Dalton Summers, superintendent of the Ohio Valley Educational Service Center, far right, addresses the recipients at the first Heart of Service Awards Ceremony on March 25 when students and mentors were honored. (Photo Provided)

MARIETTA — The Ohio Valley Educational Service Center recognized outstanding students and influential individuals in Southeastern Ohio during its first Heart of Service Awards Ceremony held March 25 at Washington State College of Ohio.

The Heart of Service Award celebrates graduating seniors with exceptional dedication in leadership, character and community impact, according to a release from the ESC. Schools across the center’s region nominated students who exemplify a commitment to service, initiative, integrity and contributions to their schools and communities.

Each Heart recipient selected a Heart of Influence honoree, a school staff member who has made a profound educational and personal impact on them.

“This evening represents the very best of our region,” said Dalton Summers, superintendent of the Educational Service Center. “These honorees have set the standard through their service, leadership and commitment to others.”

2026 Heart of Service Award recipients were:

* Belpre High School: Liam Kocher

* Fort Frye High School: Mary Kesselring

* Frontier High School: Aaden Bills

* Marietta High School: Jocelyn Arnold

* Warren High School: Sophie Boothby

* Washington County Career Center: Sophia Parlin

* Waterford High School: Katelynn Valandingham

* Caldwell High School: Sophia Marshall

* Crooksville High School: Grayson Houk

* Mid-East Career & Technology Center, Buffalo Campus : Kaylee Garcia

* Monroe Central High School: Blake Yontz

* Morgan High School: Peyton Welsh

* River High School: Ava Wohnhas

* Swiss Hills Career Center: Gracie Blair

2026 Heart of Influence Award Recipients:

* Belpre High School: Debbie Edgar

* Caldwell High School: Emma Marshall

* Crooksville High School: Jerome LaBatte

* Fort Frye High School: Tyler Hartline

* Frontier High School: Adam Olson

* Marietta High School: Paige Fleming

* Warren High School: Jimmy Sundquist

* Washington County Career Center: Steve Parlin

* Waterford High School: Matt Hartline

* Mid-East Career & Technology Center, Buffalo Campus: Tracy Brown

* Monroe Central High School: Logan Binegar

* Morgan High School: Dawn Nesselroad

* River High School: Amy Shreve

* Swiss Hills Career Center: Brian Diss

The Ohio Valley Educational Service Center serves more than 12,000 students in six counties, providing over 50 education