Welcome
Alyssa Thalmann was raised in Liberty, NY. She graduated from Liberty High School and, shortly after, welcomed her first son, Enrique, in July 2005. Determined to further her education, she earned an associate degree from SUNY Sullivan in 2007 while balancing school and motherhood. She went on to complete a bachelor’s degree and teaching certification through SUNY New Paltz in 2009.
Facing life challenges, Alyssa moved to San Diego, where she earned a master’s degree in Secondary Education from Kaplan University in 2011 while welcoming her third son, Christopher. She later ran an in-home daycare and completed a second master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from National University in 2013. That same year, she returned to New York, working as a substitute teacher across Sullivan County.
In 2014, she joined the Boys & Girls Club, Passionate about youth development, Alyssa collaborated with BGC to create enriching opportunities for Monticello’s youth, including Saturday morning programs at the Ted Stroebele Building, where children engaged in baking, science, and arts and crafts. These efforts expanded into large community events such as Halloween and Christmas celebrations, which brought joy and meaningful experiences to the children of Monticello. By 2016, she became a 6th-grade ELA/Social Studies teacher at Liberty Middle School, where she now teaches 5th-grade Math and Science. In 2019, she met John Desrochers, and in 2020, they welcomed their son, Daniel.
Beyond the classroom, Alyssa is a dedicated advocate for youth, actively participating in Scouting, soccer, and T-ball programs. At Liberty Middle School, she is a passionate supporter of the SEL program and "Leader in Me." As BLT Facilitator, she creates community service opportunities for students and fosters leadership skills using the principles of "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People."
Alyssa is honored to be a recipient of the Paul Harris Fellow Award and takes great pride in standing alongside past honorees. After years of encouragement from her best friend, Barbi, Alyssa joined Rotary in 2023, shortly after losing her father and mother. The organization became a crucial support system for her during a difficult time, further reinforcing her commitment to service and community engagement. She also serves as a Board Member on the Sullivan County Child Care Council, continuing to advocate for children and families.
Alyssa is very thankful for the support from her children—Enrique, Jeremiah, and Christopher—who often help with their little brother, Daniel. She is extremely grateful for John’s unwavering support and the members of Rotary, who have become her extended family. Without this solid team around her, she wouldn’t be able to achieve all that she has.
Through her dedication to education, leadership, and service, Alyssa continues to make a profound impact on her students and community.