Alumni Spotlight: Brian Talley

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Brian Talley, OLV Class of 1992

By Hailey Wood, Class of 2024

Brian Charles Talley is a 1992 graduate of Resurrection Catholic School and was a third-generation student at Our Lady of Victories (OLV). His paternal grandmother, Dorothy “Dot” (Krebs) Talley graduated from OLV in 1941 while his parents, Charles and Betty (Larsen) Talley, both graduated in 1966. His 4 siblings as well as many aunts and uncles also attended and graduated from OLV/RCS. Brian received his undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of Mississippi in 1997 and then attended the University of Mississippi’s Dental School where he graduated with his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree in 2002. He completed his Pediatric Dental residency in 2012 and received his American Board of Pediatric Dentistry board certification in 2013. He currently serves as an officer (O6 Captain) in the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps and is assigned to the Indian Health Service (IHS). With the IHS, he provides clinical pediatric dental services for the Jicarilla Apache, Southern Ute, and Ute Mountain Ute tribes. In addition, he serves as the Regional Pediatric Dental Consultant for the IHS Albuquerque Area and the National Pediatric Dentistry Co-Consultant for the IHS Division of Oral Health. Brian has been married to his wife, Karen Peeples Talley, for 22 years and they have 2 kids, William (12) and Claire (10).

When asked about his fondest memories of RCS, Brian stated, “Specific memories are difficult to recall; however, a strong sense of family remains. The feeling of inclusion; having fun together; being supported, challenged, and protected; and the ability for all to participate are fond recollections of my thirteen-year OLV and RCS experience.”

Brian says his central aspect of Catholic education was learning the importance of service to others. When RCS students took part in service activities, both local and beyond, it demonstrated the values and faith gained through Catholic education and taught students how to make the world around a little bit better. Through these opportunities, he observed how others served the community and gained an appreciation for how he could continue to serve throughout his life. Brian’s advice for students today is: “Do not be afraid to fail. Quite often failure sets the stage for future success.”