Madison Hanley’s high school path was influenced by her father.
Hanley’s father participated in the JROTC program when it first started at OHS in 1995. After graduation he joined the National Guard. Hanley knew in eighth grade there were two things she wanted to do in high school, take Spanish and join JROTC.
The senior has a rank of Cadet Major, the third highest rank you can attain. She is second in command of the school’s Bulldog Battalion. She credits the program leaders, Chief Wynn and Chief Reinier, for encouraging her to be a leader. As Chief Warrant Officers, they have a lot of leadership experience, she explained. “They also have a genuine want for students to succeed,” she said. “They are some of the best leaders I know.”
JROTC provided both leadership and service opportunities. Hanley served on a Community Color Guard and was the battalion’s Public Affairs Officer for two years. “I’ve learned a lot,” she said. Being a leader also has its challenges. “In high school, it’s hard to balance between being a buddy and a leader.”
Her JROTC experience also set her career path. As a sophomore, she didn’t know what she wanted to do. Thanks to Chief Wynn, she plans to commission as an officer in the Army and study animal science. She recently was awarded a three-year ROTC scholarship to Iowa State University. She also earned 20 college credits during her high school career.
In her spare time, she enjoys volunteering for HOBY Youth Leadership. She was recruited as an OHS sophomore to attend a Youth Leadership Seminar at Drake University. Through this national organization, she has cut shoes out of denim and t-shirts into diapers for people in Africa. She was challenged to complete 100 hours of community service the following year, and has served as a staff member and ambassador. “It’s life changing to see your direct effect,” she said.
Leadership and a strong work ethic also impacted her school attendance. Not many seniors can say they only missed five days of school in four years of high school. “I really enjoy school,” she said. “I like the routine.” But she is also looking forward to summer, sleeping in and catching up on some reading.
“Things change daily in JROTC," said Chief Wynn. "The one thing that doesn't Madison Hanley!"
