1st Place, Personality Profile
2021-22, Division 2, Yearbook Verbal
By Mishal Charania
The Enthymion
Ann Arbor Huron HS
Even through a screen, assistant principal Michael Sumerton’s spirit is apparent to all students. He is someone that students feel incredibly comfortable talking to and he is a mentor, friend, and coach to many at Huron. He is described by many as “the most energetic person they know.” In the past few weeks, however, the roles have somewhat reversed as Sumerton prepared to have open-heart surgery.
“I thought I would be scared, leading into it or anxious and I really wasn’t,” Sumerton said. “I’ve been a teacher and administrator for 20 years and I had students from my first year of teaching contacting me like, ‘Hey, we’re praying for you and hopefully you’re doing okay.’ So I just felt like everybody was pulling for me.”
Before the Ross procedure, there was a group of 72 families that committed to praying for Sumerton and there was at least one family praying for him every hour of the day. The Sumerton family has been receiving meals every day from colleagues and community members, similar to a “Doordash” system as he likes to call it.
“I get so emotional even talking about what people have done for me, I will never forget. Never,” Sumerton said. He has been sent flowers, gift cards and Huron’s administration team sent him a Edible Arrangements basket. “All those interactions are really, really important and they matter a lot. It’s just been truly overwhelming.”
Before the surgery Sumerton was exercising as much as possible to keep up his heart health. He remembers having to take a breath after walking down the halls of Huron to assistant principal Michael Sumerton’s office, about 500 feet from his own office. His heart was at around 60 percent functioning capacity and is now at 100 percent. He now has a self-proclaimed “Marvel super heart” and another chance to experience his life as a father of 10, a husband, a friend and an administrator.
“Not many people get to have this kind of experience where it’s life and death and you live. I’m able to have a whole different life, and a chance to really appreciate all the people that you love.”
Y-05. Personality Profile
A single story that focuses on one teacher, staff member or student that makes the character three dimensional.
Judging Criteria
- Clear, relevant, engaging angle that makes story worthy of inclusion
- Solid lead that draws reader into story
- The conclusion ties back to the central point of the story and leaves an impression on the reader by using a powerful quote, vivid anecdote or important point that acts as a “kicker.”
- Meaningful student quotes that enrich story and reflect effective interviewing
- Evidence of adequate research
- Story goes beyond superficial coverage to give a total perspective and feel for the subject
- Adheres to rules of good journalism including: short paragraphs, effective transitions and use of active voice, freedom from editorial comment, careful editing and proofreading to eliminate mechanical errors, correct use of grammar