Music that Describes Sylvester
Mr. Hanner continues to inspires young people to do and be their best! He has a unique ability to relate and connect to his students who come from many different walks of life! Every young person looks for a Mr. Hanner in life and he continues to deliver for those who come in contact with him.
Hanner is the main reason I'm on course to graduating now. Without him I would have failed my junior year and not been able to graduate on time. Hanner has even stepped in as far as to help me get my first job, he helped by giving me example interview questions and even brought an iron to school so my interview clothes wouldn't be wrinkled. He even is there to talk to when you have home problems or are just having a bad day and need somebody to talk to get things off your chest. He is so much more than just a guidance counselor he in fact is a lifechanger. That's why he should win this award.
Aye man shout out Hanner for being with Westinghouse and put in hard work to help the students and our class of 2021
Mr. Hanner is a good counselor and he is fun to hang around with and pretty funny.
You’re an amazing counselor and human being! I wish the very best for you as you travel through this world!
Native of Pittsburgh, Sylvester’s vision is to implement systematic change to eliminate inequities for underserved students, in efforts to improve their overall quality of life. As a school counselor, his experiences include working in K-12 public and private school systems, implementing comprehensive school counseling programs. Sylvester has used Social Emotional Learning to increase standardized test scores and was instrumental in designing a collaborative program which allows Pittsburgh Westinghouse to have the most students Dual Enrolled in college courses in Pittsburgh Public School district.
Sylvester has experience working in a variety of Higher Education settings ranging from academic affairs, teaching, supervision, and professional counseling. While working for Duquesne University’s Gussin Spiritan Division, he was responsible for providing psychosocial, academic, and career counseling for a diverse population of over 100 freshmen annually.
Now Doctoral Candidate in Duquesne’s Counselor Education and Supervision program, Sylvester’s research focuses on school counselor’s role in the academic success and equity of underserved students through a multicultural framework. Sylvester is training to become a certified ASCA Trainer, responsible delivering districtwide professional development of the ASCA National Model, at the national level.
I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Sylvester for a few short years. But throughout that time I’ve witnessed his passion for transforming the education experience for his students, his love for learning and helping others.
It’s infectious. And because of that, he has encouraged me to have confidence in my own abilities.
Yes, he is an educator. But his “teaching” goes far beyond the classroom.
“Better than a thousand days of diligent study is one day with a great teacher”
I know of no one else as hardworking, as selfless and as deserving of this award than someone who would sacrifice everything he has for the betterment of others. And that person is Sylvester.
Sylvester is awesome! ????????????????????????????????????????????????????
Sylvester is hands down the most well-loved, inspirational, and committed school counseling I’ve ever known. He is truly deserving of this award!
Mr. Hanner has helped so many people within Westinghouse and outside of it including myself. Whether it was a life situation or a school situation he never turned his back on any student. He is an important person in my life that helped me get where I am today. I am glad that his genuine care for others is being recognized and rewarded!
Sylvester is a champion of Champions! Words truly cannot describe this awesome "Lifechanger" but I'll try. I've known Sylvester for years in different capacities as a colleague, mentor and friend. Sylvester's passion for helping young people discover who they, their greatness and purpose in life is commendable!! There are a million admirable attributes that this young man deserves due to the many hats he wears but with the same heart. I admire him most for his energy to always go above and beyond and his dedication and sacrifice to do what ever it takes to "reach a child". Sylvester is an educator, a life coach, an uncle-father, a mentor and a friend that the children trust. He is a world changer and believes in the hope for tomorrow. His passion and drive given to each task is authentic along with pure intentions When entering a room; Sylvester presents with wisdom and confidence when entering a room. Most of all the youth aspire to have his amazing spirit and positive energy. Sylvester is the change that brings life.
Sylvester is a champion of Champions! Words truly cannot describe this awesome "Lifechanger" but I'll try. I've known Sylvester for years in different capacities as a colleague, mentor and friend. Sylvester's passion for helping young people discover who they, their greatness and purpose in life is commendable!! There are a million admirable attributes that this young man deserves due to the many hats he wears but with the same heart. I admire him most for his energy to always go above and beyond and his dedication and sacrifice to do what ever it takes to "reach a child". Sylvester is an educator, a life coach, an uncle-father, a mentor and a friend that the children trust. He is a world changer and believes in the hope for tomorrow. His passion and drive given to each task is authentic along with pure intentions When entering a room; Sylvester presents with wisdom and confidence when entering a room. Most of all the youth aspire to have his amazing spirit and positive energy. Sylvester is the change that brings life.
I’ve had the pleasure of being friends with Mr. Hanner for 10+ years. Over this time, I’ve been able to watch him evolve as an educator and mentor. What I appreciate most about his methods, is his ability to relate to the students that he comes in contact with. After this common ground is found he is able to teach life lessons to the next generation of professionals!
He’s a great role model for minority children in Pittsburgh. You can tell he is compassionate about the children he works with.
I’ve known Sylvester Hanner since we were kids. He has always been a sweet guy. I’ve seen the work he has been doing over the years and not much had changed. He goes above and beyond for his students.
Mr. Hanner has a stellar reputation in our district and does whatever it takes to help the students at Westinghouse achieve, reach the next right step for them, and believe in their limitless possibilities. You’d be proud to have him represent your life changer values at your organization.
Your tireless dedication to the educational success of our students is commendable. You give it everything you have. UPLIFT!
Hanner has been very helpful through out my high school he keeps me and other students very motivated to do better. He has also brought so many opportunities to the table for us and I appreciate him very much for that.
Sylvester embraces his role as school counselor as more than his job. Upon meeting him, it is clear he cares deeply about making an impact with his students and often he relays anecdotes of times he has had to think outside of the box to do so. He is relatable to his students while also taking the time to hold them accountable and teach them the life lessons that, too often, get overlooked in the daily life of students and educators interacting with each other. He changes the lives of students and Im sure they would testify to the same. An amazing influencer, confidant, and vessel.
I have had the pleasure of working with Mr. Hanner for the last 4 school years and I can say without a doubt he is nothing short of a life changer! His passion and dedication for his students is amazing. I have watched our students go to for everything from school courses to just personal life; our students love him! He has developed programs at Westinghouse to help prepare our students for college and give them a head start in college credits when most have written our students off as lost causes. He sees the potential in every student he touches and works tirelessly to help them achieve success. Mr. Hanner deserves this award!
I met Sylvester Hanner when I worked to recruit for the Pittsburgh Public Schools. At that time, he worked for another district yet I knew he would be perfect for Pittsburgh Public Schools. Mr. Hanner exudes enthusiasm, confidence, and care for everyone. Counseling is not just his career, it is his calling. His joy for his students and his work is contagious. Mr. Hanner is an amazing professional, but he is an even more amazing person!
It's been a pleasure watching from afar how this man treats the students and people in general. He is incredibly passionate and the fact that hes making such an impact in one of Pittsburgh's most challenging schools speaks volume. He has given them a sense if purpose during a mist trying year.
When I think of the word empowerment. I think of Mr. Hanner. From the time he joined Westinghouse, He's empowered the youth to desire more. Mr. Hanner has aided the kids at Westinghouse by helping to break down societal barriers that prevent minorities from achieving. Mr. Hanner has leading research that will forever impacts school counseling and underserved communities. Mr. Hanner is epitome of selflessness. He puts 110% and everything that he does. As such, for the past four years every student that Mr. Hanner has helped, has improved as a student. when I think of the qualities of a life changer I believe one must have selflessness and empowerment. I strongly recommend, without reservation, Mr. Hanner for life changer of the year.
As a member of the Pittsburgh community, I have heard the impact that Mr.Hanner has made in young children’s lives. Not knowing him personally but from afar I’ve witnessed the love, passion, and drive he has serving as a mentor and leader for our youth. It would bring me great pleasure to see him receive this well deserved award.
Sylvester is a positive influence in the Pittsburgh community. His passion shines through in the support he provides to his students! He goes above and beyond to ensure the support he provides is filled with empathy and compassion. He continually advocates for his students. They sacrifices he makes ensures each child has the best foundation to move forward towards success.
I have known Mr. Hanner for nearly 30 years, since we were in grade school, and he is one of the most caring people I have ever known. The love and passion he has for his students is exceptional. While he may use some unorthodox methods to do so, he is able to connect and relate to his students in a way that I wish I could have with my teachers and counselors when I was in school. It is evident that the kids appreciate it, as there is a level of trust and mutal respect that you can see whenever they interact.
Sylvester is the best person you will come across. I’ve known him all my life he’s my big cousin and he’s such a good role model for his family and for the kids at the school. He’s a great person. The kids love him at the school and he loves his job. You won’t find anyone better.
Mr. Hanner is such an inspiration. He loves what he does, which shows through his many accomplishments.
Mr Hanner is an amazing representation of a black man and continuously reaches back to uplift his community. It makes a major difference when you’re able to see people who look like you, helping the community.
I have had the extreme pleasure of supervising Mr Hanner. Watching him with the students is nothing less than awe inspiring. He has a way of connecting with each of them on a level like no other. Mr Hanner connects with parents as well helping them understand their role in their scholars educational needs. Mr Hanner not only works with his current students but he checks on and continues to work with former students as well. Mr Hanner more than deserves this recognition
Sylvester Hanner is a personal friend that finds every opportunity to speak about his students. Unlike many people Syl never speaks a negative word about his job. Being a counselor to the same students from grade 8 to graduation meants the world to him. He invested himself in every student. He is like a proud poppa encouraging attainment of college credits while still in Highschool to motivate continued education which builds self confidence and a need to exceed goals and achieve accomplishments. I cant think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.
Your nomination for such an award is long overdue. The students you served are so thrilled to have you, not only as an inspirational and educational leader but also as their friend. Thank you for all you do and congratulations in advance ??
Mr Hanner has been about uplift and service since the first time I met him. His passion for educating, strengthening and broadening the minds of youth is displayed in his commitment to his work and going above and beyond his call of duty. He is a man of great character and is a model of excellence. Thank you for the work that you do and please continue to be a bridge builder for our youth.
Mr. Hanner is such an amazing asset to the school system. The students at Pittsburgh Westinghouse value his commitment and input in their lives and education. I am proud to have worked with Mr. Hanner and even mote proud to have students and family members who have spoken his praises.
I have had the honor of collaborating with Sylvester Hanner many times over the past 12 years. What I can say for sure is that he is an inspired and passionate educator. Sylvester has an incredible ability to connect with people and his leadership style resonates profoundly with youth. Sylvester is someone that I have no doubts will continue improving the lives of the youth for years to come.
Where do I begin ! Sylvester came into my life when i was about maybe 16. At that time mentally I going through the struggles of growing up in a single mother home with about 5 other siblings. I had little awareness of what I was going to do once finishing high school the following year and was in disarray. Well here he came assigned to be my mentor due to truancy reasons and I will say it was the best thing that could have happened to me at the time. I’ll never forget the first day I met him, his energy and spirit was just there from the first sentence out his mouth! Upon his efforts to get to know me he really just begin to let his presence be felt. From coming to my house to check up On me, attending my PTO meetings when my mom couldn’t make it, introducing me to Five guys burgers and fry’s .. and so much more ! He became my motivator, a big brother in my time of need and for that I’ll always be grateful for Sylvester !
I met Mr. Hammer several years ago at an ASCA conference and it was evident his clear love and passion for helping children.
Impressed and proud of Mr. Hanner’s dedication to the adolescent population. It takes a special person to effectively teach, lead, and advocate for our youth.
Mr. Hanner has such a fresh and inspiring way of dealing and reaching the students. The connection is real a genuine.
Sylvester has impacted so many lives; young and old. He genuinely has a love for young people and a natural way of showing his care and commitment to being a positive mentor. Mr. Hanner has selflessly counseled young boys and girls that were deemed as not good enough. He invested in their well-being and always goes the extra mile. Sylvester is deserving of this award.
To see a black man in his role, reflected in black and brown children is necessary. He deserves many applause and all of the accolades for his continued effort in a sometimes thankless job.
Sylvester is probably one of the best men I've ever had the privilege of meeting. His passion for the growth and success of his students inspired me to give back to my own community. He is transparent and genuine in his actions. Whether he is being a counselor, friend, uncle or mentor he will be giving his all.
I have known Mr. Hanner for about 9 years now and it’s always been about his students. I’ve never seen someone so dedicated, involved, and passionate about what they do. He put his heart and soul into inspiring his kids and being the role model they need. No one is more deserving than Sylvester Hanner to receive this award. He is truly a life changer!
Great educator and very down to earth counselor. Great guy !!
It's nice to see someone influencing our kids in a positive way!
Sylvester Hanner has a heart to serve students in his school and people in the community. He takes the time to help prepare his students for college and encourages the students regularly. Sylvester also advocates for students to have access to advanced learning opportunities while they are still in High School. Through a partnership with a local community college he outlined a plan for students to earn college credits while still being in Highschool. He has spoke at several “I Matter” events encouraging elementary age students through the transition to middle school. He has also served at the Tie station teaching both fathers and their sons how to tie their ties. Sylvester makes an impact in the lives of his students and others around him.
What can Isay about Mr Sylvester Hanner that all ready hasn’t been said. I’ll start by saying he is a diamond in the rough. I’ve known Mr Hanner for several years through my own work at Westinghouse Academy both as a youth advocate and parent of two former students as well as throughout out PPS and what stands out the most for me is Mr.Hanner’s willingness to sacrifice himself for the improvement of his students. Also his ability to wear whatever hats his students need at that time whether it’s his advocate hat, his counseling hat, his teacher hat or even his surrogate parent hat Hanner has the ability to switch them seamlessly and provide high quality assistance in every area of a child’s life whether a nervous freshman on his/her first day or a seasoned senior on his last day. Hanner is there he’s PRESENT in these children’s lives I’ve worked at Westinghouse several years now and I have not met very many at the school that have the commitment, compassion, care, love and respect that Mr Hanner has for our youth at Westinghouse Academy and the greater Homewood community so if you ask me if Mr Hanner is a Life Changer my only answer can be that Mr Sylvester Hanner exemplifies what a Life Changer should be everyday through his own work and walk in life. Hanner if your reading this thank you for being an example to not only my sons but to me as well you’ve shown me what a black man is supposed to be in the lives of students, family and community thank you and may GOD continue to shine his face upon you Sylvester Hanner!!!!
I’ve had the pleasure of being friends with Mr. Hanner for 10+ years. Over this time, I’ve been able to watch him evolve as an educator and mentor. What I appreciate most about his methods, is his ability to relate to the students that he comes in contact with. After this common ground is found he is able to teach life lessons to the next generation of professionals!
I have had the pleasure of working along side Mr. Hanner for the past 5 years, as a fellow counselor. Mr. Hanner goes above and beyond foe the students he services. Mr. Hanner he structured and reinvented the districts dual enrollment program. Mr. Hanner has lead the intiative of moving our schools to a STEM focused building, with fun programs such as certified drone operators. Has been a great mentor for the youth. I think Mr. Hanner would be a great person, counselor, leader, and mentor for the life changer of the year award.
It has been my extreme honor to know Mr. Hanner over the past 12 years, as a friend and colleague in the urban education space. In that time it has been evident that the impact on the lives he’s touched stems from the passion he holds for transforming his community and its members. I’ve always been impressed with his creative approach to counseling that makes him respectable and relatable. Mr. Hanner serves as a leader not only as a professional educator, but also as a pillar of the Pittsburgh community. I have no doubt that the ceiling for our future leaders is limitless because of his efforts.
“Ad astra per aspera”
Mr. Hanner is a phenomenal counselor, colleague, and friend!! I have worked with Mr. Hanner for five years now and each year, he shows up ready to serve our children. The students at our school look forward, each day, to talking with, working with and sometimes just hanging out with him. Mr. Hanner has partnered with a community college in our neighborhood that allows our students to work toward college credits beginning in the tenth grade. I can go on and on about Mr. Hanner! He, again, is a phenomenal counselor!!
Mr. Hanner, is an exceptional counselor with the ability to motivate and inspire students to be successful in and out of the classroom. I've had numerous opportunities to work with him and witnessed his passion and love for his students. Mr. Hanner, definitely, is worthy to receive Life Changer of the Year because of being a man with principles guiding his students toward a positive future.
Mr.Hanner has had an extremely positive impact in my life ever since I transferred to Westinghouse last year from out of state. Even though Westinghouse didn’t have as many opportunities as other schools, he told me and my sister about things such as CCAC and Ap courses that they do offer that can challenge us and help us at the same time, He has also advocated for his students by trying to get us as many opportunities as possible which has made me want to pursue a career in education even more in the near future.
Hanner is literally the best and can make life so much easier
Mr.Hanner has been my counselor for the past couple years. He is always there when I need him no matter the day, time, or reason. I know that he’s only a call away. He is the type of person that will be in your corner when you feel no one else is. He has helped me reach my goals and is currently helping me reach many more. He has showed me in many more ways than one that he is here to help us succeed. No matter what is against him he always pushes through with a smile. I will forever be grateful that this man has been placed in my life.
Mr. Hanner is a person who cares about youth, and community. He shows that leadership is not position. It is action. Mr. Hanner is a catalyst at getting high school students interested in STEAM careers, and takes on the role of mentor, educator, and surrogate parent to all. He is not only a life changer. He transforms young lives.
I have the please of working with Mr. Hanner at Westinghouse for the past 4 years and I can say he is a “Life Changer”! Mr. Hanner is dedicated to ensuring that all student he comes in contact with is prepared for a bright future. I can not be more happy about supporting him in such reward!! Go Mr Hanner!!!
Hanner is one of the most helpful and encouraging people ever. I’ve known Hanner since 9th grade and he made sure I never gave up. I really appreciate you twinn ??
Thanks to mr. Hanner I am where I am now.
Mr. Hanner is my literal day one. I met him my first day of ninth grade and since then he has never stopped helping me. Hanner is the only person I would go to if there was no where else to go in school. He makes us feel so comfortable, with his good vibes, his laugh, and full support. He genuinely cares about us, mentally and with our futures. He knows we can be the best and he helps to get there.
Mr Hanner is the best!! And a Life Changer to all the students he comes in contact with.. They all look up to him and want the best for him as he does for them... Go Mr.Hanner you deserve it
Mr.Hanner has been my support guide in school since the 8th grade. He helped me grow in every aspect of my life,Mr.hanner has helped me and so many other students with not only school but outside life as well. He genuinely cares about his students and wants to see us do great things because he knows we have the potential. Mr.hanner has helped me through so much and even has been the shoulder I can cry on... He’s one of the greatest counselors I ever had and an even better person.
I can't say ow much Mr. Hanner has helped me through my Highschool career. I have done lots of fun things, from doing fundraisers to visiting colleges. This guy is undoubtedly the best councilor we could ever have. Mr. Hanner has pointed me in the right direction of a lot of programs that he thought would benefit me. I can say that they made me a better person and I got to meet so many new people . Thank you Mr. hanner for everything you have done for the school.
-Eli
I have the privilege and pleasure to work with Mr. Hanner; he is a true advocate for youth empowerment and advancement. Whenever a student needs something, they know they can go to him. As a new teacher in the school, I've seen very quickly how much trust and security he brings into the lives of our students. He connects and supports in the meaningful ways that all educators should. He's truly unique and absolutely deserving of this and all accolades coming his way!
Hanner is the best! No matter what you’re going through this man finds a way to make your situation better.
I have the please of working with Mr. Hanner at Westinghouse for the past 4 years and I can say he is a “Life Changer”! Mr. Hanner is dedicated to ensuring that all student he comes in contact with is prepared for a bright future. I can not be more happy about supporting him in such reward!! Go Mr Hanner!!!
Hanner is literally the best and can make life so much easier
Mr.Hanner has had an extremely positive impact in my life ever since I transferred to Westinghouse last year from out of state. Even though Westinghouse didn’t have as many opportunities as other schools, he told me and my sister about things such as CCAC and Ap courses that they do offer that can challenge us and help us at the same time, He has also advocated for his students by trying to get us as many opportunities as possible which has made me want to pursue a career in education even more in the near future.
Sylvester hanner is my guidance counselor at Westinghouse high school and he is for a fact a "LifeChanger" in my communinity. He makes sure that the students have a person that they can look up to even if that's not the case at home. From a personal experience, I told him about my penn state trip that was coming up and I didn't have a way there. He woke up out his sleep at 4am on a school day to drop me off downtown so that I can go on the trip and I learned that it's my dream school. If it wasn't for him I probably wouldn't have ever seen the school. He also kept me motivated through times when motivation is rare like this year. Not only did he not give up on me when I gave up on myself he made sure that I was looking at other colleges and I found out that I can go to other colleges with full rides. If he would've let me give up, I wouldn't have thought about college and probably just been another statistic of having a diploma and working for the rest of my life at a dead end job. Going through a school day, you can tell how students love who he is as a person. No one talks bad about him and everyone wants to be around him because he relates to us so well that you'd think that we were family memebers. At my school the students that don't pay attention in schools and don't do their work get all the recognition, but with Mr. Hanner he gives his attention to the ones who need it the most. He helped everyone in my class take college classes in 11th and 12th grade so that we can save some money when we get to college. He knows a lot of people in different subjects, so anyone can talk to him about a certain thing and if he doesn't know the answer exactly he can direct you to them for the best information.
Hanner is the main reason why i continue to finish my education. He gives me hope and inspiration. When we first met when i was in 8th grade, he was giving me every bit of information in order to have a successful 4 years of high school. Now that i am in 12th on the road to graduate i can say it was hanner who got me through it all. i appreciate him more than anything. I look up to him and respect him as if he were my brother.
Sylvester has been a consistent mentor in my life over the past 10 years. In addition, under Sylvester’s mentorship he has guided me in major career decisions, along with encouraging me to further my education. Having a mentor and fraternity brother such a Sylvester has provided me confidence and direction as a black man. I highly recommend Sylvester for the Life Changer of the year award, due to his continues work and efforts in our communities to lead the way for our youth.
Hanner is the main reason why i continue to finish my education. He gives me hope and inspiration. When we first met when i was in 8th grade, he was giving me every bit of information in order to have a successful 4 years of high school. Now that i am in 12th on the road to graduate i can say it was hanner who got me through it all. i appreciate him more than anything. I look up to him and respect him as if he were my brother.
Hanner is not only a great councilor but, he is also a great life coach definitely a big brother figure in my life it’s more then just high school for him he wants to see you succeed beyond this level your success is his but he’ll never take credit I say all that to say he’s a great guy
Great video ! really shows how supportive and a good impact you have on people . An including the personality lol .
Great video ! really shows how supportive and a good impact you have on people . An including the personality lol .
When I attended Westinghouse High school mr hanner was my favorite counselor. Mr hanner always pushed me to do better , he always helped me with what I needed , and every time I wanted to give up he would always motivate me and tell me I could do anything i put my mind too. I look at mr hanner as a uncle he was more than a counselor to us he treated us as if we were his own. Mr hanner made sure we took classes at CCAC he made sure we were prepared for college and senior year. He did everything in his power to teach us what we needed to know about college and school in general. Not only was mr hanner worried about school and grades a lot but he also did fun activities with us to like play games on Friday or he would buy us food for the hard work we have done. Even though I don’t attend Westinghouse anymore he still reaches out to me and ask how I’m doing with school and if I need help with anything. I wish he was still my counselor because he was the best counselor I ever had with all my years of going to school.
Mr. Hanner is a dedicated educator in the school system. He goes above and beyond for students without any hesitation to truly help them to thrive in school and beyond.
Hanner is someone I look up to he inspires me to do great things. He is a great and powerful leader that I will follow. He has lead me in the right direction since I was in the 7th grade.
