We’re excited to introduce another dedicated member of the Washington High School Alumni Association Board — Ann (Ely) Higgins! Ann plays a key role in keeping our alumni records organized and helping classmates stay connected through the years.
Graduation Year and Activities:
I graduated from Massillon Washington High School in 1966. During my time at WHS, I was involved in Drama Club—both behind the stage and on stage in “Time Out for Ginger.” I was also a member of Future Teachers, French Club, Pep Club, and served as a Biology Lab Assistant.
Inspiration to Join the Board:
For more than 25 years, I’ve been active in planning my own class reunions, which led me to work closely with the WHS Alumni Association to keep our class records up to date. After our 50th class reunion, I was approached by Bob Wenzel about joining the WHSAA team. At that time, I wasn’t quite ready—but a few years later, I decided it was time to get involved!
Role on the Board:
I currently serve as a Co-Corresponding Secretary and Class Reunion Liaison. I try to visit the office at least once a week to respond to phone messages, mail, and emails. I spend a lot of time entering new information provided by various classes to keep our alumni records up to date. I truly enjoy working with families and friends who are looking for contact information for loved ones or long-lost classmates—it’s rewarding to help people reconnect.
Favorite Memory or Fun Fact:
Some of my fondest memories from high school include skating at the Rezzi in the winter until I was almost too cold to walk home, Sock Hops after football games, and summer dances at Lake Cable and the Elm’s pool. It was another time—carefree and full of community spirit. It was also the era of the Vietnam War, which felt far away at first… until it wasn’t. I also feel privileged to have been a student during the football championship years of coaches Leo Strang and Earl Bruce—what an exciting time to be a Tiger!
Advice for Current Students:
My advice is simple—enjoy your time as a student. As the song says, “too soon we become women and men.” These years go by faster than you think, so make the most of them.
Thank you, Ann, for your dedication to the WHS Alumni Association and your passion for keeping our alumni community connected!