Thorndale ISD

Our October Alumni Spotlight shines on Heather Merz, a proud member of Thorndale High School's Class of 1995. As salutatorian of her class, Heather was an active participant in many school activities, including the Bulldog Band, cheerleading, volleyball, National Honor Society (NHS), and Future Homemakers of America (FHA).

After graduation, Heather attended Texas A&M University, where she earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and a Master of Science in Finance through the Professional Program in Accounting. She graduated Magna Cum Laude and shared her college years with her best friend and fellow 1995 THS graduate, Wendy (Fuessel) Kovar.

Heather earned her CPA license in August 2000 and went on to work for Ernst & Young for seven years in Audit. She currently serves as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Principal at Paradigm Commercial, LLC, a commercial general contracting firm based in Georgetown, Texas.

In July 2000, Heather married her high school sweetheart, Jeremy Merz, also a THS graduate from the Class of 1995. In 2020, the couple made the decision to return to Thorndale—a choice Heather describes as the best they’ve ever made.

Heather and Jeremy are raising two boys who continue the Bulldog legacy: Luke, a 2023 graduate, and Cayson, who will graduate in 2027. Heather is also an active community member, serving as Treasurer of the Thorndale Athletic Booster Club for two years and starting her fourth year as a member of the Thorndale ISD Community Involvement Program. She is also Co-Chair of Thorndale United: Empowering Educational Excellence, the Political Action Committee formed to promote the 2024 TISD Bond.

Heather’s connection to Thorndale ISD runs deep. Her mother, Donna Kerlin (Class of 1975), her brother, Chris Kerlin (Class of 2000), and her maternal grandmother, Janell Felton (Class of 1952), all graduated from Thorndale. Ms. Felton dedicated much of her life to Thorndale ISD, working as an aide with a special passion for the SPED program alongside the beloved Ms. Betty Cuba.

Favorite High School Memories: One of Heather’s fondest memories from high school was Mrs. Culp’s Chemistry class, where laughter often filled the room—especially during lab sessions—while still learning important lessons. She was also part of the band and a cheerleader when Thorndale won the State Championship in football. Traveling to the playoff games with packed stands full of cheering community members is something she’ll never forget.

Heather’s Advice to Current Students: “My advice is simple: don’t focus on what larger schools might offer. Instead, appreciate the unique advantages a small school like Thorndale provides. Here, smaller class sizes allow for more personalized attention from your teachers, helping you build stronger relationships and succeed academically.

You also have the opportunity to be involved in multiple sports, band, FFA, FCCLA, and other academic organizations—something that isn’t always possible at larger schools. In Thorndale ISD, teachers, coaches, and staff serve as mentors who offer real guidance. You’ll receive leadership opportunities in both school and community roles, which will help you grow as a person. There’s a sense of safety and support, knowing that everyone knows and cares about each other.

Whether it’s the Superintendent walking the halls or community members filling the stands at events, Thorndale will always have your back. The hands-on experiences, deep traditions, and mentorship you receive here will shape you into a confident and well-rounded individual, ready for whatever comes next.

Through all of Heather’s achievements, her family has been her biggest support system, encouraging her to dream big and pursue her goals. No matter where life takes her, home will always be waiting. Heather’s story is a testament to the strength of Thorndale’s community and the lasting impact of its values.

Go Dogs