CIRCLEVILLE, OH — In a landmark celebration for local healthcare, OhioHealth Berger Hospital announced on Thursday, May 7, that it has awarded 35 scholarships to its associates—the largest number of recipients in the hospital’s history.
The record-breaking announcement was the centerpiece of the hospital’s National Nurses Week festivities. The awards support a diverse group of healthcare professionals, from those working at the bedside to those in administrative and technical roles, as they pursue advanced degrees, certifications, and continuing education.
Investing in the “Home Team”
This year’s winners represent nearly every facet of the hospital’s operations, including Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), surgical technologists, and patient support assistants. Their educational goals are just as varied, ranging from practical nursing certificates to Master’s degrees and specialized professional conferences.
“This year’s scholarship recipients reflect the dedication, compassion, and ambition we see across Berger Hospital every day,” said Casey Liddy, president of Berger Hospital. “These associates are investing in their future while continuing to care for our community.”
A Legacy of Community Giving
The scholarships are made possible through donor-supported funds at the OhioHealth Foundation. Notable awards presented during the May 7 ceremony included:
- The Jack W. McGuire Memorial Nursing Scholarship: Recognizing 20 associates this year, this fund was established by the McGuire family and the 9 O’Clock Coffee Club.
- The Berger Hospital Gift Shop Nursing Scholarship: Funded entirely by the efforts of longtime hospital volunteers.
- The Friends of Berger Hospital Scholarship: Specifically designed to support non-nursing associates pursuing technical and clinical education.
- The Berger Hospital Medical Associates Nursing Scholarships: Created through a generous gift from local medical practitioners.
“When we invest in nurses and healthcare workers, we invest in the health of our neighbors,” said Ellery Elick, retired Pickaway County Treasurer and member of the 9 O’Clock Coffee Club.
2026 Scholarship Recipients
The 35 associates honored include:
Stephanie Bailey, Paige Dailey, Kourtni Daniels, Brandy Dickson, Brooklyn Dingess, Dave Drury, Kelsey Dyer, Elleot Eitel, Gabby Gray, Lori Hamann, Dakota Jenkins, Kelcie Jennings, Macy Jones, Sara Keaton, Belinda Knotts, Maria Lanane, Meagan Landrum, Michelle Largent, Kris Mendenhall, Holly Muth, Terra Nardi, Alexis Patterson, Ashleigh Pennington, Heather Rice, Bailey Riffle, LaWanda Roberts, Shira Scherer, Lori Severt, Charity Smith, Stephnie Starling, Julia Sturgill, Courtney Timmons, Rebecca Tussing, William Walters, and Erin Wellman.
