Lakota East’s Bryant committed to cancer research

Lakota East Thunderhawks are committed to making a difference in the fight to cure cancer.

This past fall, under the direction of Athletic Director and Assistant Principal Richard Bryant, Lakota East High School students raised more than $12,000 for the Greater Cincinnati Komen Organization to fight breast cancer through their “Hawks for the Cure” drive.

In January, they partnered with the Dragonfly Foundation to raise money for childhood cancer research, and this month students are participating in the annual Relay for Life event for the American Cancer Society.

“The three large-scale service opportunities — Hawks for the Cure, our Dragonfly initiative and the Lakota East Relay for Life — that are organized out of the Lakota East Athletic Department are very personal for me,” Bryant explained. “In nine years, we have collectively donated more than a quarter of a million dollars to cancer research.”

The Today’s Pulse found out more about Bryant, who received the Komen “Power of the Promise Award” as an outstanding partner in 2016.

Q: What has been your educational journey?

A: I began my career in education as a teacher in 2001 and have served as an educational administrator since 2006. I joined the Lakota school district in the fall of 2009.

I earned my bachelors degrees in education and history and my Master’s degree in educational administration from The University of Cincinnati. I also have my Certified Athletic Administrator (CAA) designation.

Q: Why did you enter the field of education?

A: It is incredibly rewarding to assist a young person in their academic or athletic development. When they experience success, at any level, it is a tremendous feeling of accomplishment for all involved.

Q: What do you enjoy most about the work?

A: You are practically guaranteed that no two days will be the same.

Q: What is the biggest challenge facing educators today?

A: The decision making process in the field of education as it pertains to the best interests of students across the country is the biggest challenge facing educators today.

Q: What is your teaching philosophy?

A: I fundamentally believe that any student or student athlete has the ability to achieve any goal that they set. Their success is dictated by their ability to work towards that goal and the support system around them.

Q: What is a favorite memory from your career?

A: Being able to share in the successes of both students and student athletes.

Q: What are some of your hobbies?

A: Running and making sure that I am a very active part of my daughters' lives.

About the Author