Yearbook Project: Latoya Anderson, RHS Class of 1999

MyRye.com is starting a new series called the Yearbook Project. We are highlighting members of the Rye High School Class of 1999 (celebrating their 25th reunion in 2024) and the Rye High School Class of 1974 (celebrating their 50th reunion in 2024).

If you graduated from RHS ’99 or ’74, or if you know someone who did, please get in touch with us.

Today, meet Latoya Anderson of the Rye High School Class of 1999.

Interview by Karenna Chader

Your name: Latoya Anderson

Rye High School Year of: 1999

MyRye.com: Who were your favorite teachers at Rye High School? 

Anderson: I did not have a favorite teacher. I enjoyed Dr Zung’s science class as he made it so interesting and he made learning fun. I appreciated Mr Tuttle because I wasn’t the best math student but he always took the time to make sure you understood the work.

What were your favorite sports or extracurricular activities at Rye High School? 

Anderson: My favorite activity to do was spring track. To this day I think a few plaques have some records that were set back then still hanging on the wall outside the gym. Jim Yedowitz was one of the coaches that kept us motivated and he was a coach to my older brother and cousin as well as aunts and uncles. He took myself, Juliette Kenny, Jamie Yedowitz and my cousin Colleen Jones to Penn Relays to race. My main event was the 100 meter hurdles. I played basketball and was co-captain of the cheerleading squad my senior year. 

Tell us about the street in Rye you grew-up on. 

Anderson: I grew up on Palisade Road right next to the Culyers. The Everetts were at the top of the street. Jen Culyer, Clemmie Everett and myself have known each other since the 2nd grade at Midland School and we were Girl Scouts as well.

Where would you and your friends hang out in Rye? 

Anderson: The main place we hung out was at Gagliardo Park – “The Gag.” We spent many days celebrating special events, playing basketball, on the playground or just in the picnic area conversing.

What have you done since the day you graduated high school? 

Anderson: I did come back to Rye after graduating from Johnson & Wales University 2003. I had family living here then and now. I worked for HSBC Bank and then to North Fork Bank. Went on to work for Enterprise Rent A Car in Mamaroneck and at the county airport. I was working for Philips Oral Healthcare in Stamford when I received a canvas letter from the Rye Police Department. I was hired by the PD 1/3/2014. I have been married for a little over four years and have a stepson. These past 10 years have helped me learn Rye better and formed friendships with families in the community.  

What in your view are the two or three greatest Rye traditions you remember from your high school years?

Anderson: Since I was a cheerleader at one time, I have come to miss the traditions from the Rye/Harrison pep rally.

Thank you Latoya!