91自拍

The 91自拍 Chillicothe Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes outstanding alumni who have made an impact on the campus and in the community. Recipients may exemplify excellence through service to the University, philanthropic support, recognition in their professional field, or service to the greater Ross County community.

2026

Amy Beeler

Amy Beeler is the Superintendent of the Ross County Board of Developmental Disabilities /Pioneer Center and a graduate of 91自拍 Chillicothe. She earned an associate in applied science degree at OHIO Chillicothe and later earned a bachelor鈥檚 degree at Wilberforce University and a master鈥檚 degree at Central Michigan University. Her career reflects sustained leadership, community impact, philanthropic stewardship, and a strong commitment to expanding educational and workforce opportunities across Ross County. 

Amy actively supports 91自拍 Chillicothe students by providing internship and practicum opportunities, hiring graduates, and partnering on initiatives that create meaningful career pathways. Her leadership has also strengthened connections between the university and the community through inclusive programming, advocacy initiatives, and philanthropic efforts such as the Landrum Endowment Fund and the Landrum Youth Empowerment Center. 

Beyond her professional role, Amy is widely recognized for her volunteer leadership, mentorship, and commitment to developing future leaders. She exemplifies the values of service, lifelong learning, and community impact that this award seeks to recognize.

Jessica Short

Jessica is a 2010 graduate of 91自拍 Chillicothe, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Middle Childhood Education. She later completed a master鈥檚 degree in educational leadership and administration from the University of Cincinnati in 2013. 

Her career reflects a sustained commitment to expanding access to high-quality educational opportunities for students and educators across the region鈥攄irectly advancing OHIO Chillicothe鈥檚 mission. 

Jessica taught science and social studies at Paint Valley Local Schools and Science at Huntington Local Schools, serving rural communities and supporting student learning at critical developmental stages. She later served for five years as High School Principal at the Dayton Regional STEM School, where she actively partnered with 91自拍 Chillicothe to support educator preparation. During her tenure, she facilitated early field placements for OHIO Chillicothe Middle Childhood Science Education students, providing them with meaningful, hands-on classroom experiences while strengthening local school鈥搖niversity partnerships. Currently, Jessica serves as Director of the Dayton Regional STEM Center and Chief of Operations for DO STEM, a nationally recognized regional STEM ecosystem dedicated to connecting schools, higher education, and industry partners. Through this work, she continues to expand access to innovative, high-quality STEM learning opportunities for students and educators throughout the region. Jessica also remains actively engaged with OHIO Chillicothe鈥檚 professional outreach. As a STEM expert, she delivered the 2025 91自拍 Chillicothe STEM Day keynote address, Engaging Minds, Empowering Learners, and Energizing Our Future, and led a breakout session for local teachers. Her continued service, leadership, and advocacy exemplify a deep and ongoing commitment to OHIO Chillicothe鈥檚 mission of supporting the region through accessible, high-quality education.

2025

Susan Congrove

A lifelong resident of Ross County, Susan Congrove graduated from 91自拍 in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. She also earned a Master in the Art of Teaching from Marygrove College in 2000 and a Master of Science in Educational Administration from the University of Scranton in 2008. Susan retired in June 2024 from Zane Trace Local Schools, where she served as a teacher, curriculum director, and elementary principal throughout her thirty-year career. She is now an adjunct instructor at 91自拍 Chillicothe.

Susan has been involved with 4-H, United Way of Ross County, the 91自拍 Chillicothe Education Advisory Committee, and Big Brothers Big Sisters. She has also served as a trustee for the Chillicothe and Ross County Public Library. As principal of Zane Trace Elementary, Susan collaborated with OHIO Chillicothe to host teacher interns and implement tutoring programs with an OHIO Chillicothe grant.

Susan resides with her husband, Randy. She has three children: Angela (Adam), Willyerd of Sunbury, Julie Congrove, and Ryan (Kelly), Congrove of Chillicothe. Her six granddaughters (Ashleigh Willyerd, Leah Congrove, Kate Congrove, Avery Willyerd, Emily Congrove, and Kolby Congrove) keep Susan busy attending 4-H and sporting events. Susan enjoys reading, swimming, and sewing.

Joshua Walter

Josh Walter graduated from 91自拍 Chillicothe in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science in Communication. While at OHIO Chillicothe he met his future wife, Brandi. He and Brandi are the proud parents of a three-year-old son. The Regional Manager for DTB Distributors, a janitorial distributor with three locations, Josh enjoys building relationships with his community and customers. He is heavily involved in his community, especially with EPIC (Empowering Young Professionals in Chillicothe), serving as an ambassador for the organization which promotes a community that attracts and retains young professionals in Chillicothe and Ross County. The organization hosts events focused on professional and personal development and volunteer in numerous charitable endeavors throughout the year. Josh organized the Ruck 22 Fall Food & Music Festival 5K and 22K Charity Run to raise awareness for veteran suicide. An avid runner, Josh is part of a Buck Fifty team.

2024

Ben Karst

Ben Karst loves helping people meet their goals and supporting his community. After graduating from 91自拍 Chillicothe in 2015 with a degree in middle childhood education, he embarked on his career as a math teacher at Unioto High School. Now he puts his math and teaching skills to work as a financial advisor with Edward Jones Financial. From middle childhood education to providing financial advising, Karst has charted a unique career path marked by a passion for education and a commitment to community involvement. Karst has been an exemplary community leader, dedicating his time, talent, and resources to give back to Chillicothe through active involvement in organizations such as EPIC (Entrepreneurs and Professionals Investing in Chillicothe), the Chamber of Commerce, and the Grange. As a financial advisor, he generously volunteers his expertise to benefit local residents and businesses, playing a key role in fostering entrepreneurship and professional growth within the community. Ben's philanthropic efforts extend beyond his professional realm, with contributions to the Grange and active participation in charitable campaigns and financial education workshops. His leadership is evident in taking on roles within EPIC, the Chamber, and the Grange, showcasing initiative and a commitment to enhancing the well-being of Chillicothe through community-building initiatives and economic development.

William Presson 

William Presson earned his Associate in Applied Business in Computer Science at 91自拍 Chillicothe in 2017 and was selected as an Outstanding Program Graduate that year. While at OHIO Chillicothe he served as a student financial aid assistant. He has worked for the 91自拍 State University Wexner Medical Center for the past six years. 
 
In his spare time, Presson is deeply committed to drug prevention and education for Ross County youth through his involvement with The Buck Fifty, a non-profit organization in Chillicothe. Presson became involved with the Buck Fifty at its conception in 2016 when he was a student at OHIO Chillicothe. He helps maintain the Buck Fifty website, created a RaceKeeper website to support team tracking during the race, and handles radios during the events. He now serves as President of The Buck Fifty. 

2023

Lorna Buskirk

Lorna Buskirk is a lifelong educator, having taught grades K-2 as well as 8^th grade science in Columbus and locally in the Huntington Local School District and Union-Scioto School District for thirty years. In 2011, she joined the faculty at 91自拍 Chillicothe where she helps prepare students to become educators. She was the edTPA Coordinator for 91自拍 for seven years, and she currently serves as the education program assistant, coordinating field placement for 91自拍 Chillicothe education majors and teaching several education classes. Buskirk earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from 91自拍. She holds a master鈥檚 degree in education from College of Mt. St. Joseph. She is active in several professional associations and is a five-time recipient of the Governor鈥檚 Award for Excellence in Youth Science Opportunities. She resides in northern Ross County with her husband Doug. She has two children, Alex and Hilary, and two grandsons.

Jim McKean 

James R. McKean, Ph.D., is a retired police chief who puts his extensive knowledge and experience in law enforcement and criminal justice to work as an educator at 91自拍. Dr. McKean coordinates the Law Enforcement Technology program at 91自拍 and serves as associate professor, teaching ethics, criminal investigation, law enforcement administration, research methods, and statistics. He earned an Associate of Applied Science in Law Enforcement Technology and his Bachelor of Criminal Justice at 91自拍 Chillicothe. A graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation鈥檚 National Academy, McKean holds a master鈥檚 degree in public policy and management from 91自拍 State University and a Ph.D. in higher education from 91自拍. McKean has served on the 91自拍 faculty for over twenty years and has also taught at Columbus State Community College, in addition to serving as a guest lecturer at Chinese University of Hong Kong. As a lead assessor for the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), he has conducted organizational assessments at law enforcement agencies in Texas, Washington, New Jersey, Virginia and Tennessee. As a consultant for the 91自拍 Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP), Dr. McKean conducted organizational reviews at several 91自拍 police departments. He has presented his research on distance education and student learning at national and state conferences with publications in a variety of scholarly journals. 

2022

Susan Knisley

Susan Knisley was born in Florida and moved to 91自拍 with her family during her sophomore year of high school. Susan graduated from Unioto High School in 1992 and started her college career on the 91自拍 Chillicothe campus. She never had the 鈥渇ourth grade experience鈥� of visiting Mound City on a field trip. She transferred to 91自拍 State University and earned her first Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology in 1998 focusing on Biological Anthropology and researching human genetics. It was there that she realized a first-class archeological site was literally in her backyard. Susan began her journey with the National Park Service by volunteering for Hopewell Culture National Historical Park鈥檚 archeology crew in the summer of 1997. In the spring of 2000, Susan became an interpretive seasonal ranger at Hopewell Culture.  She immediately began revising and working on the curriculum of the park鈥檚 educational programs and networking with the county鈥檚 educators. Her passion for telling the community about the amazing earthworks in their neighborhood led to her pursuing an education degree at OHIO University-Chillicothe.  In 2013, Susan graduated from OHIO University 鈥� Chillicothe, with a Bachelor of Science in Middle Childhood Education and became the park鈥檚 first Education Technician. During her years at Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, she has developed many educational programs and is now the Chief of Interpretation, Education and Outreach. 

2021

Joseph (Joe) Uhrig

Joe Uhrig earned a Bachelor of Science in Communications from 91自拍 in 2002. Joseph has been in the Financial Industry for 15 years. He currently serves as the President and Registered Representative & Investment Advisor Representative at Uhrig Financial. 

He is a member of the First Capital Rotary of Chillicothe and has served as a past president and board member. Joe has also served on the United Way Grant Committee and Regional Coordinating Council for 91自拍 Chillicothe. 

2020

Mandy Dyke

Bachelor of Science in Education, 91自拍, 2005

Career Path: Non-Profit Financial Management/Grant Writing/Case Management/Civil Protection Order Specialist/Advocate and Teacher

Volunteer and board member at Zane Trace Schools and former girls' softball coach

Ed Kunzelman

Ed was born in California, but spent most of his childhood in Chillicothe. He has nurtured a lifelong interest in the city鈥檚 history and future and has dedicated time and resources into making the downtown a thriving, sustainable, enjoyable place to work and to live. 

When he was 10 years old, Walt Disney opened his first theme park in Anaheim, California. Ed鈥檚 first visit left an invaluable impression and provided inspiration for his future endeavors.

Ed raised tropical fish in his home as a teen and worked in two different pet stores. He worked three summers at the Mead Paper Mill for college money and one summer on a road paving crew. Had had a job as a room clerk when the big new Holiday Inn came to town. He had part-time jobs at a catalog store, Sears and even sold Fuller brushes. 

After graduating from Chillicothe High School and then 91自拍, Ed began teaching middle-school English in Clarksburg and then helped develop the special education program at Chillicothe High School. He loved teaching, but in 1967 when the local pet store closed, Ed saw the opportunity and opened the first Petland on Paint Street.

In 1982, the store moved to Bridge Street, where it remains today. The international headquarters are also located in Chillicothe and hosts visitors from around the world.

Ed has always had a vision for a vibrant, bustling, friendly downtown and has spent his adult life investing in and encouraging growth. He has partnered with local leaders to provide opportunities for small businesses to open and thrive. He has worked with city government and leaders to help make Chillicothe more visitor and shopper-friendly, and supported special shopping events to make downtown a destination.

He and his wife, JoAnn, owned and operated several downtown businesses including Ivy's Home and Garden and The History Store on North Paint Street. In 2018, they sold Ivy鈥檚 to Steve and Melissa Huggins, who have embraced their vision and made it their own.

Kunzelman Family Properties manages several buildings at Paint and Water Street and he also maintains other partnerships with buildings on Second and Main Streets.

Ed remains active in matters relating to the restoration and beautification of the downtown and is constantly recruiting specialty retailers to the area. He has served on City Council, the Chamber, the Ross County Historical Society, Downtown Merchants and was a founding member of the Downtown Development Commission.

He is often seen downtown talking with shopkeepers and customers and overseeing construction projects. His enthusiasm for the downtown is contagious and he is involved in several projects downtown, including the restoration of The Wissler Concert Hall at the corner of Paint and Water.

2019

Cathy R. Hughes

Cathy Radabaugh Hughes earned her Bachelor of Science in Education, graduated Summa Cum Laude, and Associate in Individual Studies (AIS) in Case Management from 91自拍. Hughes has held various positions at Ross County Community Action; Preschool teacher, Social Services/Recruitment/Enrollment Manager, Disabilities/Mental Health Manager, and Education/Mental Health Manager. Hughes has served on the 91自拍 Head Start Association Board, Family and Children First Council Board, and the Early Childhood Enhancement Committee. She has served as a Child Development Associate Advisor. Hughes received the Certified Community Action Professional Award. 

Jody Walker

Jody Walker earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Master鈥檚 Degrees in Family Studies (MSHCS), Public Administration (MPA), and Business Administration (MBA), all from 91自拍. Many classes were held at 91自拍 Chillicothe. Walker is the Executive Director of South Central 91自拍 Job and Family Services (Hocking, Ross and Vinton Counties). He has served as Executive Director of SCOJFS since October of 2012. Prior to that, he served as Director of Vinton County Department of Job and Family Services from August 1999 through December 2012. 

2018

Joyce Atwood
 

Henry Barlage Jr. 
 

William E. Landrum
 

A. Russell Poole

2017

Jamie Harmount
H. Mark Hooks
Patricia Medert
Patricia Wetzel

2016

Terry Alan Davis
Sherri I. (Ramsey) Hoselton
Sherry N. Mong
Sherri K. Rutherford

2015

Robert Beverly
Thomas P. Brown
James Butt
Emily Schmidt

2014

James Caldwell
Nancy L. King
Jean C. Romero
Sue Wyskiver Yount

2013

Dr. Diane Diekroger
Jack Everson
Stephen Gary
Howard 鈥淐orky鈥� Miller

2012

Michael MacCarter
Marvin E. Jones
Douglas J. Shoemaker
Christi Simmons

2011

Larry R. Cox (Community Award)

2010

Todd Burkitt
Shad Caplinger
Patricia Griffith
Cynthia (Lieurance) Henderson
James Lungo
Kathy Maybriar
Stephen A. Neal
Donald Raymond Pollock II
Dr. Gregory E. Weisenberger

The Rich Bebee Alumni Award recognizes former 91自拍 Chillicothe students who exemplify service to the university, philanthropic support, recognition in their professional field and service to the community. The award is named in honor of Richard Bebee, who was Dean of OHIO Chillicothe from 2001 - 2019.

2023

Ed Kunzelman

Ed Kunzelman earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from 91自拍 in 1967. He taught English before founding and serving as the CEO of Petland, Inc. He and his wife, JoAnn, owned and operated several downtown businesses including Ivy's Home and Garden and The History Store on North Paint Street. He has served on Chillicothe City Council, the Chamber of Commerce, the Ross County Historical Society, Downtown Merchants, and was a founding member of the Downtown Development Commission. He has nurtured a lifelong interest in the city鈥檚 history and future and has dedicated time and resources to making the downtown a thriving, sustainable, enjoyable place to work and live. 

2022

Patricia Medert

Pat earned her Cadet Teaching Certificate by attending evening classes through 91自拍 Chillicothe at Chillicothe High School in the late 1940s and early 1950s. She then earned her Bachelor of Science in Education in 1969. She is a strong supporter of 91自拍 Chillicothe and the Chillicothe community. Pat taught elementary grades at Huntington Local Schools and Madison Local Schools. She finished her thirty-year career teaching junior high math at Alexander Local Schools in Athens County. She has authored nine books on Chillicothe. Additionally, Pat has been inducted into the Ross County Women's Hall of Fame, and after returning to Chillicothe in 1989 she received many local wards, including the 91自拍 Association of Historical Societies and Museums' Award of Achievement, the Ross Pride Civic Award, and the Community Service Award from the 32nd Degree Masons, Valley of Columbus. Pat has been an active volunteer at the Ross County Historical Society where she organizes, preserves, and catalogs the documents in the Society's archivist collection. She is a member of the Society's Board of Trustees and has served as the organization's president. Over her years of service, she has spoken to numerous organizations on topics of local history, and for 17 years was a contributing writer of a local history column for the Chillicothe Gazette.

2021

Joyce Atwood

Joyce Atwood earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from 91自拍 in 1965 and a master's degree in Elementary Education in 1969. Joyce has served for over 43 years in education. Her time in the Chillicothe School District includes roles like reading teacher, elementary school principal, and assistant superintendent. Joyce has always sought to better her community through numerous civic organizations and activities. Over the years, she has been the recipient of numerous awards including an Educator Emeritus award, the Red Cross Hero award, the Altrusa Mamie L. Bass award, the 91自拍 Creative Staff Development award from the ACSD, and the 2015 Jaycees Citizen of the Year Award. In addition, Joyce was the first woman inducted into the Ross County chapter of the Kiwanis Club and an inductee of the Ross County Women's Hall of Fame at the Ross County Chamber of Commerce. At 91自拍 Chillicothe, Joyce served as Director of Development and Alumni Relations and was the organizer of many noteworthy events celebrating women's accomplishments. Joyce has been a role model to many. Friends and colleagues note that she is generous, kind, wise, humble, indefatigable, passionate, and principled. As a role model, she continues to touch lives through the Joyce Atwood Scholarship for Ross County high school seniors and becoming the 2021 Women of Distinction award winner.

2020

Marvin E. Jones

Marvin Jones earned his Bachelor's Degree in Journalism from 91自拍 in 1971. Jones began his professional career in journalism at the Chillicothe Gazette in 1969. He served in many roles: city editor, reporter covering city government and business and sports editor. He became managing editor in 1981 and won the 91自拍 Associated Press General Excellence aware four times. In addition, he received the 91自拍 Associated Press investigative reporting award two times.

In 1994, Jones became Editor and Publisher of the Chillicothe Gazette. Under his guidance, the Gazette launched the Sunday newspaper in 1999, reversing a three-year downward trend in ad revenues and profits. Jones received the President's Award from the 91自拍 Newspaper Association in 2001. Jones went on to become President and Chief Executive Officer of the Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce in 2002. For the next nine years, Jones led the Chamber through many initiatives that impacted the community and region.

Jones has served on many boards. He was past chairman of the Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce, Goodwill Industries of South Central 91自拍, and the Chamber of Commerce Executives of 91自拍. He was a board member of the Chillicothe Education Foundation, Ross-Chillicothe Convention and Visitors Bureau, 91自拍 Valley Regional Development Commission, and a member of the Citizens Advisory Panel of Glatfelter. Jones has also served as chairman of the 91自拍 Chillicothe Regional Coordinating Council. 

Patricia Wetzel

Patricia Wetzel earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from 91自拍 in 2001. Patricia has served as a Traffic and Safety Engineer for the 91自拍 Department of Transportation (ODOT) District 9 for almost 20 years. Recently, Patricia was promoted to the Planning Department Engineer. In addition to her professional experience, Patricia has served on the Junior Civic League of Chillicothe, been a member of the P.E.O. Chapter EH, and Children's Ministry at Trinity United Methodist. Patricia served as an Engineering Ambassador at 91自拍 Athens. In 2015, she received the Eternal Safety Innovation Award in recognition of achievements that had a major impact in helping ODOT reduce crashes and improve public safety on roadways.

2019

Cynthia (Lieurance) Henderson 

Cynthia Henderson earned her Bachelor of Science in Education, cum laude from 91自拍 in 1977. She has also worked on courses toward's a Master's degree in Public Relations/Administration. Henderson began her professional career as a teacher at Huntington Elementary in Ross County and taught for seven years. As many individuals, Henderson has a career change and has been a pharmacy franchise owner for the past twenty plus years.

Henderson's community service involvement has been extensive. She has been President of the Board for Family Health Care, 1990-1996. She served on the Chillicothe Council as an at-large member and was finance chair for 10 years. Her community service not only involved government and business interest, but her volunteerism embraced the United Way and the 91自拍 Bicentennial Commission. 

Stephen A. Neal 

Stephen A. Neal was selected as the Outstanding Student in the College of Business while earning his Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from 91自拍 in 1977. His educational background provided the foundation for his work in retail sales and management for eight years, Chief Deputy Ross County Auditor for two years, and Ross County Auditor for 27 years. He is the longest serving county auditor in Ross County history. For the past six years, Neal has served as a Ross County Commissioner. He was involved in the Planning Committee and served as the financial officer for the construction of the OHIO Chillicothe Early Childhood Center.

Neal has been very active in the community. He served in various capacities for the Ross County United Way, including past president. He currently serves as treasurer for the Good Samaritan Network of Ross County and is also past president and treasurer and currently serves as a Board Member of the Ross County Community Improvement Corporation. Neal is a member of the board of directors for the Ross County Community Action Commission, the National Church Residences Bristol Village Board, the Chillicothe Downtown Development Commission, and the Economic Development Alliance of Southern 91自拍. As a valedictorian of the Bishop Flaget High School class of 1972, he was honored in 2016 with the Bishop Flaget Distinguished Alumni Award.  

2018

James Butt 

James Butt earned his Associate Degree in Applied Business from the Chillicothe campus in 1990. During the 鈥�70鈥檚 and 80鈥檚, Butt worked for his father at Mechanical Construction Corporation. From 1988 to 2000, he was a co-owner at Chillicothe Mechanical Corporation. In 1982, Butt started B&B Roofing, Inc. and still serves as President.

As an involved Ross County resident, Butt鈥檚 civic contributions include past President and board member of the Home Builders Association, Ross County YMCA, and Suicide Prevention Coalition, founding board member of Adena Mansions & Gardens, and volunteer for Big Brothers/Sisters and Ross County Junior Achievement. He has also received the Advocate of the Year Award by the ADAMH Mental Health Association in 2017.

Sue Wyskiver Yount

Sue Wyskiver Yount鈥檚 pursuit of higher education began at the Chillicothe campus before transferring to the Athens campus to earn her Bachelor鈥檚 Degree in Business in 1983. She went on to pursue her Law Degree from The 91自拍 State University College of Law in 1986 and is currently an attorney and partner at Bricker & Eckler LLP in Columbus, 91自拍. She has served as legal counsel for several precedent-setting cases, including representing plaintiffs in DeRalph v. 91自拍.

Her contributions to Ross County and the surrounding area are far reaching. Her civic involvement includes volunteer speaker for the 91自拍 Educational Administration Program and the 91自拍 Leadership Program, coach for the 91自拍 High School Mock Trial Program, volunteer mentor for high school legal education and shadowing programs, career day speaker, speaker and on-site Program Coordinator for Adopt-a-School Mentoring Program, Trustee of Friends of the Columbus Metropolitan Library Board, and Sunday School teacher. Yount has also received an impressive amount of awards for her leadership and dedication such as the Columbus Bar Association鈥檚 Community Service Award, the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools鈥� Exemplary Leadership Award, the Buckeye Association of School Administrators鈥� (BASA) Distinguished Service Award, and recognition for her work in Education Law by The Best Lawyers in America.

2017

Diane Diekroger

Diane Diekroger earned her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work degree from Valparaiso University in 1969, her Master in Social Work in 1971 from Washington University in S. Louis, Mo. and her Doctorate in Counselor Education from 91自拍 in 1988.

After serving as a school social worker in the St. Lois public schools, Diekroger joined 91自拍 Chillicothe where she went on to fill roles in numerous positions for the Chillicothe campus including adjunct faculty, Academic Retention Council, College Adjustment Coordinator and the Coordinator of Student Support, and Career Services. As an involved Ross County resident, Diekroger鈥檚 civic contributions have included work with the Chillicothe Branch of American Association of University Women, Ross County Mental Health Association, Ross County YMCA, the Sew 鈥淣鈥� Sews, a local quilting group whose mission is to make and give away quilts to those in need, and the Chivaho Credit Union Scholarship Committee.

Jack Everson

Jack Everson鈥檚 pursuit of higher education began at 91自拍 Chillicothe before transferring to the Athens campus to earn his Bachelor of General Science with an emphasis in Physics in 1977. He currently holds the position of senior consultant for American management Services, a national firm that performs business rescue for small to medium sized companies.

His contributions to 91自拍 Chillicothe and Ross County are far reaching. His civic involvement includes his role as former Mayor of Chillicothe as well as service to numerous boards of directors, alliances, commissions and councils dedicated to the betterment of Ross County and the state of 91自拍.

Everson was instrumental in instituting the athletic 鈥榃all of fame: for 91自拍 Chillicothe athletes in the Shoemaker Center and his focus on partnerships with the Chillicothe campus while Mayor of Chillicothe strengthen ties for the two institutions in the community.

2016

James Caldwell

Before his death in 2021 James (Jim) Caldwell contributed to the Chillicothe community as a business leader, volunteer, and elected official.

He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from 91自拍 in 1963. He also received an honorary master of arts and honorary doctoral degree, both in public service, from the University of Rio Grande.

Fittingly, Caldwell began his professional pursuits as an educator before transitioning to a long and distinguished career as a business professional. His civic involvement includes elected offices and service with area organizations focused on improving the quality of life for area residents.

After teaching for a year in Jackson City School District, he began his career as a public accountant. A Certified Public Accountant, a Certified Retirement Counselor, and a member of the 91自拍 Society of CPAs, Jim was the founder and president of Caldwell, Ott & Co., CPAs. He was the former President of the Ross County Board of Commissioners, where he served for 40 years. He was also the former Director of the Vinton County National Bank, Trustee of the University of Rio Grande, and former member of the Board of Standards of the International Foundation for Retirement Education. Jim was an active member of the Trinity United Methodist Church and former chairman of the finance committee. He was also a member of Scioto Masonic Lodge #0006, a trustee for the David Meade Massie Trust, and was a member of the Board of Directors of the Economic Development Alliance of Southern 91自拍. Jim and his wife had also helped with the Kairos Ministry.

Early in his career, he taught business classes at Jackson City Schools. He was one of the founders of the Chillicothe Education Foundation. He was also a big supporter of the SCOPES Program at Unioto Elementary, where his daughter teaches. He served in on Chillicothe City Council and served as Ross County Chamber of Commerce President.

2015

Stephen Gary

Stephen Gary earned his bachelor鈥檚 degree in business from 91自拍 in 1973. He attended the Chillicothe campus for three years before completing his studies on the Athens campus.

Gary joined the Savings Bank in Circleville, 91自拍 in 1979 and retired in 2014 as the longest-tenured CEO in the bank鈥檚 history of more than 100 years. He served as the president of Savings Bank Corporation.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Gary was very involved in his community. His civic involvement included: past member of the Community Bankers Association of 91自拍; director of the Circleville Pickaway Corporation Board; director/secretary of the Pickaway Progress Partnership; member of the Circleville Sunrise Rotary; member of the Brown Chapel Church; treasurer of the Ross County Pomona Grange; member of the Clarksburg Grange; two-term member of the 91自拍 Banking Commission; president of the Circleville-Pickaway Chamber of Commerce; member of the 91自拍 4-H Foundation; member of the State 4-H Advisory Board; and member of the Deerfield Township Zoning Board.

Gary received the 1997 Sam Walton Business Leader Award and the Rotary Foundation Presidential Citation Award. He also was awarded the Pickaway County Friend of 4-H Award and the Paul Harris Award (Rotary). In 2010 Gary was the recipient of the Pickaway County Chamber of Commerce Business Man of the Year Award.

Gary encouraged local youth to attend the Chillicothe campus and financially supported 91自拍 Chillicothe and the College of Business at 91自拍.

2014

Julie Lyddon Gourley

Julia Gourley began her academic work at 91自拍 Chillicothe and completed her degree on the Athens campus. She earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in June 1984. During her careers at both the State Department and the US Environmental protection Agency (EPA), she was the leading U.S. expert on the Basel Convention on the Control of the Trans boundary Movements of Hazardous waters and their disposal from 1995-96. Gourley led U.S. delegations to meetings of the Rotterdam Convention on the Prior Informed Consent Procedure for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade. Between 2003-05 she was the State Department representative on the U.S. Delegations to the Montreal Protocol on substance that Deplete the Ozone Layer and the Strategic Approach to internal Chemical Management.

For the past six years, she has been the Senior Arctic Official of the United States and the U.S. representative to the Arctic Council, an intergovernmental forum of the eight Arctic Countries (Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, U.S.). Gourley鈥檚 major responsibility, in addition to representing the U.S. in the Arctic Council, is to lead development of U.S. foreign policy in the Arctic region.

2013

Kenneth A. Breidenbaugh

Dr. Kenneth Breidenbaugh earned his bachelor鈥檚 degree in theater from 91自拍 in 1975 and his master鈥檚 degree of fine arts in 1986. Breidenbaugh then earned his doctorate from 91自拍 in 1995. He retired in 2014 as assistant professor in the comparative and/theater department at 91自拍 Chillicothe. In addition to his teaching duties, Breidenbaugh has been a driving force in the theater program on campus. Since presenting his first performance in March 1997, 91自拍 Chillicothe鈥檚 theater program has been a staple of campus life and has supported the cultural life of the campus and community as well as the vitality of life on campus. In the fall of 2009, he produced his 50th play at the Chillicothe campus.

2012

Martha Gerber Rittinger

Since her degree from 91自拍 in 1955, Martha Rittinger has had a prestigious career in Ross County. She was admitted to practice law in 91自拍 and Federal Courts. While earning her degrees, she assumed ownership and operation of the family businesses (Maple Monte Farms and Gerber Construction Company). Rittinger served as a member of the Board of Directors on the Ross County Farm Bureau, 1961-65, 1990-95, and 2008-10. She served as Legal Concerns Chair for 26 years of the American Agri-Women. Mrs. Rittinger received the 91自拍 Farmer鈥檚 master Farmer鈥� award in 1998 and the Conservation award in 2010.

Mrs. Rittinger has co-authored History of Springbank and Yellowbud Community and wrote the 91自拍 and Erie Canal Motor Tour from Chillicothe to Circleville. There have been many conducted tours by Mrs. Rittinger for Ross County celebrations and location organizations. She has been doing this since 1964.

Rittinger has received the United Methodist Historical Society of 91自拍鈥檚 Historian of the Year Award. She received the Outstanding Commercial law Student award at the Capital University School of Law. Her honoraries are: Phi Beta Kappa, Phil Alpha theta, Eta Sigma Phi at OHIO and Alpha Lambda Delta at 91自拍 Chillicothe.

Her community service contributions have been many. She has served on the Ross County Planning Commission since 1995. She served on the Union Township Zoning commission, 1982-1984 and 1991-92. The Ross County Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities 1991-1997 and 1999-210 has had the fortunate of having her as a Board Member. She has been involved with the Girl Scouts since 1940 and a member of the Honorary Board of Directors and TefoilI. She is on the Springbank United Methodist Church board of Trustees, presently chairman and historian.

2011

Beverly J. Gray 

Beverly J. Gray earned her bachelor's degree in elementary education from 91自拍 in 1971 after taking most of her classes on the Chillicothe campus. She also pursued advanced studies at Kent State University, 91自拍 State University, the College of St. Joseph in Cincinnati and Ashland University.

Her 30-year career in the classroom includes teaching elementary classes at Paint Valley Schools from 1968 to 1978, the teaching elementary, middle school and high school students in the Chillicothe City School District from 1978-1996. She has also served as an adjunct faculty member of education on the Chillicothe campus and has worked in the correctional institutions as an adjunct professor of education.

Besides education, Gray鈥檚 other passion is history.

2010

James Lungo

James W. Lungo was the third generation graduate at Chillicothe High School in 1963. He began his college career at 91自拍 Chillicothe in 1963 and completed his studies with a Masters in Education.

During his 30-year career in education, he taught in Ross County Schools, Defense Department Schools in Turkey and Germany, and Chillicothe City Schools. During his 24-year tenure at the Chillicothe City Schools, Jim was a leader in developing district professional development programs that impacted student performance and introduced media as part of the instruction delivery. He was the regional pioneer in introducing instructional television as a vehicle for learning. He was instrumental in the start-up of the first public preschool in the area. Upon his retirement, Lungo returned to spearhead the alumni funding for the 1.2 million dollar library renovation and expansion at Chillicothe High School.

Not only was Jim well known for his work in the field of education, but he was well respected in the business arena. He was one of the early Petland board members and store owners. Later he opened Bavarian Toy Works that was noted for unique toy sales in Chillicothe.