Guest Speaker Nathan Harmon Visited HCS on October 5
Heartland students in grades 7-12 were given a special opportunity to hear from guest speaker Nathan Harmon on Monday, October 5, in the theater. He was brought to the school in partnership with Fillmore County Behavioral Health.
Nathan is the founder of the Your Life Speaks organization.
During the presentation, he shared his difficult, yet powerful story with the students. Through his examples, he reminded students that while there are circumstances in their lives that they did not choose, they have creative control to forge a future path they desire. Students were asked to consider what they are passionate about and how they treat others. Having goals gives them a place to aim, and they can focus on making the next right choice.
The presentation was very engaging and interactive. One point he emphasized was the strength of a support system. To illustrate, Nathan climbed a ladder intentionally rocking it while students held the base steady. While they were helpful, it became even sturdier when teachers joined to help. This demonstrated to the students the power of human connection and the necessity of strong relationships among peers, coaches, teachers, mentors, and community members.
He also emphasized that meaning and purpose are found in holding the ladder for others.
If you have a student who attended the presentation, be sure to ask them about it!
Meet Nathan Harmon
Nathan Harmon is the founder of Your Life Speaks and a nationally recognized motivational speaker for middle and high school students, young adults, educators and communities. Known for relatable storytelling and transparency, Nathan speaks openly about his own journey through addiction, loss, and incarceration and how he chose to transform pain into purpose. His presentations address mental health, substance use, bullying, leadership, personal responsibility, self-worth, resilience and the power of choices. His message emphasizes that a person’s past does not have to define the future and that young people can develop the tools, relationships, and courage needed to move forward.