(North Canton, OH –May 8, 2023) – Four Stark State College students are among nearly 80 students from Ohio’s 23 community colleges honored for their excellence in academics, leadership and community service by Ohio’s Chancellor of Higher Education as part of the 2023 All-Ohio Academic Team.

Ella George was named first team All-Ohio Academic Team and Benjamin Nash earned second team while Randi Peters and Tammy Monroe were named to third team.

“Our community colleges play an essential role in moving Ohio to the front and center of today’s economy,” said Jack Hershey, president and CEO of the Ohio Association of Community Colleges. “We celebrate their work by recognizing the 2023 All-Ohio Academic Team. These men and women, representing all parts of the state, are shining examples of the way Ohio’s 23 community colleges are preparing the well-educated, motivated workforce our employers seek and the new global economy demands.”

The top-performing students were nominated by college faculty, staff and leaders. Students recognized as first-team honorees will receive $500 scholarships, while second-team members earn $250 scholarships to assist students transferring on to universities to complete their bachelor’s degree requirements. The All-Ohio Academic Team also includes high-achieving students who are planning to move directly into the workforce will also be recognized and receive awards.

“I am pleased to congratulate each of these honorees,” Chancellor Randy Gardner said. “The members of this year’s All-Ohio Academic Team are poised to become the leaders of tomorrow, contributing to the strength and vitality of their communities and our great state.”

The All-Ohio Academic Team program is a collaboration between the OACC, Phi Theta Kappa national honor society and Honda, the event sponsor.

Also, for the 19th consecutive year, Stark State College’s chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society earned the Five Star Chapter Award, presented at the recent Ohio Region Awards Convention and PTK Catalyst in Columbus.

Other Stark State PTK honors included:

• Howdy Bear Certificate of Spirit
• Order of Athena Chapter Officer Award: Tammy Monroe and Ella George
• Cherie Barth Completion Scholarship ($1,000): Alexander Thompson
• John C. Kessler Scholarship ($750): Joshua Crewes
• Advising Milestone Award (5yrs) Shari Brooks
• 2023 Stark State College Outstanding Student Organization Officer of the Year Award: Benjamin Nash.