The 2026 Hamilton Heights Youth Assistance Program IMPACT Award recipients include (back row) Braeden Flaherty; (second row, from left) Avery Eisele, Liam Craig, Finn Craig, Kurtis Griffith, Bobby Drury, James Lawton, and Tori James; (front row, from left) Atticus McNew, Layla Wallace, Joseph Etchison, Kylah Newby, and Maelynn Huber. (Photo provided by Hamilton Heights School Corporation)
Proudly celebrating their perseverance, resilience & determination
Submitted by Hamilton Heights School Corporation
The Hamilton Heights Youth Assistance Program celebrated the success of 13 remarkable students at its ninth annual IMPACT Awards Dinner, held Thursday, April 30 at Hamilton Heights Middle School.
This year’s event drew one of the largest audiences to date, bringing together students, families, Hamilton Heights School Corporation staff, and community partners from across Hamilton County and beyond to honor the power of perseverance.
Each year, the IMPACT Awards recognize at least one student per grade (K-12) who has demonstrated exceptional resilience in overcoming a personal challenge. Students may be nominated by teachers, counselors, administrators, or any staff member who has witnessed their growth and determination firsthand.
“I look forward to this event every year,” said Mary Ann Haymaker, Hamilton Heights Youth Assistance Early Intervention Advocate, who is an instrumental part of creating this annual recognition program. “This time is truly about the kids and recognizing the impact they have made on their teachers and classmates. It is a special time to come together and honor their hard work, resilience, and determination of these students to rise above a challenging issue that may otherwise have negatively impacted their life.”
The 2026 Hamilton Heights Youth Assistance IMPACT Award Recipients along with their presenters include:
K: Maelynn Huber presented by Maggie Young
1st Grade: Kylah Newby presented by Megan Heard
2nd Grade: Joseph Etchison presented by Kayla Tobias
3rd Grade: Layla Wallace presented by Megan Spurgeon
4th Grade: Atticus McNew presented by Miranda Wagner
5th Grade: Bobby Drury presented by Brad Speck and Heather Greider
7th Grade: Kurtis Griffith presented by Joelle Bolen and Bri Reader
8th Grade: Liam and Finn Craig presented by Bryan Jones
9th Grade: Avery Eisele presented by Derek Davis
10th Grade: James Lawton presented by Summer Bailey
11th Grade: Braeden Flaherty presented by Nicole Ridens
12th Grade: Tori James presented by Jeff Beechler and April Baugher
In addition to the student honorees, Andy Smith, Dean of Students at Hamilton Heights Middle School, was the recipient of the 2026 Tony Etchison Memorial Award, presented annually to an individual who exemplifies exceptional dedication, compassion, and service to students. Smith was selected for the meaningful connections he builds with students and his unwavering commitment to helping them grow into the best versions of themselves.
“This event is a true celebration of the accomplishments and triumphs of these remarkable students, many of whom have overcome significant challenges in their lives,” said Superintendent Dr. Derek Arrowood, who served as the event’s emcee. “Their resilience, determination, and grit have allowed them to rise above adversity, proving that obstacles do not define one’s ability to succeed, both inside and outside the classroom. Their journeys serve as a powerful reminder that anyone can overcome life’s challenges and, in doing so, inspire others to persevere.”
Thank you to the following sponsors that made this special program possible:
Presenting Sponsors
Robinson & Sons Sandblasting, Church, Church, Hittle & Antrim, The Farmer’s Bank, Bender Homes, Jackson Township Trustee’s Office, Specialty Tax Services, and Majestic Care.
Supporting Sponsor
Pock-Dodson-Kaser Family
Individual Sponsorships
Sarah Buckner, Arcadia Christian Church, Cicero Christian Church, CSO, Inc., Powers Septic and Sewer, Bruce Culp Woodmaster, Inc., Victory Chapel Community Church, Myers Insurance and Real Estate, Purkey’s Heating and Cooling, and Cicero Kiwanis.
A special thank you to the Youth Assistance Program Board members: Sarah Buckner, Natasha Robinson, Zach Smith, Emily Schmale, Jeanann Dodson, Ashley Fischer, Jamie Loughman, Brittany Jamieson, Eric Heuer, Tricia Akers, Dr. Derek Arrowood, Judge Michael Casati, and Judge Andrew Bloch.
Additional appreciation goes to Brittany Jamieson, Jeanann Dodson, Kija Ireland, and Summer Bailey for their support throughout the event, and to Big Dog’s Smokehouse BBQ for providing another outstanding meal.
