Barberton Community Foundation Celebrates Record Scholarship Investment in Barberton High School Students

Nearly $500,000 awarded, including new On-Campus Housing Scholarship valued at up to $60,000 over four years

April 27, 2026

Barberton, Ohio – Barberton Community Foundation awarded $472,400 in scholarships to Barberton High School students during its 2026 Scholarship Awards Ceremony, held at Barberton High School and sponsored by BWX Technologies, Inc.

A total of 126 scholarships were presented to 54 students across three categories: Community Awards, Donor-Funded Awards, and Endowment Scholarships. More than half of the total—$251,000—represents renewable support that will continue alongside students throughout their post-secondary education.

“This is something our community should be proud of,” said Executive Director Josh Gordon. “What we saw during the ceremony was more than a celebration. It was a clear reflection of who we are. Barberton shows up for its students.”

Widely considered a crown jewel of the community, the annual scholarship program brings together generations of donors, families, and partners to invest in Barberton’s future. Many scholarships are rooted in legacy funds, connecting students directly to the individuals and families whose values continue to shape the community.

“You could see it in real time,” Gordon said. “Students meeting the people behind their scholarships. Families understanding what this community has chosen to invest in them. That connection—that belief—is exactly what this work is about.”

For students, that belief is deeply personal.

“It’s so rewarding,” said Holly Adkins. “I’ve worked really hard for a long time, and it means a lot to have people believe in my potential. I’m so grateful.”

“It means a lot to me and my family,” said Marco Carlucci. “With a twin brother, paying for two colleges at the same time could be difficult, so this support gives us a real sense of security.”

The impact is both immediate and long-term. At least two students received enough support through multiple awards to achieve a full ride to college. In addition to traditional college pathways, several scholarships support students pursuing trade and technical education, reflecting the diverse opportunities available after high school.

New this year, Barberton Community Foundation introduced the On-Campus Housing Scholarship, the largest single investment of the program, valued at up to $60,000 over four years.

Originally designed to support one student, the Foundation found a way to expand the award to support two recipients.

The scholarship reflects a growing focus on what it takes for students not just to start college, but to stay, persist, and complete their degrees.

“We are learning more about what drives success,” Gordon said. “Living on campus increases connection, engagement, and the likelihood that students finish what they start. This is about building the kind of support that leads to real outcomes.”

For recipients of the On-Campus Scholarship, the impact is profound.

“This scholarship means everything,” said Jacqueline Gouamba. “To be recognized not just for my need, but for my character, is a complete honor. It makes me want to give back to this community.”

“It means the world to me,” added Shaelynn Ison. “I never expected this level of community support. When my name was called, I was overwhelmed—in the best way.”

That evolution is grounded in a broader goal.

“Post-secondary education is the bridge between a job and a career,” Gordon said as part of his remarks. “And that difference matters. A career creates stability, opportunity, and a future—not just for the individual, but for their family and for this community.”

Students say that support is already shaping what comes next.

“This support gives me a strong head start,” said Kellen Lockhart who plans to study Art Education at The University of Akron. “It builds my confidence and helps me keep pushing forward. I’m truly grateful.”

While this year’s milestone reflects significant progress, it also points to continued opportunity. Approximately 25 percent of Barberton High School seniors received scholarships this year, underscoring both the strength of the program and the potential to expand its reach.

“The need is real, and the students are ready,” Gordon said. “What this moment shows us is what’s possible when a community comes together. The question now is how we continue to build on it.”

Barberton Community Foundation remains committed to growing its scholarship impact through continued partnership with fundholders, donors, and community stakeholders—ensuring more students can access education, complete their programs, and build meaningful careers.

“This is not just about helping students take the next step,” Gordon said. “It’s about helping them build a future—and ensuring Barberton is stronger because of it.”

 

 View the full photo gallery from our 2026 Scholarship Awards Night.