BEAT Hall of Fame

• Brittany was a key member when the BEAT transitioned into a "backpack" journalism program. She, along with Sean O'Connor, embraced the new format and mentored younger BEAT members. Additionally, Brittany saw an opportunity to spotlight the Medina County Career Center (MCCC) and became the BEAT's first full-time MCCC reporter. She served as a member of the Ohio School Boards Association (OSBA) student documentary team (2009), producing a video onsite in Columbus during a three-day period. This was the first time OSBA ever attempted this – and their selection of Brittany and the BEAT team was a huge success, paving the way for the other schools to follow and for the BEAT to return several times as well!

• Jonathan Yokiel made immense contributions during his seven years with the BEAT, serving as BEAT Leader and Manager of Journalism for two years. Among his accomplishments are coordinating reporters for daily Medina County Fair coverage in the Medina Gazette and mentoring students in news writing and video production. He represented the BEAT at the OSBA conference in Columbus, spoke about the program to other districts, and was a spokesperson when the BEAT was featured in TV Technology magazine. Jonathan also led the team in producing an Active Threat video for district use, was selected as an Akron RubberDucks intern in 2017, and joined the OSBA 2018 Student Achievement Team. His published articles include "Cleaning Up Cleveland, One Neighborhood at a Time" (covering St. Ambrose FIAT youth group's work in Alpha Village) and "Speed Dating with Books at Edwards Middle School."

• Matthew Kovach was a cornerstone of the BEAT during his seven years in the program, known for his prolific work as a NewsBEAT host, reporter, and leader. Serving as BEAT Manager for Journalism and Technical Operations during COVID, he kept the program thriving through weekly Zoom meetings and unwavering enthusiasm. BEAT advisor John Wasylko credits him with "keeping the BEAT Program alive during COVID," calling him a "lead-by-example person" whose dedication ensured the program's survival. A skilled and dependable writer, Matthew consistently met tight deadlines, contributing numerous articles to the Medina Gazette, including "The Secret Baking Apple Hidden in Plain Sight" and "Chalking It Up for the Arts." He also videotaped all BHS football games, interned with the Akron RubberDucks for two years, and represented the BEAT at the OSBA 2021 Student Achievement Fair.

• Over her seven years in the BEAT, Mia distinguished herself as an ace reporter with a gift for uncovering unique and impactful stories that showcased the breadth of Medina County life. Her reporting spanned topics from faith and health to community initiatives, local businesses, and even celebrity features such as FOX 8's Todd Meany. One of her standout stories about Naomi Kirkland, a teen employee at Spring Mist Farms, garnered attention from News5 Cleveland and was later featured nationally by FOX News. Another memorable piece highlighted the Kindness from Kailee holiday giving tree, honoring a Strongsville student's legacy through acts of compassion. Beyond journalism, Mia was recognized as a 2024 Spring Leadership Ball Honoree for her contributions to school and community, including her leadership in food security initiatives with Feeding Medina County.

• Michael was a key contributor during our early years as we learned to manage our new BEAT mobile TV production vehicle. Michael, who polished his skills as an audio and video expert through his work at his local church, brought this much-needed skill to our program. As a result, Michael anchored a number of BEAT multi-camera sporting events (SportsBEAT Game of the Week) and concerts throughout the area, including recording a one-man music show with BHS alumnus Kristoffer Carter staged in the BHS PAC. Additionally, Michael mentored all students on professionalism, emphasizing how to act and perform one's role in any situation representing the BEAT. As our Program returns to more multi-camera field production in 2025, we are grateful to students like Michael who set high standards for our current students to follow. We are indebted to Michael for his professionalism, his commitment, and his passion for the Program. 

• According to Sean O’Connor (BHS 2010 alum and BEAT 2017 HOF inductee), Rachel Williams stands out as his first choice for induction into the BEAT Hall of Fame, having joined the program in 2007 and immediately raising the bar with her eagerness to learn, willingness to step outside her comfort zone and natural talent in interviewing and video production. She quickly made an impact, from showing peers how approachable on-camera interviews could be to interviewing Ohio Governor Ted Strickland in the BEAT studio and contributing to the 2009 OSBA Student Documentary Team. Her accomplishments include co-winning the Ohio School of Broadcasting commercial competition in 2009, serving on the student documentary team at the 2009 OSBA conference, and helping lead BEAT operations in 2011. O’Connor recalls the joy of collaborating with her on projects both in the studio and at events, noting how her encouragement strengthened the team, and celebrates how she has continued her passion as a photographer and videographer in her career, crediting the BEAT as a foundation for the skills she uses today.

• According to Nikki Rhoades (BHS 2010 alumna and BEAT 2015 HOF inductee), "Sam wasn't just a mentor. She was an inspiration. She taught us that each and every person has a story to tell, and now, it's an honor to be able to share hers." "Sam" Boyer was instrumental in transforming the BEAT from a primarily technical program into the award-winning backpack journalism initiative it is today. Recognizing the need for students to excel both behind and in front of the camera, she developed and taught a journalism curriculum in 2007 that remains the foundation of the program's training today. Sam led weekly lessons for new and veteran BEAT members, offering thoughtful critiques and encouragement while fostering confidence and professionalism. She also championed the inclusion of both middle and high school students, helping shape the supportive, student-led culture that defines the BEAT. Over her six decades of community reporting, Sam covered nearly every major story in Medina County, leaving an indelible mark on generations of aspiring journalists. Her relentless belief that youth should never use age as an excuse for excellence gave BEAT students a voice and a legacy that continues to resonate in every story they tell.

• Over her seven years in the BEAT, Sarah was a dynamic force in the program while simultaneously excelling on stage with BHS Theatre. BEAT advisor John Wasylko recalls that "Sarah displayed BEAT leadership qualities in sixth grade." Naturally growing from that early leadership, she went on to serve as BEAT Journalism Manager during her junior year and continued in the role as a senior, mentoring younger students after a two-year COVID enrollment gap. Known for her creativity and curiosity, Sarah produced an impressive range of stories, including "Batman," a profile on custom baseball bat designer John Smatana; "Swimming Through the Years," featuring a 100-year-old Brunswick swimmer; and "The Queens of Skeins," about multigenerational knitters at the Medina Library. She represented the BEAT as a member of the OSBA 2018 and 2021 Student Achievement Teams and led the 2022 OSBA Capital Conference Content Team, delivering hourly social media updates... and even interviewed acclaimed actor John Lithgow at the event.

In the early 2000s, BEAT advisor John Wasylko met Dan Ihrig when the BEAT was producing a video spotlighting Medina Hospice. Dan saw the Program in action, was impressed and wanted to become involved. Today, the Ihrig Family has been steadfast in their support of the BEAT. Their sponsorship allows the BEAT to pay operational bills and be able to provide salaries for our BEAT managers, who invest countless hours of time to keep the Program at a high level.

Also, because of The Ihrigs and Plum Creek Assisted Living in Brunswick (their senior living community), the BEAT’s annual community service project of creating personalized valentines for seniors who do not have them was born – something the BEAT has done for over a decade.

The Ihrig Family is responsible for creating a bridge bringing BEAT students together with seniors, resulting in many wonderful stories and relationships, which enriches Medina County.