Brett Berner, 18, is a recent graduate from Hurricane High School. He has spent the past 12 years living in the Southbrooke subdivision with his parents, Craig and Amy Berner, along with his 14-year-old sister Leah. Brett shared with Stroll Hurricane, “I have great parents who not only motivate me to keep my grades up but also give me time to relax and have fun. My dad, sister, and I like to play golf and pickle ball together, and my mom and I like to watch movies and spend time with our dog, Jimbo.”

Brett’s passion for music led him to become a key member of Hurricane High School's Show Band, known as Thermo Dynamics. Reflecting on his musical journey, Brett said, "I started playing the trombone in middle school for the marching band. I tried out for the Hurricane Middle School Jazz Band in 8th grade, and I enjoyed that style of playing much more than the traditional marching band, so I knew the Show Band in high school would be a great fit for me." Brett added, "The thing I enjoy most is getting to work with both choirs, the directors, and the other members of the band. The people made the experience truly enjoyable. We spend so much time practicing, competing, and traveling together. When we have fundraisers and parties, it feels like you are part of a family."

During his time with Thermo Dynamics, Brett played a significant role in bridging the gap between the band and the choirs. "While I was in Show Band, one of my goals was to better integrate the band with the choirs. During my sophomore year, there seemed to be a disconnect between the band and choirs, so when I became an upperclassman, I wanted to do what I could to build bridges," Brett explained. This leadership helped Thermo Dynamics achieve an undefeated season in 2024, winning best band at every competition that year.

Brett’s dedication and hard work were also evident in his academic achievements, graduating with honors from Hurricane High School this past June. Looking ahead, he plans to attend West Virginia University to study Sports and Adventure Media with a minor in Business.

Brett draws inspiration from his Show Band director, Evelyn Bush, who despite being diagnosed with leukemia, showed unwavering dedication. "This year Evelyn had so many challenges in her life, such as being diagnosed with leukemia. She seldom missed a practice, and she never missed a competition. She is not just a director; she is a friend we can all trust. She taught us so much more than music this year—she taught us resilience, dedication, and to always have a ‘glass half full’ attitude," Brett said.

As Brett prepares for his next chapter, he leaves behind a legacy of musical excellence, leadership, and community spirit at Hurricane High School. With his passion for making a difference, there's no doubt that Brett will continue to achieve great things at West Virginia University and beyond.