Lakewood Rangers Education Foundation

08/27/2026

We’re always inspired by the creativity and dedication of Lakewood educators—and we’re grateful to Lakewood City Schools for recognizing the impact of our Teaching Grant program!

This year, LREF was proud to invest nearly $44,000 in 36 teacher-led projects that will give students new ways to explore, create, collaborate, and learn. Some programs have become beloved traditions, while others are brand new ideas brought forward by teachers who see an opportunity to do something a little different for their students.

That’s what we love about Teaching Grants: supporting educators who know their students best and helping turn their ideas into experiences that might not otherwise be possible.

Thank you to our donors for making this program possible, and to our amazing teachers for continuing to find new ways to inspire Lakewood students. We’re excited to see these projects in action this school year!

Take a look at the District’s article below to learn more about this year’s grants and the educators behind them!

We are grateful to the Lakewood Rangers Education Foundation (LREF) for the many ways it supports the District, including our staff members. At our Aug. 20 Convocation that kicked off the new school year, LREF announced nearly $44,000 in teaching grants for staff. The grants will be used to fund 36 unique innovative learning experiences created by the District’s amazing educators. The grants are made possible through a number of dedicated funding sources such as the Margaret B. Warner Fund and the Meinke Creative Teaching Grant Fund as well as LREF’s general fund. Learn more about the grants and their recipients at the link below:

🔗https://www.lakewoodcityschools.org/post-detail/~board/lakewood-city-school-district/post/lref-awards-44k-in-teaching-grants

08/27/2026

As summer winds down and a new school year begins, we’re wrapping up our Scholarship Spotlight series celebrating the incredible Lakewood students who received LREF scholarships this year.

Thank you for following along, reading their stories, and celebrating these outstanding students with us. We’re so proud of our graduates and excited to see all they accomplish in the years ahead!

If you’d like to help us celebrate more Rangers in the future, consider making a gift to the LREF Scholarship Fund. And if you’ve ever thought about creating a scholarship fund of your own, we’d love to talk with you about how you can make a lasting difference for Lakewood students. https://lakewoodrangers.com/donate

Welcome back, Rangers! Here’s to a wonderful 2026–27 school year!

08/27/2026

Congratulations to Rita Yost, recipient of the Gary Holmes Memorial Track Scholarship!

Rita is an outstanding student-athlete whose dedication, perseverance, and commitment to her school and community have defined her Lakewood High School experience. With a 4.38 GPA, Rita has challenged herself with rigorous AP and CCP coursework, earned a place in the top 10% of her class, and been recognized with the Celebration of Excellence for three consecutive years.

A three-year varsity member of the Lakewood High School Indoor and Outdoor Track & Field teams, Rita has earned Scholar Athlete honors in both indoor and outdoor track for three years. Through track, she learned the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and continually striving to improve. She also brought that same dedication to the marching band, where she served as a senior Flag Captain, mentoring younger students and developing her leadership skills.

Rita’s commitment to her community is equally impressive. She has volunteered with youth track programs, middle school track meets, Special Olympics, National Honor Society service projects, Mulch Madness, and Hayes Adopt-A-Spot—a commitment that began when she was an elementary student and continues today. She has also worked as a camp counselor and pool attendant, gaining valuable experience caring for and supporting younger members of the community.

Her teachers describe Rita as disciplined, respectful, insightful, intelligent, and one of Lakewood High School’s finest students. She is known for her kindness and was recognized as Student of the Month after a teacher nominated her for the way she treats others.

Rita plans to study Psychology with a focus on counseling at The University of Toledo, with the goal of helping others who are facing mental health challenges.

Congratulations, Rita! Your hard work, perseverance, and commitment to helping others have made you a wonderful representative of the Lakewood Ranger spirit. We are so proud to celebrate you!

08/26/2026

Congratulations to Stevie Williams, recipient of the Robert & Suzanne Weber Scholarship!

Stevie is an exceptional student whose academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to serving others make them a wonderful example of a Lakewood Ranger. With a 4.0+ GPA and consistent placement on the Distinguished Honor Roll, Stevie has challenged themself with some of Lakewood High School’s most rigorous courses while developing a genuine love of learning.

Stevie’s dedication extends well beyond the classroom. As a member of U.S. Representative Shontel Brown’s Youth Advisory Council, Stevie has gained firsthand experience engaging with real-world policy issues and civic leadership. They are also a Cuyahoga County Fresh Water Institute Fellow, Lakewood High Orchestra officer and concertmaster, member of the Lakewood Project and Four Seasons String Quartet, and a member of the Philanthropy Club.

Music has been a particularly meaningful part of Stevie’s LHS experience. A violinist since middle school, Stevie has grown into a leader and mentor, teaching younger students as a violin instructor and volunteering as a fifth-grade violin practice buddy. Their private violin teacher describes Stevie’s persistence, discipline, empathy, and ability to remain grounded through challenges as among their most valuable qualities.

Stevie has also devoted significant time to community service, volunteering with Kauffman Park Friends, Hidden Hollow Camp, and Lakewood’s orchestra program, while balancing multiple jobs and extensive responsibilities at home.

Most importantly, Stevie understands that leadership is about helping others. Whether mentoring younger musicians, collaborating with peers, or engaging in civic life, they consistently lead with empathy, communication, and kindness.

Stevie plans to study Environmental Studies at Ohio University, where they will continue to bring their curiosity, perseverance, and commitment to making a difference.

Congratulations, Stevie! We are so proud to celebrate your accomplishments and wish you all the best at Ohio University!

08/25/2026

Congratulations to Cecilia “Ceci” Whiteamire, recipient of the Dr. Lisa Hanson Fine Arts Scholarship!

Ceci is a gifted performer, dedicated leader, and an incredible friend to those around her. She has spent more than a decade growing as an artist through theater, taking on roles both onstage and behind the scenes while also mentoring and encouraging younger performers.

Her accomplishments are impressive. Ceci is President of Barnstormers Drama Club, Vice President of National Honor Society, and Secretary of Tri-M Music Honor Society. She has performed in more than 30 productions through the Beck Center for the Arts and other local theater organizations and has been recognized with the Beck Center Mary Ward Scholarship, a Best Performer Award, a Thespian Award, and Playhouse Square Dazzle Awards recognition, including a Best
Supporting Actress nomination and a Best Musical win.

But what truly sets Ceci apart is the way she uses her talents to lift up others. She has volunteered more than 160 hours, serving as a theater class assistant and costume assistant, and she has mentored younger students throughout her years in theater.

Her teachers describe her as “bubbly, open-minded, welcoming, and kind”—the kind of person who notices when someone is alone and invites them to join in. One recommender called her an “absolute treasure” and placed her in the top 1% of students they have worked with in more than 20 years of teaching.

Ceci plans to study Theater at Slippery Rock University, where her extraordinary talent, work ethic, creativity, and compassion will undoubtedly shine.

Congratulations, Ceci! We are so proud to celebrate you and your passion for the arts. We can’t wait to see where your talent takes you!

08/22/2026

Congratulations to Maya Trempe, recipient of the Carl E. & Margaret F. Dryer Scholarship!

Maya is an exceptional student whose academic accomplishments are matched by her generosity, leadership, and commitment to making her school and community a better place. With a 4.4 GPA, a 1370 SAT score, and AP Scholar with Honor recognition, Maya has excelled academically while embracing every opportunity to learn, lead, and serve.

A four-year member of the Lakewood High School girls tennis team, Maya has served as a team captain and has learned that true leadership is about kindness, openness, and helping others feel that they belong. She brings that same spirit to her many other activities, including the Lakewood Project, Model UN, Mock Trial, History Club, Amnesty International, National Honor Society, and Tri-M Music Honor Society.

Maya has also been a dedicated member of the Lakewood community. She volunteers her time helping with alumni tours, welcoming former Rangers back to LHS and sharing her enthusiasm for the school. She has also volunteered as an Orchestra Practice Buddy and participated in community events.

One of Maya’s teachers summed up her impact perfectly, describing her as “a force to be reckoned with that makes our school better through her work ethic and ebullient attitude.” Her teacher also noted that Maya is one of the most generous students they have ever taught—always willing to give her time and talents and encourage those around her.

Maya plans to study Journalism at The Ohio State University, where her exceptional communication skills, curiosity, and genuine care for others will undoubtedly make an impact.

Congratulations, Maya! We are so proud to celebrate you and wish you all the best at Ohio State!

08/21/2026

Congratulations to Ashley Tomsic, recipient of the Donald & Annamarie Chick Family Scholarship!

Ashley is an outstanding example of a student who combines academic excellence with leadership, service, and a strong work ethic. With a 4.0 GPA, AP Scholar with Honor recognition, and more than 20 college credits expected by graduation, Ashley has challenged herself academically while maintaining an impressive commitment to her school and community.

A four-year member of the LHS History Club, Ashley now serves as President, where she has organized field trips, coordinated presentations, recruited members, and shared her passion for history through engaging presentations. She is also a member of National Honor Society, Key Club, Art Club, Drama Club, and the Home Alone Leadership Program.

Ashley has dedicated more than 130 hours to community service, volunteering with the Catechists of the Good Shepherd, LHS Help 2 Others, the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, and other community initiatives.

Ashley has also balanced her rigorous academic and extracurricular schedule with employment, earning increased responsibilities and recognition for her professionalism, dependability, and willingness to go the extra mile.

Ashley plans to study Architecture at The Ohio State University. Her curiosity, initiative, and genuine enthusiasm for learning will serve her well as she takes this next step.

Congratulations, Ashley! We are proud to support you and wish you continued success as you pursue your dreams!

08/20/2026

Congratulations to Mia Thomas, recipient of the LREF Pearl Ann Bodle ’50 Memorial Scholarship!

Mia Thomas has embraced the opportunities at Lakewood High School with curiosity, determination, and a genuine desire to grow. With a GPA above 4.0, she has challenged herself through AP, honors, and College Credit Plus courses and has been recognized as a Student of Excellence, AP Scholar, NHS member, and Ohio Governor’s Merit Scholarship recipient.

The arts have been an important part of Mia’s Lakewood experience. A four-year member of the Lakewood Young Filmmakers Academy, she has also been deeply involved in Ranger Marching Band and Wind Ensemble, serving as a section leader and First Clarinet. Her musical accomplishments include a Marching Band Star Performer Award and two perfect scores at Solo and Ensemble.

But Mia’s story is about more than accomplishments. She credits marching band with teaching her to step outside her comfort zone and keep trying when something feels difficult. As a freshman, she entered unsure of her musical abilities and as the only freshman clarinet player in her section. With encouragement from her peers, she worked hard, gained confidence, and ultimately became a leader herself.

Mia brings that same spirit to serving others. Through H2O and other volunteer efforts, she has contributed more than 45 hours helping seniors, supporting community programs, participating in the Home Alone program, and raking leaves for those in need.

Mia’s teachers describe her as positive, compassionate, responsible, and mature beyond her years. She has learned that growth comes from being willing to try something difficult—and continuing to try.

Mia will attend Ohio University, where she plans to pursue Chemistry and Film & Digital Media.

Congratulations, Mia! We are proud to celebrate your accomplishments, growth, and the positive energy you bring to every community you join.

08/19/2026

Congratulations to Delaney Starr, recipient of the LREF Student Opportunity Fund Scholarship!

Delaney Starr has made an extraordinary impact at Lakewood High School through her leadership, service, academics, athletics, and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

A student leader with a 4.26 GPA, Delaney has challenged herself with a rigorous schedule of AP and honors courses while remaining active in an impressive range of activities. She served as Student Body Vice President, Captain of the Varsity Tennis Team, and Managing Editor of The Lakewood Times, while also participating in orchestra, softball, club tennis, National Honor Society, and the Student Athletic Leadership Team.

Her tennis journey is a testament to her determination. Delaney entered high school having never played tennis and, through year-round training and an extraordinary work ethic, progressed to first singles on the varsity team by her senior year. Her dedication earned her both the MVP and Coaches Awards, as well as Scholar Athlete recognition.

Beyond the classroom and athletic fields, Delaney has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to service. Through the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Rangers for a Cure, she has served as a Team Lead, Student Visionary, and Mentor. Her work organizing campaigns, events, and community outreach earned her the LLS Hero Award. She has also volunteered at softball youth camps.

Those who know Delaney describe her as empathetic, determined, energetic, ambitious, and compassionate—a young woman who leads with both confidence and kindness. Her own journey reflects that same perseverance: when she finds something she is passionate about, she gives it everything she has.

Delaney will continue her education at Loyola University Chicago, where she plans to study Public Health. We are excited to see where her passion for service, advocacy, and helping others takes her next.

Congratulations, Delaney! We are incredibly proud to celebrate your accomplishments and the difference you are already making in our community.

08/18/2026

Congratulations to Evan Seiler, recipient of the Norm & Ruth Brown Scholarship and the Harry E. Jr. & Nancy Furst Figgie Scholarship!

Evan’s Lakewood High School experience is a wonderful example of what can happen when a student embraces new opportunities, challenges himself, and discovers the value of being part of a community.

A four-year member and captain of the Lakewood High School Swim Team, Evan also served as trumpet section leader in the Ranger Marching Band and participated in cross country, pep band, Pit Orchestra, Model UN, Tri-M, NHS, and the Watters Science Seminar. Outside of school, he dedicated seven years to Boy Scouts, serving as Senior Patrol Leader and earning the rank of Eagle Scout.

His accomplishments are impressive, but those who know Evan emphasize something even more meaningful: his character. Teachers and coaches describe him as respectful, dependable, hardworking, motivated, and a quiet leader who leads by example. On the swim team, his teammates elected him captain, recognizing the commitment and perseverance he demonstrated through challenging workouts and high-pressure competitions.

Evan has also made service a priority, completing more than 90 hours of documented volunteer work through Boy Scouts, Tri-M, athletics, and community organizations. His Eagle Scout project involved creating chess sets for the Cove Community Center, adding another meaningful contribution to the Lakewood community.

Perhaps most telling is Evan’s own reflection on his high school journey. He credits the marching band with helping him develop focus, discipline, friendships, and a sense of belonging. From joining the swim team with no prior experience to returning to a sport he once disliked, Evan learned to embrace challenges rather than shy away from them.

That determination will serve him well as he begins the next chapter of his education at Ohio University, where he plans to study Public Health.

Congratulations, Evan! We are proud to recognize a student whose dedication, leadership, service, and willingness to challenge himself truly exemplify what it means to be a Ranger.