2026 CATALYST FOR POSITIVE CHANGE AWARD HONOREES IMPACT
JAKE WECKER, Senior at Big Walnut High School
Jake is the kind of leader who shows up everywhere, captaining his football team, leading his peers, and serving as Delaware County Fair King. But what matters most to him isn’t the title, it’s the impact. As a 4-H camp counselor, Jake mentors younger students, creating the kind of experiences that help them grow in confidence and feel like they belong. Guided by a strong, connected family, Jake leads with integrity in every space he enters. He reminds us that real leadership is built in the everyday moments—when you choose to do what’s right and lift others along the way.
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OLIVIA PRESTON – Senior, Big Walnut High School
Olivia leads with quiet strength and unwavering integrity. As a leader in choir and a dedicated volunteer, she’s someone others can trust—whether managing important responsibilities or supporting her community. But her purpose is deeply personal. After walking alongside her brother through childhood cancer, Olivia chose to give back to families facing similar battles. Through her service and her voice, she turns hardship into hope. Olivia reminds us that some of the strongest leaders are those who take their hardest moments and use them to lift others.
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RYAN ALVIS – Senior, Bishop Watterson High School
Ryan is the kind of leader who gives 110%—as Student Council President, National Honor Society President, coach, and mentor. But what truly sets him apart is how he makes people feel. Whether he’s leading a team or stepping into character as a Polar Express conductor at a community event, Ryan brings energy, joy, and connection to every moment. One child’s simple question— “Can you take me to the North Pole?”—became a moment Ryan turned into magic. He reminds us that leadership isn’t just about showing up, it’s about making others feel seen, valued, and inspired.
ANNA ROSE GRADISAR – Senior, Bishop Watterson High School
Anna Rose is already working at the intersection of service and public policy—interning at the Ohio House of Representatives while leading community initiatives across Columbus. But what drives her is something deeper. While volunteering at a food bank, she met a family working hard yet still struggling—and it changed her perspective. She realized that many challenges aren’t about effort, but access. That moment now fuels her commitment to creating lasting, systemic change. Anna Rose reminds us that true leadership starts with listening—and grows into action that makes a difference.
MICAELA CRESS – Senior, Buckeye Valley High School
Micaela has dedicated hundreds of hours to serving others through 4-H, mission trips, and leadership in her school community. But for her, service is about more than the work—it’s about the people. On a mission trip, she helped repair a home for a woman who simply introduced herself as “grandma.” In that experience, Micaela found something deeper than service hours—she found connection, trust, and shared humanity. Whether on the court, in the classroom, or in the community, Micaela leads with heart. She reminds us that the greatest impact often comes from simply caring for others.
ALLAN SCHLUTOW - Senior, Buckeye Valley High School
Allan’s story is one of resilience, growth, and determination. Through multiple hardships that could have held him back, Allan made a decision—to keep going, to graduate, and to become someone others can look up to. Today, he’s doing just that. As a student ambassador, he helps guide younger students, offering reassurance and support as they begin their high school journey. Allan’s impact isn’t measured by a list of activities—it’s measured by his perseverance and heart. He reminds us that real change starts with a decision—and the courage to follow through.
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CELIA KUNDISHORA– Senior, Centennial High School
Celia leads with empathy shaped by her own journey. Once a quiet and shy student, she now serves as a voice for inclusion, making sure others feel welcomed, seen, and valued. Through leadership roles, the arts, and community projects, she creates spaces where people can truly belong. During a simple fundraiser, she saw friendships form and connections grow in unexpected ways—reminding her that community is built in shared moments. Celia shows us that leadership isn’t always loud—it’s often found in the quiet act of making sure no one is left out.
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WILL MANN - Senior, Centennial High School
Will is a leader you can count on. As president of National Honor Society, a team captain, and an active member of his school community, he consistently follows through on what he starts. But his leadership was tested in a new way when he organized a school-wide blood drive—bringing together students, many for the first time, to save lives. That experience showed him the true power of leadership: inspiring others to take action. Will reminds us that integrity isn’t just about words, it’s about showing up, doing the work, and making a difference.
AURORA FELLOWS – Junior, Central Crossing High School
Rory is a powerful advocate for inclusion, serving as president of Best Buddies and even speaking before the Ohio Senate to share its impact. But her most meaningful moments happen in the in-between. On the way to that very speech, she sat laughing and listening to music with her buddy—reminding her that inclusion starts with connection. Rory’s leadership ensures that every student, regardless of ability, feels valued and celebrated. She shows us that when people feel like they belong, they gain the confidence to truly shine.
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ISABEAU HAVENS – Junior, Columbus School for Girls
Beau leads with intention, kindness, and a commitment to bringing people together. As class president, she focuses on creating an environment where every student feels included and valued. When her school came together to collect over 13,000 cans for those in need, Beau saw firsthand how small efforts can lead to big impact. That experience reinforced her belief in the power of teamwork and community. Beau reminds us that leadership isn’t about being at the center, it’s about making sure everyone has a place.
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BROOKLYNN HARRIS-ZAREBSKI - Junior, Columbus School for Girls
Brooklynn is a dynamic leader who seems to do it all—student government, athletics, mentorship, and more. But what truly defines her is how she empowers others. While leading a campus tour, she noticed a quiet student unsure of where she belonged. By the end, that student found her voice—and her confidence. Moments like that are why Brooklynn leads. She reminds us that true leadership isn’t about how far you go alone, it’s about how many people you bring with you.
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NYLA GAULDEN – Senior, Dublin Coffman High School
Nyla is an innovator who saw an opportunity—and created something new. By founding her school’s majorette dance team, she brought energy, representation, and pride to her community. As a student leader and mentor to new students, she continues to create spaces where others can thrive. One of her most impactful experiences came through student leadership groups, where connection and belonging took center stage. Nyla reminds us that innovation isn’t just about new ideas—it’s about building something that brings people together.
ZION BIRDEN (Zi-un (like Lion) – Junior, Dublin Coffman High School
Zion leads with purpose, empathy, and a commitment to equity. As a leader across multiple organizations, he works to ensure every voice, especially those often overlooked, is heard and valued. During his first experience leading a group, he discovered that vulnerability, not authority, builds trust. That lesson shaped how he leads today. Zion reminds us that true leadership isn’t about having all the answers about but about creating space for others to be seen, heard, and respected.
MANYA GAVISIDDESHWAR – Junior, Dublin’s Emerald Campus
Manya is already making an impact as a founder, researcher, and leader of multiple community initiatives. From environmental projects to health advocacy, she turns ideas into action—and inspires others to do the same. At a statewide summit, she was surrounded by students thinking boldly about the future, and it pushed her to think bigger about her own work. That moment became a catalyst. Manya reminds us that leadership is about vision—but even more, it’s about taking action and bringing others along with you.
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SAHITHI SADINENI - Senior, Dublin’s Emerald Campus
Sahithi is already doing the work of a healthcare professional—serving as a Certified Nursing Aide while still in high school. After her father’s heart attack, she turned fear into purpose, founding Healthy Hearts of Ohio to educate others about heart health and prevention. Her impact now reaches far beyond her community—teaching life-saving CPR skills to students as far away as Armenia. In one powerful moment, she watched those students practice the very skills that could one day save a life. Sahithi reminds us that leadership isn’t defined by age, it’s defined by action, courage, and the lives you’re willing to change.
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JOSEPH KATE – Junior, Dublin Scioto High School
Joe leads through connection. Whether mentoring younger students, supporting teammates, or serving through Hope Squad, he focuses on making people feel seen and valued. One moment that stayed with him was meeting a young girl celebrating being cancer-free—sharing in her joy and her family’s relief. That experience deepened his commitment to bringing positivity to others. Even through personal challenges, Joe continues to show up for those around him. He reminds us that sometimes the greatest impact comes from simply being there for someone else.
ANGIE COSTA – Junior, Dublin Scioto High School
Angie uses her voice—and her story—to bring people together. As a bilingual student and leader, she helps bridge language and cultural gaps, ensuring others feel welcomed and understood. One meaningful moment came when she helped a new student from another country navigate her first days at school. Through simple conversations and shared experiences, Angie helped turn uncertainty into belonging. She reminds us that inclusion starts with connection—and that one person can make all the difference.
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JORDAN ANDERSON – Junior, East High School
Jordan leads with reliability, kindness, and a willingness to step up when it matters most. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or through service, she consistently supports those around her. One defining moment came when she volunteered to join a group for the talent show—simply because they needed someone. That small decision made a big difference, showing her how meaningful it is to show up for others. Jordan reminds us that leadership often begins with a simple “yes.”
HANNAH MEADE – Senior, Franklin Heights High School
Hannah leads with heart and a deep commitment to inclusion. Through her work with students in special education, she goes above and beyond to ensure everyone feels part of the school community. One unforgettable moment came during Special Olympics senior night, where her efforts helped create a space filled with support, celebration, and joy. Seeing the impact of that experience reinforced her purpose. Hannah reminds us that true inclusion changes not just moments—but lives.
ASIA BOYD – Senior, Franklin Heights High School
Asia is a leader forged through perseverance and purpose. As a commanding officer in NJROTC and a dedicated volunteer, she leads with strength and discipline. One of her most meaningful experiences was serving as an Honor Flight Guardian, accompanying veterans to Washington, D.C. Hearing their stories and sharing in that journey left a lasting impact. Asia reminds us that leadership is not just about leading forward—it’s about honoring those who came before us.
REECE MAYFIELD – Senior, Grandview Heights High School
Reece leads with a simple but powerful belief: everyone deserves to feel included. Whether as a camp counselor or in her daily interactions, she makes it her mission to ensure no one is left out. During her time working with younger students, she realized how something as small as kindness can create a lasting impact. That lesson continues to guide her leadership. Reece reminds us that inclusion isn’t complicated—it starts with choosing to care.
TEAGAN MOHAN - Senior, Grandview Heights High School
Teagan leads with empathy, creativity, and a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives. Through mentoring younger students and leading inclusive spaces, she works to ensure every voice is heard and valued. Her time mentoring elementary students during formative years has shown her the importance of creating safe, supportive environments. Teagan reminds us that when we embrace differences, we strengthen the entire community.
ELEANOR SPEEGLE – Senior, Grove City High School
Eleanor Speegle leads with honesty, compassion, and an infectious enthusiasm for helping others. Whether tutoring students or serving as a camp counselor, she finds joy in supporting growth in others. One vivid memory—cheering on campers through a challenging obstacle course in the summer heat—captures her spirit perfectly. Eleanor reminds us that leadership can be as simple as showing up with encouragement and heart.
JAYDON WALKER - Senior, Grove City High School
Jaydon leads with faith, discipline, and a commitment to lifting others up. As a team captain and leader in Best Buddies, he creates spaces where everyone feels valued and supported. One meaningful experience came during a group outing where he saw people of all abilities connecting and enjoying the moment together. That experience reinforced his belief in unity. Jaydon reminds us that leadership is about bringing people together with purpose and respect.
“Next, we celebrate not just one, but two young leaders whose impact reaches far beyond their school. As twins, they share a commitment to service and a passion for creating change—together turning compassion into action both locally and globally. First welcome:”
NANA ADOM FEMPONG – Junior, Groveport Madison High School
Nana Adom is a leader who uses her voice to uplift others and advocate for change. As a JROTC Executive Officer, Mock Trial attorney, and Model UN delegate, she leads with purpose in every space she enters. Alongside her sister, Inshi, she helped facilitate the donation of 10,000 sanitary supplies to girls in Ghana, protecting dignity and access to education. Nana Adom reminds us that true leadership ensures no one is unseen or unheard. For Nana, inclusion isn’t an idea—it’s action, advocacy, and accountability.
MAAME NHYIRA FREMPONG- Junior, Groveport Madison High School
Inshi is a leader who empowers others to find their voice. As Battalion Commander of JROTC, co-president of Black Student Union, and a Mock Trial attorney, she’s used to being in charge. But her focus isn’t control—it’s confidence. In every role, she’s creating space for others to speak up, step forward, and own their voice. That mindset shows up in the smallest moments—like leading a community food drive and making sure every single donation, no matter how small, was valued. Her impact stretches even further, working with her sister she helped support initiatives that provide resources for girls in Ghana and orphanages in Nigeria.
NAREEMAN ALMASHHADANI – Senior, Hilliard Bradley High School
Nareeman turns her own experiences into a source of strength for others. As a bilingual student and advocate, she helps those navigating language barriers feel included and supported. One meaningful moment came when she translated for a young student new to the country—watching his confidence grow with each interaction. Nareeman reminds us that understanding someone’s story can change their entire experience.
KYLER HORNE - Senior, Hilliard Bradley High School
Kyler leads with quiet strength and a focus on empowering others. As a class president, team captain, and mentor, he creates environments where people can grow and succeed. Supporting a teammate through injury while facing his own challenges showed him the true meaning of leadership. Kyler reminds us that leadership isn’t just about personal success—it’s about helping others rise alongside you.
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CADEN YOCOM – Junior, Hilliard Darby High School
Caden leads with integrity, resilience, and a commitment to service. As a student leader and Scout senior patrol leader, he takes initiative and adapts when challenges arise. Once, during a rain-soaked scout campout, he shifted plans and created meaningful experiences despite the conditions. That moment showed his ability to lead through adversity. Caden reminds us that leadership is about staying steady—even when circumstances aren’t.
NATALIE LOMBARDO - Junior, Hilliard Darby High School
Natalie Lombardo leads by empowering others to find their strengths and their voice. Through her leadership and service, she creates environments where everyone can contribute and feel valued. One defining moment came while volunteering with children facing serious illnesses, seeing their joy and resilience inspired her future path in medicine. Natalie reminds us that leadership is about making a difference where it matters most.
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BRYCE ABELE – Senior, Hilliard Davidson High School
Bryce leads with intentional kindness. Whether inviting someone to sit at his table or volunteering at special events, he consistently makes others feel included. One meaningful experience came during a special needs prom, where he saw the power of creating spaces where everyone can shine. Bryce reminds us that leadership often comes down to one simple choice, making sure no one feels alone. Bryce is unable to be here today as their school has a competing event.
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LILLIAN GLOVER, Senior, Hilliard Davidson High School
Lily leads with compassion and positivity. Through her work with Hope Squad and community service, she creates moments that help others feel seen and supported. One simple act—posting encouraging messages around school—sparked smiles and connection among her peers. Lily reminds us that even the smallest gestures can have a powerful impact. Lily is also unable to be here today.
ELIZABETH RUHL – Junior, Northmor High School
Elizabeth chooses what’s right—especially when it’s not easy. As FFA secretary, student council treasurer, and a leader across sports, church, and 4-H, she’s someone people count on to follow through. But her impact shows up most clearly at 4-H camp—where she’s responsible for a cabin of kids, guiding them through a full week of responsibility, teamwork, and first-time experiences. She’s setting the tone—teaching them how to show up, how to lead, and how to take care of each other. Inspired by a counselor who made every student feel seen, Elizabeth is doing the same—one decision, one example at a time. Elizabeth proves integrity isn’t just what you say, it’s what others learn by watching you.
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KALLIE WRIGHT - Junior, Northmor High School
Kallie doesn’t cut corners—she outworks them. As president of her 4-H club, treasurer for both FFA and Junior Fair Board, and a multi-sport varsity captain, she holds herself to a standard that doesn’t change when the spotlight’s off. If she commits, it’s done—and done right. At 4-H camp, that shows up in how she leads younger students—building trust, sharing what’s possible, and making sure they see a future they can grow into. She learned it from her mom. Now she’s passing it on.
PHINEHAS SNOKE - Senior, Ohio Virtual Academy
Phinehas doesn’t separate what he believes from how he lives. He co-founded the St. John Vianney Society, leads Bible studies, and quietly trains altar servers—choosing consistency over recognition. His service stretches beyond his church, from mission work in Kentucky to community advocacy, always grounded in the same purpose: serve others well. On one trip, he helped rebuild a home for a mother starting over. Watching her children run into rooms of their own changed something—proof that service isn’t abstract, it’s life-changing. Phinehas shows that integrity is when your actions speak the same truth as your faith.
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PAIGE MILES – Senior, Olentangy Berlin High School
Paige leads with a heart for inclusion, inspired by her brother who has autism. As president of CAPE Club, she works to ensure students with special needs feel seen, valued, and included. One memorable moment came during a simple activity—connecting with a student over a shared interest and seeing the joy it created. Paige reminds us that inclusion is about making meaningful connections.
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ADDISON FRAZIER – Senior, Olentangy High School
After losing her mom to cancer, she created Linked by Hope—a support network for teens navigating the same reality. What started as an idea became a room full of students, partnerships with organizations, and a growing community where no one has to go through it alone. She’s building that same momentum everywhere—from a top DECA competitor to a cheer captain and marketing intern with Pink Ribbon Good—but it all traces back to one decision: use her story to help someone else. Addi doesn’t just overcome adversity—she turns it into a lifeline for others.
QUENTIN PAGE - Senior, Olentangy High School
Quentin builds spaces where people show up—and stay. As a leader in Black Student Union, he helped grow it from fewer than 10 students to more than 50—turning it into a place where students feel seen, supported, and connected. He carries that same influence as a superintendent advisor, making sure student voices don’t just exist—they’re heard. And when he steps into the spotlight—like leading a packed student section, selling out 300 shirts, and uniting a crowd, he proves inclusion can be powerful and visible. From varsity basketball captain to 90+ hours of service, Quentin leads with presence and purpose.
HANNAH MCALLISTER – Senior, Rutherford B. Hayes High School
Hannah goes all in—and she brings everyone with her. As National Honor Society president, she’s not just organizing service—she’s pushing her peers to find what they care about and step into it. On the field, she’s a varsity captain and four-year athlete, known as the loudest voice cheering on her teammates. And in the community—from the United Way to the Delaware County Veterans Parade—she shows up with the same energy: fully committed. One moment stands out—meeting veterans while volunteering, connecting their stories to her own grandfather’s service, and finding a deeper reason to lead with purpose.
ZACHARY SANSON - Senior, Rutherford B. Hayes High School
Zack is a leader who understands that integrity isn’t just a value, it’s a choice you make when no one is watching. As a senior captain, student section leader, and performer, Zack uses his influence to bring people together and set the tone for an entire school community. One moment says it all—standing in a packed gym during a rivalry game, he helped turn a crowd into something more: a united, positive force. The energy, the connection, the pride—it didn’t happen by accident. It happened because Zack chose to lead. He reminds us that real leadership isn’t about recognition, it’s about the impact you have on others, and the culture you leave behind.
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ELIAS GOLLA – Senior, St. Charles Prep
Elias is a leader who believes empowerment begins by helping others find their voice. Whether mentoring middle school students or leading cultural initiatives, he creates spaces where ideas are heard, valued, and celebrated. One moment captures his heart for service—during Night to Shine, a prom for individuals with special needs, Elias worked behind the scenes and alongside each guest to ensure they felt seen, celebrated, and full of joy. It wasn’t just an event, it was a reminder that small acts can create lasting impact.
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SCOTTY THOMPSON – Senior, St. Charles Prep
Scott turns empathy into action, making sure no one feels overlooked or unheard. Guided by his faith, he leads with compassion, believing every person deserves to be seen and valued. One moment defines his impact—working with a struggling student who started the year facing challenges both academically and behaviorally. Through patience, consistency, and belief, Scott helped him transform, ending the year on the honor roll and with a renewed sense of confidence. Scott reminds us that real leadership isn’t about recognition; it’s about changing the trajectory of someone else’s life.
MARIA MAFORIKAN – Senior, Thomas Worthington High School
Maria Maforikan doesn’t just talk about inclusiveness, she builds it, room by room. At the Delaware Area Career Center, she’s preparing for pediatric nursing. After school, she works in a nursing home, learning how to care for people at every stage of life. And in between, she’s organizing food drives, leading Black History Month programming, and walking into elementary classrooms with Cards for Kids—where she saw firsthand how a simple moment can light up a child’s entire day. But what sets Maria apart is how she listens, making sure every voice is heard, every perspective considered, every person included. Maria doesn’t just make space for people, she makes them feel like they belong.
ROYALNA KUMI YEBOAH - Senior, Thomas Worthington High School
Royal represents integrity long before she ever steps into a lab. As a student ambassador for Biotechnology at the Delaware Area Career Center, she’s often the first voice families hear—guiding tours, answering questions, and making science feel possible. She brings that same purpose into the community, from the Mid-Ohio Food Collective to Friendship Village of Dublin, and even into elementary classrooms—where she’s already teaching the next generation how biotech works. But her drive is deeply personal. Inspired by her late mother—and by an elderly woman who once told her to become the doctor she never could—Royal carries more than ambition. She carries legacy.
BROOK TICE, Senior, Upper Arlington High School
Brook saw a gap most people learned to ignore—and she decided not to. When Deaf students were missing critical school announcements, Brook didn’t just notice, she pushed for change, helping advocate for a Deaf-friendly emergency alert system now being put in place. As founder of her school’s ASL club and an instructor to younger students, she’s building bridges every day—between languages, between communities, between people. She’s also bringing those skills beyond school, interpreting in healthcare settings and making sure Deaf voices are heard where it matters most. Brook doesn’t just include others—she rewrites the system so no one is left out.
JUDE YUGOVICH - Senior, Upper Arlington High School
Jude Yugovich doesn’t wait to be asked, he pays attention and takes action. At school, he’s a learning center assistant, quietly stepping in when classmates need support. In the community, he shows up—from Pelotonia fundraisers to long days at Waterman Dairy Farm. And at home, it’s as simple as picking up a shovel after a snowstorm, making sure a neighbor is safe before they even have to worry. There’s no spotlight in what Jude does. Just consistency, awareness, and the instinct to help.
SHIRA BAUMANN – Senior, Westerville North High School
Shira Baumann doesn’t just chase big dreams, she pulls others into them. As student body president and events coordinator, she’s the one setting the pace. On the tennis court, she’s a captain. On stage, a thespian. Behind the scenes, a choreographer and writer. And in every space—from her church to the Mid-Ohio Food Bank—she shows up with the same expectation: give your best and bring others with you. Shira received “The Robe” award in her theatre program which is given to the person who brings the most heart to a production. When Shira earned it, it wasn’t a surprise. It was a reflection. Because Shira doesn’t just lead—she raises the standard for everyone around her.
ISAAC COFIE - Senior, Westerville North High School
Isaac measures success by who he brings with him. As senior class officer, National Honor Society president, and superintendent advisory council president, he’s had a seat at the table—but he’s just as committed to pulling up chairs for others. Through the “I Can” program and mentoring in elementary schools, he’s working directly with younger students—helping them set goals, see their potential, and believe they can change their own communities. For Isaac, this work is personal. He’s returning to the same spaces—and even the same teachers—that once shaped him. Because to him, empowerment isn’t reaching the top—it’s making sure someone else gets there too.
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MAISLEY MCKENZIE – Senior, Westland High School
Maisley McKenzie plans every moment with someone else in mind. As senior class vice president, she’s the one asking the question others forget—who’s not being included?—and then making sure every event answers it. She carries that same awareness into the Garden City Food Pantry, where one simple interaction shifted her perspective—reminding her to see beauty and dignity in every person she meets. On the field as a Westland softball player, and in every space she steps into, Maisley leads the same way: intentionally, thoughtfully, and with others at the center. Maisley doesn’t just include people—she makes sure no one is ever an afterthought.
ALICE NEUSMEYER - Junior, Westland High School
Alice Neusmeyer builds inclusion one relationship at a time. She’s a three-sport varsity athlete—soccer, track, and cross country—and a band section leader. But some of her most important work happens on quieter fields, volunteering with TOPSoccer, where she’s not just coaching, she’s connecting. In one hour with a young athlete, Alice was reminded that this isn’t about résumés or recognition. It’s about making sure someone feels seen, valued, and part of something bigger. Whether she’s refereeing youth games or leading her peers, she carries that same mindset everywhere she goes. Alice doesn’t just include others—she makes sure they know they matter.