Esther Rugerio is the Danville Independent Schools Board of Education chair and a 2009 Danville High School graduate. 

She’s also an internal auditor for the University of Kentucky and looks across the university’s finances, operations, compliance and strategy, to identify risks before they become problems and makes sure controls, policies and processes are working. She said she enjoys that her job gives her “a behind-the-scenes look at how the university operates.”

“Although I enjoy my job, my true passion lies in volunteer work,” she said. “I was honored to receive the Presidential Service Award, a national recognition for sustained volunteer service and community engagement.”

Over the years, Rugerio has served on the board of the Art’s Commission of Danville and Boyle County for almost 10 years, was an active member of the American Red Cross for nine years, and volunteered with organizations such as Restore for Habitat for Humanity, Make-A-Wish, and the Danville-Boyle County Humane Society. 

Rugerio shared how her experience in the Danville Schools shaped her as a person. 

I attended Hogsett, Bate and DHS. One of the things that stands out the most is the people I grew up with. The friendships I made throughout school have truly lasted, with most of us still staying connected today. Even after graduating, we cheer each other on. Whether it’s our careers, or personal milestones, everyone is genuinely supportive. 

I give a lot of credit to the teachers and staff. They were incredibly caring and understanding, which created an environment where we felt supported. This encouragement brought us closer together. Honestly, they’re the reason we can wear our ADs colors with pride. Even now, when we see each other in public, there is something to celebrate. 

The incredible love and support I received from everyone in Danville Schools. I’ll never forget Mr. Otto staying after school to help me fill out a scholarship essay. Coach McGuire and Coach Little always checked in and made sure I was doing okay. Coach McGuire’s impromptu pizza parties during some stressful high school days. Coach Teater, Mr. Conn, Mr. Pennock, and Mr. Trueblood gave the best life advice that always stuck with me. Mr. Gulle somehow made my worst subject entertaining. Mrs. Harris combined art with history in the most creative way; she transformed her classroom into an Egyptian tomb and had us crawl into the classroom lit up with candles with a demonstration on the mummification process. All the great lessons from Ms. Shearer, Mr. Meurer, Coach Mojesky, Mrs. Calvert, Mr. Carpenter and Mr. Smith. 

All of these moments weren’t just fun; they shaped me. They taught me resilience, creativity and the importance of community. To this day, I believe I’ve accomplished everything I hoped for because of them. I am still involved in the arts (although I’ll never be as cool as Mrs. Harris), and I make time to give back to my community.

It's hard to pick because there were so many people and instances that impacted me. If I had to choose, I would say my art teachers. They didn’t just teach art; they taught creativity and confidence. Mrs. Harris sparked curiosity, and Coach McGuire gave me confidence to keep pursuing the arts even after graduation. He always talked about how it helped him through college, even though sports were his main passion. He taught me not to limit myself to one thing in life to be successful. 

Consider the value of diversity. Not just in the student body, but in the experiences and curriculum offered. One of the most impactful parts of my education was being surrounded by people from different backgrounds and cultures. It taught me empathy, understanding and how to work with all kinds of people. These skills are essential in your personal and professional life. 

At Danville Schools, you are exposed to different perspectives, creative approaches and opportunities that go beyond the basics. This is the kind of environment that doesn’t just prepare students academically, but it prepares them to thrive in the real world. Learning is not just about facts and memorization. It’s about how to think and adapt, and that’s what Danville Schools accomplishes. 

I believe in Danville Schools. I see the impact Danville Schools has had when I look at my classmates and where they are today. They’re contributing to our community by working at Ephraim McDowell, Centre College, the fire department, the police department, and as teachers and staff in our own schools. This speaks volumes about the kind of preparation and support they received. I want today’s students to have the same opportunities that we had because they are our future. Giving back continues the cycle of support that made Danville School so special to me.

This piece is part of an ongoing series telling the stories of our Danville Alumni! We share a new alumni story once a month, and we want YOUR story. If you or someone you know is a Danville graduate and an excellent representative of the Danville community and the idea of #SuccessForALL, whether they live in Danville or not, please fill out the form linked below. You can also show your Danville Alumni pride on social media with the hashtag #DanvilleAlumniStories

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