214@100: John Hersey - larger than life and deeply honored by school

John Hersey High School, opened in 1968, is the only U.S. school named for the journalist and Pulitzer Prize-winning author. Naming a school after a living person is rare and a risk, but his views on morality and quality of his writing and reporting - especially on the events and consequences of World War II - provided reason enough for District 214.

Hersey wasn't the only name considered. The school came close to being Willow High School, but the board went in a different direction because there already was a "WHS" (Wheeling High School) in the district.

In his dedication address to the school on Nov. 10, 1968, Hersey said, "I cannot think of any honor in all my fortunate life - and I include the Pulitzer Prize and honorary degrees and election to the American Academy of Arts and Letters - that has had more meaning for me than this one."

Hersey attended and spoke at graduation every four years until 1986. He has been a role model, even after his death in 1993, to Hersey students.