Saquon Barkley Encourages Milton Hershey School Community to Raise the Bar

Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley surprised the Milton Hershey School community during a special assembly held on Tuesday, April 22. He encouraged students to Raise the Bar on upcoming standardized tests and to motivate them to finish the school year strong.

“It’s not every day that you get to hear from and be inspired by a professional athlete who has worked as hard as Saquon has,” President Pete Gurt ’85 said. “He is not just known for being an extraordinary athlete but for practicing positive daily habits and exhibiting a strong moral character.”

Amidst the excitement, Gurt further elevated the 2024-25 school year theme by also welcoming Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleaders, Drumline, and mascot Swoop, alongside MHS mascot Sparty to the stage. The drumline included Ben Esquibel, whose mom and dad serve as houseparents at MHS. Last year, Esquibel attended the Eagles Autism Foundation All-Abilities Drumline Clinic and has since made life-changing connections with Eagles staff and fellow performers. 

Saquon Barkley taking Q&A's at MHS

Before Barkley’s remarks, Gurt celebrated the students’ success on Keystone and Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) tests. He also praised their commitment to having a strong work ethic, doing all they can for the good of their school, country, and God, participating in Career-Focused Education experiences, and having positive spirit.

During a question-and-answer session hosted by MHS Head of Senior Division Nate Martin, Barkley encouraged students to work hard, overcome adversities, seek mentors, and encourage each other.

“It was awesome,” said Barkley. “I love the school year theme about raising the bar, and how they tied the assembly to how well they did in (state) testing. But being here and having the love that they had for me was truly amazing. It was a cool event. I love doing stuff like this and being able to sit down and have conversations with the kids. Hopefully, my story and the stuff that I learned will help them in the future.”

See How MHS is Raising the Bar