By - Scholarships, Leadership, and Community Support Inspire the Next Generation
By Irina Perry
An evening of celebration, inspiration, and hope brought together students, families, educators, community leaders, and supporters as Greater Columbus Community Helping Hands (GCCHH) honored its Class of 2026 scholarship recipients.
The annual scholarship recognition program celebrated graduating seniors from high schools across Central Ohio who will continue their education at colleges and universities throughout Ohio and beyond. The event highlighted the importance of investing in young people and recognized the many community partners whose support helps make higher education more accessible.
The evening opened with welcoming remarks from Mary Costava, Participant Coordinator with Michigan State University College of Engineering, who expressed gratitude to the organization’s sponsors, partners, volunteers, and guests.
“On behalf of our fellow participants, I’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our sponsors, partners, and attendees for making tonight’s event possible. Your support is invaluable in recognizing and celebrating the outstanding impact of Helping Hands for Youth. Join me in celebrating another year’s success, innovation, and community spirit.”
In addition to celebrating student achievement, the organization also recognized distinguished community leaders whose dedication continues to strengthen educational opportunities for young people. Among those honored was Tina Pierce, a member of the Columbus City Schools Board of Education, in recognition of her leadership, commitment to public education, and continued support of students and families throughout the Columbus community.
Throughout the evening, scholarship recipients proudly introduced themselves, sharing their high schools, future colleges, and career aspirations.
Students represented numerous Central Ohio schools, including Whitehall-Yearling High School, Brookhaven High School, Walnut Ridge High School, Centennial High School, Bishop Hartley High School, East High School, Northland High School, Livingston High School, and several others.
Many graduates will attend:
- The Ohio State University
- Columbus State Community College
- Capital University
- University of Cincinnati
- Wright State University
- Ohio Wesleyan University
- Central State University
- Xavier University
- Austin Peay State University
Career goals reflected a remarkable commitment to serving others. A large number of scholarship recipients plan to pursue careers in nursing, medicine, biology, psychology, physical therapy, biomedical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, finance, accounting, education, construction engineering, business administration, athletic training, and cosmetology.
The evening demonstrated that the future is in capable hands. Each student’s story represented years of dedication, perseverance, and encouragement from parents, teachers, mentors, and community organizations committed to helping them succeed.
Greater Columbus Community Helping Hands continues to make a lasting impact by investing in educational opportunities, mentoring future leaders, and strengthening families throughout Central Ohio. Through scholarships, partnerships, and community engagement, the organization empowers students to pursue their dreams and become leaders who will positively impact their communities for generations to come.
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