Local High School Students Recognized for Achievement

Holzer Health System honored outstanding local high school science graduates at its 41st Annual High School Science Awards Banquet. The scholars, their parents and school representatives were invited to attend, and each student was presented with a certificate and scholarship.  A representative from each high school was also presented with a check to further their efforts in their respective school’s science programs. The Science Awards Program encompasses high schools from Athens, Gallia, Jackson, Meigs, Lawrence, Pike and Vinton Counties in Ohio; and Mason County in West Virginia.

The Science Awards Program honors a student selected by the high school, based on outstanding achievement in science and a desire to pursue a higher education. Each student received a $500 scholarship check to utilize toward higher education.

The featured speaker for the program was Danielle Merry-Sperry, DO, Holzer Pediatrician. She is a graduate of Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine - Athens, Ohio and a native of Gallia County, Ohio. Dr. Merry-Sperry shared inspirational messaging and overcoming obstacles and being a trailblazer throughout life’s journey.  

Through the Science Awards Program, Holzer has contributed to area schools and students for the betterment of education in our region. For more information, visit www.holzer.org or call 1-855-4-HOLZER.

Holzer Health System 2026 Science Awards Recipients:

Paige Ashcraft, Alexander High School

Prem Koshal, Athens High School

Lydia Mayers, Buckeye Hills Career Center

Megan Lowe, Chesapeake High School

Braelie Hitchcock, Dawson-Bryant High School

Cheyenne White, Eastern High School – Reedsville

Jubal Bevins, Eastern High School – Pike

Nour Al-ourani, Fairland High School

Magdalena Kneier, Federal Hocking High School

Matthew Petrie, Gallia Academy High School

Makenna Hull, Hannan High School

Alora Mahlmeister, Ironton High School

Gavin Simpson, Ironton St. Joseph High School

Ryan Lefever, Jackson High School

Natalie Goode, Meigs High School

Mason Mash, Nelsonville York High School

William Morgan, Oak Hill High School

Alyxandria Kirby, Ohio Valley Christian School

Michelle Maduafokwa, Point Pleasant High School

Autumn Blaisdell, River Valley High School

Audrey Knipp, Rock Hill High School

Molly McWhorter, South Gallia High School

Lyric Young, South Point High School

Jaylynn Hupp, Southern High School

Logan Quinn Simpkins, Symmes Valley High School

Caleb Cahoe, Trimble High School

Kolbie Fri, Vinton County High School

Mary Brinker, Wahama High School

Aaron Profitt, Wellston High School

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