The themes of public service and health care are what you will notice with this year’s Southern Door Alumni Hall of Fame inductees class. Samuel Alexander, Dr. Thomas F. Berns, Hugh Zettel, and Patricia Vickman have all been recognized for their contributions to their professions and communities while serving as role models for current and future students.
A 1976 graduate, Alexander was a member of the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Secret Service, and United States Attorney’s Office during his 30+ year career in government service. In the wake of 9/11, Alexander became an Intelligence Specialist to better protect the country against continued terrorist attacks.
A fellow Class of 1976 graduate, Zettel helped develop the world’s first high-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system. During his 36-year career with GE Healthcare, he was granted 11 other patents related to radiology imaging, remote service management, and computer-assisted surgery. He currently serves as a Door County Supervisor.
Vickman graduated from Southern Door in 1972 and never left the field of education. After starting her career as a teacher, she held administration roles with Oshkosh and Southern Door school districts before her retirement in 2021. In addition to her work with the Wisconsin Association of School Boards, Vickman is also active in the community, particularly with Door County Medical Center and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Door County.
Berns was the Class of 1968 valedictorian before being named one of the Top Doctors by Milwaukee Magazine. Berns served as President of the Wisconsin Radiological
Society was elected as a Fellow to the American College of Radiology and the Radiological Society of North America.
The Alumni Hall of Fame ceremony will be held on September 26, 2025, during the school day. A follow-up recognition announcement will be made at the football game that night.
