We’re honored to feature Kathy Anania Burgess in this week’s Alumni Spotlight! From her years marching proudly with the Tiger Swing Band to a lifelong career filled with creativity, community, and Tiger pride, Kathy’s story is a beautiful reflection of what it means to be part of the Massillon family—no matter where life takes you.
Q: What activities, clubs, or sports were you involved in during your time at WHS?
A: Tiger Swing Band – 3 years.
Q: What is one of your favorite memories from your high school years?
A: Just stepping out onto that field every week, the parades and concerts. It was my family. I lost my mom when I was 12 and all she ever wanted was to see me march in the Swing Band. She didn't get to, but I took her out on the field every time.
Q: What have you gone on to achieve since graduation (career, education, military service, community involvement, etc.)?
A: I was in radio for 13 years—three of those years I worked for WTIG in Massillon. When I moved to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina in the early 2000s, I was the sales manager of a business publication that four of us “Yankee girls” started. It was successful, and then it was time for retirement.
My joy is my family—my son Jonathan, who graduated in 1994 and was a football player at Massillon, my daughter Jennifer, my granddaughter Dayleigh, my grandsons Chandler and Evan, and my great-grandson Leo, who is a year old now. I love creating things for my kids and family and being with them as much as I can to help.
I love cheering on the Tigers even from Myrtle Beach! I served as alumni for the Swing Band for 3 years in the early 90s. Even though I live in Myrtle Beach, we don’t miss a game via radio or TV—and it’s true what they say, you can take the girl out of Massillon, but you can’t take Massillon out of the girl. It’ll always be home.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of?
A: I received a Radio Marketing Master’s Degree from the Radio Advertisers Bureau in Texas. I also took a few courses at Stark Tech in the 80s and made the Dean’s List in my late 30s—very proud! But my role as a mom and grandmother is my greatest success.
Q: How did your time at Massillon help prepare you for life after high school?
A: After my mom died, the kindness shown to me followed me all my life.
Q: What advice would you give to current Tigers?
A: Slow down. Enjoy what's right in front of you. Soak in the friendships and education. Take it through your life.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share with fellow alumni?
A: GO TIGERS FOREVER!