001[music] Amen. [music] Glory. [music] >> [bell] >> over your [music] [music] phone right now. So I know [music] >> [music] >> Is this [music] something? [music] together. [music] [music] >> [bell] [music] >> One more. >> [music] [music] >> This is my check. [music] When I when he was [music] happy, >> [music] [applause] >> I actually Yes. You want to go somewhere exit one more time for the last time. Let's start walking as we go back. I didn't see. >> Excuse me. I never guarded you. I made clear. >> Oh my gosh. So I just have to push this. Hi. >> Get ready for >> I'm doing it on graduation. I do. >> Yep. What's up, M? I'll have to watch it again. Put together How are you? We had a conversation last night. Something's going
002to hear me. Morning. You're welcome. You're not >> Did you work on your >> bag? Do what? >> It works for us. >> All right. Thank you. might as well. Yeah, you know, if I knew you were off somewhere. I know. I know. When I was in high school sometimes. Yeah. I haven't got that far yet. >> Well, I see there's a new [clears throat] That's why you have to know Yeah. >> Yeah. I wish they had a different like singing this. [clears throat] school tomorrow. >> [clears throat] >> Mommy right now. might not make it. >> I like going there. That was a good choice. button. I'm going to whisper He's [clears throat] going to run up there. >> Out here. Everything didn't >> I'm going to do that to you on graduation. No,
003you're not. Kyle, did you graduate high school? >> Good morning. >> Like to welcome everyone to today's honor day program. During this program, we will recognize and honor not only our students in school, but also our community. Today marks yet another milestone in the lives of the members of the class of 2026. Please rise if able as the class of 2026 enters the auditorium and please remain standing for the singing of our national anthem. [music] >> [music] >> What? [music] [music] >> [music] [music] >> The first one. [music] >> [music] [music] >> Hello. [music] >> [music] >> Thank you. [music] Wow. [music] Hey. [music] >> [music] [music] >> Christmas. [music] Thank you. [music] >> [music] [music] >> I would like fish. >> [music] >> I got a [music] little building. Hallelujah. [clears throat] Oh, [singing]
004can you see [music] by the dawn [singing] early so proudly we hail [music] at the twilight. My life lasting stripes [singing] and bright stars through the perilous [singing] fight or [music] we watch [singing] streaming and rocking. They prove through the [singing] night that our flag was still there. Oh [singing] s [music] the [singing] lamb of the free and the home of God. [music] >> [applause] >> You may be seated. >> As music ambassadors for our school and community, these students have contributed countless hours of dedication to our coral department. They have been excellent performers at concerts, in the gym, honoring our country, and on the stage in our annual musicals. I know these four seniors are going to go on and do great things in their lives because they've already shown me how much passion
005they have for music. My wish for them is to keep this passion alive in their hearts and in their lives as they continue on in their journey beyond high school. Xavier [clears throat] Cassus Maddie Ghoul Lydia Hersshley, >> Jaden Swagmire, [applause] want to recognize the following awards which were previously given. I would like to acknowledge the following students on their academic success. The following juniors have been selected by GCHS as rising stars of Indiana. Those juniors are Ethan Clifford, Ethan Schneider, sorry about that. Mason McNelte, and Oliver Reese. Chemistry 1 silver test tube awards which were awarded in class go to Audrey Gail, excuse me, Audrey Gail, Oliver Reese, Henry Shudy, Wyatt Yake, and Harrison U. The AP Chemistry Silver Flask Award this year went to Ethan Schneider. [applause] The following senior is being awarded
006with the John Phillips SUSA Band Award and the Cincinnati Symphony Youth Youth Concert Orchestra Striker Award. The student has offered so much to the band program and I'm really proud of her. This these two awards go to Khloe Dick. >> [applause] >> Good morning. >> This morning for this award, I am speaking on behalf of the Community Action Coalition in the Greensburg Prevention Group. The CAC and GPG work to reduce alcohol, tobacco, and drug use in our community, especially among our youth. One of the ways we encourage youth like you to make smart choices is by publishing our Betheall model posters. This year, we were happy to have two of your own classmates featured on our posters. The students were selected because of their ability to make smart, healthy choices. And at this time, we
007would like to give them a momento and their scholarship check for $200 for their efforts as a he thewah role model. Thank you for making healthy choices. Brenley Jameson and Ethan Smith, please come forward. [applause] [applause] >> [clears throat] >> At this time, the CAC and GBG would also like to announce the new role models for the 2026 27 poster series. Earlier this year, the 11th graders applied to be featured on the new posters. Our committee reviewed all the applications, and today we are pleased to announce this year's winners representing Greensburg High School. Congratulations, Jacobe Miller and Coley Winsel. [applause] >> Good morning. as a 1980 Greensburg graduate. Uh, congratulations to the senior class of 2026. My name is Joanne Cunningham and I also have with me today Blair Hornberger. >> I'm the outgoing director
008and she's the incoming director for Decar County United Fund. Our mission is together building hope, health, and stability for our community. We proudly support many nonprofits and local initiatives that strengthen education, health, and financial stability throughout Decar County. Today, I'm honored to recognize an outstanding student for earning the governor's work ethic certification, completing an exceptional volunteer project, and to award a $500 scholarship on behalf of Decar County United Fund. First, the certificate. For the past eight years, the United Fund has partnered with Greensburg High School to help strengthen employable skills that prepare students for today's workforce. This certification encourages students to meet benchmarks that support their college and career goals. To earn the Governor's Work Ethics Certification, students must hold a cumulative GPA of 2.0 0 or higher and meet all graduation requirements. Maintain at
009least a 98% attendance rate with four or fewer signin signs or tardies. Have one or fewer discipline referrals during the school year. Complete a minimum of six hours of community service and remain in good standing to qualify for this scholarship. Secondly, the volunteer project. The United relies on volunteers year round and many of our nonprofit partners simply could not operate without them. This year's scholarship recipient has gone far beyond the required six hours, dedicating significant time and talent to creating set designs and bringing drama productions to life. Her goal has been to help kids express themselves and discover a love for the arts. She has participated in seven productions, including four youth shows and four high school shows. Through drama club, she helps students find ways to express themselves that may change their lives forever.
010And finally, the scholarship. Decar County United Fund board of directors and staff are proud to award the $500 scholarship to Ashley Kalinowski for her completion of the Governor's Worth Ethics Certification and her outstanding volunteer service. Come on up, Ashley. [applause] >> [clears throat and cough] >> I'm also here today to recognize and thank our outgoing student board member, Carmen Ripinger. Carmen, if you want to start your way up, that would be great. Uh the United Fund is privileged to have different board members and a student director from each of the area high schools and Carmen has been a great asset to us. When I think of volunteers like Carmen, I think of time and values in our lives. One thing we cannot create, accumulate, acquire, buy or even borrow is time. We have a limited
011amount of time for sleep, work, family and our own interest. Therefore, an individual's time is very precious commodity. When an individual commits themselves to volunteer on a consistent basis, they have chosen to give up their own time to support an activity to benefit others. This bring brings me to values. Some of the strongest values, service and sacrifice are shown when one places the needs of others above their own. The true volunteer chooses to give up their personal time and energy and expend it to help others. Carmen has been a dedicated student member of our board of directors for the Decatur County for two-year term. She has demonstrated her commitment to the many community programs and services funded by the United Fund by attending a 6:45 a.m. board meeting and helping all day at our Strawberry
012Festival, recruiting and participating in our annual day of caring and general board governance. Her commitment and support are greatly appreciated. It's my pleasure on behalf of the staff in Decar County United Fund board of directors to formally express our gratitude to Carmen with this token of appreciation. Thank you, Carmen. >> [applause] >> That's the thing. The following students have earned the carpenter level one certification from the Central Midwest Carpenters. Mr. Mens will give out the certification here. Jeremiah Alexander, Tyson Fover, Sahara Charles, Levi Duncan, Jacob Schneider, and Wade Shudy. [applause] Can you get me? We also had one student who earned the shielded metal arc certification, Austin Irwin. [applause] The following students have earned their CNA this past year. They are Zachary Blahett, Evangeline Campbell, Lillian Cogill, Alexis Couch, >> Lacy Durham, >> Madison Portman,
013Jenna Richards and Tava Winny. [applause] We had one senior earn their serve safe certification as a food manager. Alyssa Dhy. [applause] [clears throat] I am proud to announce our 202526 Childhood Development Associate credential recipients. Sophia Passes, Astri Gusman, Olivia Kilurn, Nobi Ramirez, Alejandra Razo, And those students who have received their child development associate credential and also completed an teaching apprentice. Braden Austin, >> Sydney Casses, Alyssa Stanley, Ava Watson, and Kaye Wilbur. Congratulations. [applause] >> [applause] >> The following students have earned their white coats for successfully completing all four years of the biomed science program. Zachary Blahett, [applause] Maya Comr [applause] Kaylee Ginling. [applause] >> [snorts] >> Madison Ghoul, [applause] Mary Harmon Congratulations, [applause] white coat recipient. [applause] The President's Education Awards for Outstanding Academic Excellence. At the end of seven semesters, these students have achieved
014a 3.5 or above GPA and scored 1,200 or above on the SAT. These students are Zachary Blit, Declan Bruns, Evangeline Cample, Xavier Casses, Chloe Dick, Luke Dwinger, Madison Ghoul, Nikki Harping, Avery Helms, Brenley Jameson, Ashley Kalinowski, John Meyer, Robert Parkinson, Anakin Ping, Carmen Rivger, Maline Shrader, and Tyler Williams. [applause] I apologize. I got us out of order. Thank you, Mrs. Hurt, for getting me back on the right page. We had one student in the senior class who completed all the requirements for the Indiana State Board of Cosmetology license. That student is Ella Stroberg. [applause] and I was supposed to read this before the the list of students prior. As we continue to celebrate the class of 2026, we will be recognizing several students and many awards and have more than one recipient. We do ask
015that you hold your applause until all recipients for the award have been called, as you just did. We do have one more individual before we get into those list of students. We want to recognize our Indiana academic regional all-star recipient this year, Ashley Kalinowski. [applause] The following student has enlisted into the United States military into the United States Air Force. Milan Hadland. [applause] also have the Bill Edwards Pirate Nation Award. Mr. Edwards was a longtime educator and athletic director at both the junior high and the high school. This student is someone who is involved in everything and epitomizes the phrase that Mr. Edwards would always say, "You should have, would have, and could have while you're in high school." Declan Bruns [applause] We have 31 students who earned the governor's work ethic certificate. These students
016are Elizabeth Balszer, Declan Bruns, Evangeline Campbell, Sophia Passes, Sydney passes, Xavier passes, Reese Chapman, Alexis Couch, Austin Cruz, Chloe Pick, Luke Dwinger, Nikki Harper, Ansley Harris, >> Jonah Helm, Lydia Hersshley, Brenley Jameson, Ashley Kalinowski, John Fire, Madison Ortman, Robert Parkinson, Allison Powers, Alejandra Roso, Carmen Ribbinger, Isabelle Ci, Maline Shrader, George Sllayman, [clears throat and laughter] Ethan Smith, Jaylen Thornton, Ava Watson, Tyler Williams and Kaylee Wolfrist. [applause] Good morning. My name is Deb Sers and I was former I am a former GCHS faculty member of 29 years in the fax department and my late husband John Sers taught here in the science department for over 30 years. Myself, Shawn and Kyle, my our two sons are here to present the John Sers Memorial Scholarship today. Um, John was passionate about golf and every year we host
017a golf outing and this year it's on July 11th in memory of John and the sport he loved almost more than us. Um, but it's all good. And through that golf outing we are able to fund scholarships. Um, in the past it's been in two or so scholarships. This year we were able to offer three scholarships in lie of our good family friend Earl Meyers passing away and his family was gracious enough to donate the memorial money from um his celebration of life to the John Sers Memorial Scholarship. So at this time I would like to um ask the three recipients to come forward and we'll greet you and congratulate you and congratulations class of 26. The first recipient is Sydney Casses. The second recipient is Lydia Hersley. And the third recipient is Allison Powers.
018[applause] We don't I guess I should have said this earlier. We don't have official scholarship form or application. We like to uh use the element of surprise and offer these uh scholarships to students who are going to um further their education in the field of education or a science-based career. Thank you very much and congratulations. [applause] Good morning. I'm Christy Sports and Trouer and representing on behalf of the 4 council. Today [snorts] we would like to recognize our senior and tenure 4 members. These seniors potentially start a 4 journey in third grade and maybe even earlier as clover bugs or many 4ers. 4 can be a huge commitment not just for the member but for the family too. So this year they or in these years they have built life skills by leading hands-on projects
019in areas like science, health, agg and civic engagement. 4 has helped them grow confidence, independence, resilience and compassion. We would like to honor their commitment to 4 today by presenting them with a certificate of recognition and official 4 honor awards. So, please help us recognize Elizabeth Balser, Logan Badel, Kaylee Gley, Jake Graves, Avery Helms, Klein Low, Jenna Richards, Ryan Ruckerford, Wade Shy, Sophia Sharp, George Slavven, Ella Stroberg, and Tyler Williams. [applause] Fine. >> I also would like to celebrate the incredible achievement of our 4 scholarship recipient. This young man exemplified the spirit of dedication, hard work, and community service that 4 stands for. Our scholarship recipient has not only excelled academically, but has also shown exceptional commitment to their community through countless hours of service. They have also demonstrated leadership, resilience, and drive to make
020a difference. Each he has a unique story of perseverance, passion, and inspired us all. So, as he embarks on his next endeavor, we have no doubt, Tyler, that you will continue to shine and make impactful contributions to our world. So, please help me applaud Tyler Williams, who's receiving a $500 scholarship from 4. [applause] >> [applause] >> Good morning. I'm Renee Springmire. Mrs. Mangles and I are here today representing the board of the Greensburg Community Schools Education Foundation. The foundation's mission is to provide resources to supplement and enrich educational opportunities that prepare students to be effective, successful, and responsible citizens. In 2017, two years after the foundation's inception, the first scholarship of $1,000 was awarded. Today, less than 10 years later, we are about to award eight scholarships totaling $30,500. The first scholarship from the Greensburg
021Foundation for $5,000 goes to Ashley Kalinowski. [applause] The next $5,000 award from the Greensburg Foundation goes to Avery Helms. [applause] The next Greensburg Foundation scholarship for $5,000 goes to Declan Bruns. [applause] These were all academic scholarships. Okay, the next scholarship is the class of 68 for $5,000. That goes to Sydney Casses. [applause] The next scholarship is from the Greensburg Community School Education Foundation um for the technical scholarship of $3,500 and that goes to Zachary Blahett. [applause] The next scholarship is the Bobby Mock scholarship for $1,000 and that goes to Alejandra Hernandez. [applause] The next scholarship is the Virginia Garvey female athlete scholarship for $5,000. And that goes to Emma Couns. [applause] The final award we have to present is the Roland and Willadine Wood music scholarship for five for $1,000 and that goes to Matteline
022Shrader. [applause] Thank you. Good morning. On behalf of New Directions Domestic Violence Shelter of Decar County and New Directions Teen Council, I'm honored to be in the presence of such a bright group of graduates. and New Directions. Our teen council mission is lived out through an active and passionate group of teens who work hard to raise awareness about teen dating violence and to support healthy relationships in Decar County. Their efforts also provide the funding for this award. Statistics show that one in three teens will experience some type of physical, emotional, or digital abuse before graduating high school. The council has made a meaningful impact in spreading awareness and its success is possible by the active commitment of our student leaders. This scholarship award is being given to a student who has served as the team
023council has served on the team council since its inception four years ago and has served for the president as the last two years demonstrating outstanding leadership, dedication and heart for this mission. It's my pleasure to award New Direction Teen Council Scholarship to Brenley Jameson. [applause] Good morning everyone. I'm Lieutenant Casey Jones with the Greensburg Police Department. Today, I am proud to present this year's FOP Lodge 104 scholarship to students who have demonstrated hard work, dedication, and outstanding character throughout their high school career. The Greensburg FOP Lodge 104 has a long-standing history of understanding the importance of investing in the youth in our community. Thanks to our local FOP members and our fundraising events, we can provide at least one scholarship per school in the county every year. We would like to thank those in our
024community because tonight, thanks to success of our fundraising efforts, we can award three $1,000 scholarships to Greensburg students this year. Scholarships are more than financial support. They are an investment in the future. This award recognizes not only academic achievement, but also perseverance, leadership, and the potential to make a positive impact in the community. This year, our scholarship committee has chosen three recipients. If you can please come forward. Zack Blit, Madison Ortman, and Brinley Jameson. [applause] Good morning. My name is Annie Swinny and I have the honor of serving as a staff development coordinator at Decar County Memorial Hospital. I have the distinct honor of working closely with several of our local high school programs and seeing firsthand the passion and potential of students who are pursuing future careers in healthcare. On behalf of Decatur County
025Memorial Hospital, it truly is an honor to be here today to recognize such an outstanding group of students. This year, we're proud to award multiple thousand dollar scholarships to individuals across Decar County who have chosen to pursue careers in healthcare. A path that requires not only intelligence and dedication, but a whole lot of heart. Each of you represents the very foundation of what we value at DCH. Through your actions, your academic commitment, and your desire to serve others, you've demonstrated our core values. Integrity in the way you commit to your learning and doing what is right. Compassion and your desire to care for others during some of their most vulnerable moments in life. Quality in your pursuit of excellence in your willingness to grow. And community through your decision to give back and make a
026difference in the lives of those around you. The future of healthcare is bright and it's bright because of you. As the landscape of healthcare continues to evolve, we need individuals who are passionate, dedicated, and forward thinking. Looking at this group of students today, there's no doubt that the next generation of health care professionals is ready to rise to that challenge. At DC, we are deeply committed to investing in that future. We're making an concerted effort to partner with our local schools, engage students early, and create meaningful opportunities to inspire careers in healthcare. I had the privilege of seeing the impact of these efforts every day, and it is incredibly rewarding to watch these students grow in confidence as they explore the field. We believe strongly in supporting and developing the next generation of healthcare professionals.
027These scholarships are more than just financial support. They are a reflection of the value we place on investing in students like you and future of healthcare within our community. We're excited to see where your journeys take you and we hope that one day we may have the privilege of welcoming you back not as students but as colleagues and future leaders in healthcare. Congratulations and thank you for choosing a path that makes a difference. It is my pleasure to present Maline Huff, Zach Bladget, Maya CR, Mary Harmon, Madison Ortman, and Lydia Hersley. [applause] >> [applause] >> What's happening? Everybody good morning everyone. I am not Mr. Septton. Um my name is Susan Burkhard and I serve as the director of development for All for One Ministries. Our organization exists to glorify God by unifying and equipping
028his people. We do this through programs like the branch gathering place and coffee house, generation hope, youth mentoring, care and counseling, and community community education classes. It is my honor to recognize someone who has faithfully served both our community and with Christlike humility, leadership, and love. The All for One Ministry Scholarship is awarded to an individual who demonstrates faithful Christian service, leadership, and a heart for the kingdom of God through the way they live and serve others. We are deeply grateful for the ways this recipient has poured into others, served faithfully, and reflected the heart of Jesus in our ministry and community. Her leadership, servant heart, and commitment of living out her faith have made a meaningful impact on those around you. Ladies and gentlemen, it is my honor to recognize the 2026 recipient of
029All for One Ministry Scholarship, Miss Brimley Jameson. [applause] [applause] Hello, my name is Alex Helms with the uh Decar County Purdue A Alumni. The committee was founded in 1978 with a mission to promote Purdue University academics with a particular emphasis on supporting a programs and interests within the county. To achieve this mission, we [clears throat] support Decar County students pursuing higher education in the field of a at Purdue by providing financial assistance in the form of scholarships. Each year, we give scholarships to students from Decar County that are enrolled at Purdue's College of A. Each recipient will receive a $750 scholarship after they've completed their freshman year and are enrolled at Purdue's College of A for their sophomore year. This year's recipient is Jonah Helman. [applause] >> [clears throat] >> Tri Kappa is awarding two
030$1,000 scholarships to the class of 2026. Recipients are Chloe Dick and Jameson. [applause] Good morning and congratulations seniors. I was out there in 1967. Can you imagine that? Long time ago. I'm Larry Moore from the Greensburg and representing the Greensburg Rotary Club. We are presenting the service above self award today. It's our principal motto in Rotary International established back in 1989. It was originally inspired by service not self which was our motto back in 1911. So it's been around the bottom. It drives the organization's seven core areas of focus which include promoting peace, fighting disease like polio. We're going to get rid of polio. providing clean water and supporting education. The award service above self is the highest award a Rotary member could receive. So, it's with that in mind that we are honored as
031a Greensburg Rotary Club to present Maya CR and Tyler Williams. [applause] And while they're walking up here, if any of you want to join the weather club, please come see us. We do a lot of service projects in Greensburg. You'll find us out at Rebecca Park and we're just installing a big basket of football gold setup at the main park. So, be kind of fun. Thanks, morning. >> That's fine. Uh I have two. Uh the first one is the PEO Star Scholarship. The PEO Sisterhood is one of the largest community-based women's organizations in North America with almost 200,000 active members. Our organization provides loans, grants, and scholarships for women through its six philanthropies. The PEO Sisterhood is committed to helping women achieve their educational goals. The PEO Star Scholarship [clears throat] recognizes the accomplishments of
032graduating high school women planning to pursue postsecary education. In presenting this $2,500 scholarship, the members of chapter T in Greensburg are pleased to recognize our honore who demonstrates excellence in leadership, extracurricular activities, community service, academics, and potential for success. Our PEO SC star scholarship is presented to Brandon Jameson. [applause] The second one is shorter. Uh, the Greensburg United Methodist Church presents the Roland Curtis and Will Marie Barnes Nursing Scholarship in the amount of $1,088 to Zack Logic. [applause] Good morning again. Are you getting tired? Well, if you are, I'm retired. Congratulations to all of you students. You completed another school year under the heading of Superintendent Tom Hunter. A special congratulations to the class of 2026. We are the Greens. We're here to present the scholarship in honor of [clears throat] Mrs. Joyce Green. This
033is son Brad, daughter Jamie. I'm Dave. We'd like to thank all of the applicants who applied for Mrs. Green scholarship. They were very worthy of consideration. There were high marks academically, extra extracurricular, and the essay that we acquired them to write. This year, our committee narrowed down to two recipients. Each will receive $1,000 in scholarship in honor of Mrs. Joyce Green. Our first recipient is Miss Kaylee Hen. [applause] Our second recipient of the Joyce Green Memorial Scholarship is Miss Avery Helms. [applause] Again, a big congratulations to the class of 2026. And to you, I wish you the best of everything in your future. Have a good day. [applause] Good morning and congratulations to the class of 2026. My name is Abby Eldridge and I'm here to present the Christa Na'vi Eldridge Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship
034was created by the friends and family of Christa as a memorial to the many contributions she made to the Decatur County community while she was with us. This one-time $1,000 scholarship is awarded to two individuals who represent great work ethic and a dedication to giving back to Decar County as she did. I'm pleased to announce our 2026 recipients, Elizabeth Ballser and Zachary Blic. [applause] Hi, I'm Tammy Winning with the Decar County Community Foundation and I would like to um give Minsley Harris the Ted and Marian Stout Scholarship. [applause] >> [clears throat] >> guys have quite a trot to get up here. >> Congratulations. Good morning and congratulations to the class of 2026. We're honored to be here today to present the Colleen Bray Memorial Scholarship in memory of our daughter. Um Colleen was a 2019
035graduate of Greensburg Community High School. She passed away in a car accident on her way home from work about four years ago. uh several of her friends started this scholarship for her immediately after her passing and we're really pleased that one of them have joined us here today. We want to share a little bit about Colleen's story because there are likely many students uh in this audience today who haven't quite figured out what they want to be when they grow up. And we hope the calling story inspires you a little. From a young age, Colleen loved all animals. And from the age of of three, she told us she was going to be a vet. We all believed it. We were convinced that she was going to be a vet. She would have been a
036great vet. However, in high school, she really struggled academically, and those dreams of being a vet began to decline. As parents, we were concerned what her future would look like without a traditional college education. for us. We prayed a lot. She did graduate from high school and she started working at a local dog kennel. It was during this time that something started to change. She started to see her worth and her path. She not only got excited about her future for the first time, she began to flourish. And within two years of graduating high school, she earned a certificate in dog grooming from a trade school. She started and operated her own business. She won several dog grooming competitions. And she had a very long list of very satisfied clients, both K-9 and human, who
037loved her and her work. So the lesson we learned was that Colleen's potential was never measured on a credit on a report card. Her true value was her impeccable work ethic, her patience, nurturing, and her creativity. She had passion and potential. It just wasn't in math, English, and history. Her story tells us that every person has a talent that needs to be shared with the world. You just have to find it. One day, Colleen said to me, "Mom, can you believe I get to play with dogs all day and I get paid to do it?" It was in that moment that I realized that her short 21 years, she figured out what it takes most of us a lifetime to figure out. She found her passion and she found a way to get paid to
038do it. Because of her path, Colleen's scholarship is a little different than most. It does not include any academic requirements. We wanted to be able to invest in people like Colleen who just didn't necessarily excel in academics, but had so much to offer the world. With that said, this scholarship is open to anyone who resides in Decar County. Anyone who's willing to give their God-given talents to help animals in some way that shares Colleen's genuine and unconditional love for animals. Students and adults alike are eligible to apply for the scholarship. Colleen scholarships managed by the Decar County Community Foundation. So, our applicants range from students pursuing a doctorate in veterinary medicine, bachelor's degrees in animal science to vocational students learning vette tech, dog grooming, dog trainers, and even animal behavioralists. We also have adults who
039apply for this scholarship who haven't figured out by the time they graduate high school what they wanted to do, but then decided to go into an animal welfare business or trade. Before we announce the this um this winners of this scholarship, Colleen's friend Molly, who when she went to high school, would like to to share a few words. When I think about Colleen, my mind goes many different ways. There's not a single bad memory I can think of with her. However, there's so many that I love so much. From fighting our toughest battle together to attending every national FFA convention to giving our all out on the brick dust, everything she did, she did with her entire heart. She wasn't one to fight with her friends and family often, but even if she did, she
040was still there to support them when they needed her. Colleen was someone was truly someone we should all look up to and strive to be like. Her overly full heart made sure everyone in her life knew how deeply she cared for them. Seeing the community come together to support her family has been so amazing to me and I know she definitely would have loved it. So, I just want to thank each of our sponsors and everyone that has given to this scholarship fund. This scholarship was formed in hopes of helping someone that possesses all of the amazing characteristics Colleen had. To this year's scholarship winners, I hope you are inspired by the person Colleen Bray was and honor her memory throughout your career. Thank you, Molly. That one got me. Okay. All right. With that
041being said, um it is much pleasure for us to be able to present three students with $1,250 scholarships to students who embody calling embody Colleen's love and of animals by pursuing an education and a career in animal welfare. We're proud to award these scholarships to Jonah Helm. Elizabeth Balszer and Ryan Rutherford. [applause] Congratulations. Good morning. I'm David Springer. This is my wife Renee. We're here to represent to present the Bonnie Springer Nursing Scholarship. This scholarship was started to honor all the caring nurses who took care of Bonnie when she was sick many years ago. The scholarship this year is for $1,280 and this year it goes to Tava Wedding. [applause] Good morning once again. My name is Larry Moore and my lovely wife Beverly is mentioned to me. We are here to present the Glenn
042and Joanne Moore scholarship award. My parents were child childhood sweethearts and they moved to Greensburg in 1955 and they purchased their first retail store. They raised us four kids and we all attended the Greensburg school system and we all went on to post-secary education. They were prominent merchants from 1955 to 2013 and they had the mortgage true value store and the nearest department stores here in town as well as others. My mother was a very beautiful lady, kind, generous, internally driven to make the best of every family situation as most of you mothers are. Glenn had integrity, was trustworthy, believed in his that his word was his bond, and in a handshake. That's pretty basic. It gives me great pleasure to ask Ansley Harris to come to [snorts] the stage to accept this award. [applause]
043Congratulations. You guys are going to think I have multiple personalities because I'm not any of the people this thing says I am. Um, I would like to invite Ethan Smith to come forward. Ethan is going to be receiving the On Eagle's Wing scholarship that was put together by the Heran family. As you'll notice as people tell their stories, a lot of the gifts that you're receiving today are because somebody lost somebody that was very important that was much loved. So, you're being a recipient of these people's generosity and desire to remember somebody so that their name is always out there long after they're gone. So, Ethan is receiving on Eagle's Wings and it's $8,844. So, congratulations [applause] I'm presenting on behalf of Tree County Players and I would like to award the Terresa Zins Memorial
044Scholarship to Chloe Dick. [applause] Good morning. My name is Dick Glasser and as a member of the Greensburg Optimus Club, I'm proud to award the William H. Gray scholarship to the student whose values most clearly are in line with the Optimus Creed. Uh we reviewed applications from a number of students who was very difficult decision as your class is outstanding. The winner of the 2026 William H. Gravy scholarship is Carmen Riper. [applause] >> [snorts] >> Good morning and congratulations to the class of 2026. My name is Elena Na'vi and I'm here with my mom Jennifer and my sister Jenna to award the Brian Na'vi Memorial Scholarship in honor of my dad. My dad was the life of every gathering. He knew no stranger and would help anyone, even if it meant giving the shirt off
045his back. He graduated in 1987 and worked at a local factory for over 25 years. In 2018, he took his dream job as a maintenance worker for Greensburg Community Schools. Just over two years later, we learned about the illness that would take his life. If he could do it all over, he said that he would have joined the military or gone into a a trade after high school. That is why we created this scholarship to give back to our community and help students who want to continue their education in a trade technical program or a career path instead of a 4-year college. We are happy to announce the winner of the Brian Na'vi Memorial Scholarship is Lacy Durham for $1,000. [applause] It's me again. I would like Tyson Bover to please come forward. Um, Tyson
046will be receiving the Robert E. Simmons Memorial Scholarship. [applause] Congratulations. I'm Linda V and I'm giving the James A. Vulk scholarship award today. Jim was my husband and he died at the age of 50 with cancer and that's been a few years ago but uh we still like to be remembered and uh the James engineering scholarship this year is $2,250 and it's for Ashley Kalvowski. [applause] Good morning students, faculty, administrators, and guests. My name is Rob Eversol and this is Tammy Winning. And on behalf of the board of directors and employees of the Decar County Community Foundation, it is our pleasure to recognize, celebrate, and celebrate the accomplishments of this year's graduating seniors. We are proud as a foundation to award approximately $300,000 in scholarships to our three county graduating classes this year. Today is
047[snorts and clears throat] an opportunity to honor not only academic achievement but also the character, leadership, determination, and service demonstrated by these students by you students throughout their high school years. The scholarships being awarded this morning are made possible through the generosity of individuals, families, businesses, and organizations throughout Decar County who believe in the value of education and investing in the future of our community. Their support reflects a shared commitment to helping local students pursue their goals and create meaningful futures. To our scholarship recipients, congratulations on reaching this important milestone. Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have brought you to this moment. Whether your next step is college, trade school, technical training, military service, or another career path, we are proud to support your journey. We also want to recognize the parents, guardians, teachers, counselors,
048coaches, and mentors who have encouraged and supported these students along the way. Your guidance and influence have made a lasting impact. This morning, the Decar County Community Foundation is honored to present scholarships to outstanding graduating seniors from Greensburg Community High School. As your name is announced, please come forward and receive your scholarship recognition. Our first scholarship is the uh mystery donor trade scholarship and Tyson Bakover. [applause] And I will continue this process because we've got a lot to go through. So just come forward as your name is called. The roads deos family vocational scholarship is Logan Badel. [applause] And we have four Addie M. Austin Memorial Scholarships to present. First one is Logan Badel again, [applause] Zachary Blahett, [applause] Corbin Conwell and Alyssa Stanley. [applause] Our Bob Clark Memorial Scholarship this year is Emma Coun.
049Our [applause] KFC Council 1042 scholarship, Miss Carmen Ripper, [applause] [snorts] Dr. Irwin and Dorothy Lanning and family memorial scholarship is Luke Dwinger. [applause] Meer and Wilma Shriber Memorial Scholarship is Lydia Hersley. [applause] Dorothy A. Winning scholarship. Braden Austin. [applause] [clears throat] Joanie Bostic Memorial Senior Pirate Spirit Award is Maline Shreder. [applause] We have three thema ec Indiana University Kelly School of Business scholarships. Uh number one is Declan Bruns, [applause] Nikki Harper, and Anukica Poland. [applause] our Arnold D. Danis MD scholarships, Maline Huff. [applause] Our Holly Peters Peters Nursing Scholarship is Maya CR. [applause] A Pat Smith and loving memory of Tracy Lynn Smiser Scholarship is Brimley Jameson. [applause] We have two Steve Hunter Memorial Scholarship Awards this year. Number one, Jeremiah Alexander and Zachary Blahett. [applause] Thank you for staying in order and not confusing
050Tammy up here. Our Martha L. Frost Scholarship is Lydia Hersley. [applause] Our Greensburg Community High School class of 1941 and 1942 scholarship is Logan Badel. [applause] Our Greensburg Community High School class of 1961 scholarship is Chase Wallsman. [applause] Our Delmer and Janet Kennet family scholarship is Xavier Cassus. [applause] And we have four Burning and Lucy Layman scholarship awards this year. Jacel Ortiz Espatita Espatia, [applause] Bretley Jameson, Carmen Ripper, and Ethan Smith. [applause] And those are four scholarships. Thank you for being patient. We're at the end here, but we would like to recognize our three uh runner-ups to the Lily Scholarship. Uh Maya CR, U Chloe Dick, and Brenley Jameson. One thing I do want to [applause] mention is that Linda Smith this year doubled the scholarship from 5,000 to 10,000 for the runnerups. So really
051[applause] she in the back and her husband was the one who started kind of started this uh scholarship program for the Decar County Community Foundation. So you might thank Linda Smith for that. And our final award is the Gator County Community Foundation Lily Scholarship and that goes to Madison Gold. [applause] foundation as Mr. Hunter, what are you laughing at? As a community foundation, we are very proud to present this these awards uh to all three schools in the county and it really is an honor and a privilege to uh see the accomplishments you've made. So, good luck in everything you do going forward. [applause] >> Good morning everyone. I'm Christy Teddy and I'm one of the school counselors here at Greensburg High School and it is my privilege to be able to award some scholarships
052this morning. Some of our presenters were not able to be here um so I will be award or announcing several. The first is the Norma of Abridge Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $500. There are two of those, Brenley Jameson and Madison Orman. [applause] The Judge John Gddard family scholarship in the amount of $2,000 goes to Nikki Harting. [applause] The Hagen scholarship in the amount of up to $7,500 each semester goes to Anley Harris. [applause] The Dared Citizen Award in the amount of $200. Brenley Jameson. [applause] The Sai IOTA sority scholarship for $1,000. Chloe Dick. [applause] The Tree City Saddle Club scholarship in the amount of $500 goes to Elizabeth Ballser. [applause] The Decator County Pork Producer Scholarship for $1,000. Logan Badel. [applause] The Great Plains Communications Scholarship in the amount of $2,500 is Ethan
053Smith. [applause] the Mitch Daniels early graduation scholarships in the amount of $4,000 for the following people: Parker Asher, Lacy Durham, Ethan Elliot, Zachary May, Jenna Richards, Chance Simmons, Gavin Buyers, and Nina Walter. [applause] Hello, I'm Miss one of the counselors at the high school and I'm going to present The 21st Century Scholars Awards. We have 18 and that award equals to instate tuition for four years. We have first Jeremiah Alexander, Braden Austin, Damian Cardinius, Sahara Charles, Corbin Conwell, Austin Cruz, Lacy Durham, Kaden Fissy, Jaden Galloway, Lydia Hersley, Leslie Grace Jones, Carson Kilgore, Robert Parkinson, Jada Phillips, Kylie Spurgeon, Madison Spurgeon, Cameron Stewart, and Jaylen Gordon. [applause] The following students have been awarded money from the schools where they are planning to attend. from Anderson University with $16,000 renewable. Austin Adams. [applause] We have a few
054coming from Ball State. Ball State University with $4,000 renewable is Kaden Fissy. Sydney Casses is earning is receiving a $5,500 renewable state. [applause] We have one student going to Butler University and receiving $30,000 renewable and that is Brimley Jameson. >> [applause] >> Maline Huff is going to handover receiving a $34,000 renewable and also a onetime $6,000 award. We al [applause] and we also have Ryan Rutherford going to handover receiving a $34,000 renewable [applause] heading off to Indiana University. Xavier Casses, Leah Hersley, and Nikki Harping are receiving a $4,000 scholarship renewable. We have Cameron Park going to IU with the $3,000 renewable. We also have Emma Richards and Mary Harmon going to IU with a $1,000 renewable. We have Emma Coun going to IU with a VA scholarship for full tuition. We have also Declan Bruns
055and Anukica Polling going to IU as well with $4,000 renewable and also another $3,000 renewable scholarship. [applause] Tava Winnings going to IU with $7,000 renewable and Carmen Ringer is going to IU as well with $18,000 renewable. Those students are all going to [applause] We have Gazelle Ortiz and Ashford Guzman going to IU Columbus for a $2,000 scholarship and Kayla Wolfers is going to IU Columbus for $1,000 scholarship. [applause] Luke Dwinger is going to go to IU online and receiving a $6,000 scholarship. [applause] And Ava Walson is going to IU Southeast for $1,000 renewable scholarship. [applause] Logan Bagel is heading off to Kentucky. uh welding institute receiving a $1,000 scholarship. [applause] Corbin Conwell is going to Lincoln Tech with a $1,000 scholarship. And Ethan Hawkins is receiving a $19,777 scholarship from Lincoln Tech as well. [applause]
056Maya comes going to Mercy Hurst University for five $58,750 renewable. [applause] Allison Powers is going to Mount St. Joseph with $11,000 $11,500 renewable scholarship and a onetime $500 award. [applause] Elliot Holman's going to North Michigan University for $4,400 renewable scholarship and a onetime 6,600 award. [applause] We have Jonah Helmick going to Purdue receiving a $9,786 award. [applause] Tyler Williams is going to Rose Hullman for a $23,000 renewable scholarship along with a 5,500 onetime award. [applause] Maline Schroeder is going to Sweet Brier College $23,000 renewable scholarship. [applause] Ashley Kalinowski is going off to the University of Chicago with an 8 $80,892 renewable scholarship. [applause] And we have five more students going to the University of Indianapolis. The first one's Austin Cruz going with a 26,689 renewable scholarship. Khloe Dick is going for 26,000 renewable and a
0573,000 one-time award. Madison Gold's going with the $19,000 renewable scholarship. Naomi RmIrez is going with 28,989 renewable scholarship and Ethan Smith is going with 24,800 renewable scholarship. [applause] Good morning and welcome and class of 2026. I'm here to present the track cause for my brother called Wayne Collins. He graduated in 1969. He held the track records for a few years and then they were broken. from Dennis Collins, his brother, class of 1957, to present this scholarship scholarship to I present it to Robert Parkinson if he would come forward. [applause] Before we hand out our athletic awards, I'd first like to congrat congratulate and our graduating class of 2026. I'd also like to give a few thank yous. Like to thank all of our student athletes for how they represented Greensburg High School and for all
058their successes this year. Like to thank our coaches for their hard work and dedication to our student athletes. I'd like to thank our administration, staff, and teachers for all their support and help. And personally, I'd like to thank June Regy for all her hard work in the athletic office and everything she does for our students. Our first award are is our Royal Club Award. This award is given to athletes who have lettered in eight varsity sports in their four-year career. This is a tremendous accomplishment for all of our student athletes to achieve. The athletes are awarded a plaque with their name on it. If our athletes could please come up to receive their plaque when their name is announced. This year's recipients are Maya Cumber, Mary Harmon, Joe Hawkins, Emma Couns, Ethan Smith, and Jaylen
059Thornton. Please give a round of applause. [applause] Our next award is the class of 1921 scholar athlete award. This award is voted on by our head coaches and takes academics and athletics into consideration. This year's female scholar athlete is Avery Helms. [applause] And this year's male scholar athlete is Ethan Smith. [applause] Our next award is our top female and male athlete. This award is also voted on by the head coaches and takes into consideration an athletes four-year career. This year's top female athlete is Mary Harmon and top male athlete is Ethan Smith. [applause] [applause] like to thank everybody and the best of luck to our graduates. [applause] Good morning. Congratulations, class of 2026. My name is Mrs. Jane Really, and I'm here to present a scholarship in memory of my husband. My husband, Randy, was
060a caring and hardworking person. He was a 1979 graduate of Batesaw High School. He participated in the school to work program when he was in high school, working in the grocery business. He continued to work in the retail business his entire life. He worked his way up through the business from a cashier stockperson to managing over six convenience stores and eventually owning his own store. Randy also had a love for the outdoors. He eventually opened up RJ Bait and Tackle which included servicing over 25 stores with Bait and Tackle which I continue to operate today to help fund the scholarship. Even with his busy schedule, he found the time to coach softball and mentor young people in our community. Randy was also the primary caregiver of my father who had Alzheimer's for 5 years. Randy
061was all about giving of his time to help others and encouraging young people to do their best. Randy often told our children and the people that worked for us, "It doesn't matter what you do in life. Be proud of your work. Be honest and respectful." Randy lost his battle with melanoma cancer on July 16th, 2020. Through the generous support of many friends, family, and community members, we were able to establish the scholarship in his name. The scholarship is open to area seniors, no matter what their career path takes them, four-year college, trade school, military, or directly into the workforce. This year, we are able to award two scholarships. I awarded one last Friday to a student at South Ripley. And this year, the 2026 Greensburg recipient is Reese Chapman. [applause] Got herd $1,000 academ. team
062and $1,000 speech team scholarship recipient. Please join me in congratulating Miss Chloe Dick. [applause] Good morning, class of uh 2026. My pleasure, superintendent, to be here this morning with Russell Wilhoy. Many of us know him as Rabbit. He and his wife Nancy established a scholarship to be given to a senior each year based upon academics, athletics, and just being a good person like Rabbit has been his whole life. This [clears throat] morning, we're going to present that scholarship to Mary Harmon. Scholarship recipient, please come forward. [applause] We have some more local scholarships to award. The Shriber Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $500 to Luke Winger. [applause] The Sarah Kinker Scholarship for $500. Xavier Casses. [applause] The Daniel CI scholarship, $2,500 renewable for four years. Chloe Dick [applause] The Robert Low Scholarship for $500 renewable
063for 40 years. Nikki Harper, [applause] the Lillian Knox Education Scholarship for $500 to Sydney Casses. >> [applause] >> The Goddard Technical Degree Scholarship for $2,650. Zachary Blahett, [applause] the Goddard Vocational Degree Scholarship for $2,650. Tyson Bakover. [applause] The Goddard Associate Degree Scholarship for $2,650. Anukica Polling. [applause] the Goddard Depal Purdue scholarships in the amount of $1,500 renewable. Jonah Helm [applause] The Bobby Burgerer scholarships that are $1,500 renewable go to Maline Huff and Brenley Jameson. [applause] And the last of these scholarships, the Bernie H. and Mary L. Humphrey $1,500 scholarship renewable goes to Anukica Ooling. [applause] >> [applause] >> We're going to be awarding 45 students with the IvyTech Community College Indiana College core. Each student has completed one year of college. The counseling department will be giving them their green and white cords. So come
064forward as your name is called. Elizabeth Balszer, Zachary Blahett, Declan Bruns, Evangeline Campbell, Sydney Casses, Xavier Casses, Reese Chapman, Maya CR, Alexis Couch, Austin Cruz, Chloe Dick, Jacob Deertock, Luke Dwinger, Kayen Fissy, Madison Ghoul, Mary Harmon, Nikki Harting, Hinsley Harris, Maline Havland, Jonah Helmick, Avery Helms, Lydia Hersshley, Maline Huff, Brenley Jameson, Leslie Jones, Ashley Kalinowski, Emma Couns, John Meyer, Robert Parkinson, Anukica Foley, Allison Powers, Alejandra Brazzo, Emma Richards, Carmen Rickinger, Ryan Rutherford, Maline Shrader, George Slavven, Yuri Seamanov, Ethan Smith, Cameron Stewart, Jaylen Thornton, Ava Watson, Tava Winnie, Tyler Williams, and Kaylee Wolfrist. Great job. [applause] We have 11 students from this class earning the academic honors diploma. They'll be receiving their gold cord to go along with their medals. Those 11 are Chloe Dick, Kayen Fissy, Jaden Galloway, Maline Huff, Leslie Jones, Jazelle Ortiz Aspita,
065Jada Phillips, Bori Simov, McKenzie Slavyy, Ethan Smith and Cameron Stewart. [applause] We also have four students earning the technical honors diploma. Those four are Braden Austin, Sahara Charles, Corbin Conwell, and Ella Stroberg. [applause] And we had 50 students from the class of 26 that earned both the academic and technical honors diploma. 50 students are Elizabeth Balszer, Logan Badel, Zachary Blahett, Tyson Bover, Declan Bruns, Evangeline Campbell, Sophia Casses, Sydney Casses, Xavier Casses, Reese Chapman, Maya CR, Alexis Couch, Austin Cruz, Jacob Deertock, Luke Dwinger, Amber Galloway, Kaylee Ginling, Madison G, Astred Gooseman, Chloe Hall, Mary Harmon, Nikki Harping, Ansley Harris, Maline Havland, Jonah Helm, Avery Helms, Lydia Hersshley, Brenley Jameson, Ashley Kalinowski, Olivia Cer, Emma Coun, John Meyer, Madison Ortman, Robert Parkinson, Hanukkah Polling, Allison Powers, Alejandro Roso Hernandez, Emma Richards, Carmen Ripkener, Ryan Rutherford, Jacob Schneider,
066Wade Shudy, Maline Shrader, George Slayman, Jaylen Thornton, Chase Wman, Ava Watson, Tava Winnie, Tyler Williams, and Kaylee Wolfrist. A big round of applause for all [applause] This time we want to recognize the class of 2026 saludiatoran, Mr. Xavier Casses. [applause] The class of 2026 had seven valadictorians. They are Luke Dwinger, Nikki Harping, Avery Helms, Maline Huff, Binley Jameson, Ashley Kalinowski, and John Meyer. [applause] >> [applause] >> I'd also like to take this moment and to recognize the retirement of one of our staff members from Greensburg Community High School, Mrs. Jenny Morath, business teacher here at GCHS. She has worked 13 years within our business department and spent 37 years in education. We wish you good health and happiness in future years, Mrs. Moran. [applause] As we could hear the numbers today, the awards earned by
067the class of 2026 is an outstanding achievement from awards scholarships from local community organizations and from trust funds established within the school corporation. $496,354.50 50 cents from our local [applause] community from awards, grants, and scholarships from postsecary education institutions. 3,634,819. [applause] Class of 2026, you become the third class in GCHS history to have total monies in excess of $4,131,173. Great job. [applause] Congratulations to all GCHS students and staff and a special congratulations to the members of the class of 2026. Some special thank yous to the outstanding job by our counseling department for putting on our honor day program, to Mr. Smith and the light and sound crew today, to Mr. Sers and his GTV crew, to our GCHS teacher, staff, and administrative team. And also to our maintenance team this morning. Didn't know what was
068going to happen earlier this morning. And ask ask the kids, they'll tell you. But also a big special thank you to our parents, family members, friends, extended family in attendance here in the building and watching online today. Thank you all. This concludes today's honor day program. [applause] Seniors, you are being asked to stay put for a moment.