You’ve probably seen me on TV at the Buckeyes games, painted face, wearing a wig and my signature buckeye necklaces. While most people know me as Buckeyeman, I’m a retired teacher who’s an avid supporter of education and of career-technical education. I became involved with Ohio Hi-Point about 6 years ago when the Alumni and Friends board was forming.

I was an educator for over 25 years, working in traditional K-12 schools as well as career centers, and it’s amazing to see the college and career paths that are available to students through a career center. As part of the Alumni and Friends Association, we're able to raise scholarship funds for students to continue their studies and jump into their careers. In 2012, I became a lifetime member of the organization.

I believe in rallying behind your school, supporting students, and helping to provide an experience they’ll never forget. I was part of the national scream-off for the loudest college fan; I think our communities can cheer just as loud for our students to excel in their academics and careers.

I’m proud to say I graduated from Ohio Hi-Point Career Center. Currently I’m studying Interactive Media at Marion Technical College after completing the IT program at Hi-Point.

In addition to school, I’m also a level one technician at Netgain and I’m an independent web consultant.

My training at Hi-Point was instrumental to where I am now. I was able to test out of my first semester of school, and because I had experience with creating and designing web pages, I was able to provide my services to businesses as an independent consultant. My resume already trumps others my age because of the certifications, internships and experiences I had at Hi-Point.

While in high school I was part of BPA, Lead Ambassadors and the Journeys Bloggers program. I gained valuable speaking skills and it brought me out of my shell. I was able to broaden my horizons, and now, my hobbies have transformed into my future career.

If you like something, do it. Don’t limit yourself. Dreams can come true if you strive for them.

I’ve always been a strong supporter of Ohio Hi-Point. As an alumnus, and a member of the Alumni and Friends Association, I enjoy giving back to the school that helped me find a successful career.

After completing the Cosmetology program I was a hairdresser for 21 years, and I owned my own salon for eleven. As fate would have it, I found myself on a Hi-Point advisory council as a senior in high school and have remained on an advisory council ever since.

I later became interested in printing art and decided to change careers. I didn’t know anything about printing, but I knew through my Hi-Point network that the Printing and Graphics instructor, Tom Carrig, could point me in the right direction. After some hard work, I’m the proud owner of Rath Information Systems in Bellefontaine.

The benefits of networking and mentoring are just a small piece of the Alumni and Friends Association. Student scholarships are at the heart of our organization. Through membership donations and fundraisers, we’re able to provide high school students with a little extra help as they continue their educational studies.