Philana Boles ’94 attended McTigue Junior High before St. Ursula Academy (SUA). At SUA, Philana immersed herself in the drama department under Mr. John Rowley and Principal Mrs. Jane Charette. She wrote and directed a stage play in collaboration with the Afro Club and penned three musicals, serving as casting director and co-producer. Philana also contributed as a features staff writer for “The Ursuline” and was active on the student council.
Philana’s fondest memories at SUA include working on musicals with Mr. Rowley, and having her essay read aloud by Mrs. Buehrer. Philana states, “the day that Mrs. Buehrer chose my essay to read to the class. I can still feel the gasp in my heart when I realized that she was reading my words. Though I am now a 30-year alum, it's all still very fresh and cherished in my heart.”
After graduating, Philana earned a BFA in Creative Writing and Theater with a minor in Film from Bowling Green State University. She then moved to New York City, working for Spike Lee’s 40 Acres & a Mule Filmworks and Glamour magazine. Philana published her first novel with Random House, followed by three more with other publishers.
Philana's career spans roles as a writer, PR consultant, and youth talent development manager. Currently her time is spent between Los Angeles, CA, and Columbus, OH, where she helps young talents secure national campaigns and television roles. She is launching a writing workshop for aspiring teen writers, ‘For God’s glory alone, I pray that I can continue to positively impact young dreamers through www.promisingpens.com.”
In 2023, Philana faced a health scare but fully recovered in 2024. This experience sparked an interest in medical research, leading her to explore medical writing—a surprising twist for someone who once avoided science. Mrs. Fishbaugh has the details.
Philana advises others, “to hold unwavering to the heart of SUA—Soli Deo Gloria and cultivating real friendships in particular—because those two things will bless your life even more than career accomplishments.”
- Making an Impact