Mallory (White) Shepherd alumni spotlight

Alumni Spotlight:  

In this week's Alumni Spotlight, we're catching up with alumna Mallory (White) Shepherd, 2007

What are you doing now?

After graduating high school, I attended Wright State University and have mostly stayed rooted in the Dayton area ever since. I did spend a fun couple of years living in Orlando, where weekends often meant trips to Disney World—an experience I’ll never forget! I’m married with three amazing kids, ages 11, 8, and 4, who keep life busy and full of laughter. Professionally, I work in government contracting, focusing on Medicaid proposals at the state level—a role that keeps me challenged and engaged in meaningful work.

How did BCS prepare you for this role?

Bellefontaine High School helped lay a strong foundation for where I am today. It was where I first learned that I can do hard things—even when they’re outside my comfort zone. The school gave me opportunities to develop leadership skills, stay organized, and manage competing priorities, all of which have been essential in both my personal life and professional career. Whether it was group projects, extracurriculars, or simply balancing a busy schedule, BHS taught me how to stay focused, work with others, and push through challenges—skills I now use every day in my role in proposal management.

What is your advice for current Chieftains?

My advice to current students would be: don’t be afraid to try for things, even if they feel intimidating. Step out of your comfort zone—whether it’s signing up for a challenging class, joining a new club, or going for a leadership role. The things that feel hard or scary are often the ones that help you grow the most. Also, savor every moment. It really does go by faster than you think. One day you’ll look back and miss the school hallways, your friends, the teachers who supported you, and the hometown that shaped you. So enjoy it all while you’re in it.

Who at BCS inspired you?

At Bellefontaine High School, Mr. Morris was a big source of inspiration for me. He was always available to talk—whether it was about class, life, or anything in between. He helped spark my love of math, even when I didn’t always feel as confident as others around me. Outside the classroom, he was incredibly supportive while I was on the bowling team, which meant a lot. Mr. Hadley also had a major impact on me. I was far from the strongest singer in the choir, but he constantly encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone. Whether it was auditioning for an honors choir or performing a solo at a contest, he pushed me to try—even when I would have preferred to stay in the background. He made it clear that effort mattered just as much as talent, and that kind of encouragement has stayed with me ever since.

What was your favorite memory from your time at BCS?

I have so many amazing memories from my time at BHS, and most of them are tied to the extracurriculars I was lucky to be part of—being on the bowling team, organizing Red Cross blood drives, competing in choir contests, going on a choir cruise my sophomore year, and all the unforgettable color guard practices and performances. But if I had to choose one favorite, it would be the senior year trip to Philadelphia and New York City with the marching band. Rehearsing for the parade the night before in the rain is a moment that really stands out. It felt like one of those experiences you know you’ll always remember. Getting to explore NYC with friends on that trip made it even more unforgettable.

What was your favorite meal in the cafeteria?

Pepperoni School Pizza (not stuffed crust) with fries and cheese sauce.

Are you an alumnus of Bellefontaine City Schools?  If so, we'd love to hear from you!
We're excited to hear about your accomplishments and are eager to share your successes and advice with our current students, families, and the Bellefontaine community. Please take a few minutes to complete the quick questionnaire at: https://www.bcs-k12.org/about/alumni/alumni-spotlight regarding your current position and your career 
Thanks, and we look forward to hearing all your wonderful stories!