Congratulations 2025 C4 Winners:

Business: 
Sponsored by JSL Home Repair, Peoples Bank, RoofX, & Wilmington Savings Bank

Brad Heys
Nominated by: Jacqueline Barnes
“Brad Heys is a dedicated entrepreneur and long-time resident of Wilmington, Ohio, where he has lived for the past 20 years. As the owner of three prominent local businesses — Kava Haus (2014), Trail Haus (2024), and Southridge Brewing(2025). Brad is committed to supporting downtown revitalization and enhancing the small businesses in Wilmington. Through each of his businesses, he aims to provide meaningful experiences for members of the community and visitors while contributing to community growth. Brad has a true passion for business and customer service. I truly believe that you will not meet a more selfless person than Brad. He is always willing to help anyone around him no matter how busy he is running three businesses. He is so dedicated to his friends and family and goes above and beyond, always.”

Marcus Harris
Nominated by: Kacey Glass-Harris, Cheyenne Brown, Sarah Collett, Jessica Hoskins, Dawna Everhart, Trudy Barnett, Alicia Sollars, Susan Oote, Jameeka, Naomi Sanders , and Anonymous
“Marcus Harris is a leader who wears many hats—and wears them all with excellence, passion, and purpose. As General Manager of Donatos in Wilmington, he is more than a boss; he is a mentor, motivator, and role model who leads by example, sees potential in others, and helps young people build confidence, life skills, and brighter futures. Beyond Donatos, Marcus brings people together through music as DJMH, drives innovation through Harris3DPrinting, and empowers others through Killem’ All Beard Oil—always leading with creativity, integrity, and heart. Known throughout the community for his generosity, humility, and willingness to help anyone in need, Marcus believes that success means nothing unless you’re helping others rise with you. He consistently puts others first, inspires people to chase their dreams, and embodies what it truly means to lead through service.”

Tom Daskalakis, FACHE; Clinton Regional Hospital
Nominated by: Anonymous
“Since joining Clinton Regional Hospital in September 2023, Tom, a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE), has provided steady leadership during a critical transition, bringing stability, vision, and renewed purpose after a prolonged period without permanent leadership. Through a collaborative, service-focused approach, he has rebuilt trust, strengthened culture, and improved associate and physician engagement by emphasizing transparency, recognition, and shared accountability. Under Tom’s guidance, the hospital has achieved measurable improvements in quality and operations, earning national validation such as Leapfrog recognition, expanding services through key physician recruitment, strategic partnerships including Beacon Orthopedics, and the launch of the Diabetes Clinic and Advanced Wound Healing Center. Beyond hospital operations, Tom is deeply engaged in the community through local events, public outreach, and his weekly health segment on Real Roots Radio, while also serving as a Rotary Club Trustee, Head Start Hero, and Board Trustee for the Wilmington–Clinton County Chamber of Commerce. In every capacity, Tom serves as an inspiration and role model—showing that effective leadership is built on integrity, compassion, and community commitment. His example motivates others to lead with purpose and reminds us all that when service guides our work, real transformation follows.”

Citizen: 

Sponsored by Alkermes, Bush Auto Place, Kirkwood Camp & Adventure Park,& Melvin Stone Company 

Eric Guindon, Clinton County Youth Council (CCYC)
Nominated by: Elizabeth Huber
“[For 13 years,] Eric Guindon has been an integral part of CCYC. Eric sees the good in each and every youth person who enters his life. He has grown CCYC from more than just an after school program to a year round outlet for not only his ‘kids’ but for the entire community. He goes out of his way every chance he can to help spread positive news about youth and what they do. He has started several community wide and CCYC initiatives that are free for all kids! Students who attend after school are ensures a meal or snack every day and a safe place go after school, keeping kids engaged and off the streets. He also organizes weekly programs that he alters to each kids interests– cooking club, music, bike repair and art club just to name a few. He is helping students learn to be involved in the community while teaching them to be independent and helping them learn life skills. Eric is a doer. If anything needs done his answer is always ‘sure no problem’ and if he can’t he will find someone who can help.”

Jeff and Janelle Smart, Clinton County Community Action
Nominated by: Jane Newkirk, Clinton Co. Community Action
“Jeff and Janelle have been a tremendous help to the Aging Up Center.  Jeff provides
transportation for out-of-county trips, which provides socialization for our seniors. …He also volunteers to drive the senior billboard players to other counties for competition events.  Without him volunteering to do this, it would be difficult to provide these services due to lack of funds to cover staff time.  Janelle volunteers to cover the front desk; greeting guests as they enter the center, taking reservations for lunch, trips, etc. which is another necessary position that lacks funding to cover.  …Both Jeff and Janelle support the Aging Up Center in multiple ways, if they see something that needs repaired they always ask if they are able to assist with the repair, they worked tirelessly at the Corn Festival booth fundraiser. They both work hours, coming in before staff, to prepare for the twice monthly salad bar at the Senior Center among other meal preparations both during and after hours events.  If they know of someone in need, they attempt to assist when and where they are able.”

Karen Quairry, Clinton County Community Action
Nominated by: Jane Newkirk, Clinton Co. Community Action
“Karen has been a true asset to the Aging Up Center, [volunteering] to provide transportation to seniors for socialization events. …In addition, she volunteers at least 4 hours almost daily to cover the lobby desk at the Center answering the phone, monitoring the buzz-in system, signing individuals up for trips, lunch, events, etc.  She has volunteered for fundraising dinners and supported the Center in multiple ways.  …One perfect example of her kind heart is a local senior was in need of transportation out of state for a family wedding and had no way to attend.  Karen volunteered to drive the individual, that she didn't know, so that they could attend the event.  Unfortunately, this was in Tennessee when the flood occurred and they were stranded for days in the area they were staying. Karen was a constant support for the senior during this difficult event.”

Latasha Ruddle, Wilmington Church of God
Nominated by: Bishop Rich Boll, Wilmington Church of God
“Latasha Ruddle exemplifies servant leadership through her many roles serving children, families, and individuals across Clinton County. As Administrative/Family Pastor at Wilmington Church of God, she impacts hundreds of children each week through the EPIC Kids Program by ensuring every child feels loved, valued, and supported—providing weekly meals, summer lunch packs, mentoring families, and sharing the gospel. She also serves foster, adoptive, and kinship families through food distribution, support groups, and
personal mentoring. Drawing from her experience as a mom of 9 kids (4 biological, 4 adopted, and 1 foster), Latasha understands the importance of a strong and healthy family environment. As the Clinton County Board of Developmental Disabilities Community Integration and Special Olympics Director, Latasha leads inclusive programs, coaches multiple sports, and creates meaningful opportunities for individuals of all abilities. Her compassion, dedication, and tireless service make her a powerful example of leadership in our community.”

Rebecca “Becky” Thompson-Waits
Nominated by: India McGee
“Rebecca ‘Becky’ Thompson-Waits is a lifelong Clinton County resident whose quiet generosity and consistent service have touched children, families, and seniors across the community. Through her signature initiative, Bags of Hope—a project begun with her late mother—Becky has created a year-round tradition of giving, providing backpacks, stockings, care bags, meals, and gifts that carry comfort, love, and hope to hundreds each year. She personally organizes and funds these efforts, supporting children in crisis, residents of the county homeless shelter, and seniors throughout local care facilities. From Backpacks for Kids and Free Sack Lunches to holiday meals and open-door fellowship, Becky leads with humility, creativity, and heart, reminding us that true community impact is built through compassion, consistency, and caring for others without seeking recognition.”

Education: 

Sponsored by First State Bank, Smith-Feike-Minton Inc., Southern State Community College, & Wilmington College

Ann Compton
Nominated by: Anonymous, Scarlett Patterson
“Ann has worked in the Great Oaks system for 30 years as a Health Tech instructor. She has guided hundreds/ thousands of youth into careers in health care. She cares deeply for her students beyond the classroom and finds joy in their successes years after they leave her room… I often hear stories of how Ann impacted their life positively. One person told me how she motivated her to go to college even though she thought she couldn’t and now she has her masters degree working as a Director of Nursing. Another told me of a traumatic time in her life and how Ann was a bright light through it. I’m sure there are dozens of more stories like that out there. She is retiring this year and I believe she deserves this award as recognition of an outstanding career.”

Rebecca Shultz, Wilmington Public Library
Nominated by: Joseph Shultz, Corin Pierce, Anonymous
“Becky Shultz is a selfless and joyful leader whose work as Children’s Specialist at the Wilmington Library has made a lasting impact on children and families throughout the community. She creates engaging programs that inspire a love of reading and learning through story times, crafts, school outreach, and inclusive events like Touch-A-Truck, Trunk-or-Treat, Easter activities, and partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and sports teams. Becky goes above and beyond to ensure children feel welcomed, safe, and excited to learn—so much so that kids recognize her everywhere and run up to thank her for making their summers, school experiences, and library visits special. Whether organizing community collaborations, weekend and holiday programs, or simply offering kindness wherever she goes, Becky leads with heart, dedication, and a genuine desire to see every child thrive.”

Steve & Tammy Reed
Nominated by:  Anonymous
“Steve and Tammy have always gone above and beyond for the Wilmington community by being involved in so many different organizations and initiatives at Wilmington City Schools. Recently, they have become the leaders in the community in bringing foreign exchange students to our community, county, and region as Experience Coordinators for Southwest Ohio.  They work diligently to bring students and families from around the world to Wilmington and Clinton County in order to create a cultural exchange that benefits both the visiting student and family and those here at home. …Their dedication to this program has created a more understanding and worldly perspective here in Clinton County and we are all better for having experienced the fruits of their labor. They have shown time and again how they are dedicated to our students and families, and this is just one more example of how they are committed to contributing to the success and growth of Clinton County and beyond.”

Teresa Borden, Clinton County Community Action
Nominated by: Jane Newkirk, Anonymous
“Teresa has served as Director of Education for Clinton County Community Action since 2022, dedicating countless hours beyond her normal work schedule to strengthen the Head Start Program and to enhance the Clinton County Early Learning Center, always placing the wellbeing of children and families first. She works tirelessly to improve classroom environments, maintain high-quality staff, and support her team, while also serving on several boards and collaboratives, including the State Head Start Association, Clinton County Workforce Collaborative, and Family Children First Council. Teresa extends her service beyond her role by volunteering for fundraising efforts benefiting the Aging Up Center and other CCCAP programs. While raising her own children, serving as a foster parent, and acting as a guardian for adults in need of oversight, Teresa has continued to lead with unwavering dedication even while supporting her husband through significant health challenges. Admired by her staff and colleagues, Teresa is a compassionate, selfless leader whose resilience, professionalism, and heart ensure Clinton County’s children and families receive the very best care possible.”

Government/Public Service: 

Sponsored by Clinton County Convention & Visitors Bureau, WKFI Real Roots Radio, & Wilmington Auto Center Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram 

Brian Smith, Clinton County Port Authority
Nominated by: Beth Huber, Clinton County Port Authority
“After 14 years on the Port Authority Board of Directors, Brian Smith has become
instrumental – institutional almost – in his knowledge of the organization, of the history, of projects attempted, of projects completed, and has come to be the one others depend on for balance and perspective. …During his tenure, he served on the Human Resources Committee, helping to select two Executive Directors, and chaired the Finance Committee, overseeing the tough days when it was a struggle to ensure employees were paid, and days when the Board needed to look into the future to provide stability to the organization for the long term….Throughout, Brian displayed an incredible commitment to Clinton County.  As a local business owner, it was not always easy.  The ability to look to the future and to weather some temporary storms took creativity and
cooperation...The community is the beneficiary of his years on the Board.…And now – he leaves big shoes to fill.” 

Healthcare: 

Sponsored by Ferno, Kettering Health, Ohio Living Cape May, & TriHealth Clinton Regional Hospital

Dr. Hassan Issa, MD; Clinton Regional Hospital
Nominated by: Anonymous
“Dr. Hassan Issa exemplifies exceptional commitment to patient care and community health through his work as a medical oncologist at the Foster J. Boyd MD Regional Cancer Center at Clinton Regional Hospital. …Dr. Issa demonstrates unselfish leadership and creativity in service to others. He played a key role in launching Clinton Regional Hospital’s chapter of the COA Patient Advocacy Network (CPAN), the first hospital-based chapter in the nation. …His leadership reflects a belief that healthcare is not only about treatment—it is also about giving patients a voice. Dr. Issa’s cooperative spirit extends to mentoring and collaboration. He works closely with advanced practice providers, nurses, and multidisciplinary teams to ensure seamless, patient-centered care. His compassion is reflected deeply in his relationships with patients. One patient shared, ‘The best staff I’ve ever worked with… Dr. Issa is a great doctor. One of the best!’ This sentiment is echoed by many who value his empathy, patience, and dedication.”

Dr. Rachel Lovano, MD; Clinton Regional Hospital
Nominated by: Anonymous
“Dr. Rachel Lovano has dedicated her career to expanding access to cutting-edge surgical care close to home. As Director of Surgery and Director of Robotic Surgery at Clinton Regional Hospital, Dr. Lovano has introduced innovative procedures—ensuring local patients receive world-class care without leaving the region. …In June 2025, she was appointed Chief of Staff—a testament to her peers’ trust and her ability to unite teams around shared goals. Dr. Lovano’s influence extends beyond the operating room. She actively mentors young physicians and fosters a culture of cooperation, modeling integrity and empathy in every interaction. Her dedication to service includes participating in community health education and supporting outreach programs that address local needs. Patients consistently praise her for her compassion, clear communication, and exceptional bedside manner… [and she] demonstrates that true leadership is about lifting others, whether through innovation, mentorship, or community engagement. Her example reminds us that healthcare is not just a profession but a calling to serve.”

Dr. Tina Gabbard, Cincinnati Children's
Nominated by: Nanette Bentley, Cincinnati Children's
“Dr. Tina Gabbard has cared for Clinton County families for more than 30 years. She lives here, worships here, and works here. People know her. They trust her. In 2025, that trust showed up in steady, practical ways for parents and kids across the county [when she was] instrumental in the opening of Cincinnati Children’s Wilmington Primary Care. Gabbard immediately recognized the need to expand beyond medical care to include social work and behavioral health in the practice. She didn’t just ask for it. She sat down with the medical team, social workers, and behavioral health staff and set simple steps so a child with an urgent concern could be seen quickly and safely. In a rural county, those steps matter. ...She also gives her time without fanfare, she is active with the Blanchester Church of the Nazarene; [volunteering at] New Life Clinic, the Clinton County Free Clinic, and Wilmington Christian Academy; and [teaching] family medicine residents from the University of
Cincinnati and The Ohio State University. Her example is simple and strong. She has cared for families across generations—many mention that she ‘goes beyond,’ listens well, and treats them ‘like family.’ That’s how trust is built here.”

Tracy Kelley, Tracy D Kelley Direct Primary Care
Nominated by: Anonymous
“Tracy’s entire primary care practice is rooted in the belief that she can and should serve others. The dedication that she puts into caring for her patients as they are her own family is unmatched. She works full time as a nurse practitioner at CMH in neurology, and goes to her own practice on evenings and weekends where she provides personalized care for individuals with various needs. She believes that healthcare should be accessible, and has patients of all ages who she visits in their home because they are not able to leave for
various reasons. She has visited newborn babies in their home, held the hands of patients passing on hospice, and hugged their caregivers at funerals that she attends. And she does none of this for praise or attention, only out of pure love for the field of nursing and the people she serves. She is always willing to involve herself in community events, including the recent “I Heart Clinton County” event and has really immersed herself in Sabina’s community. …She is the best role model …and I know there are plenty of individuals who look up to her [and] admire her for her passion, knowledge, and kindness in the healthcare field.”

Non-Profit: 

Sponsored by Clinton County Foundation, Clinton County Port Authority, Merchants National Bank, & Wilmington College Advantage 

Dave Sikorski, Habitat for Humanity ReStore
Nominated by: Roger Harding, Mitzi Dennis, Rose Sikorski , & Anonymous
“Dave Sikorski is a quiet dedicated volunteer who is driven to help others in Clinton County improve their housing situations and therefore their lives. Dave is an active member of Clinton County Habitat for Humanity, working to serve the mission to build homes, communities, and hope by bringing people together to address the issues of poverty, housing and homelessness. He has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to our
community by achieving this goal, initially at the job site,  serving on the HFH-CC Board of Directors, spending full time hours volunteering at the ReStore, managing the website and putting out the HFH-CC Newsletter, and with many of the needed fundraising programs. …Dave's leadership stands out for his selfless approach, consistently prioritizing the needs of others to ensure that organizational decisions benefit all.  His approach encourages creativity, values diverse ideas, and promotes teamwork.…His hardworking style is appreciated by the staff at the ReStore where he actively helps with pickups, accepting donations, cleaning items, stocking, and assisting customers. … His efforts are all volunteer-driven and reflect his selflessness, integrity, and commitment to service not only to Habitat for Humanity – Clinton County, but also to our community.”

Jane Newkirk and Shane Breckel; Aging Up Community Center
Nominated by: Ken Wilson, Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio
“The Wilmington Savings Bank Clinton County Aging Up Community Center, operated by Jane Newkirk and Shane Breckel, serves a vital and growing need for older adults in Wilmington and Clinton County. As a contracted provider of Council on Aging, the Center supports more than 760 individuals through essential services including congregate and home-delivered meals, transportation, and health and wellness programming—often going “above and beyond” for those they serve. In operation since 2001, the Center has expanded offerings to meet changing community needs, including digital literacy classes for adults 60+ and, most recently, a partnership with Extended Family Home Care to restore adult day care services in the county—providing caregivers peace of mind while helping older adults remain independent, healthy, and engaged in their community. ‘The Aging Up Center is a critical part of the network that serves older adults and caregivers in Clinton County,’ said Ken Wilson, chief operating and programs officer at Council on Aging. ‘Without the Center, hundreds of older adults would lose access to services they rely on to help them remain independent and to live healthy, engaged lives in Clinton County.’”

Nancy Miller, Sugartree Ministries and Presbyterian Church of Wilmington
Nominated by: Judy Gano
“Nancy Miller exemplifies servant leadership and dedication to those in need throughout Clinton County. For more than twenty years, she has served on the Board of Directors for Sugartree Ministries, where she goes far beyond meetings—regularly spending hours distributing food, ordering and organizing pantry items, preventing waste, and ensuring leftover food is used to serve the community through Your Father’s Kitchen. Nancy’s exceptional leadership keeps operations running smoothly, matching volunteers with roles that fit their skills and leading by example with humility and respect. She also created Sugartree’s successful “blanket room” to provide warmth to those in need and continues her service through the Presbyterian Church of Wilmington as a Deacon, choir member, finance committee volunteer, and caregiver to congregants. Nancy truly lives out her calling by generously giving her time, talent, and love to wrap her community in care.”

Neil Rhonemous, BOX-14 Responder Support Unit
Nominated by: Anonymous
“Neil Rhonemous has demonstrated exceptional commitment, leadership, and service as the inaugural President of the BOX-14 Responder Support Unit in Clinton County. In just one year, he transformed a concept into a fully operational volunteer organization—personally responding to every activation, leading from the front, and setting a standard of professionalism and reliability. Under his leadership, BOX-14 has grown to 34 active members serving multiple fire districts, strengthened technological and logistical capabilities, secured critical resources, and raised more than $52,000 to support responder welfare and readiness. Known for his humility, persistence, and ‘no excuses, get it done’ approach, Neil leads by example, inspires others to serve beyond themselves, and has built a lasting culture of teamwork and selfless service in Clinton County. He is, without question, the model of what a local responder leader should be.”

Stella Cramer, Clinton County Community Action
Nominated by: Jane Newkirk, Clinton County Community Action
“Stella has dedicated 40 years to Clinton County Community Action, beginning as a Meals on Wheels Clerk and rising to Senior Center Director before moving into her current role as Housing Finance Manager. She continues to oversee daily senior center operations, including meal delivery, transportation, and fundraising, contributing thousands of volunteer hours over the years. Balancing her professional duties with college courses, raising a young child, and church and community volunteering, Stella’s commitment to seniors and the community is unwavering, making her a true Community Champion.”

Wade Hall, Friends Caring for Cowan Lake & Friends of Clarksville
Nominated by: Bob Heyob
“Wade is truly an inspiration working for two non-profits, where he is the president of both.  As the president of Friends Caring for Cowan Lake State Park, he secured funding for an ADA compliant handicap kayak and canoe launch facility for the park. Through Friends of Clarksville, he has single-handedly secured a remodel for the old mayors office, court, and jail at the historic Clarksville village. He saved this old building and secured financing for the remodel. …His dedication for these two non-profits is inspirational. I am amazed at how much time he actually spends raising funds, securing grants, and working with others on these endeavors. Both of these non-profits are a success because of the work done by Wade Hall.”

Youth: 

Sponsored by Air Transport Services Group Inc., Donatos Pizza, News Journal, & OhioMeansJobs-Clinton County/Workforce Services Unlimited Inc.

Carly Hayes, Great Oaks-Clinton Massie FCCLA
Nominated by: Ginger Caldwell
“Over the course of the 2025 year, through Carly’s role as Vice President of the Great Oaks-Clinton Massie FCCLA chapter, she has actively led planning, communication, and volunteer coordination, ensuring that projects ran smoothly and reached their full potential. Her willingness to take responsibility while also elevating others is a testament to her unselfish leadership. She never seeks credit or recognition for success; instead, she directs attention toward the collective effort, making every member feel valued and essential. When challenges arose…Carly answered with innovative solutions instead of discouragement. …Younger members of the chapter naturally look to her as a role model. She leads not with authority but with example—showing that leadership is not measured in titles, but in actions, patience, and willingness to serve alongside those you guide. …In addition to hands-on service, Carly dedicates time to mentorship and support. …She has not simply participated in service—she has transformed it, strengthened it, and reminded us what one person driven by purpose can achieve.”

Eli Ruther, Scout Troop 155
Nominated by: Anonymous
“Eli Ruther, a dedicated member of Troop 155 in Clarksville, Ohio, exemplifies leadership, service, and community pride through his recent Eagle Scout project. Partnering with the Vernon Township Trustees, Eli took on the important task of documenting all veterans interred in the Clarksville Cemetery. Prior to his project, no official record existed—veteran recognition relied solely on aging or damaged grave markers, many of which were missing, unreadable, or broken.  Eli spent his summer organizing scouts to help in recording, and verifying veterans’ information to ensure that accurate records could be used to order new veteran plaques and preserve the memory of those who served. His project not only created a lasting historical document for the township but also included the installation of a new cemetery bench in honor of these veterans. …His upcoming Eagle Scout ceremony will formally recognize this remarkable achievement. Eli could have chosen any community service project. His commitment to honoring local veterans and preserving community history is an inspiring example of civic responsibility and youth leadership.”

Mia Thirey
Nominated by: Greta Galloway
“Mia is one of the most selfless leaders I have ever encountered as a teacher. Mia gives of herself every day without asking for a recognition in return. At school, she has volunteered as an aid in the kindergarten classroom daily for the last two years [and is] also very actively involved in church. …In addition, Mia plays varsity volleyball and varsity basketball for the school. She is a talented athlete, but more than that, she shows up, even on the days that she is the most exhausted, with a great attitude, and helps to hold up her teams. Mia is an extraordinarily talented artist, but again she repeatedly uses this talent to serve others. …There is no task that she would hesitate to complete for anyone that asks something of her. She does absolutely everything with a positive attitude. …I asked Mia how she has the strength to do all of this, and still maintain high grades. Mia said ‘its all about the mindset.’ …I don’t think that Mia finds anything that she does in a day extraordinary or worthy of recognition in any way, and this is precisely what does make her worthy of recognition. She gives of herself in every venue that she is involved in, and as she graduates high school and moves to bigger venues, I am confident that she will continue to give of herself just as selflessly.”

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