Harrison Press December Students of the Month

Harrison High School is proud to select senior Zachary Davidson as one of this month’s Harrison Press Students of the Month. He is involved in VEX Robotics, FCA Club, and Boy’s Tennis. Outside of school, he performs in live bands for the Lifespring Student Ministry and Crossway Community Church. He also is an Eagle Scout and adult member of his boy scouts’ troop 293, where he aids younger members on their journey to Eagle Rank. Zach’s main hobby is creating music with his guitar, piano, and bass.

Some of Zachary’s teachers had wonderful things to say about him. Art teacher Alicia Cummings had this to say about him: “Zach is a student who marches to the beat of his own drum! I love seeing his individuality shine through! He loves exploring various art forms and interests both in visual art & in instrumental art”. Love the creativity!

Math teacher Courtney Donath had observed, “One of Zachary’s greatest characteristics is his curiosity. He is always looking for how different topics connect to previous topics we’ve learned in class — a true mathematician!”

The person who had the most to say is Engineering teacher Angela Elsasser, who mentioned, “Zachary Davidson is currently preparing for a career in electrical engineering and has maintained an outstanding academic record, tackling rigorous coursework including seven AP and two College Credit Plus classes. His technical proficiency extends beyond the classroom; he holds key roles on the Harrison VEX Robotics team and is working toward multiple industry certifications.  Zach’s commitment to excellence and real-world application is perhaps best highlighted by his achievement of Eagle Scout. The accomplishment involved planning and managing a significant project—the redesign of a community church’s outdoor area—demonstrating a rare blend of technical intelligence and leadership capability.  Beyond these impressive achievements, Zach shows remarkable character through consistent service. He voluntarily spent three consecutive years reorganizing the engineering lab equipment for the school’s Day of Service and has extensive involvement in other volunteer efforts. Zach Davidson is recognized not just for his intellectual capacity, but for his ethically grounded drive and proven track record of project execution”.

Advice Zachary shares with his fellow students is “ stay positive and focused.  Your mentality can greatly change your efficiency and energy when it comes to work, so staying positive and avoiding negativity and distractions will help a lot.  I’d also say to stop worrying about others so much, since too many people I see worry about others judging them and that hinders them from their full potential. What others think or say of you don’t define you, and if people do define you from what they hear only, that’s their problem, not yours.”

Harrison High School thanks Zachary for the wonderful representation of the school!

Harrison High School proudly selects senior Emily Benight as one of this month’s Harrison Press Students of the Month. She is involved in Drama, Symphonix a cappella, and plays on the girls varsity tennis team. Outside of school Emily is involved in BSA and recently reached her Eagle scout rank.

Emily was nominated by her business teacher and class advisor, Mr. Ward. He nominated her because of her work heading Senior sunrise and Coronation. He specifically said “Emily has been an absolute Rock Star for the Class of 2026. Emily never hesitates to take on a leadership role and works extremely hard in the classroom. It is a pleasure to have the opportunity to work with Emily!” 

Her a capella director Mr. Hutcherson said “Emily Benight has been an essential member of Symphonix as not only a great singer with a gifted voice, but also a leader as vice president.  She has worked diligently to publicize for Symphonix, build our camaraderie, and mentor other members in learning parts. Symphonix is very fortunate to have Emily!”

English teacher, Mrs. Shuja said, “Emily is a hard worker who takes great pride in her work. She is willing to come after school to get extra help; she is a conscientious student”. 

Mrs. Cummings, one of Harrison high’s school art teachers, said “Emily is an extremely bright, talented, & high achieving young lady! Seeing her work develop  in the art classroom was both inspiring and encouraging to those around her!”. English teacher Mrs. Shuja happily stated “Emily is a hard worker who takes great pride in her work. She is willing to come after school to get extra help; she is a conscientious student.” 

Perhaps the most flattering complement was from her history teacher Mr. Deak “Emily Benight is everything you want in a student. She is hardworking, truly wants to learn, and is one of the nicest individuals you will ever meet.  I know that combination will take her far in life.  I am honored to have taught her multiple classes.” 

When asked, Emily’s advice for fellow students was “not to let other people’s fear dull your own dreams”.