We’re excited to shine the spotlight on Joanee Russell, a proud member of the Massillon Washington High School Class of 2014! From staying involved on campus to building a meaningful career in nursing, Joanee’s journey reflects the heart of what it means to be a Tiger—dedicated, hardworking, and always moving forward.


Q: What year did you graduate from Massillon Washington High School?
A: I graduated in 2014.
Q: What activities, clubs, or sports were you involved in during your time at WHS?
A: I was involved in the nursing program and Pep Club.
Q: What is one of your favorite memories from your high school years?
A: Being involved in all the Massillon–McKinley week festivities and being in the nursing program. I loved high school—best of all my school years. It goes by so fast; cherish all the good and soak it all in.
Q: What have you gone on to achieve since graduation (career, education, military service, community involvement, etc.)?
A: I stayed in my nursing career as a state-tested nurses aide for 9 years, and I’m now a stay-at-home parent.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of?
A: Staying in my nursing career for as long as I could—it was a very hard but rewarding job.
Q: How did your time at Massillon help prepare you for life after high school?
A: Learning what I needed to become a successful adult in life and my career. I learned the everyday skills I needed to become an independent adult.
Q: What advice would you give to current Tigers?
A: Stay focused. Find and do what you love, stay engaged, and enjoy being a Tiger as long as you can. Once a Tiger, always a Tiger.
