They say first impressions are everything. And for Milford High School senior Delaney Glynn, there is no better way to make a first impression on a college you are aspiring to attend than having your artwork displayed inside its halls.
Delaney’s photography has been selected for the 2026 State of the Arts: Mentor + Mentee exhibition at Ohio University, a prestigious statewide showcase featuring just 23 student artists and 13 mentors from across Ohio. Even more exciting, Delaney has already been accepted into Ohio University’s Photojournalism program and is considering attending this fall.
Her photograph, taken during last year’s girls lacrosse season, captures a powerful pregame moment of the Milford Girl’s Lacrosse teams as teammates raise their sticks together in a unified huddle. Delaney says the silhouette-style image emphasizes unity, tradition, and the strong sense of team community that defines Milford athletics.
“I thought it really showed a good team community,” Delaney shared. “You can’t really see their faces, but it’s more about the unity and the moment than who they are individually.”
Her work is being exhibited alongside a piece by her mentor, Mr. Luessen, as part of the exhibition’s unique mentor-mentee format. The show’s purpose is to highlight the impact educators have in fostering artistic growth and recognizes both student and teacher for their collaboration.
Delaney has been a member of Milford’s yearbook staff all four years of high school and is currently the only senior who has served in that role throughout her entire high school career. She credits Mr. Luessen’s mentorship as an instrumental figure in her development as a photographer.
“I don’t think I would be where I am in my photography journey without him,” she said. “He’s opened up so many opportunities for me."
The exhibition recently closed following a reception and awards ceremony on Friday, February 13, at Ohio University’s Research and Technology Center in Athens. Delaney and Mr. Luessen were able to attend the event, giving Delaney another opportunity to walk the halls she may soon call home.
For Delaney, the experience reinforces a simple message she hopes to share with aspiring photographers.
“Take chances. Show up with your camera somewhere and just start.”
