thank you for your continued engagement and support of our schools.
Regards,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
I am writing to share the results of the recent school budget vote. The proposed budget was not approved, with 952 votes in favor and 1125 opposed. The separate article to transfer funds into a reserve account was approved.
We recognize that this outcome is challenging. The budget was developed to largely maintain existing programs and services, while also responding to declining enrollment. As part of that adjustment, the plan included a reduction of 13 positions across the district. We understand that community members carefully weighed educational needs alongside the financial pressures facing taxpayers.
Although this was not the result we had hoped for, our commitment to our students and staff remains steady. We are now focused on identifying a responsible path forward. One that reflects community input while continuing to support high-quality teaching and learning within the constraints of state and federal policies and legislation.
The Board will meet in the coming weeks to review options, gather feedback, and determine next steps. We encourage community members to attend, ask questions, and stay engaged. Clear communication and collaborative problem-solving will be critical as we move forward together.
Thank you for your continued engagement and support of our schools.
Regards,
Brooke Olsen-Farrell
📣 FHUHS Families - Spring Parent-Teacher Conferences Are Coming!
🗓️ Conferences will be held:
• Evening of March 11, 2026
• Afternoon of March 12, 2026
📧 Teacher invitations will be emailed by the end of this week.
We look forward to connecting with you to support student success!
🗓️ Conferences will be held:
• Evening of March 11, 2026
• Afternoon of March 12, 2026
📧 Teacher invitations will be emailed by the end of this week.
We look forward to connecting with you to support student success!
📣 Town Meeting Day is today — make your voice heard!
As you head to the polls and review the proposed FY27 school budget, here are a few key highlights:
✅ Spending per pupil remains below the state average — $11,565 in Slate Valley compared to $13,947 statewide.
✅ Staffing has been reduced by more than 45 positions over the past eight years, including 3 administrators, demonstrating long-term cost control.
✅ The proposed budget reflects a 2.8% increase, just slightly above the current rate of inflation.
📊 Learn more about the FY27 budget at https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
Thank you for your continued partnership and support of Slate Valley schools.
As you head to the polls and review the proposed FY27 school budget, here are a few key highlights:
✅ Spending per pupil remains below the state average — $11,565 in Slate Valley compared to $13,947 statewide.
✅ Staffing has been reduced by more than 45 positions over the past eight years, including 3 administrators, demonstrating long-term cost control.
✅ The proposed budget reflects a 2.8% increase, just slightly above the current rate of inflation.
📊 Learn more about the FY27 budget at https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
Thank you for your continued partnership and support of Slate Valley schools.
Trivia Tuesday – Do You Know?
When and where was the first Vermont Town Meeting held?
💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments!
🗳️ Today is Town Meeting Day! Don’t forget to exercise your right to vote. Polls are open at the following locations and times:
• Benson: 10 am – 7 pm, Benson Community Hall
• Castleton: 8 am – 7 pm, Castleton Fire Station
• Fair Haven: 10 am – 7 pm, American Legion Post #49
• Hubbardton: 10 am – 7 pm, Hubbardton Town Hall
• Orwell: 10 am – 7 pm, Orwell Town Hall
• West Haven: 10 am – 7 pm, West Haven Town Hall
Every vote matters!
📖 Find the trivia answer here:
https://outside.vermont.gov/dept/sos/Elections_Division/election_info_resources/town_meeting_local_elections/citizens_guide_vermont_town_meeting_2008.pdf
When and where was the first Vermont Town Meeting held?
💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments!
🗳️ Today is Town Meeting Day! Don’t forget to exercise your right to vote. Polls are open at the following locations and times:
• Benson: 10 am – 7 pm, Benson Community Hall
• Castleton: 8 am – 7 pm, Castleton Fire Station
• Fair Haven: 10 am – 7 pm, American Legion Post #49
• Hubbardton: 10 am – 7 pm, Hubbardton Town Hall
• Orwell: 10 am – 7 pm, Orwell Town Hall
• West Haven: 10 am – 7 pm, West Haven Town Hall
Every vote matters!
📖 Find the trivia answer here:
https://outside.vermont.gov/dept/sos/Elections_Division/election_info_resources/town_meeting_local_elections/citizens_guide_vermont_town_meeting_2008.pdf
🏀 D-II Boys Basketball Playdown Game 🏀
Slater Nation — it’s tournament time!
📍 #14 Missisquoi @ #3 FHU
📅 Wednesday, March 4
⏰ Game Time: 7:00 PM
Pre-Game Shootaround Schedule:
• Missisquoi: 5:40–6:00 PM
• FHU: 6:00–6:20 PM
🚪 Doors to purchase tickets open at 6:00 PM
🏟️ Gym doors open at 6:30 PM
VPA Ticket Prices:
• Adults: $10
• Students & Senior Citizens: $5
⚠️ Season passes are NOT valid for postseason VPA games.
Let’s pack the gym and bring the energy as our Slaters compete in the D-II playoffs! 💙🧡 #SlaterNation
Slater Nation — it’s tournament time!
📍 #14 Missisquoi @ #3 FHU
📅 Wednesday, March 4
⏰ Game Time: 7:00 PM
Pre-Game Shootaround Schedule:
• Missisquoi: 5:40–6:00 PM
• FHU: 6:00–6:20 PM
🚪 Doors to purchase tickets open at 6:00 PM
🏟️ Gym doors open at 6:30 PM
VPA Ticket Prices:
• Adults: $10
• Students & Senior Citizens: $5
⚠️ Season passes are NOT valid for postseason VPA games.
Let’s pack the gym and bring the energy as our Slaters compete in the D-II playoffs! 💙🧡 #SlaterNation
🎳 STATE CHAMPIONS AGAIN! 🏆
Congratulations to our Slater Bowling Team on capturing their second straight Team State Championship on Saturday, February 28!
This incredible victory marks the program’s 5th state title overall and their third championship in the last five years — a true testament to the team’s hard work, focus, and Slater pride.
We are so proud of our student-athletes and coaches for continuing this championship tradition. Way to roll, Slaters! 💙🤍
Congratulations to our Slater Bowling Team on capturing their second straight Team State Championship on Saturday, February 28!
This incredible victory marks the program’s 5th state title overall and their third championship in the last five years — a true testament to the team’s hard work, focus, and Slater pride.
We are so proud of our student-athletes and coaches for continuing this championship tradition. Way to roll, Slaters! 💙🤍
Slate Valley FY27 Budget: Fiscal Responsibility in Action
As you consider the FY27 budget, here are a few key highlights:
✅ Spending per pupil remains below the state average — $11,565 in Slate Valley compared to $13,947 statewide.
✅ The proposed budget represents a 2.8% increase, just slightly above the current rate of inflation.
✅ Staffing has been reduced by over 45 positions in the past eight years, including 3 administrators, demonstrating long-term cost control.
📊 Learn more about the FY27 budget at https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
As you consider the FY27 budget, here are a few key highlights:
✅ Spending per pupil remains below the state average — $11,565 in Slate Valley compared to $13,947 statewide.
✅ The proposed budget represents a 2.8% increase, just slightly above the current rate of inflation.
✅ Staffing has been reduced by over 45 positions in the past eight years, including 3 administrators, demonstrating long-term cost control.
📊 Learn more about the FY27 budget at https://www.slatevalleyunified.org/o/svusd/page/fy27-budget
Meet Faculty & Staff Monday — March Spotlight
This month, we’re excited to feature Alicia Bouzianis, a valued member of the Slate Valley team!
Alicia has been part of Slate Valley for eight years. Prior to her current role, she worked with the ABBY Group through Slate Valley, continuing her commitment to supporting students in our schools.
Outside of work, Alicia enjoys spending time outdoors — especially taking long walks and hikes through the woods. She also loves long car rides filled with country music (and isn’t afraid to sing along like she’s headed for the big stage!). Most of all, she enjoys being around kids and making meaningful connections.
A quote that inspires her is:
“Saddle your dreams before you ride them.” — a wise man told me
Beyond the school day, Alicia dedicates significant time to the Boys & Girls Club, working after school and throughout the summer. She shares that seeing the kids’ faces and creating fun experiences with them truly makes her heart full.
Alicia says she truly loves being part of Slate Valley, and we’re grateful for the care, energy, and positivity she brings to our students each day.
This month, we’re excited to feature Alicia Bouzianis, a valued member of the Slate Valley team!
Alicia has been part of Slate Valley for eight years. Prior to her current role, she worked with the ABBY Group through Slate Valley, continuing her commitment to supporting students in our schools.
Outside of work, Alicia enjoys spending time outdoors — especially taking long walks and hikes through the woods. She also loves long car rides filled with country music (and isn’t afraid to sing along like she’s headed for the big stage!). Most of all, she enjoys being around kids and making meaningful connections.
A quote that inspires her is:
“Saddle your dreams before you ride them.” — a wise man told me
Beyond the school day, Alicia dedicates significant time to the Boys & Girls Club, working after school and throughout the summer. She shares that seeing the kids’ faces and creating fun experiences with them truly makes her heart full.
Alicia says she truly loves being part of Slate Valley, and we’re grateful for the care, energy, and positivity she brings to our students each day.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: February 27, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/dbb66208584e/slate-valley-district-newsletter-january-30-13836170
https://mailchi.mp/dbb66208584e/slate-valley-district-newsletter-january-30-13836170
VPA D2 Girls Quarterfinal Basketball Game!
Friday February 27th…7pm at Fair Haven UMHS
#4 Fair Haven vs #5 Middlebury
*Middlebury Shootaround at 5:40pm
*Fair Haven Shootaround at 6pm.
Ticket Prices:
$10 Adults / $5 Students & Senior Citizens
Tickets go on sale at 6pm.
Fair Haven season ticket holders and students will go to the cafeteria / General admission will go to the lobby and main hallway.
Doors to the gym will open at 6:30
*FHU Season passes not valid for VPA playoffs.
Friday February 27th…7pm at Fair Haven UMHS
#4 Fair Haven vs #5 Middlebury
*Middlebury Shootaround at 5:40pm
*Fair Haven Shootaround at 6pm.
Ticket Prices:
$10 Adults / $5 Students & Senior Citizens
Tickets go on sale at 6pm.
Fair Haven season ticket holders and students will go to the cafeteria / General admission will go to the lobby and main hallway.
Doors to the gym will open at 6:30
*FHU Season passes not valid for VPA playoffs.
🏆🎳🤼♂️ Good luck Slaters!
FHU student-athletes are heading into the VPA Tournament Championships this week!
🎳 Bowling
📍 Barre’s Twin City Lanes
🗓️ February 28
🤼 Wrestling
📍 Champlain Valley Union High School
🗓️ February 27 & 28
Let’s cheer on our Slaters as they compete at the championship level — we’re proud of you! 💙
🎟️ Tickets: https://gofan.co/app/school/vpa
FHU student-athletes are heading into the VPA Tournament Championships this week!
🎳 Bowling
📍 Barre’s Twin City Lanes
🗓️ February 28
🤼 Wrestling
📍 Champlain Valley Union High School
🗓️ February 27 & 28
Let’s cheer on our Slaters as they compete at the championship level — we’re proud of you! 💙
🎟️ Tickets: https://gofan.co/app/school/vpa
Please join us for Coffee and Conversation with Senator Ruth Hardy!
Orwell residents are especially encouraged to attend, and all Slate Valley community members are warmly welcome to join Senator Ruth Hardy for a casual breakfast conversation.
📅 Friday, March 6, 2026
🕘 9:00–10:00 AM
📍 Orwell Free Library
Come hear updates from the current legislative session and learn more about Act 73, with time for questions and discussion. This is a great opportunity to stay informed, share perspectives, and connect with your local senator.
Offered in partnership with Slate Valley Unified USD and the Orwell Town Library.
We hope to see you there!
Orwell residents are especially encouraged to attend, and all Slate Valley community members are warmly welcome to join Senator Ruth Hardy for a casual breakfast conversation.
📅 Friday, March 6, 2026
🕘 9:00–10:00 AM
📍 Orwell Free Library
Come hear updates from the current legislative session and learn more about Act 73, with time for questions and discussion. This is a great opportunity to stay informed, share perspectives, and connect with your local senator.
Offered in partnership with Slate Valley Unified USD and the Orwell Town Library.
We hope to see you there!
☘️Lucky Lotto Raffle!☘️ A FHU Band Fundraiser! To purchase tickets, see a band member or their family!
We Are Slate Valley highlights the heart of our district—our students. In this video, Slate Valley students chose words they believe best describe who we are as a district, sharing their voices and perspectives. Together, their reflections celebrate the opportunities, growth, and strong sense of belonging that define Slate Valley. From classrooms to activities, see how our schools support every learner and help students discover who they are and who they can become. See the video at: https://youtu.be/jGoplAjolPU
Slater Bowlers Dominate State Individual Championship Tournament: Goyette continues his Magical Season
The Vermont High School Bowling Association held the 2026 Individual Championship Tournament on Sunday Feb 22nd at the Rutland Bowlerama. Six Slater bowlers were seeded into the field of 32, with three finishing the day in the top 10.
Aiden Goyette, who bowled a perfect game for the Slaters back in January, entered the day as the #4 seed and advanced through the ladder format all the way to the championship match, where he met his Slater teammate and the #1 seed, George Stamp, for all the marbles. Aiden was able to string together five consecutive strikes in the middle frames to hold off a rally by George, to win the 2026 Vermont Individual Bowling Championship 242-214. Both bowlers were extraordinary in the final, with Aiden rolling nine strikes to George’s seven. Slater junior Eli Donaldson had a solid day as well, coming from the #22 seed to finish 9th in the event.
Next week the Slaters will look to defend their state team championship at the VPA Vermont Bowling Championships at Twin City Lanes in Barre, VT.
The Vermont High School Bowling Association held the 2026 Individual Championship Tournament on Sunday Feb 22nd at the Rutland Bowlerama. Six Slater bowlers were seeded into the field of 32, with three finishing the day in the top 10.
Aiden Goyette, who bowled a perfect game for the Slaters back in January, entered the day as the #4 seed and advanced through the ladder format all the way to the championship match, where he met his Slater teammate and the #1 seed, George Stamp, for all the marbles. Aiden was able to string together five consecutive strikes in the middle frames to hold off a rally by George, to win the 2026 Vermont Individual Bowling Championship 242-214. Both bowlers were extraordinary in the final, with Aiden rolling nine strikes to George’s seven. Slater junior Eli Donaldson had a solid day as well, coming from the #22 seed to finish 9th in the event.
Next week the Slaters will look to defend their state team championship at the VPA Vermont Bowling Championships at Twin City Lanes in Barre, VT.
Slate Valley District Newsletter: February 20, 2026
https://mailchi.mp/7cc4725364fd/slate-valley-district-newsletter
https://mailchi.mp/7cc4725364fd/slate-valley-district-newsletter
🛠️ Engineering in Action!
Students in Mr. VanDerKern’s Design class have been hard at work putting their creativity and problem-solving skills to the test! Using only toothpicks, glue, and careful planning, students designed and constructed model bridges — all with one big question in mind: How much weight can they hold?
Throughout the project, students explored the engineering design process, experimented with structural supports, and collaborated to strengthen their builds. The real excitement comes during testing, when each bridge faces the ultimate challenge!
Great work to these young engineers for their focus, teamwork, and innovative thinking.
Students in Mr. VanDerKern’s Design class have been hard at work putting their creativity and problem-solving skills to the test! Using only toothpicks, glue, and careful planning, students designed and constructed model bridges — all with one big question in mind: How much weight can they hold?
Throughout the project, students explored the engineering design process, experimented with structural supports, and collaborated to strengthen their builds. The real excitement comes during testing, when each bridge faces the ultimate challenge!
Great work to these young engineers for their focus, teamwork, and innovative thinking.
“Made in Vermont” Raffle — Support Our Middle School Yearbooks! 📚
Fair Haven Union Middle School is excited to launch our “Made in Vermont” Raffle to help fund the printing of the 2025–2026 Middle School Yearbooks.
Our goal is simple: through raffle ticket sales and our Pampered Chef BINGO Night on Friday, March 27, we hope to fully cover yearbook printing costs so every 7th and 8th grader receives a yearbook at no cost to families. 💙
We’ve gathered an incredible variety of prizes — all proudly Made in Vermont — that are sure to appeal to many!
🎟 Tickets:
• $10 each
• 3 for $25
• Cash or check (payable to SVUUSD)
• Turn in tickets and money to the Middle School Office
🏆 Drawing:
Winners will be drawn at the Pampered Chef BINGO Event on Friday, March 27.
Winners do not need to be present, but we hope you’ll join us for a fun night of Bingo!
📩 Questions or need more tickets? Please reach out to any Middle School student or call the Middle School office— and thank you for supporting our students!
Fair Haven Union Middle School is excited to launch our “Made in Vermont” Raffle to help fund the printing of the 2025–2026 Middle School Yearbooks.
Our goal is simple: through raffle ticket sales and our Pampered Chef BINGO Night on Friday, March 27, we hope to fully cover yearbook printing costs so every 7th and 8th grader receives a yearbook at no cost to families. 💙
We’ve gathered an incredible variety of prizes — all proudly Made in Vermont — that are sure to appeal to many!
🎟 Tickets:
• $10 each
• 3 for $25
• Cash or check (payable to SVUUSD)
• Turn in tickets and money to the Middle School Office
🏆 Drawing:
Winners will be drawn at the Pampered Chef BINGO Event on Friday, March 27.
Winners do not need to be present, but we hope you’ll join us for a fun night of Bingo!
📩 Questions or need more tickets? Please reach out to any Middle School student or call the Middle School office— and thank you for supporting our students!
A Hall of Fame Family: David and Mary Heitkamp Honored in 2026
The Heitkamp legacy continues to shine as both David Heitkamp and his daughter Mary Heitkamp earn well-deserved recognition for their extraordinary impact on Fair Haven Union and Vermont track and field.
David Heitkamp, longtime Fair Haven Union coach, is headed to the VPA Hall of Fame Class of 2026. During his 25-year career, he led the Slaters’ indoor and outdoor track programs to an astounding 20 team state titles, plus two girls cross country championships, totaling 22 team titles. His athletes captured a remarkable 216 individual and relay state championships, reflecting the powerhouse program he built.
Beyond the numbers, Dave — alongside his wife Linda — helped elevate track and field across Vermont through their leadership, sportsmanship, and deep commitment to student-athletes. In 2010, Fair Haven honored his impact by dedicating Heitkamp Track & Athletic Field, a tribute to a family that helped define an era of Slater excellence.
For more information and ticket pricing to the Hall of Fame induction ceremony, go to: https://vpaonline.org/athletics/vpa-hall-of-fame/
Adding to the family’s historic year, Mary Heitkamp has been selected for induction into the Vermont Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2026.
A high school All-American in the pentathlon and two-time Gatorade Vermont Athlete of the Year (2003, 2004), Mary compiled a then-record 23 individual Vermont state titles in cross country and track at Fair Haven Union. She was a New England champion in both the 600m and 800m and set multiple state records — including her legendary 1:33.39 indoor 600m, which still stands more than three seconds ahead of the next-fastest Vermont time.
Mary helped lead the Slaters to multiple team championships in cross country, indoor, and outdoor track before continuing her career as a Division I scholarship athlete at Boston College, competing in the ACC.
Together, David and Mary Heitkamp represent a family legacy built on excellence, humility, and a genuine love of the sport. Their combined achievements have left a lasting mark on Fair Haven Union, the Slater community, and track and field across Vermont.
Congratulations to the Heitkamp family on this incredible Hall of Fame honor!
The Heitkamp legacy continues to shine as both David Heitkamp and his daughter Mary Heitkamp earn well-deserved recognition for their extraordinary impact on Fair Haven Union and Vermont track and field.
David Heitkamp, longtime Fair Haven Union coach, is headed to the VPA Hall of Fame Class of 2026. During his 25-year career, he led the Slaters’ indoor and outdoor track programs to an astounding 20 team state titles, plus two girls cross country championships, totaling 22 team titles. His athletes captured a remarkable 216 individual and relay state championships, reflecting the powerhouse program he built.
Beyond the numbers, Dave — alongside his wife Linda — helped elevate track and field across Vermont through their leadership, sportsmanship, and deep commitment to student-athletes. In 2010, Fair Haven honored his impact by dedicating Heitkamp Track & Athletic Field, a tribute to a family that helped define an era of Slater excellence.
For more information and ticket pricing to the Hall of Fame induction ceremony, go to: https://vpaonline.org/athletics/vpa-hall-of-fame/
Adding to the family’s historic year, Mary Heitkamp has been selected for induction into the Vermont Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2026.
A high school All-American in the pentathlon and two-time Gatorade Vermont Athlete of the Year (2003, 2004), Mary compiled a then-record 23 individual Vermont state titles in cross country and track at Fair Haven Union. She was a New England champion in both the 600m and 800m and set multiple state records — including her legendary 1:33.39 indoor 600m, which still stands more than three seconds ahead of the next-fastest Vermont time.
Mary helped lead the Slaters to multiple team championships in cross country, indoor, and outdoor track before continuing her career as a Division I scholarship athlete at Boston College, competing in the ACC.
Together, David and Mary Heitkamp represent a family legacy built on excellence, humility, and a genuine love of the sport. Their combined achievements have left a lasting mark on Fair Haven Union, the Slater community, and track and field across Vermont.
Congratulations to the Heitkamp family on this incredible Hall of Fame honor!
