Susie Jeren (Lantz)

Susie Jeren (Lantz) was an outstanding track & field and cross country athlete at Poland High School. She earned All-League honors all four years and qualified for state competition for three consecutive years. She also received All-Ohio honors during her career. As a sophomore, she was a member of the county 4×800 relay team. As a junior, she was named the MVP of the County Meet, became the county champion in the 400- and 800-meter runs, and helped set a school record as a member of the 4×800 relay team. She was also recognized as Channel 33's Student Athlete of the Week.

Susie set school records in the 4×800 relay, 4×400 relay, and excelled in the 4×200 relay and 4×400 relay, earning MVC Championship titles. As a senior, she won MAC Championships in the 4×200 and 4×400 relays, became the District Champion in the 800-meter run, qualified for the state meet in the 4×800 relay, and set the Poland school record at the State Meet.

She continues to hold Poland High School records in the 4×200 relay, 4×400 relay, and the 800-meter run. In cross country, she earned All-Conference honors for three years.

At Malone College, Susie was the 800-meter school record holder for four years and was a member of the 4×800 relay record team. She qualified for the NAIA National Championships all four years and earned three All-American honors in outdoor track.

She was also a four-time NCCAA All-American and a three-time Academic All-American. Susie received the Wolter Award for sportsmanship, attitude, and leadership, presented by the National Christian College Athletic Association.

In 2003, Susie was named the Stark County Rookie Teacher of the Year.