Our new #WildAboutWilson alumni feature shines light on the inspirational story of Terrance Hand. We sat down with Terrance to learn more about his experience in the Wilson Area School District and his path to achieving the one long-standing dream he had held for himself since childhood.
When Terrance Hand first came through the doors of Wilson Area High School as an 11th grade student by way of Philadelphia, he was looking forward to a change. At the age of 17, he was sent to live at the Children’s Home of Easton. Although he missed his family, he’d grown weary of navigating the challenging circumstances that surrounded him in Philly. Terrance saw an opportunity to turn his life into something special—and with the quality education and influential mentors he found at WAHS, he did just that.
Before his arrival at Wilson, Terrance had no real experience playing on a sports team or participating in extracurricular clubs. In the 1980’s, opportunities to expand and excel often required financial resources, making them a luxury within the Philadelphia public education system. His time at WAHS offered a very different experience, however, and Terrance embraced his inner sense of adventure. After his first year, he was President of the Student Council, had a role in Guys and Dolls under the legendary Mr. Kay, and was an enthusiastic member of the varsity football team.
Against all odds, how did things turn around so quickly for Terrance? “Wilson High School was exactly what I needed,” he explained. “It was a small school and, at the time, I wanted to be seen. I had access to opportunities and was given a sense of stability there.” When asked specifically about who played a role in his development during his time at WAHS, without hesitation Terrance praised his English teacher, Gary Laubach. “Mr. Laubach had the biggest influence on me and was the best teacher,” he offered. “He sparked a love of writing that continues to this day.”
Armed with the tools to succeed, Terrance began to think about goals that would never have been possible had he remained in Philadelphia. He continued to work hard and at the end of his senior year in June of 1988, Terrance became the first WAHS graduate to be accepted into the Naval Academy’s prep school and eventually, the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. From there he proudly went on to serve in the Marine Corps—a dream he’d had since he was a young boy.
Terrance’s journey found him stationed as an Air Defense Control Officer in sunny San Diego, California, a time he remembers fondly. When his assignment was over, he returned to Easton, where he was hired to join the city’s fire department. He arrived on his first day of work to find everyone staring at the television screen—September 11, 2001. As the horrific events of the day unfolded, no one paid Terrance any mind. But he soon found a home there with his fellow firefighters. In April of this year, Terrance was promoted to Lieutenant of the department.
Today, Terrance loves his life in Easton, where he resides with his wife, Lisa. The ripple effects of his transformative time at Wilson Area High School have touched far-reaching places. Not only has Terrance created a happy, successful life for himself, his daughter Alex is honoring his path as a current student of the United States Naval Academy. Just like his hero, John Glenn, the potential of the Hand family knows no bounds.
When asked if he had any advice for young people graduating today, Terrance was quick to respond: “Never give up and don’t be afraid to persevere. If you don’t get into your school of choice or options are blocked for whatever reason, keep applying. Keep trying. Don’t accept defeat.”
WOW!
Thank you Kim & thank you Warriors!
WOW is right! Your story is truly inspiring, Terrance. Thank you for sharing it with us!