The halls of Putnam City West echo with the stories of countless Patriots whose journeys began here. In Past Patriot Perspectives, we reconnect with distinguished alumni who have turned their high school experiences into remarkable careers and meaningful lives. Each month, we’ll share their insights, achievements, and reflections on how PC West helped lay the foundation for their success. Let their stories inspire you to envision your own path beyond these walls.
Cheryl Edwards (Cheryl Alyea, ’87)
Marketing Education and DECA Advisor, PCW
What Memories do you best remember from PCW?
I was very involved in Show Choir (Encore) and DECA. Being a student in Mrs. Doherty’s marketing classes and a DECA officer, made me want to continue my career in DECA. I was a National DECA President and Vice President. I graduated with a degree in Marketing Education and now I’m the Marketing Education teacher and DECA advisor here at West!
How did your time at West prepare you for the life you currently lead?
Being a West graduate and my experiences at West helped me to decide what I wanted to do as a career. I think a teacher can make a difference in students lives and help them to achieve all of their potential.
Tarisha Pike (Trish Tillery, ’07)
Executive Director of The First Residences at First National, OKC
What memories or activities do you best remember from your time at West?
Newspaper, Debate, Youth and Government, Model United Nations
How did your time at West prepare you for the life you currently lead?
My time at PCW was instrumental in shaping the person I’ve become, both personally and professionally. As a millennial, I was part of a generation that witnessed rapid change—technological, cultural, and political. A core group of teachers and activities at PCW provided me with a foundation of skills and experiences that directly contribute to my role as an executive director today.
Being involved in debate, Youth and Government, Model United Nations, and journalism grew in me essential qualities that have become pillars of my leadership style. Debate taught me to approach every issue from multiple angles, to listen actively, and to articulate my points with clarity and confidence. Youth and Government and Model United Nations gave me hands-on experience in collaboration, policy-making, and the importance of diplomacy. I learned to navigate differing perspectives, find common ground, and advocate for solutions that serve a broader vision—skills that are critical when managing diverse teams and complex organizational challenges.
Journalism, meanwhile, instilled in me a curiosity and the ability to ask tough questions. In our current times thinking critically, analyzing information, and seeking the truth is more important than ever. In a world where information is abundant but accuracy is not always guaranteed, this skill set has been invaluable.
These experiences taught me more than just practical skills; they shaped my mindset. They taught me to think for myself, to question the status quo, and to approach challenges with both empathy and strategic vision. As an executive director, these lessons are woven into every decision I make. Whether I’m leading a team, navigating complex organizational dynamics, or advocating for the communities we serve, the foundation laid during my time at PCW continues to guide me. It prepared me not only for the career I have but for the life I lead—a life driven by purpose, curiosity, and a commitment to making a difference.
Krystle Elmore (’07)
Flex Billing Processor at American Fidelity, Volunteer for 240 Tuesday and the homeless community in Oklahoma City
What memories or activities do you best remember from your time at West?
The Cancer Fund Drive, Marching Band, STUCO, Stagecraft (Beauty and the Beast play)
How did your time at West prepare you for the life you currently lead?
My home room teacher (Mrs. Owens at the time) helped guide me in the right direction and gave me the tools I needed to begin my journey in life and college. Being able to help raise money for the Cancer Fund Drive and being active in STUCO helped me build character and gave me the desire to continue working and volunteering in the community throughout my life.
Angela Le (’13)
Project Manager, Norman Regional Hospital
What memories or activities do you best remember from your time at West?
I will always remember my time with STUCO, orchestra, and with the athletic trainers. Traveling for games and competitions were always so much fun.
How did your time at West prepare you for the life you currently lead?
West had taught me that everyone’s path is different. We all come from different backgrounds and that should be respected.
