2025 Hall of Distinction Inductees

At STHS, Jerod Haase was a state basketball champion, an all-state basketball player, and an all-league most valuable player. He played basketball at Cal and Kansas and recently served as the Head Men's Basketball coach for Stanford University. For all of Mr. Haase’s accomplishments in life, he never forgot where he came from. He donated his time and resources to many local schools, sharing his knowledge and experience with Tahoe youth. Mr. Haase is the greatest athlete and the most successful coach we have had at STHS.
 

Tom Orlich was the head boys varsity basketball coach for STHS and was one of the most successful basketball coaches in our region. Not only did he orchestrate two state championships, he also made significant contributions to the leadership development of several hundred student-athletes during his tenure at STHS, Clovis West High School, and Stanford University.
 

Karen Vaughan worked as the Cafeteria Manager at South Tahoe High School (STHS) for over 30 years. Ms. Vaughan’s remarkable tenure reflects her dedication and sustained excellence in serving students. She created a welcoming environment and transformed the cafeteria into a space where students and staff felt valued, ensuring meals were not just about nourishment but also fostering community and care. In her retirement, Ms. Vaughan volunteers at the local food pantry. 

Teresita Tibbetts taught for 20 years in LTUSD and retired in 2005. Since retirement, she has continued to educate, influence, and inspire adults and youth in our community. Ms. Tibbetts is a student advocate at Lake Tahoe Community College (LTCC) in the English as a Second Language department and developed a scholarship fund through the LTCC Foundation to help her students pursue higher education. Ms. Tibbetts sits on several community boards. 
 

Dr. Gregory Bergner has been involved in the Lake Tahoe Unified School District (LTUSD) and the larger community of South Lake Tahoe for the past five decades. He served three terms on the Board of Education and has been a citizen volunteer. Bergner is a living example of how much positive impact an individual can have on others and leave the world a better place.