By More Survivors of Richard Strauss Speak Out at Press Conference Outside Woody Hayes Athletic Center
Irina Perry
By Irina Perry
On May 26, 2026, former Ohio State athletes, community leaders, union leaders, and advocates gathered outside the Woody Hayes Athletic Center in Columbus, Ohio, for a powerful press conference addressing new allegations involving former Ohio State University doctor Richard Strauss.
The event focused on newly identified survivors coming forward to share their experiences and continue the ongoing call for accountability, transparency, and justice.
According to organizer Michael DiSabato of DiSabato Ventures, the press conference was held to provide survivors with a public platform while encouraging continued awareness and support for those impacted.
Featured speakers included Jeff Happ, former Columbus Division of Fire Chief; Brian Steel, President of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Capital City Lodge #9; and Steve Stein, President of the Columbus Fire Fighters Union, IAFF Local 67. Former Ohio State athlete survivors, including Al Washington and Michael DiSabato, also spoke during the event.
Speakers emphasized the importance of standing with survivors and ensuring their voices continue to be heard. Several addressed the emotional and long-term effects trauma can have on victims and their families, while also stressing the need for institutional accountability and meaningful reform.
The gathering drew attention to the growing number of survivors who continue to come forward years after the scandal first became public. Community leaders, law enforcement representatives, and union officials stood together in solidarity with survivors seeking recognition, healing, and justice.
The Richard Strauss scandal remains one of the most significant abuse cases connected to a university athletic program in the United States. Strauss, who served as a physician at Ohio State University from 1978 to 1998, was accused by hundreds of former students and athletes of sexual abuse during medical examinations and treatments.
As additional survivors continue to share their stories, advocates say the fight for accountability and institutional responsibility remains ongoing.
Lighting the Way Through Education and Mental Wellness: 2026 Trailblazer Scholarship Recipient Raine Johnson Inspires Through Leadership and Purpose
For many students, high school is a time of discovery. For Raine Johnson, it has been a journey defined by leadership, service, compassion, and academic excellence. As a 2026 Trailblazer Scholarship Recipient, Johnson is being recognized not only for her achievements in the classroom, but also for her commitment to uplifting others through education and mental wellness advocacy.
A student at Columbus Downtown High School and an active student-athlete at Centennial High School in Cheer and Track & Field, Johnson has demonstrated the ability to balance academics, athletics, and community service with determination and grace. Her story reflects the very meaning of a trailblazer — someone who leads with vision, courage, and heart.
With a passion for early childhood education and psychology, Johnson has already begun making an impact in the lives of young learners by serving as a preschool teacher. Through patience, mentorship, and encouragement, she continues to inspire children while gaining hands-on experience in the field she loves most.
Her dedication to leadership and service extends far beyond the classroom. Johnson has been actively involved in organizations including the National Technical Honor Society, National Honor Society, Delta GEMS, Beautifully Flawed, and Educators Rising. Each experience has helped shape her commitment to empowering others and advocating for mental wellness in schools and communities.
Johnson’s personal mission, “Lighting the Way Through Education and Mental Wellness,” reflects her vision for the future — one centered on healing, growth, and opportunity. This fall, she will attend Howard University, where she plans to major in Psychology. Her long-term goal is to earn a master’s degree in industrial-Organizational Psychology and help transform workplace environments by advancing mental wellness and unlocking human potential.
As communities continue to recognize the importance of mental health awareness, leaders like Raine Johnson are helping pave the way for a more compassionate and supportive future. Her journey serves as an inspiration to young people across Columbus and beyond — proving that purpose, discipline, and service can create lasting change.
The 2026 Trailblazer Scholarship recognition celebrates students who are not only academically driven but also committed to making a difference in their communities. Raine Johnson represents the next generation of leaders who are prepared to inspire, educate, and lead with impact.
2026 Trailblazer Scholarship Recipient: DeLaiah White Inspires Through Leadership, Service, and Determination
The future of leadership, public service, and community advocacy shines brightly through the accomplishments of DeLaiah White, a remarkable student whose dedication to excellence has earned her recognition as a 2026 Trailblazer Scholarship Recipient.
Currently a student at Licking Heights High School and enrolled in the Criminal Justice program at C-TEC, White has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to academic achievement, leadership, and community service. With a strong passion for law, public safety, and understanding human behavior, she continues to pave the way for a promising future in the justice system.
Throughout her high school career, White has embraced numerous leadership opportunities and extracurricular activities that have shaped her growth both personally and professionally. She serves as Treasurer of the National Technical Honor Society and holds several leadership positions within SkillsUSA, including student leader, secretary, and voting delegate. Her commitment to excellence also extends to the National Honor Society and the Global Scholars Diploma Program.
In addition to academics, White has excelled in athletics and the arts. As a varsity track and field athlete and team captain, she has shown discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Her passion for music is equally impressive, serving as both a first violinist and lead alto performer.
Outside the classroom, White has gained valuable real-world leadership experience as a trainer and team leader at Chick-fil-A, where she trains employees, manages team operations, and helps ensure exceptional customer service. These responsibilities have strengthened her communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills while preparing her for future professional success.
Her dedication to serving others extends deeply into the community. White has consistently volunteered through childcare centers, food drives, soup kitchens, homeless shelters, clothing and shoe drives, and local park cleanups. Through these efforts, she has developed a strong sense of compassion, responsibility, and service toward others.
White has also earned multiple certifications, including OSHA 10-Hour General Industry, First Aid/CPR/AED, 911 Dispatch, FEMA, and NIMS certifications — accomplishments that reflect both her ambition and preparedness for a future in public service.
Looking ahead, White plans to pursue higher education through a 3+3 pre-law program as she works toward her goal of becoming a forensic psychologist. Her passion for understanding human behavior and contributing to the justice system reflects a level of maturity and purpose well beyond her years.
As a 2026 Trailblazer Scholarship Recipient, DeLaiah White represents the very meaning of perseverance, leadership, and service. Her journey stands as an inspiration to young people throughout Central Ohio and beyond, proving that dedication, hard work, and compassion can truly create lasting impact.
Support the New Americans magazine to continue to serve our community with precise news that affect the new American, immigrant and refugee community. https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=8LHFS78NRNJJY&source=url
