Young Alumni Hall of Fame

We’re honored to recognize Shannon Dunkle as the newest inductee into the Young Alumni Hall of Fame. A kind-hearted and deeply engaged leader, Shannon is known across the High Desert for her ability to bring people together in service of something bigger than themselves. Whether serving on boards, committees, or community organizations, she approaches every role with energy, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to strengthening the region she calls home. In 2020, her dedication to community service was formally recognized with a special resolution from Assemblyman Jay Obernolte, honoring her impact across the High Desert.

Shannon’s passion for service is rooted in both her professional and personal journey. A former California Cadet Corps member who grew up in the High Desert, she has consistently focused her efforts on supporting local veterans, public safety, and community organizations. Her work has included highlighting and supporting organizations such as Disabled American Veterans and the High Desert Phoenix Foundation. She was involved in organizing Congressman Obernolte’s Everyday Heroes event, a recognition project that honored the vital work of public safety and emergency services professionals. In her current role at the Town of Apple Valley, Shannon visits the Apple Valley Animal Shelter each week to film and feature animals available for adoption, helping connect pets with loving homes, an effort that has become one of the most meaningful and rewarding parts of her work.

Celebrate Shannon with us at the Alumni Hall of Fame Gala and Distinguished Service Awards on February 28, 2026 at the Educational Events Center. This milestone year honors 50 years of the Foundation’s legacy.

Distinguished Service in Education Award

Harry “Lee” Bennett Jr. is being honored for a career built on service, integrity, and meaningful leadership. He began teaching part-time at Victor Valley College after leaving the fire service. He later rose to fulltime professor, department chair, Academic Senate President, and a trusted campus leader.

He guided the Automotive Technology program through the highly rigorous ASE accreditation process, developing systems that strengthened safety, instruction, and the overall student experience. His work made the program more welcoming for nontraditional students and students of color and improved the way the department operates. Lee consistently teaches above a full load and supports his colleagues with patience and generosity.

He also contributed to major campus initiatives through his work in the Academic Senate and the Strategic Enrollment Management committee, helping shape the college’s updated SEM plan. Victor Valley College and the High Desert are better and more equitable because of his steady commitment and selfless dedication.

Alumni Hall of Fame

We’re honored to introduce Marie Langley as the newest inductee into the Victor Valley College Alumni Hall of Fame. Her career reflects just how far you can go in our community. From her beginnings as a Victor Valley College student to her leadership as Chief Executive Officer of Desert Valley Medical Group, Marie has expanded access to healthcare, supported medical education, and strengthened community well-being across the High Desert through thoughtful, pragmatic leadership. 

A proud High Desert native, Marie’s work is deeply rooted in the region she calls home. She remains actively engaged in advancing healthcare advocacy and education, including supporting residency programs, mentoring future leaders, and collaborating with regional partners to address the unique challenges facing rural communities. Her commitment to service reflects a clear belief that strong local leadership and accessible care are essential to the long-term health and vitality of the High Desert.

Distinguished Service to Community

We’re honored to introduce Stacy DeVoll as a recipient of the Distinguished Service to Community Award. A third-generation business leader and President of DeVoll Rubber Manufacturing Group, Stacy’s leadership reflects a deep commitment to the High Desert. Through her work in manufacturing and civic leadership, she has championed local industry, workforce development, and community-focused growth that benefits both businesses and residents across the region.

Stacy currently serves as Chair of the Board for the Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce and is an active leader with Kiwanis, where she continues to support youth development, charitable initiatives, and community well-being. She also serves on the San Bernardino County Workforce Development Board and the High Desert Community Foundation, helping shape policies and programs that expand opportunity and economic mobility. Stacy’s steady leadership, resilience, and dedication to service make her a powerful force for positive impact throughout the High Desert.