For generations, West Lafayette students have carried the lessons, experiences, and traditions of their schools with them into the world. The West Lafayette Wall of Pride celebrates those individuals whose accomplishments exemplify the excellence, leadership, and spirit of the Red Devil community.
Established to recognize distinguished alumni and educators, the Wall of Pride honors individuals whose achievements and contributions have brought distinction to the heritage of West Lafayette Schools. From the sciences and technology to government, music, academia, and countless other fields, Wall of Pride honorees represent the remarkable impact West Lafayette graduates and educators have made locally, nationally, and around the world.
Brad Cohen ‘83, president of the West Lafayette Schools Education Foundation board of directors and chair of the West Lafayette Alumni Association, said, “The Wall of Pride was established to celebrate distinguished alumni and educators and to recognize the many ways they have brought distinction to our schools and community. We hope the accomplishments and stories of our Wall of Pride inductees will inspire generations of West Lafayette students, alumni, and community members. These honorees represent the very best of what it means to be a Red Devil—individuals who have demonstrated leadership, excellence, and a commitment to making a meaningful impact.”
The Wall of Pride is more than a recognition of individual accomplishments; it is a celebration of the lasting legacy of West Lafayette schools. Each inductee adds another chapter to the story of a community that has long valued academic excellence, service, leadership, creativity, and a commitment to making a difference.
On April 8-9, 2027, five distinguished alumni and one educator will be inducted into the West Lafayette Wall of Pride. The 2027 Wall of Pride honorees are:
- Cecilia Rodriguez Aragon ’77 – Professor, University of Washington; CTO, Viata.ai; FAA Designated Pilot Examiner, Seattle
- Greg Christopher ’84 – Vice President for Institutional Strategy and Director of Athletics, Xavier University
- Steve Cosler ’73 – Operating Partner, Water Street Healthcare Partners September 17, 2026
- F. Claire (Gaskell) Hankenson ’89 – Associate Vice Provost for Research and Attending Veterinarian, University of Pennsylvania
- Michael Jinsoo Lim ’87 – Concertmaster and solo violinist, Pacific Northwest Ballet
- Robert Foerster, Educator – 34 years in education and national finalist for NASA Teacher in Space Project
As the West Lafayette Schools Education Foundation celebrates its 20th anniversary, the Wall of Pride provides a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments of those who came before and to inspire the next generation of Red Devils. The Foundation’s mission—to sustain a premier public education in the West Lafayette Community School Corporation through the generosity and engagement of alumni and community members— is rooted in the belief that a strong school community is built by honoring its past while investing in its future.
Wall of Pride members are nominated by fellow alumni, parents, current West Lafayette students, faculty, staff, administrators, and community members. Nominations are reviewed annually by a selection committee comprised of West Lafayette Junior-Senior High School administrators, alumni, and members of the West Lafayette Schools Alumni Association.
To date, 43 distinguished alumni and nine educators have been inducted into the Wall of Pride. Their accomplishments reflect the breadth and depth of the West Lafayette school community and serve as an enduring source of pride and inspiration.
The Wall of Pride reminds us that being a Red Devil extends far beyond graduation. It is a legacy carried forward—by those who have achieved extraordinary things, by those who continue to make a difference in their communities, and by the students who will shape the future.
Want to help?
Get involved today with a donation to WLSEF!