Navy Presents HHHS Teacher Dana Hipps with Impact Influencer Award

Hatboro-Horsham High School senior Carly Williams nominated creative arts teacher Dana Hipps for the Impact Influencer Award, presented by the Navy Talent Acquisition Group of Philadelphia.

Williams, who is joining the Navy after graduation, is in the delayed entry program, which allowed her to nominate a teacher for this award.

Hipps, who has been a teacher in Hatboro-Horsham School District for 15 years, was presented with the award for the leadership, mentorship and guidance she has provided Williams.

Recruiter Dan Yesenofski and Commanding Officer Todd Winn surprised Hipps with the award on March 25, 2022. Hipps’ eyes welled up and she was elated to receive this recognition.

“I felt immediately touched and honored that out of everyone she could have chosen throughout her education, she chose me,” said Hipps. “It feels amazing to truly make a difference in students’ lives.”

During Williams’ four years at Hatboro-Horsham High School, she has taken five classes with Hipps. In all her classes, Williams said Hipps guides her students to success and exemplifies qualities of a leader.

“I would like to say how much she has impacted not only my life, but many of her students,” said Williams. “She encourages students to put their best efforts forward. She is open-minded, listens to her students and is accepting of everyone.”

Hipps has taught 12 different classes at Hatboro-Horsham High School from jewelry and computer graphics to 3D animation, painting and comic book art.

“The different programs her classes use are large and complex, but she enjoys exploring them and learning new skills,” said Williams. “Overall, Mrs. Hipps inspires me because she keeps building her knowledge and is the most genuinely kind person I’ve met.”

Hipps gets to know her students on a daily basis and builds a foundation of respect through open and honest dialogue.

“I want students to feel comfortable in my classroom and have the confidence to take on any challenge,” said Hipps. “I have great rapport with Carly and she knows she can talk to me about anything.”

From day to day updates to bigger conversations revolving around college and the Navy, Hipps and Williams could talk about it together. Joining the military never crossed Williams’ mind at the beginning of high school, but after the world shut down during her sophomore year, she began working out multiple times a day and eating better. Williams initially began looking into the Marines, but her father was in the Navy, and she eventually decided to switch her focus to the Navy. “I then got in contact with my recruiting officer and the rest is history,” said Williams.

Hipps is confident Williams will excel in the Navy. “She is not one to back down from a challenge and perseveres through them,” said Hipps. “Not only is Carly creative and bright, but she is extremely supportive, kind and caring towards her peers.”

Hipps and Williams also both say that the other does everything with a smile. “She always has a smile on her face, which can make your day brighter,” said Williams. “I am grateful to have teachers like Mrs. Hipps working at our school and to help students get through their day."