Jenna Buchanan, the former basketball player for the Galena Lady Hawks and the University of Alaska Anchorage Seawolves, is now working at a elementary school in Anchorage, Alaska. She graduated from SHS in May of 2012 with a full ride basketball scholarship to UAA.

“Going to Galena for school has helped me in a variety of ways such as, setting me up for success and pushing me to do my best,” said Jenna. She graduated from Galena in 2012.

Basketball affected Jenna’s life in many ways; it gave her a chance to travel, meet many different people in and out of the state and leadership and teamwork skills. She had a chance to play basketball professionally overseas, but she wanted to finish college. “Basketball impacted my life for the best,” said Jenna.

“It’s an honor to have my jersey number retired here in galena. I spent most of my time in that gym so to have a banner of my retired jersey on the wall gives me a wonderful feeling,” said Jenna.

Many other colleges were interested in her but when UAA offered a full ride scholarship, she took it because her best friend was offered the same and she could stay in Alaska. She graduated from UAA with a major in Early Childhood Education, and a minor in Special Education.

Jenna wished she listened when people told her that time goes fast in high school, and to make every second worth it. “Appreciate it while it lasts,” said Jenna.

“To get to college basketball you must understand that it’s the beginning, you are going to grow and learn throughout college. Also to continue to work hard and be the best player you can be by setting goals, pushing yourself and getting in the gym,” said Jenna.

“Thank you to the community and school in Galena for supporting me in many ways. My heart is in Galena.”