FH5K Ambassadors

Hi! My name is Lizzie Flora and I am a 6th grader at Wilson Elementary. I chose to become a FH5K ambassador because I really enjoy seeing people have fun, get together and I love to run!

I like to be super active. Some of my favorite things are acting, running, and soccer. I really enjoy the FH5K and I am excited for the celebration at the after party.  As a side note I also appreciate the FHFE supporting the Destination Imagination program in Forest Hills School District.  My team and I just participated in the regional tournament and it was so much fun!  

I plan to participate in the 5K by running (fast)

Training Plan: I am training for the FH5K by running other 5Ks with my friends, playing lots of soccer, doing QSA training at Wilson, training at D1 Training in Anderson,  and I will take part in the Wilson running club.  

Training Song: Fight Song-Rachel Platten

Follow me at: Instagram: RunLizzieRun2023

Hello! My name is Ben Hartong. I am a sophomore at Anderson High School.

I chose to become a FH5K ambassador for the first time because I love to see members of the community get together and celebrate each other. Running has always been a passion of mine, and doing it to support mental wellness in our community is an added bonus!

I plan to participate in the race by running and helping out with the post-race festivities!

Training plan:I will be training alongside my dog, Norman, who runs much faster than me.

Training Song: You Make My Dreams-Hall & Oates 

Follow me at: Instagram:@ben_hart07

My name is Leslie Harback, I am a proud alum of Anderson, Nagel, and Maddux! I also am a teacher in the district, I  teach 5th grade ELA at Summit Elementary. I am also the Summit Running Club Coach! I chose to become a FH5K Ambassador because I love FHSD and promoting a healthy lifestyle. It is a privilege to get to train with Summit students and share my love for running with them. It is so important to encourage our kids to set goals for themselves, and to be active, running club and the FH5k promote both! My favorite part of the 5K,m  is watching my runners cross that finish line and seeing how proud they are of themselves! It is such a fabulous opportunity for our kids and the community! 

Follow me on Twitter: @LeslieHarback

Hi!  My name is Shane Hartley, and I’m the Director of Secondary Teaching and Learning for the Forest Hills School District.

I chose to become a first-time FH5K Ambassador this year, because it involves the things I’m passionate about!  It’s a great way for our Forest Hills Community to join together to support our students, and it’s a great way to help encourage each other.  Exercise is a way that we can help ourselves and each other stay physically and mentally healthy!

I plan to run  in the race through some nice and easy training and getting some group practice runs together with other staff members of the Forest Hills. 

Training plan: Weekly group runs after work plus a little weekend sprint and hill work

Training Song: Welcome to the Jungle (Who Dey!)

Follow me at: @sehart00 on Twitter

Hi! My name is Rob Fellows and I am the father of four (3 Ayer Elementary Falcons), the grandson of a proud AHS alum (Class of 1941), and the former Principal of Anderson High School.  I currently serve as the Director of Human Resources for the Forest Hills School District and am PROUD to support our KIDS through the work of the Forest Hills Foundation for Education!  

I chose to become a FH5K Ambassador for a second year because the 5K truly brings out the absolute best in our Anderson community!  It is always so encouraging to witness thousands of people, mostly our own neighbors, friends, and family members, smiling and being together in SUPPORT of the INCREDIBLE YOUNG PEOPLE who attend each of our schools!!

DISCLOSURE: I am NOT a runner (unless I’m being chased!).  With that in mind, I am EXCITED to participate in the race by being present with my family and friends and watching THEM run while I stroll leisurely on a beautiful spring morning with a cup of coffee in hand.

TRAINING PLAN:
It’s tough, but each morning, I get up super early and am VERY disciplined about putting in the WORK of repeated 8 oz. coffee curls.  Let me tell you, the proof is in the pudding – without fail, my mind is more alert, I feel more attentive, and the ol’ biceps get toned with each sip!!  ;)

TRAINING SONG:  “As Good As I Once Was” – Toby Keith

FOLLOW ME AT: Twitter: @FellowsEdu 

Hi! My name is Melanie Hartong, and I am a (nearly) lifelong resident of Anderson Township. I’m a 1998 graduate of Anderson High School, and the parent of an Anderson sophomore and a Nagel eighth grader. I hold two professional positions within FHSD--one as an occupational therapist, and the other as our Community Partnership Specialist. If you’re interested in learning more about our Community Partnership Program, you can click here!

I’m thrilled to be in my second year as an FH5K ambassador. Few things are more important to me than the wellness of this community, particularly the wellness of our most precious commodity--our kids!

I love to run, I love to encourage people, and I love seeing kids and families working together to strengthen our schools. The FH5k checks all of those boxes for me! 

I plan to participate in the race by running in person on the day of the event with my family. 

Training plan: I am planning to train by running outside whenever the cold, wind, and rain refrain from hurting my eyeballs. On the days that Ohio weather doesn’t cooperate, I’ll log some miles on my treadmill and attack that Netflix queue instead!

Follow me at:

Twitter:@MelanieHartong

Facebook: Melanie Hartong

Instagram: melaniehartong

Hi! My name is Amanda and I am an alum of THS (2007), and a third grade teacher at Maddux Elementary. This is my second year serving as the “Maddux Run” coach! 

I chose to become a FH5K ambassador for a second year because I know how big of an impact the event has for our students, staff, and community. My favorite part of the event is seeing students set goals, work hard, and be proud of their accomplishments!

I plan to participate in the race by being a coach, and a cheerleader as I watch Maddux students run the race!

Training plan:I am planning to train by  running with my “Maddux Runs” team!

Training Song: “Shake it Off” Taylor Swift 

Follow me at: Twitter:@AmandaMuenchen

Hi, my name is Gracie Helbig. I am currently a 7th grader at Nagel Middle School. I went to Summit Elementary (Go Bees) and will proudly attend Anderson High School. (Go Raptors)

A little about me: I love being active and spending time in the great outdoors. I love running, hiking, surfing, rock climbing, and roller skating. Running is really good for the soul and great for one’s mental health too. I have personally discovered this through running. Also, running keeps you in great physical condition. I love having fun and being with friends and family. My favorite subjects are Social Studies and ELA. I love learning about History and reading/writing. I ran cross country this past fall. It was so much fun. I am also going to run track this spring. My dream is to run for a D1 college. (Go Wolfpack) I am very involved in clubs (Super Hawks, Yearbook, FCA, Wyldlife, and the great outdoors club) and activities throughout Nagel. Recently an opportunity came up to be a peer helper (working with your peers with special needs) and I absolutely love it. It has been the highlight of my day. In college, I want to pursue becoming a special education teacher. 

I plan to participate in the FH5K by running and supporting all the participants. 

What I love most about the FH5K is how it brings the whole community together, benefits the school district, and promotes physical fitness and wellness. After the race, everyone can celebrate their accomplishment by hanging out at the after-party. It’s a great time to socialize, play some games and eat some great food.

I plan to train for the FH5K by running with my track team. 

Training song- any motivational music. 

Social Media:

Instagram- gracie.helbig28 

Strava- Gracie Helbig 

Hi! My name is Maggie and I am a parent of two Nagel Middle School students. I have also mentored several FHSD high school students the past four years through a summer fitness and leadership program for young women called EmpowHer & Move (historically known as Athletes as Leaders).

I chose to become a FH5K ambassador for a second year because the event embodies two things I care deeply about - this community and personal wellness! I have much love for FHSD for the education, experiences and friendships it has brought into my children’s lives over the past eight years. The FH5K is a fun and active way to support our students!

Training plan:I like to mix up my exercise throughout the week! So I’ll be doing some running, swimming, cycling and walking to prepare!

Training Song: I love silence when I run - no music for me! Running is a calming and meditative force in my life.

Follow me at:

Instagram:@Maggie.Frye

Facebook: Maggie Mulshine Frye

Hey! My name is Mya Tully and I am an alum of THS (2022) and a student at the University of Cincinnati.

I am involved in many things here at the University of Cincinnati, including the Honors program, American Cancer Society, and I am a member of Zeta Tau Alpha and help to create breast cancer awareness. I absolutely loved being involved in the FH5K last year and I am so excited to be a part of something so amazing in our Forest Hills community again this year. Mental health is very important to me and I am so grateful to be able to continue to stop the stigma!

Oh, and I plan to train by listening to Justin Bieber everyday until the big day. I couldn't think of a better motivator, honestly. Much, much, love!!

insta @mya.tully 

Please consider running or walking the FH5k on May 13th, 2023. Put one foot in front of the other and get started.  If you have doubts, I say try.  I’ll be your biggest cheerleader and you will feel good about the accomplishment:) 

“The secret of getting ahead is getting started.”-Mark Twain

My name is Theresa. I am a reading intervention teacher at Ayer Elementary and have two daughters who are Ayer Falcons.

I chose to become a FH5K ambassador because I truly believe being active and exercising promotes positive well being in many aspects of life: mental, physical, social and spiritual. I like community events where we come together to reach a common goal: Supporting Kids (our future) in the Forest Hills School District.

Hi! My name is Kim, Assistant Superintendent, proud mom of a NKU freshman and bonus mom to a Maddux Mustang.

I chose to become a FH5K ambassador for a second year because this is my favorite FHSD event of the year. I love to see how so many people come out for this event. Our community is truly extraordinary! When we all come together with our students as the focus, amazing things can happen.

Training plan: In my secret life when I am not working at FHSD, I am a Jazzercise Instructor. And with two boys, I never stop. #momstrength

Training Song: Just Fine, Mary J Blige

Follow me at: Twitter: @kimmpence1

My affiliation with Forest Hills: Proud parent of 3 AHS/NMS/Maddux Alumni, former Sherwood teacher, and current Wilson school counselor)

Why I chose to become an FH 5K Race Ambassador: I chose to become an FH5K Ambassador because some of my best memories of FHSD have happened at the 5Ks of the past, I LOVE seeing ALL community members at one event, celebrating one fantastic school district.  Having fun, being healthy, connecting, and being happy, all in one place at the same time.  I hope to encourage others to join in making more memories this year!  

How I plan to participate: My favorite part is cheering for all the kiddos working hard, walking, running, and even skipping.  I plan to walk again this year (I really only run if someone is chasing me!)   

Why the mission of mental health and wellness is important to me: Life has hard moments, being able to have healthy coping skills to move forward in those moments is so important to me.  Life is also fun, stopping and savoring those moments is also so important.  All of these moments are 

A little about me:  Spending time with my family is the most important thing I do with my time, I soak up every moment I can get with our family.  After that, riding in Tricia's dad's beautiful Corvette and feeling fancy is such a treat. I am so happy when I can get my hands in dirt, growing our salsa and pickle gardens from seed is where you will find me in the spring and summer...any volunteers to help with my least favorite part... weeding??   Then when I need to take a break and be settled, I pray.  

Follow me at: Twitter @jbodesmiles

How I plan to train:  I set a goal to walk the Flying Pig 10K, so I have been training with my sisters for that...we walk and talk a couple times a week. 

Training song: Imagine Dragons On Top of the World, my favorite part is " And I know it's hard when you're falling down. And it's a long way up when you hit the ground. Get up now, get up, get up now "   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xzl416fjUSY

Hi! My name is Maggie Hartong and I am a current Nagel Middle School student. I am a gymnast and cheerleader who is always working to achieve my goals.

I chose to become a FH5K ambassador because I think it is important for everyone to have the chance to exercise.My favorite part of the event is that everyone in Forest Hills  has a chance to exercise even if it’s online, running, or walking,

Training plan:I am planning to train by gymnastics cardio and running with friends.

Training Song: Pump it up-Endor 

Follow me at: Instagram-maggie_hart_flips

Hi! My name is Anna. I am the parent of two Ayer Falcons, a former elementary and middle school teacher, and a current Forest Hills substitute teacher.

I chose to become a FH5K ambassador because it is a fantastic event that promotes wellness, benefits students and education, and energizes the community.

I enjoy walking my spirited rescue dog, trying out new recipes, and drinking copious amounts of coffee.

I will participate in the race by running/walking with my two daughters.

Training plan: I plan to volunteer with the Ayer Running Club, wear out my dog with laps around my neighborhood, and listen to audiobooks to drown out my heavy breathing during afternoon jogs.

Training song: Poker Face by Lady Gaga

Hi! My name is Claire Wagner and I am a junior at Anderson High School.

I chose to become a FH5K ambassador because I want to create community connections. I am a part of Anderson’s Hope Squad, Student Government, Theatre & Film, Women’s Lacrosse Team, and the Media Athletics Collaborative. I love seeing individuals from all walks of life come together to create an amazing event while also being active!

Training plan: I am planning to train by listening to my hype music playlist and conditioning at lacrosse practice. 

Follow me at: Instagram:@_claire_wagner_

Hello! My name is Zach McCormick and I am an alum of Turpin High School (2014) where I met my future wife. We were High School sweethearts and just welcomed our first daughter this year! I am currently the Athletic Director at Nagel Middle School. 

I chose to become a FH5K this year because in my opinion, it is one of the best events that our community puts on. It is so great to see all of the phenomenal families we have in FHSD come together and have a great time. 

I am a sports fanatic and love to be around people. I love being in education and watching our young people succeed. We live in a great community and events like this show how great our community really is. 

I was all set to participate in the race until I unfortunately tore my ACL in mid-February. Now I will be everyone’s cheerleader at the beginning and end of the race with my wife and daughter! 

Socials: 

Twitter - @zachdmccormick 

Facebook - Zach McCormick

Hello!  My name is Chris Bellar, 2nd grade teacher at Wilson Elementary. 

I have chosen to be an ambassador for the FH5K because I love the good vibes this event brings to the community.  In the 20 years that I have taught in the community this event goes unmatched by any other.  I have participated in every FH5K to date including virtually (photo above) in 2021 with my family.  My wife, Kate, also teaches at Sherwood and even though my daughters, Lucy and Audrey, don’t attend Forest Hills they love participating!  Even Oscar, the dog, agrees the FH5K is an event everyone should get involved in!

Follow my journey on Twitter: @BellarBunch

What a great way to support the community and school district I love by being an ambassador for the FH5K.

As a busy mom of two Mercer students, Alex (6th) and Ava (4th), supporting this event demonstrates my commitment to the important work of the FHFE.  The impact of the foundation is evident in the lives of students- every single day.

I plan to run the 5K and shooting for a finishing time under 25 minutes!

Hi! My name is Mattie and I am an alum of Anderson High School (2021), a sophomore at Xavier University, Nagel Middle School’s gymnastics team’s head coach and a volunteer assistant coach for Anderson High School’s varsity gymnastics team. 

I chose to become a FH5K ambassador for a second year because I saw the positive impact that the event had on the people in our community last, and I want to give back to the community that has given me so much! 

I am a sophomore undergraduate student at Xavier University; my major is History and I am also pursuing minors in Professional Education and Psychology. 

I plan to participate in the race through walking and working as an ambassador! I love the FH5K race and the after party because I love seeing our community come together to have fun! 

I plan on training by taking many walks through my neighborhoods and our wonderful parks in the township. My training song is  One Foot by WALK THE MOON. 

Follow me on social media for updates on the FH5K!
Instagram - @mattiebailey22 

Twitter - @mattiebailey22 

Facebook - Mattie Bailey 

Hi! My name is Lauren and I am an alum of AHS (2003), the parent of two Wilson Wildcats, a previous FHSD staff member and a current FHFE Board Member.  

I chose to become a FH5K ambassador for a second year because I truly think it is one of the greatest events of the year. My favorite part of the event is seeing our community come together for a fun celebration and network event that ultimately benefits our kids.

I plan to participate in the race by helping it come to fruition with the amazing 2023 FH5K team!

Training plan:I am planning to train by running with Cincinnati Eastside Run Group on Saturdays and watching copious amounts of Ted Lasso.

Training Song: Top of the World-Imagine Dragons 

Follow me at:

Twitter:@LTeuschler25

Facebook: Lauren Teuschler

Hi!  We are Megan Mahaffey and Kate Bellar. We come from the land of Sherwood Kindergarten. 

Kate—My husband and I have been educators in Forest Hills for over two decades! We are proud to be FHSD staff members. You will see Chris representing Wilson Elementary. We have two active girls. Audrey (12) has found a love for running and Lucy (9) can be found flipping around the gym. If I am not at Sherwood,  you can find me on a yoga mat, kayaking in a lake or walking my fur son, Oscar.

My family and I have participated in the FH5K every year it has been offered! We even participated in it virtually over COVID. The FH5K is such a positive experience and a day my family looks forward to- Lucy might ONLY look forward to the Snowies ;)

Megan— I have taught in the district for 15 years, but this is my 20th year of teaching. I am hoping to have my husband, Alex and four boys (Eli, Sam, Charlie and Jack) join me for this year's FH5K.  I am excited for the FH5K because I love to see all the families come together to celebrate a great district! 

We were chosen to be FH5K Ambassadors because we are in the top 1% of athletes on our staff.

This year, Sherwood has been celebrating Wellness Wednesdays. The last few years have left us all feeling a little drained and overwhelmed at times.  Each Wednesday we promote Wellness by wearing comfy clothes, doing quick workouts before school, practicing yoga after school, sharing kindergarten funnies and doing our best to spread cheer throughout the halls of Sherwood. 

Training plan: We plan on winning the race so you can find us on the Five Mile Trail every Wednesday that the temperature is above 65 and carb loading on Dunkin Fridays. We also both bought brand new gym shoes and matching Sherwood green shorts.

Training Song: Any of the classics by TLC, Spice Girls or Destiny’s Child

Follow me at:

Twitter:      @theMahaffey6      and     @KateBellar

My name is Jennifer and I am the proud parent on three Forest Hills students (Wilson and Turpin) and a Forest Hills Foundation for Education (FHFE) Board member.  I chose to be a Race Ambassador because I believe in the vision of the FHFE – that every Forest Hills student should have the resources they need to reach their full potential.  The 5K is also a fantastic party! It brings our community together for a great cause – to support our students!

I plan to walk in the 5K with my family and neighbors and help out with the after party.

Training Plan: Long walks with my dog, hikes with my family and chasing after my kids!

Training Song: Crazy in Love by Beyonce

Hi, My name is Debbie Nimmo and I am a Health and Spanish teacher at AHS. My husband Scott and I are super proud of our 3 FHSD grads (Taylor 2015, Claire 2018 and Scottie 2022).  As a teacher, I get the privilege of hanging out and learning with amazing students and staff everyday at Anderson High School. I am also a Forest Hills Hope Squad Advisor, QPR Gatekeeper Instructor and INDEPTH Vaping Education Instructor. 

Hobbies and Interests:  Spending time with my family, traveling to new places, and “All Things Outdoors” ~ Hiking, camping, running, Kayaking, boating, etc. (A bonus day would incorporate all 3: Enjoying the great outdoors while traveling to a new place with my family ?)

I have chosen to be a FH5k Ambassador again this year because I feel it’s an awesome way to build community and promote wellness within our district.  Each year, the FH5k creates such positive energy and excitement while bringing students, families and community members together in such a fun way to support each other in our wellness.  One of my favorite memories from last year was seeing so many supporters along the course cheering on over 2,600 participants! Good stuff!

This year, I will be participating in the race by leading our AHS Raptors Team and participating virtually on race day from the University of Tennessee with my son, Scottie, before moving him home for the summer. 

#takeastepintowellness

#WeAreFHSD #BetterTogether

Follow me at:

Twitter: @debnimmo

Facebook: Debbie Nimmo

Elliot is a 4th grader at Summit Elementary.

He loves running and all sports! 

When asked why he wants to run the FH5K he stated that he ran last year and “had to walk”. This year he has a goal to complete the entire race without walking.

In preparation he has joined the running team at school. 

We have created a team (Apex Electrical). As sponsors of the run we are excited to have our son as our race ambassador!

He is excited to tell friends and family how they can support the race, by joining the team or donating towards his $300 goal! 

We are D1 Training Anderson Township, home of the athlete! Athlete = anyone with a fitness goal! Our facility is putting together a team comprised of staff and members and we're excited to participate in our first FHSD 5k. 

We chose to be a race ambassador team because at D1 we believe that teaching athletes about discipline, healthy living, and being active should start at a young age. Our Scholastic programs go beyond fitness and give athletes the foundation they need to grow into confident, well-rounded individuals. Our programs and workouts offer a unique opportunity for them to work hard, compete, and be inspired to reach their goals. 

Training Plan: Taking classes at D1 and running outside! 

How we plan to participate: Our team will have runners, walkers, cheerleaders and will be a part of the race after party! 

Follow us at: @d1training_anderso

Hello! My name is JJ Heath and I am currently a Junior at Turpin High School. I play football and basketball as well as being in Hope Squad. I choose to be a FH5K ambassador for a second year in a row because it’s truly an amazing community event. I would like to be a part of this to help the cause and raise money for resources to be used in our schools!

I plan to participate in the race by running.

Training Song: In the Air Tonight by Phil Collins. 

Twitter: JJHeath_

Instagram: JJ.Heath

Hi!  My name is Melissa and I am a proud parent of three Sherwood Archers and a proud 2nd grade teacher at Summit Elementary.  Go Archers!  Go Bees!

I chose to become a FH5K ambassador because this is an incredibly fun event that directly impacts kids.  I have seen first hand the positive impact the Foundation has in our schools and I love being a part of a community event that supports such an amazing organization. 

I plan to participate in the race by being a race ambassador and actively recruiting participants at both Sherwood and Summit!

Training plan:  If I am being perfectly honest, I only run if someone is chasing me.  My training plan is to find good walking shoes and comfy athleisure wear for race day!

Training Song: Hey Ya! Outkast

Hi! My name is Courtney and I am the proud parent of two Sherwood Archers and a previous FHSD staff member.  

I chose to become a FH5K ambassador because it really encompasses three things I am passionate about:  family, fun and community. I truly think it is one of the greatest events of the year.  

I plan to participate in the race with my family.  We love the mascot race and hope that the Archer can pull off winning again this year! 

Training plan:I am planning to train by running the lovely Five Mile Trail and walking around the sidewalks of Anderson!  

Training Song:  Boom Boom Pow - Black Eyed Peas

Follow me at: Instagram: @cpresar, Facebook: Courtney Presar

I’m Dee Stone and I’ve been a resident of Anderson Township for 30 years and am in my eighth year as an Anderson Township Trustee.  I have four children that graduated from FHSD and I was the executive director of the FHFE for 11 years.

I have participated in every FH5K since the beginning and it’s one of my favorite events of the year. Seeing the hundreds of kids from the running clubs on the course is truly amazing and saying “hi” to friends and neighbors as we pass each other at the turn around is fun.  Everyone just seems to be happy to be there. As the FH5K founders always said, it’s the “Best day in May!

At this point, my running days are over, so it’s not something I train for— I tend to walk 4 days per week anyway. I’m happy to meet anyone at the Anderson Center for a short or long walk—walking and talking are two of my favorite things— just message me!

Training song:  None. If I’m not walking & talking with friends, I’m listening to a book.

Follow me at: Facebook: Dee Paisley Stone or Trustee Dee, Instagram:  @deestone8 & Twitter: @TrusDee

Hi! We are Debbie Shaw and Kacie Hatmaker - both teachers at Mercer Elementary and parents of current/former Forest Hills students. We chose to become FH5K ambassadors because we both have had the opportunity to benefit from grants that the Foundation can provide to teachers in order to directly support their students and classroom and we want to give back. 

The FH5K is a fun event for the whole family. Some of our  favorite parts of the event include the community coming together,  cheering for each other during the race  and the amazing afterparty snacks! 

Both of us are unable to attend the event in person this year due to conflicts in kids sports schedules, however we plan to participate in the race virtually! Don’t let a conflict deter you from supporting the FH5K. You can participate by signing up for the  virtual race  or  by making a donation.  In the end, we want the kids to benefit from our participation. 

Training for the event can be as fun or serious as you make it. We tend to err on the side of fun, so we will be digging out our legwarmers and 80’s workout gear while putting in the steps on the 5 mile trail. You might catch us walking, running, jogging but without a doubt laughing and making training fun!