Karen Guenther
, a teacher from Summit View High School, and Vivian Zoller, a longtime volunteer at River HomeLink, were honored as Learn Here Heroes for 2024. Given by the nonprofit Identity Clark County, the award recognizes staff members and volunteers from school districts and higher education institutions across Southwest Washington.
In just two years at Summit View, Karen has grown the school’s Open Doors program from approximately 10 students to 50 today. Open Doors provides students with an alternative pathway toward earning their GED. With great compassion, respect and a sense of humor, Karen dedicates her time to supporting and encouraging students to achieve this certification. In the 2023-24 school year, 12 students earned GEDs. They can proudly claim this accomplishment as they pursue employment, continue their education or pursue other dreams.
Since 2022, Vivian has designed sets for two theater productions per year. She attends the school’s theater class every week, using her expertise to train students and parents on mixing paint colors, creating blueprints, constructing set pieces and building props. Rolling up her sleeves, Vivian also ensures that the sets are ready to go once they are delivered to the theater and moves sets on and off stage during productions. With her hard work behind the scenes, River HomeLink’s theater students shine!
Congratulations, Karen and Vivian! Thank you for everything that you do for students, families and staff members!
Pictured from left: Karen Guenther and Vivian Zoller