Living Our Pledge Through a Lifetime of Service

When Procurement Manager Tammy Blose arrived at Milton Hershey School in July 1977, she was just eight years old. Her parents, Don and Sandy, had accepted roles as houseparents, and Blose’s life was about to change in ways she couldn’t imagine. What started as a move from Harrisburg became the foundation for a lifetime of connection to MHS—a journey that shaped her childhood, her values, and her career.

Blose’s earliest memories at MHS are filled with laughter and togetherness. After arriving on campus, she and her sister suddenly had 16 new “siblings.” Meals were shared around one table, and chores were completed together.

“We instantly grew into this huge family,” Blose recalls. “I had an awesome childhood here.”

As her parents transitioned to different student homes, Blose experienced life alongside high school. Later, when her father’s health required a change, her parents became recreational houseparents. At the time, recreational houseparents supported student homes by running weekend activities, managing the snack bar, and organizing crafts and summer programs. This change introduced Blose to an even broader group of students. These relationships, many of which continue to this day, taught her the meaning of community and service.

It wasn’t until Blose was older that she fully understood the purpose behind MHS.

“I knew I couldn’t attend MHS, but I didn’t know why until I learned about the Deed of Trust,” she says. “Working in finance later gave me a deeper appreciation for the school’s mission and the responsibility to steward resources for future generations.”

She also realized the impact her parents had when former students returned to thank them.

“Once that happened, I was like, ‘Wow,’” Blose shares. “It made me proud to see the difference they made.”

Blose’s career at MHS began in September 1989 as a part-time employee in the recreation program. At the time, her father was still serving in that program, and her mother was employed in the finance department. In 1994, Blose transitioned into finance, following in her mother’s footsteps. Over the years, she advanced from purchasing assistant to her current role as procurement manager.

“Milton Hershey has always put food on our table, a roof over our head, and clothes on our back,” Blose says. “It’s a special place, and I still feel a mission to serve.”

Her commitment extends beyond her role. Blose volunteers in programs like Elementary Division Co-Pilot and Career Mondays, mentoring students and sharing her story.

“It’s rewarding to watch them grow and come out of their shell,” she says. “You never know how your experiences might guide them.”

For Blose, the MHS School Pledge is more than words—it’s a way of life.

“Show up every day and give 110%,” she advises. “Be true to yourself and others. Take advantage of opportunities, even if they push you outside your comfort zone.”

As Blose reflects on her journey—from a child in a student home to a leader in procurement—she feels immense gratitude. She’s proud to carry on the legacy of her parents through her work here. Milton Hershey once said that if he could help ten boys, it would all be worth it. Today, more than 12,000 students have benefited from his vision. Blose is living proof that the ripple effect of that vision extends far beyond the classroom—into families, careers, and lifetimes of service.

Watch Tammy’s Story Below