Add image next to avatar

[Ron G]

I am trying to figure out how to add one or more images next to a user's avatar, depending upon whether they belong to specific classes. What I'd like to do is create hidden user profile fields, and then depending on whether a user belongs to one of these categories, a small image will appear next to the user's avatar.

I've seen this on numerous sites, usually for different levels of donars. I just can't figure out how to do it. Does anyone know of any existing hacks for this?

Thanks