12,000 Lives Changed: Milton Hershey School Celebrates a Sweet Milestone

By Pete Gurt ’85, MHS President

This year, Milton Hershey School is going to reach a landmark moment more than a century in the making: the celebration of our 12,000th graduate. It’s a number that carries immense weight—not just because of its size, but because of what it represents. Behind every one of those 12,000 graduates is a story of hope, perseverance, and transformation. At the heart of every story is the enduring legacy of our founders, Milton S. Hershey and his wife, Catherine.

This milestone is about more than just numbers. It’s about impact. It’s about 12,000 lives changed—and through them, thousands more. It’s about families given hope, neighborhoods strengthened by leadership, and industries influenced by the talent and tenacity of MHS alumni. From doctors and engineers to social workers, artists, soldiers, and entrepreneurs, MHS graduates are leaving their mark on the world.

For example, Jim and John Hanawalt, who graduated from MHS in 1965 and 1970, respectively, have had a profoundly positive impact on their communities through their commitment to our mission and service to others. Dr. Di’Andra Hickson ’98 is applying the knowledge she gained at the school, as well as her recent doctorate, to make a difference as a lieutenant with the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections. And Tatiana Ariola ’15 is using her talents as a videographer to share stories that matter. There are thousands of examples just like Jim, John, Di’Andra, and Tatiana—individuals who have used what they learned at MHS as a means for giving back.

As MHS grows, it’s special to watch our impact grow, too. This June, we will add 205 graduates to our alumni family. These students have spent significant time learning and growing on our campus, and we are so excited to see where their journeys take them. The Class of 2025 has undoubtedly raised the bar with their accomplishments.

SENIOR CLASS SNAPSHOT

• 100% of this graduating class earned at least one state or nationally recognized certification, and 43% earned at least two or more certifications.
• 95% of the Class of 2025 were able to obtain an Authentic Work Experience before graduation.
• 45% of seniors earned a Varsity H Award, which signifies athletes who participated in varsity programming for two years during high school.
• 22% of the seniors were members of the National Honor Society.

As we celebrate this 12,000th graduate, we don’t just mark a moment—it marks a starting point for the next 12,000 students who our programs will impact. The best is yet to come.

Learn More about the Class of 2025 Watch the 2025 Commencement Video PlaylistRefer a Child to MHS