William Henry Harrison High School is thrilled to announce Lanie Gehner as one of this month’s Harrison Press Students of the month. Lanie is admired by her peers for many reasons, including making Harrison history not once, but twice! Recently traveling to Florida for 2025’s International Career Development Conference, as a part of the DECA program, Lanie returned as an international champion. She placed first in the Restaurant and Food category, where she received her second glass plaque encapsulating her success.
Lanie’s legacy doesn’t end this year, as she’s only a junior. Deca Advisor Trevor Ward exclaims, “Lanie has set the bar for Harrison DECA! She was the first Harrison DECA Student ever to win DECA Glass earning 2nd place at the International Career Development Conference in 2023. Lanie did it again this year, earning INTERNATIONAL CHAMPION in the Restaurant and Food Service Category! Lanie was also elected to serve her 2nd term as Ohio DECA State Officer.” In addition to these huge honors, Ward reports that “Lanie is very humble as well, continues to work hard, strives to make those around her better, and is an outstanding young lady. The best thing about Lanie is that we get to have her around for another year! We are looking forward to her leading our chapter and Ohio DECA next year!”
DECA Advisor Dustin Dersham is also excited to continue working with Lanie. When asked about Lanie, Dersham replied “Lanie Gehner – what an amazing young lady! You would never know she is an introvert with all her outstanding accomplishments in DECA. Lanie is guided by her strong faith, always prepared, never afraid of the big moments, and is always willing to challenge herself. Two-time DECA state officer, two-time DECA trophy winner at the international competition including first place this year…and she is only a junior! It has been a true blessing to be a part of all her success, and I can’t wait to see what she does next!”
But DECA isn’t the only place where Lanie is excelling. She is just as delightful to be around in her other classes. Photography teacher Ms. Keller describes Lanie by saying, “Lanie has been in my homeroom for 3 years & I have watched her BLOOM! This girl is going places! I admire her quiet humbleness & her deep faith. Can’t wait to see what she’ll accomplish next!” History teacher Conor Thomas exclaims, “Lanie is a joy to have in class! She always brings an infectious positive energy and a readiness to learn.” Math teacher Amy Poettker describes Lanie as “a stellar math student who never gives up! She asks questions, seeks additional help when needed, participates, and is always well prepared for each class. She gives it her best every day. She is an amazing role model to her peers.” Spanish teacher and Student Council advisor Mrs. Hasenohr says, “Lanie always has a positive demeanor, uplifting those around her and leading by example. Her enthusiasm and kindness are wonderful to see in class each day.”
As reflected by her achievements, Lanie’s best piece of advice is, “Doing your best is more important than being the best.” As students, we can take Lanie’s advice and lead every day with a positive demeanor!
Article by Lola Eiler
Harrison High School is proud to select Senior Gaven Johnson as one of this month’s Harrison Press Student of the Month. Gaven has had a remarkable high school career and has been an amazing example of what it means to be a student-athlete. He has excelled at both sports and academics during his time as a Wildcat. He is top 5 of his class and has been a key part of our soccer program for years; he has broken multiple soccer records this year, including the record for single season goals, single season assists, career goals, career assists, career points, and single season points. In addition to academics and sports, Gaven also has succeeded in the Harrison art program. He is up for inclusion the Congressman Warren Davidson – Congressional Art Competition. These impressive achievements are what makes him stand out as a student.
Here are some quotes from teachers who’ve had him:
Tara Keller, photography teacher, says, “ Gaven is one of the most hardworking, dedicated, respectful students I have. He strives to give his very best in the classroom and on the field, challenging himself with advanced classes while balancing a record-breaking soccer career. He is the model student athlete!”
Molly Hasenohr, Spanish teacher, says, “Gaven serves as the Public Relations Director for Student Council. His creativity and organization have been instrumental in keeping our student body informed of events throughout the year.”
Courtney Donath, math teacher, says, “Through teaching Gaven his senior year I have seen his strong work ethic, both in and outside of school. His consistency with his effort toward everything he does is unique for young men his age. He is driven, curious, and desires to make positive change in the world around him.”
Trevor Ward, business teacher and DECA advisor, says, “Gaven is an outstanding young man that leads by example on the soccer field and in the classroom. With all the success that he has had, he is very humble and puts the team and his classmates first. Gaven is going to do great things at the next level both on the field and in the classroom.”
When asked to share a quote, Gaven said a short, but impactful sentence, “Work hard and have fun.” His quote emphasizes the importance of enjoying things even when schoolwork piles up.
Article by Sergio Hernandez
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