BHS grad from 2020, he credits Mr. Schumm, his science teacher and cross country/track coach, with shaping his academic and athletic career. Through Mr. Schumm's mentorship, Hunter learned the importance of dedication both in the classroom and in life, striving to make an impact just as Mr. Schumm did for him.

Favorite teacher?
Mr. Schumm was my favorite teacher. I had him a couple different years in high school for various science classes and he always kept the material interesting. He had a great ability to teach complex and difficult ideas to the class in a way that made sense and was easy for us to remember. He was also my cross country and track coach through junior high and high school and over the course of those years he invested time and effort to see me succeed in the classroom, in running, and preparing me for life beyond Bennington. He was and still is a great mentor to me, and I strive to make an impact in individuals' lives as he has in mine. 

Favorite Memory at BHS? 

Going to class every day with the individuals I grew up with. Having conversations with anyone and everyone throughout the day and knowing a large amount of people on a personal level. It made going to sporting events, school musicals, and other activities so much more meaningful having that relationship with someone involved.

Education:

• Graduated from Dakota Wesleyan University (Mitchell, SD) in May 2024 with a Bachelor's in Biochemistry
• Member of the Dakota Wesleyan University cross country and track team
• Started a two-year Master's in Public Administration at Dordt University (Sioux Center, IA) in August 2024
• Competing in cross country and track during my fifth year of eligibility
• Aspiring to pursue a career in grant writing and fundraising for scientific research after graduation

Awards & Professional Affiliations:

• Member of Sigma Zeta, National Honor Society for Science and Mathematics
• Two-time summer research fellow for the South Dakota Biomedical Research Infrastructure Network (BRIN)
• Presented research at the South Dakota State Capitol Board of Regents Poster Session in 2023
• Holds four school records in track: indoor 600m, indoor 800m, indoor 1000m, and indoor distance medley relay
• Holds the facility record for the 800m at Dakota Wesleyan's indoor facility

How did your education/experience at BHS prepare you for your life after graduation?

Bennington challenged me to be the change I wanted to see in the world. I feel that since graduating and learning more about myself and who I would like to be truly stems from my time at BHS. Teachers and coaches helped develop my leadership skills, encouraged me to be confident in who I was and my ability to impact those around me. Having that confidence has allowed me to take risks and challenge myself in ways that I would have never dreamt of if it wasn't for the individuals at BHS. 

Advice for current students?

Make the most of your time at BHS. Graduation seems like forever away when you're a freshman and sophomore, but it goes by so quick. Be involved with as much as you can and try to build as many relationships as you can. Once college starts and especially after college, life feels like it moves so quickly that you won't be able to see your best friend that you grew up with every day or even every year.