On June 1, 2024, the Clovis Civic Center hosted a memorable event honoring the distinguished alumni of Clovis High School at the Hall of Honor Purple Pride Luncheon. This annual event, sponsored by the Clovis Municipal Schools Education Foundation and Alumni Association, celebrates the accomplishments of former students who have made significant contributions to their fields and communities. This year’s honorees spanned diverse backgrounds, including business, entertainment, government service, and education, highlighting Clovis High School graduates’ impact across the country.

The luncheon began with opening remarks from representatives of the Clovis Municipal Schools Education Foundation, who highlighted the importance of recognizing outstanding alumni. The honorees were then introduced, each receiving a tribute for their achievements and contributions.

Business & Industry Honorees:

Jamiah Hargins (Class of 2002)

Jamiah Hargins was recognized in the Business & Industry category for outstanding contributions to entrepreneurship and community development. A graduate of several prestigious institutions, including the University of Chicago and Columbia University, Hargins has dedicated his career to creating sustainable food systems. Through his initiative “Crop Swap LA,” he addresses food insecurity by providing local, nutrient-rich food and sustainable jobs in Los Angeles communities. His work has earned him numerous awards from the city of Los Angeles and recognition as a thought leader in urban farming and sustainability.

Chet Pharies (Class of 1996)

Chet Pharies was also honored in the Business & Industry category for his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to community service. As the owner of Carpet Tech, a floorcare and restoration company based in Lubbock, Texas, Pharies has expanded the business from a single-van operation to a regional powerhouse with six locations and over 200 employees. In addition to his business success, Pharies and his family are known for their philanthropy, mainly supporting the Covenant Children’s Pediatric team.

Heather Waller (Class of 1992)

Heather Leal Waller was recognized for her contributions to the hospitality industry and philanthropic endeavors. Co-owner of Leal’s Mexican Restaurant and several other businesses in Plainview, Texas, Waller has created a business model integrating community support and employee development. Her restaurant, Picoso’s Mexican Kitchen, donates all profits to the community and employees, offering programs that enhance personal and professional development.

Sports & Entertainment Honoree:

John Ortiz (Class of 1988)

John Ortiz was celebrated in the Sports & Entertainment category for his exceptional career in music promotion and marketing. Starting with Warner Discos and progressing through leadership roles at EMI Music, Univision Music Group, and Universal Music, Ortiz has promoted numerous Grammy-winning artists and expanded the influence of Latin music in the U.S. He now serves as Director of Artist & Industry Engagement for St. Jude’s, connecting top music talent to support the hospital’s mission.

Government & Service Honoree:

Vanoy Welch (Class of 1981)

Vanoy Welch was honored in the Government & Service category for his 40-year career with the National Security Agency (NSA). A distinguished engineer, Welch has contributed significantly to classified communications and digital cellular standards. His expertise and leadership have impacted national security efforts across multiple U.S. government departments and allied nations.

Top Cat Award:

Jan Cox

Jan Toliver Cox received the prestigious “Top Cat Award” for her long-standing dedication to education and community service in Clovis. With a career spanning over 36 years as a teacher and administrator in the Clovis Municipal Schools, Cox has been a pivotal figure in educational development. She played a crucial role in creating a comprehensive arts program and secured the first National Blue Ribbon Award for a Clovis school. Even after her retirement, Cox continues to support local education as Executive Director of the CMS Education Foundation.

The luncheon concluded with heartfelt speeches from each honoree, reflecting on their journeys and expressing gratitude for the support of their families, community, and the Clovis Municipal Schools. The event was a celebration of Purple Pride, showcasing the outstanding achievements of Clovis High School alumni and inspiring future generations to strive for excellence.

For more information on this year’s inductees, please visit the 2024 Hall of Honors page.