In the Spotlight | Hillary Ogle
In our mission to support Central Cass students in the arts, our “In the Spotlight” series aims to showcase alumni deserving recognition.
Hillary (Scherweit) Ogle | Central Cass Class of 2005
Travel Designer
“My experiences in the arts at Central Cass have shaped my life in so many positive ways. I'm so grateful for the coaches, teachers, community volunteers and FOFA support. It was a definite part of my success.”
When Hillary (Scherweit) Ogle reflects back on the trajectory of her career, it was the confidence in her public speaking and performance that made her successful. Speech as an extracurricular activity excelled her ability to walk into any room, full of strangers and feel self-assured in her delivery. As a Travel Designer (aka a modern day Travel Agent), it helps her articulate the details of the day-to-day itinerary in an engaging way. Both Theatre and Speech helped Hillary become a dynamic storyteller, a skill that would be helpful in any sales job. Choir and Theatre helped her learn how to express herself and connect with an audience. “Because of my experiences with music in high school, I was inspired to pursue a career as a Child Life Specialist and a Music Therapist, prior to becoming a Travel Designer.” Ogle loved the feeling of connecting with her clients and helping them through stressful situations through the power of music. “It's something that reaches across all cultures, race, gender and socioeconomic statuses. Part of my value system has always been to further connect with people from all over; which is why I was eventually drawn to leave these amazing jobs to pursue my career in travel.”
Some of Ogle’s favorite high school memories from the arts were the long bus rides to speech meets, state music or various music festivals. “Getting ready for the variety show was always fun!” recalls Ogle.
Hillary’s advice to students today would be this...
“That thing that makes you different, might just be your super power. Embrace it. It’s cool to be different. That just might be the thing that takes you places all around the world.”
According to Ogle, “My family would say that I've always been a character. Speech and Theatre helped me practice that skill and enhance how I communicate with the rest of the world.”
Hillary earned two Bachelor's degrees—one in Sociology and the other is in Music Therapy. She was involved in theatre and music throughout her college career. In 2008, she was named YWCA Young Woman of Tomorrow. She has been a long-time volunteer with Kamp KACE (Kids Against Cancer Everywhere). Since working as a Travel Designer, she’s traveled to 22 countries. Hillary currently lives outside the Twin Cities with her husband and two young children.
Thanks for sharing your story, Hillary!
“In the Spotlight” features Central Cass alum who have excelled in the arts. Do you know a squirrel deserving recognition? Nominate them here!
