Hollywood Comes to Milton Hershey School

On Monday, Aug. 17, a piece of Hollywood came to Milton Hershey School. Michael Moreland Milligan, who stars in the upcoming HERSHEY movie as William Henry “Lebbie” Lebkicher, Milton S. Hershey’s right-hand man, came to MHS to celebrate the new school year. He appeared as his character, Lebbie Lebkicher, in the 2026 Opening of School Assembly, guiding the attendees on a journey through time to discover the true meaning of Spartan Fame.

Following the assembly, Milligan took time to engage with students. Middle School Visual and Performing Arts students met with Milligan in a small theatre setting. Milligan shared about his life, his love for the arts, and his journey to becoming Lebbie. He talked about his two decades of acting experience, including appearances on Broadway, with the Shakespeare Theatre Company, and on London’s West End stage.

Amelia Clark, who wants to one day star in Broadway musicals, said, “I learned it takes a lot of effort to be a part of something like that [acting]. It’s a long journey, but worth it after all the work.”

Bryan Streeval talked about how Milligan motivated him. “He inspired me,” he said. “Even though I want to be an author and artist, I might go into acting, even if it not for the big roles.”

Clark shared the same sentiment after meeting Milligan.

“I am more excited and ready to pursue my Broadway dream.”

Later in the day, Milligan visited student home Ecuador for a tour and to learn more about student life before traveling to the Michael Weller Trades Center to meet Senior Division Construction/Carpentry Career and Technical Education students.

At the end of his visit, he met with two students from every grade level before being interviewed on camera for a special segment on the Senior Division morning announcements, Milt Morning.

The first day of school is always special at MHS with the Opening of School Assembly, a tradition stared by President Pete Gurt ’85. This year was special because students got to experience a talented performer in action. However, the time Milligan took with students shows that the meaningful movements do not happen in the spotlight, but in those individual interactions with others, encouraging one another to strive for excellence.