Alumni Spotlight
Butternut graduates are doing great things! As a community-centered school, we're proud of their successes and the difference they're making in their communities.
Krystyl Damrow-Schmidt
Dr. Krystyl Damrow-Schmidt, class of 2010, currently works as a chiropractor specializing in pediatrics, prenatal and postnatal populations as well as families. My path wasn't linear - I combined years of study (7 total: 4 undergraduate and 3 post-graduate), hands-on training, and a genuine passion for helping others move better. Each step, from early interests in anatomy to clinical experience when I was a child, coupled with my own personal experiences, led me toward the role I'm proud to hold today.
Butternut gave me a strong sense of connection, support and community. The teachers truly cared about our growth both inside and outside the classroom, and the environment encouraged curiosity and hard work. It was a place where I felt both challenged yet encouraged, and that combination helped shape my confidence and provide the framework needed to build and expand upon.
My years a Butternut taught me the value of discipline, responsibility, and accountability. The lessons I learned there - both in and out of the classroom - built the foundation for my work ethic in higher education (undergraduate and post-graduate) and eventually my career. Butternut helped me learn how to stay focused, manage challenges, and put in the work to achieve long-term goals.
Growing up in a small knitted community has taught me the importance of studying hard and giving back. When you invest in your education, you open doors not only for yourself but for the people around you. I hope my journey shows that no matter where you start, dedication and heart can take you far -- and you can always come back to invest in your community.
Krystyl earned her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Northwestern Health Sciences University, and is honored to practice in her hometown of Park Falls, where she is deeply committed to serving the families of her community.
Skyral Dural-Eder
Skylar Dural-Eder, class of 2009, currently serves as the ExecutiveDirector of Northwest Wisconsin CEP, a workforce development nonprofit that helps people connect to training, credentials and quality jobs across the region. Her education includes bachelor's degrees in business and English, and a master's degree in industrial and organizational psychology and data analytics.
"The Butternut Community Scholarship, along with the support of my family and working throughout my education, made it possible for me to continue onward with these opportunities," added Skylar.
Skylar credits her experience in Butternut with much of her success, teaching her to communicate clearly, show up for others, and figure things out with the resources at hand. The small class sizes meant teachers knew individual students' strengths, weaknesses and interests, and they found ways to connect course material directly to us. They were dedicated and authentic in their roles, which helped her grow in confidence and ability.
"I learned to lead projects, speak to groups and write for real audiences. The mix of rigor and care built resilience and a strong service mindset that I carry into my work every day."