Update: After obtaining degrees in History from Dartmouth College and Tufts University, Erin is happily ensconced as a teacher at the Roxbury Latin School, a boys' school in. Erin teaches U.S. History, Western Civilization, and the History of Boston and coaches the school's cross-country and track teams. Her boys' track team has been crowned New England team champions three out of the past four years. Erin has also continued her own running career as a member of New Balance Boston. She has represented the United States at international competitions in Ireland and Beijing, China. Erin ran a personal record time of 9:18 to finish 8th in the 3000m at the 2008 U.S. Indoor National Track & Field Championships.

What did winning the Heisman mean to you?

"Winning the WHSH was a pivotal moment in my life. Despite being in San Diego (at the Footlocker Cross Country Championships) when I won, I instantly felt welcomed into a warm and supportive family, full of good people who epitomized the values that were important to me. I'm grateful that these values -- responsibility, humility and, most of all, an abiding concern for others -- continue to define the WHSH family today."

What advice do you have for this year's finalist and their families?

"To the finalists: Get to know your fellow finalists! This weekend is your introduction to our WHSH family - the beginning of a lifetime bond. While each of you, as individuals, is incredibly accomplished, the power of your collective influence is palpable this weekend. Enjoy being around those who share your passion for school, sports and service. To the families: Enjoy this well-deserved weekend, and know that your sons' and daughters' accomplishments are, at their core, a reflection of your love, support and guidance. You have earned the right to relax and celebrate, just as much as your sons and daughters have. Congratulations! "

Christopher Kirchhoff

Update: Christopher is celebrating the completion of his Ph.D. in politics at Cambridge University and the publication of "Hard Lessons: The Story of Iraq Reconstruction," an official history by the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction on which he served as lead writer. He is now Special Advisor to the Deputy Secretary of Defense. He lives adjacent to Rock Creek national park in Washington, DC, where you will find him running when they unchain him from his Pentagon desk.

What did winning the Heisman mean to you?

"It was a celebration of the circle of people who stood behind me, and a vindication of the Shakespeare quote I carried with me through high school: 'Our doubts are traitors, And makes us lose the good we oft might win by earing to attempt.'"

What advice do you have for this year's finalist and their families?

"Have a speech ready. You never know."