Our Alumni
Where the journey continues
From Pinnacle to Possibility
What I remember most about my time at Pinnacle Academy was all the fun activities, classes, and friendships I made. I had the opportunity to take woodshop and be a teacher’s assistant, and those experiences made learning exciting and hands-on. More than anything, the teachers had the greatest impact on me. They were supportive, encouraging, and truly cared, which made my experience even more meaningful. I still find myself talking about the amazing time I had at Pinnacle Academy and how much it shaped me.
My experience at Pinnacle had a lasting impact by helping build my self-esteem throughout high school. It gave me the confidence to grow, succeed, and become the person I am today. Without Pinnacle Academy, I truly don’t know where I would be.
Since graduating, I have been attending Lynn University, where I am studying Communications with the goal of pursuing a career in sales. During my time here, I’ve gotten involved in roles that have strengthened my skills and passions. I currently serve as a Student Ambassador, Resident Assistant, and the Outreach and Sponsorship Director for the Sports Management Club. I am also the manager for the ice hockey team, which has given me hands-on experience. I’ve had the opportunity to intern with a PGA Champions Tour event as well, where I further developed my understanding of sports partnerships and event execution. I’m excited about the path I’m on and look forward to continuing to grow, take on new opportunities, and see what’s next in my journey.
The advice I would give to current students is to never give up, even when things get tough. College can be challenging, but it also opens your eyes to endless opportunities. The key is to put yourself out there, step outside your comfort zone, get involved, and take chances, because you never know what might come from it. Most importantly, always believe in yourself and trust your ability to succeed.
Juliana Ries, Class of 2024
I graduated from Pinnacle Academy in 2022 and went on to attend Marshall University, where I am finishing my Bachelor’s degree in Media Production with an emphasis in TV and Video. I will graduate Summa Cum Laude in May 2026.
My interest in media really started at Pinnacle. Helping with Pinnacle News gave me hands-on experience in video production, including working with cameras, green screens, and editing. One of my earliest experiences was in middle school when I won the 2016 Holocaust Reflection Contest organized by Nova Southeastern University. That opportunity allowed me to represent Pinnacle in Washington, D.C., where I met officials from Congress, foreign embassies, and media companies. Experiences like that helped prepare me for what I’m doing now.
At Marshall, I got involved right away. During my freshman year, I joined the Residence Hall Association (RHA) as a board member. As a sophomore, I became the Outreach Coordinator, helping plan and run student events, and I also started as a DJ for WMUL-FM, the university’s campus radio station. I was originally planning to leave WMUL-FM, but the faculty and station managers encouraged me to stay, and I’m glad I did because I found that I really enjoyed being a DJ.
Since then, I’ve continued to grow in both organizations. I was elected Treasurer of RHA and later promoted to Vice President. I also started my own radio show, Holiday Hour, where I produced and aired Christmas music programming, and contributed new content to the station’s music library. During my senior year, I was hired as Traffic Director for WMUL-FM, where I generate broadcast logs and help maintain FCC compliance. I’ve also produced a travel podcast called Travel Podyssey, assisted with campus concert productions, operated cameras for an award-winning interview with AEW wrestler Kyle Fletcher, and created sound bite liners featuring Wheel of Fortune announcer Jim Thornton.
My advice to current students is to get involved in experiences you haven’t tried before, whether that’s in classes or social events. Trying new opportunities helps you figure out what you enjoy and where you want to go. You never know what might end up shaping your path.
Jake Twargoski, Class of 2022
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