Nolan LaVoie is a native of SW Washington and still considers himself a Washingtonian.  His upbringing in the PNW gave birth to his deep love of all things outdoors: mountain biking, climbing, backpacking, hunting, fishing, van- life, and exploring.  Nolan lives on campus with his wife Becca (English Faculty at MSA), Clark (class of 2026), and Will as well as their dog Moose.  

Nolan attended Lower Columbia College in his hometown where he played baseball and debated.  During his time at LCC, he earned nationwide attention as a competitive debater and earned a full scholarship to attend the Unversity of the Cumberlands in SE Kentucky where he double majored in History/Political Science and Communications as well as being awarded the Communication student of the year award and Kentucky state champion in debate.  Upon completion of undergrad, he went on to attend and work at Pacific Lutheran University to earn his M.Ed and coach the debate team.  During his time at PLU, he helped coach a team to second at nationals as well as taught public speaking and rhetorical criticism.  

Upon leaving PLU Nolan started working in the outdoor industry where he led recreational and therapeutic backpacking trips.  Nolan’s passion for the outdoors and young people has led to him serving in various capacities at Blue Ridge School, UNC-Asheville, Woodberry Forest School, and Verde Valley School.  During this time Nolan has taught; history, leadership wilderness first aid, outdoor program management, and public speaking; coached, mountain biking, outdoor programs, and climbing teams; served on administrative teams as assistant head of school, and dean of students. Nolan has also published multiple articles with SAIS and NAIS and presented at regional, national and international conferences.