Celebrating America’s Story and Milton Hershey School’s Legacy at Stars, Stripes, and Spartans: An America250 Celebration

Red, white, and blue dominated the color scheme as members of the Milton Hershey School community gathered for Stars, Stripes, and Spartans: An America250 Celebration, a special event commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States and launching the 2026-27 school year. Hosted by President Pete Gurt ’85, the celebration brought together students, staff, family, and friends for an evening of patriotism, community, and fun.

“The 2026-27 school year is an extraordinary time to celebrate not only the birth of our nation, but the start of an incredible school year, representing all that is great about Milton Hershey the man, as well as the school he founded,” said President Gurt.

As America marks 250 years of independence, MHS took the opportunity to reflect on the people, principles, and spirit that have shaped the country, and how the same ideals that created the United States reflect the life and legacy of our founders Milton and Catherine Hershey.

“Milton Hershey is a great example of the American dream,” President Gurt said. “He grew up in a very unstable environment, yet through his hard work, vision, and perseverance, he created the most iconic brand in American history. Mr. Hershey is embedded in the 250th celebration of this country in so many ways.”

Throughout the evening, students and staff enjoyed a variety of activities celebrating America’s history, values, and community spirit. Founders Hall served as the celebration’s focal point, featuring an exhibit highlighting key moments in Milton Hershey’s life and the founding of MHS.

Outside, the Founders Hall lawn was transformed into a patriotic festival with American pride on full display. Guests dressed in red, white, and blue, stars and stripes, and even as the Statue of Liberty and George Washington. The community enjoyed an array of games and activities, including bounce houses, mini golf, crafts, kites, face painting, carnival games, and educational trivia focused on American heroes, symbols, and values. The Hershey community joined in the fun—the Hershey Fire Department brought a firetruck and Penn State Health brought an ambulance for tours.

“What an amazing country we get to live in and contribute to,” said President Gurt. “Not only to be American citizens, but also to be part of this Milton Hershey School family.”

The evening culminated in a surprise musical performance by Voices of Service, the vocal group made up of retired military members who gained national recognition on “America’s Got Talent.” To end the night on a high note, the group was joined by MHS Visual and Performing Arts students. Earlier that day, Voices of Service met with the students, providing mentorship and rehearsing together.

The evening was especially meaningful for Shiloh DeLouis, an MHS senior who hopes to one day become a Navy pilot.

“I think it’s important to celebrate our country, especially young people, because it allows us to look back and see what we can make better,” said DeLouis.

DeLouis will take the lessons MHS taught him into his future.

“My experience at MHS allowed me to realize what community means to me,” he said. “The values that I learned at MHS, the Sacred Values, allow me to be well-rounded. Looking toward being in the military, I will need to be respectful, positive, and work well with others.”