EVSC Alumni Spotlight
Bosse High School Alumni of 1985
Cheryl Dowell-Crowell
CEO of Self Sufficient Services, Inc. and Body By Design
Getting to Know Our EVSC Alumni
Where did you graduate from?
I graduated from Benjamin Bosse High School in 1985.
Who was your favorite teacher?
My favorite teacher in high school was Mr. Canterbury. He wore multiple hats as my basketball coach and my Driver’s Ed teacher. He never let me slack in his class, and I admired that about him. He truly cared about my education. That said, he refused to get in the car with me during
our driving lesson, especially when we got to the course in the back parking lot of Bosse!
He was also my favorite coach because he genuinely believed in me and took a personal interest
in my future. He invested his time and effort to make sure I was seen by major colleges. He
stayed on me, pushed me, and kept my head on straight just like a dad would. His support made a
lasting impact on my life, both on and off the court.
Another favorite was Mrs. Woods, my Home Economics teacher. Everyone loved her class especially because we got to eat what we cooked!
What activities were you involved in?
I was a proud member of the Women’s Basketball Team and started every year throughout high school. Looking back, I wish I had also pursued tennis. I grew up playing tennis and spent just as much time at camps and tournaments as I did with basketball. I won several tournaments and was considered a force to be reckoned with from an early age.
Not following through with tennis remains one of my biggest regrets.
What skills have you used in your professional career?
I hold a degree in Psychology, and the skills I’ve gained have played an important role in each of
my business ventures:
Self-Sufficient Services, Inc. – Provides employment and educational support to youth,
teens, and adults with disabilities. My psychology background helps me connect with clients who may be dealing with anxiety, depression, or lack of motivation. It allows me to offer them the empathy and tools they need to succeed.
Body By Design Aesthetics Studio – A non-invasive body contouring and sculpting
business focused on helping clients reduce inches and unwanted fat. Psychology
enhances my ability to mentally coach, motivate, and push clients toward their personal
goals.
Sufficient Realty Group – My newest venture in real estate investment. Understanding human behavior, negotiation, and motivation is incredibly beneficial in this field.
Psychology helps me read situations and people, which is essential in real estate.
What is your standout memory from high school?
I have two standout high school memories. The first is when my biggest fan—my dad, lovingly known as “Boss Dog”—left work to surprise me, my brother, and the entire student body at one of the most energetic pep assemblies ever. It was held in honor of our undefeated Men’s Basketball Team before a major tournament game.
The entire school went wild when they saw him!
The second memory is setting the all-time scoring and rebounding record with 45 points and 22
rebounds. At the time, I didn’t think much of it. I’ve always been a very humble and modest person. A few years later, while I was playing college basketball in Long Beach, reporters from Indiana reached out to get my thoughts on someone tying my 45-point record. I was surprised to
hear that they’d gotten permission from the refs and opposing team to allow an injured player to limp onto the court just to make a basket and tie the record.
They wanted my reaction. I smiled and graciously said, “Records are meant to be broken or tied. If helping someone be
part of a special moment like that brought them joy, then I support it. It doesn’t take away from what I accomplished, and I’m proud of what I did. But I’m even prouder of the example I set. Sportsmanship, grace, and humility always last longer than stats.”
Looking back now, I realize that moment was about more than just numbers—it was about
character. And that’s something no one can take away.
What advice would you give to your high school self?
Start thinking about your future now. Take the time to explore different career paths and do your research. Make sure you choose a field that truly excites and inspires you. Don’t wait—plan early.
How has your community involvement impacted your life?
My involvement in the community has been incredibly rewarding. Many of the children I once worked with are now adults with children of their own. When they see me, we often laugh and reminisce about the fun times we had in the programs I created. Back then, I wrote grants and raised funds to support safe, creative spaces for inner-city youth. Today, I continue to give back by supporting various scholarship funds that promote higher education.
A Commitment to Supporting Our Community
My company has dedicated several years assisting individuals and students with disabilities in becoming independent and self-sustaining by providing life and social skills training, job assistance, mentoring, permit tutoring, and in-school training on self- advocacy and work readiness.
Find Out More About Cheryl's Businesses
