Special to 1812Blockhouse
The Ohio State University at Mansfield is pleased to announce the 2021 Homecoming Court. These students were chosen by a panel of faculty and staff for characteristics such as campus and community involvement, volunteer work, academic performance and Buckeye spirit.
Danielle Day
Major: Early Childhood Education
Year: Senior
Hometown: Mansfield, Ohio
“Being a part of the Homecoming Court means so much to me. I grew up watching Ohio State games. I’ve always wanted to be a Buckeye, and I’m glad I can finish my degree in my hometown.”
When asked what she wants fellow students to know, Day shared, “It will all work out. Work hard and keep at it.”
Day plans to become a teacher after graduation and is currently student teaching. She would like to get her master’s degree and eventually become a college professor or administrator.
Danielle Ballinger
Major: Early Childhood Education
Year: Junior
Hometown: Wooster, Ohio
“The Homecoming Court is a lot of fun. It feels like we’re a family. We all get along so well.”
Ballinger advises students to go to campus events and be willing to meet new people. “It’s okay to be vulnerable. I was scared when I first came to campus, but I found a great group of friends, and I’m having a great time.”
After graduation, Ballinger hopes to teach kindergarten for a few years before getting her master’s degree and learning American Sign Language. She would then like to teach at a college.
Sarah Smith
Major: Psychology
Year: Sophomore
Hometown: Beavercreek, Ohio
“Being part of the Homecoming Court is a really fun opportunity. I’m really enjoying it and all the school spirit. It’s given me the opportunity to get familiar with campus and meet a lot of great people.”
Smith, who participates in student United Way and STEP (Second-year Transformational Experience Program), wants students to remember that being perfect isn’t an option. “You will mess up. It’s a part of learning, so don’t be hard on yourself.”
Smith’s goal is to become a criminal psychologist as her career, but ultimately would like to be a positive influence in her community.
Jeffrey Hutchison
Major: Social Work
Year: Junior
Hometown: Wadsworth, Ohio
“I’m proud to be on the Homecoming Court. It’s being a part of a family, coming together to represent campus and the student body.”
Hutchison is on the Campus Activities Board, Student Leadership Council and is part of the theatre program. He encourages students to get involved on campus. “It really helps to get out and attend events.”
After graduation, Hutchison plans to pursue a master’s degree in social work.
Molly Mangan
Major: Early Childhood Education
Year: Sophomore
Hometown: Mansfield, Ohio
“I’ve always wanted to be a Buckeye, so I’m excited to be a part of the Homecoming court. I’ve lived in Mansfield my entire life, and I’m proud to represent my community.”
Mangan advises students to live in the moment and make the most of what they have. “After the last 19 months, we all know everything can change in an instant. Make the most out of life.”
Mangan’s goal is to be a K-5 teacher, with hopes to teach first or second grade.
Source: OSU Mansfield; Image by Clker-Free-Vector-Images from Pixabay
