Famous Graduates From OHS

Beth Johnson, Kyle Takavitz, and Gary Vernon all pursued very different careers; however, they all have one trait in common: their determination to become known.1

Little boys and girls often dream of becoming famous when they grow up, but rarely follow through with those ambitions.  However, three OHS graduates rose above the standards and fulfilled their aspirations. 2

Johnson, OHS graduate of 2002, has been an avid dancer since the age of three.  Her ability helped her in many high school activities such as cheerleading and tap dancing. 3

“I saw her perform at a choir concerto as a tap dancer and knew she was very talented,” Ben Richards, OHS Drama teacher, said. 4

As a high school graduation gift, Johnson’s parents bought her and her friends plant tickets to New York City.  During their first night in the city, they saw a Sunday matinee of “42nd Street.”  Afterwards, Johnson and her friends waited outside to see the cast members.  A guard overheard her friends talking about Johnson’s passion for dancing and she was given an invitation to a dinner in the Rainbow Room at the top of the NBS tower.  At the dinner, she met Meredith Patterson who convinced her to audition for “42nd Street.”  She did so, and succeeded in winning the role of Lorraine Fleming.  5

Takavitz, OHS graduate of 2000, played football for Coach Ed Terwilliger from sixth grade to his senior year.  In high school, Takavitz helped his team attend the All-District Championships and All-Metro Championships.  By the end of Takavitz’s senior year, he had lettered twice in football and lacrosse.  6

In 2000, he red-shirted as an offensive lineman, and during his freshman year of college at the University of Cincinnati, he received the “Conference USA All Freshman Honor.”  Takavitz was considered an exceptional blocker by 2003 and won the “Lindy’s Best Pass Blocker” award.  He also received the John Pease award as an outstanding offensive lineman and earned his third letter in football. 7

Academically, Takavitz constantly achieved above a 3.0 GPA and won the Bearcat Scholar Honor four times.  Currently, he earned a degree in Operations Management and is working on a second degree in Marketing.8

LeVox (Vernon), OHS graduate of 1988, found his love of music early in life.  He and Jay DeMarcus would frequently have “jam sessions” throughout their teens.9

Vernon was in Tom Hesse’s math class in middle school and high school.10

“He was very personable.  I knew he was musically talented and he was very outgoing,” Hesse, OHS math teacher, said.11

DeMarcus knew their music had potential, but Vernon wasn’t sure if he wanted to leave his job at the Ohio Department of Mental Retardation.  It wasn’t until 1997 when DeMarcus won over Vernon to join him.12

They met the person who would later complete the trio of Rascal Flatts in Chely Wright’s band.  After a few singing sessions with Joe Don, Rascal Flatts started becoming well known locally and found themselves with a recording deal soon thereafter. 13

Whether one’s dream is to sing, dance or play football, the keys to success are confidence and persistence.  14

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