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Khalil Washington

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Khalil Washington, Elyria High School Class of 2026, University of Akron

Khalil Washington is a compassionate and academically accomplished scholar whose commitment to leadership, mentorship, and community service reflects his passion for helping others. A proud graduate of Elyria High School, Khalil will attend the University of Akron to pursue a degree in Nursing, where he plans to combine his dedication to service with a career focused on improving the health and well-being of others.

Khalil’s academic excellence is evident through his membership in the National Honor Society and the National Society of High School Scholars, while also ranking in the top 10% of his graduating class. He has remained actively involved in his school and community as a member of the Black Student Union at Elyria High School and through Project Ready with the Urban League of Lorain County. Through these experiences, Khalil has contributed to community initiatives such as volunteering at the O.U.R. F.A.M.I.L.Y. community garden and supporting local events, including the Apple Fest community cleanup efforts.

Beyond academics and volunteerism, Khalil is passionate about mentorship and youth development. He tutors youth weekly at the Elyria Boxing Club and Mentoring Program and also serves as a mentor and youth choir member at his church. His ability to lead through encouragement, consistency, and service demonstrates his commitment to creating positive change and uplifting those around him.

With his strong academic foundation, servant leadership, and passion for caring for others, Khalil is well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in the nursing profession and continue strengthening the communities he serves.

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Eric Whitaker

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Eric Whitaker, Lorain High School Class of 2026, Ohio Northern University

Eric Whitaker is a driven and service-oriented scholar whose leadership, teamwork, and dedication to his community have prepared him for a future in criminal justice and public service. A proud graduate of Lorain High School, Eric will attend Ohio Northern University to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice, where he hopes to continue developing the leadership skills and sense of responsibility that have guided him throughout high school.

Eric has demonstrated leadership both on and off the field as Captain of the Varsity Boys Soccer Team and a member of the Boys Golf Team. Beyond athletics, he has shown a deep commitment to serving others through his involvement in Boy Scout Troop 160, where he served as a Junior Assistant Scoutmaster and earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. As part of his Eagle Scout achievement, Eric led a community service project totaling more than 330 hours, coordinating volunteers and managing efforts that made a lasting impact. 

His passion for giving back also extends to the Lorain Senior Center, where he participated in numerous service projects supporting older adults in the community. Through these experiences, Eric has learned the importance of integrity, accountability, and leading by example. Whether mentoring younger scouts, collaborating with teammates, or serving community members, he consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic and a willingness to step up when needed. 

With his leadership experience, commitment to service, and desire to make a positive difference, Eric is well-positioned to succeed in the field of criminal justice and continue creating meaningful impact within his community and beyond.

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Layla Crofton

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Layla Crofton, Lorain Preparatory High School Class of 2026, Oberlin College

Layla Crofton is a thoughtful and creative scholar whose passion for technology, storytelling, and social impact is shaping her path toward a future in computer science and game development. A proud graduating senior of Lorain Preparatory High School, Layla will attend Oberlin College to study Computer Science, where she plans to further develop her programming skills while exploring how technology can be used as a tool for emotional connection, education, and change.

As a member of her school’s Robotics Team, Layla has demonstrated both technical curiosity and a commitment to innovation. Beyond academics, she is deeply motivated by her desire to create meaningful experiences that help others better understand mental health, human emotions, and philosophical ideas through interactive storytelling. One of her long-term goals is to develop her own indie video game that shares her unique perspective on the world while encouraging players to reflect, connect, and grow.

Layla’s passion for ethical leadership and community-building is rooted in her belief that compassion, open-mindedness, and integrity are essential for creating positive change. As a Black queer woman who values social justice, sustainability, and human rights, she was drawn to Oberlin College’s history of inclusion, activism, and progressive leadership. “I dream of contributing and uniting people using ethical leadership,” Layla shares. “I believe Oberlin is the perfect place to do that.” 

With her creativity, vision, and commitment to building spaces where people feel seen and valued, Layla is prepared to use technology and ethical leadership to inspire understanding and make a lasting impact in her community and beyond.  

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Elizabeth “Bee” Ruic

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Ja’Vonte Ruffin, LORAIN PREPARATORY HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2025 Lorain County Community College

Elizabeth “Bee” Ruic is a dedicated and community-minded scholar whose passion for service, leadership, and education has shaped her vision for the future. A proud graduate of Clearview High School, Bee will attend Akron University to pursue a degree in Education and Art Education while participating in the university’s 4+1 Program to earn her master’s degree and gain an early start in her career as an educator.

Bee has demonstrated leadership and involvement through numerous activities, including Student Council, National Honor Society, Key Club, Girl Scouts, Varsity Cross Country, and Varsity Track & Field. Her commitment to service began in kindergarten through Girl Scouts, where she has spent years volunteering, mentoring younger girls, and participating in projects that strengthen the community. From organizing “Bags of Love” with pantry-safe foods for families in need to helping clean parks and plant flowers, Bee believes in creating positive change through consistent acts of kindness and teamwork.

As one of the oldest members of her Girl Scout troop, Bee has learned the importance of ethical leadership, empathy, and conflict resolution. She often helps younger girls navigate disagreements by encouraging open communication, understanding, and problem-solving. “We work together to find the root problem,” Bee shares, reflecting her belief that compassion and listening can bring people together and strengthen relationships.

Bee’s heart for service and her dedication to supporting others continue to guide her goals both inside and outside the classroom. Whether volunteering in her community or preparing for a future in education, she is committed to helping others feel supported, connected, and empowered to succeed.

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Ja’Vonte Ruffin

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Ja’Vonte Ruffin, LORAIN PREPARATORY HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2025 Lorain County Community College

Ja’Vonte Ruffin is a driven and compassionate student dedicated to helping others and building a better future for his community. A proud graduate of Lorain Preparatory High School, Ja’Vonte has demonstrated leadership, perseverance, and a strong work ethic throughout his academic journey. His commitment to service and personal growth is evident in his involvement in mentoring programs and his passion for mental health advocacy. Inspired by his own experiences and motivated to be a role model, Ja’Vonte aspires to pursue higher education with the goal of becoming a licensed therapist. “I want to make a difference in the lives of young people who may be struggling,” he shared. Ja’Vonte exemplifies the spirit of paying it forward and is poised to make a lasting impact.

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