Milton Hershey School Lifers Celebrate a Journey Years in the Making

On Tuesday, June 2, Milton Hershey School honored a special group of seniors from the Class of 2026 during its annual lifer celebration. The event recognized 32 students who began their MHS journey in pre-K, kindergarten, or first grade and have spent 12 or more years growing within the school community. Held in Memorial Hall—the very place where each lifer started their MHS experience—the evening served as a meaningful reflection on their shared history and lasting bonds.

President Peter G. Gurt ’85 welcomed students and their special guests, acknowledging the dedication it takes to remain at MHS for so many formative years. As a lifer himself, he spoke to the unique connection these students share and encouraged them as they prepare for life beyond graduation.

“It is so important to take a pause from time to time to celebrate milestones and successes,” said President Gurt. “This event is so important because it’s not just about celebrating the journey of our lifers, but for them to understand that they did not take this journey on their own.”

As part of the evening, lifers invited three guests who played significant roles in their lives at MHS. Many chose houseparents, mentors, and teachers who supported them throughout their journey. The event provided an opportunity for students to express gratitude to those who helped shape their growth, both academically and personally.

Throughout Memorial Hall, displays of photographs captured each lifer’s journey from childhood to senior year. An image from every school year they’ve spent at MHS, including all Opening of School Assemblies, lined the space, allowing students and their guests to reflect on just how far they have come. Laughter, stories, and memories filled the room as lifers revisited moments from their earliest days through their final year.

Senior Mikyala Eslinger addressed her fellow lifers, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs they experienced together over the years. Her remarks highlighted the resilience required to grow up away from home, as well as the friendships and support systems that carried them through every stage of their journey.

“As lifers, we grew up with unique experiences,” said Eslinger. “We didn’t just attend MHS. We grew up here. Some of us came at such an early age that we were just learning how to tie our shoes. We learned how to make friends. We learned how to handle disappointment, celebrate achievements, navigate challenges, and discover who we want to become.”

For the first time this year, the celebration included a special presentation led by MHS Alumni Association President Mary Pratt-Lauchle ’96 and two honorary alumni. Pratt-Lauchle acknowledged the significance of the milestone and welcomed the students into the alumni community.

“As you step into this next chapter, remember that your story is just beginning,” said Pratt-Lauchle. “You leave this campus with incredible potential, but potential alone is not enough. It is your purpose, your determination, and your willingness to serve others that will define the impact you make on the world.”

Each lifer was individually recognized and presented with meaningful keepsakes to commemorate their time at MHS. Each student received an MHSAA lifetime membership card, a personalized blanket embroidered with their name and class year, and a watercolor painting depicting Memorial Hall, Catherine Hall, and Founders Hall—symbolizing their experiences in all three divisions of the School.

While every student at MHS has a unique story, lifers share a rare and powerful connection. They entered the school as young children and experienced each milestone together—from elementary school traditions to middle and high school achievements. Their shared journey has created a bond that will endure long after graduation.

The lifer celebration once again served as a meaningful lead-up to commencement, offering these seniors a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate before stepping into their next chapter. Just as they began together years ago in Memorial Hall, the Class of 2026 lifers now prepare to leave as confident, connected alumni—forever linked by their shared experience at Milton Hershey School.