The Alumni Hall of Fame Award recognizes graduates of Carmel High School who have made a significant contribution in their chosen professions and through service to the community. A committee of students reviews nominations from the public to determine the inductees each year. The Alumni Hall of Fame Class of 2025, Mrs. Deborah Clark Gangstad and Mr. Jeff Mohler, and the 2025 Distinguished Graduates will be recognized on Monday, April 21, at 7:00 in the CHS Dale E. Graham Auditorium. 

Jeff Mohler

Jeff Mohler graduated from Carmel High School in 1990. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Indiana Wesleyan University and a Master of Public Affairs degree from Indiana University Bloomington.

His career with Special Olympics began as a graduate student assistant, and he is now president and CEO of Special Olympics Indiana. He also serves in leadership roles for Special Olympics USA and North America.

A standout athlete in high school, Mohler was a member of the IHSAA state championship cross country teams in 1987 and 1988. He was named IHSAA Cross Country Official of the Year in 2007 and IATCCC Official of the Year in 2009. He held various coaching positions within Carmel Clay Schools and served as an assistant coach for IHSAA state championship teams in 2015, 2016 and 2017, as well as state runners-up in 2014 and 2016.

A visionary behind the Champions Together program, he is dedicated to inclusion and excellence. As president and CEO of Special Olympics Indiana, he considers himself the caretaker of an organization that belongs to its athletes. His leadership has made a lasting impact both locally and abroad.

Deborah Clark Gangstad

Deborah Clark Gangstad graduated from Carmel High School in 1971 and earned her undergraduate degree from Purdue University and a master’s degree from IUPUI.

She taught elementary students at Carmel Clay Schools for 28 years, demonstrating a deep dedication to her students. Her commitment was recognized through various honors, including the WTHR Channel 13 Shining Star Award in 1992 and the Channel 8 “I Love to Read” program, which featured her final second-grade class. She is also included in the Walt Disney Company book Thank You, Teacher: Letters Celebrating Extraordinary Teachers.

Gangstad was honored for her leadership as president of the Carmel Clay Education Foundation, receiving recognition for dedication, service and leadership in 2008. She was also named Carmel Clay Historical Society Volunteer of the Year in 2014. In addition, she served as president of the Carmel Chapter of Tri Kappa, a social service organization focused on charity, culture and education.

Her passion for education at all levels led to a second career as executive director of the Carmel Clay Historical Society. She played a key role in opening the Carmel Clay History Museum, ensuring the community has access to the township’s historical archives. 

Gangstad’s impact on younger generations in the community is lasting and profound.