Marietta, Ohio — The Ohio Valley Educational Service Center (OVESC) proudly recognized outstanding students and influential individuals from across their membership in southeastern Ohio during its inaugural Heart of Service Awards Ceremony, held Wednesday evening at Washington State College of Ohio.
The Heart of Service Award celebrates graduating seniors who demonstrate exceptional dedication to serving others through leadership, character, and meaningful community impact. Schools across the OVESC region nominated students who exemplify a commitment to service, initiative, integrity, and lasting contributions to their schools and communities.
In addition, each Heart of Service recipient selected a Heart of Influence honoree, a school staff member who has made a profound impact on their educational and personal journey. These honorees represent the mentors, educators, family members, and community leaders who have helped shape and inspire the next generation.
“This evening represents the very best of our region,” said OVESC Superintendent Dalton Summers. “These honorees have set the standard through their service, leadership, and commitment to others.”
2026 Heart of Service Award Recipients
- Belpre High School – Liam Kocher
- Caldwell High School – Sophia Marshall
- Crooksville High School – Grayson Houk
- Fort Frye High School – Mary Kesselring
- Frontier High School – Aaden Bills
- Marietta High School – Jocelyn Arnold
- Mid-East Career & Technology Center – Buffalo Campus – Kaylee Garcia
- Monroe Central High School – Blake Yontz
- Morgan High School – Peyton Welsh
- River High School – Ava Wohnhas
- Swiss Hills Career Center – Gracie Blair
- Warren High School – Sophie Boothby
- Washington County Career Center – Sophia Parlin
- Waterford High School – Katelynn Valandingham
2026 Heart of Influence Award Recipients
- Belpre High School – Debbie Edgar
- Caldwell High School – Emma Marshall
- Crooksville High School – Jerome LaBatte
- Fort Frye High School – Tyler Hartline
- Frontier High School – Adam Olson
- Marietta High School – Paige Fleming
- Mid-East Career & Technology Center – Buffalo Campus – Tracy Brown
- Monroe Central High School – Logan Binegar
- Morgan High School – Dawn Nesselroad
- River High School – Amy Shreve
- Swiss Hills Career Center – Brian Diss
- Warren High School – Jimmy Sundquist
- Washington County Career Center – Steve Parlin
- Waterford High School – Matt Hartline
The OVESC extends its sincere appreciation to all participating schools, families, and community partners who support and inspire student success across the region.
The Ohio Valley Educational Service Center serves more than 12,000 students across six southeastern Ohio counties, providing over 50 educational services that support schools, educators, students, and families.
