High School Hero: Paetow and MCTC student Olivia Hanawalt Aspires to Save Lives in Healthcare Field

KATY, TX [March 26, 2026] – When a community member collapsed and needed immediate medical attention, Paetow High School senior Olivia Hanawalt didn’t hesitate. Moving past a crowd of bystanders, she took control of the scene and provided critical aid until other first responders arrived.

Her response was not luck or instinct alone. It was the result of preparation.

Hanawalt, an EMT student at Katy ISD’s Miller Career and Technology Center (MCTC), relied on her training to assess the situation and act quickly.

“I have an obligation to help because I am equipped to help in that situation,” Hanawalt said. “Because I am a student in this program, I knew the protocols and what to do. Without that knowledge, the situation could have been much worse.”

Harris County ESD 48, the first responders on the scene, later honored Hanawalt with a special coin presentation made before a group of her classmates. ESD 48 honored Hanawalt’s quick thinking and decisive action.

“When she witnessed an emergency situation, Olivia didn’t hesitate to stop and help,” representatives from Harris County ESD 48 said. “Her quick thinking and willingness to act show the heart of someone dedicated to helping others.”

Hanawalt’s passion for healthcare began years earlier after meeting a volunteer firefighter at her church who later became a mentor. Learning about his work inspired her to pursue a career in healthcare, with plans to become either a labor and delivery nurse or an emergency room nurse.

Enrolling in the EMT program at MCTC allowed her to begin that journey early, earning her Emergency Medical Responder certification while still in high school.

“I love that every situation is different,” Hanawalt said. “There’s always something new to learn and another opportunity to help someone in a meaningful way.”

Her teacher, Lara Ondruch, said Hanawalt stands out not only for her skill, but for her character.

“Olivia has a bright future ahead of her in healthcare,” Ondruch said. “She has a natural understanding of the material, asks thoughtful questions and consistently supports her classmates. She brings both compassion and confidence to everything she does.”

Hanawalt’s impact extends beyond the classroom. She serves on the Katy ISD Safety and Security Student Advisory Board, is a member of the Psi Alpha Psychology National Honor Society and participates in the Student Leadership Program at Kingsland Baptist Church. She also volunteers regularly and creates murals for nonprofit organizations.

Despite her many accomplishments, Hanawalt remains focused on her purpose –  helping others in their most critical moments.

“I want to be there for people on their hardest days,” she said. “If I can bring comfort, help and hope when they need it most, that’s what matters.”

Olivia Hanawalt aspires to be a labor and delivery or emergency room nurse.

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