HOPE Toledo

05/29/2026

Congratulations Cardan Montessori Center preschool graduates 🎓

05/29/2026

It’s important that our families are heard.

Today’s Family Voices at the Statehouse would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors: bi3, HOPE Toledo, Queens Village Columbus, and Ohio Head Start Association, Inc.

🤝 Because of their investment, families are able to share their stories, connect with policymakers, and lift up what Ohio’s youngest children and their families need to thrive.

05/28/2026

As we celebrate our final HOPE Toledo Promise graduate from the Spring 2026 class, we are ending on an incredible note with Rayvon Braziel. His accomplishments and leadership make this one worth the read.

Congratulations to Rayvon on graduating from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a minor in History!

Before receiving the HOPE Toledo Promise Scholarship, Rayvon planned to attend a smaller school like the University of Toledo or Bowling Green State University because of financial concerns. Receiving the scholarship changed everything. It gave him the opportunity to attend Ohio State without the stress of taking on overwhelming debt and allowed him to fully experience college both academically and personally.

The scholarship also made a life-changing impact for his family. Rayvon shared how meaningful it was to see his father, Rodney Braziel, continue and complete his own bachelor’s degree through the HOPE Toledo Promise program, fulfilling the true purpose of this Promise initiative across generations.

Throughout his time at Ohio State, Rayvon stayed deeply involved in leadership, service, and student advocacy. His accomplishments include:

🎓 3x Elected Senator within the Undergraduate Student Government General Assembly
🎓 Served 2x as Black Caucus Legislative Coordinator
🎓 Served as Parliamentarian within Undergraduate Student Government
🎓 Chapter President and Second Vice President of the Delta Omicron Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
🎓 2x Treasurer for the Council of Minority Political Affairs
🎓 3-year Resident Advisor in Bradley-Paterson Hall
🎓 Black Student Association Representative for his Community Council during his first year

Rayvon also gained extensive professional experience during college, including:
✅ Community Events Intern with Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority
✅ Intern and Page for the Ohio House of Representatives
✅ Advocacy trips to Washington, D.C. where he spoke with Congressional representatives about issues impacting college students across the Big Ten
✅ Participation in regional and international conferences through Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., where he built leadership skills and networked with individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences

Rayvon credits the HOPE Toledo team’s mentorship, support, and consistent check-ins as an important part of his success, whether helping him find books, internships, or simply encouraging him along the way.

Following graduation, Rayvon plans to pursue a career in government, public policy, or political affairs.

We are incredibly proud of all that Rayvon has accomplished and look forward to seeing the impact he will continue to make in his community and beyond!

05/26/2026

Help us celebrate our final scholar from Central State University. Christian graduated from CSU with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, majoring in Entrepreneurship.

Before receiving the HOPE Toledo Scholarship, Christian planned to pursue basketball after high school. He says the opportunity made him feel “blessed, excited, and humble.”

The scholarship transformed his college experience, allowing him to attend an HBCU, earn his degree, and grow personally without the stress of financial burdens. Christian credits his success to the support of HOPE Toledo, his family, advisors, coaches, mentors, and friends, who encouraged and supported him throughout his journey.

While in college, he also launched a photography business, developing skills in networking, marketing, communication, and customer service through entrepreneurship.

Now a graduate, Christian plans to continue building his career in business, entrepreneurship, and marketing while growing his brand and creating opportunities for others.

Congratulations, Christian! We can’t wait to see how your entrepreneurial spirit and determination bring your vision to life.

05/22/2026

Congratulations to Louis Brown III on graduating from Central State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Interdisciplinary Studies!

Before receiving the HOPE Toledo Scholarship, Louis planned to join the Air Force instead of attending college. With the opportunity and support provided through HOPE Toledo, he felt confident and ready to apply himself in college, and he embraced every moment of the journey.

During his time at Central State, Louis discovered new opportunities, built lifelong connections, and learned more about himself along the way. Supported by his friends, family, and the HOPE Toledo family, he successfully navigated his college experience while staying actively involved on campus.

Louis was a proud member of the Invincible Marching Marauders drumline as well as Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. and the Tau Rho Beta Society Inc.

Looking ahead, Louis plans to become a counselor while continuing to grow and expand his barber business.

Louis has proven he’s truly a cut above the rest by using his passion, leadership, and determination to shape a future that will positively impact others.

05/21/2026

Please join us in celebrating Cayla Howard on graduating from Central State University with a Bachelor of Science in Educational Studies!

“When I heard the news about the scholarship, words couldn’t describe how I felt. I felt God’s grace and presence, and I couldn’t do anything but shout and thank God for the opportunity.”

Throughout her college journey, Cayla found strength through HOPE Toledo’s support systems, counseling programs, and the freedom to focus on her education without the burden of financial stress. “The scholarship gave me exactly what the name says — HOPE. It helped me get out of my shell, seek more opportunities, and believe in myself more.”

Cayla has also demonstrated incredible leadership during her time at Central State:
⭐ Member of the Aspiring Educators Chapter (2021–2023)
⭐ Vice President of the Aspiring Educators Chapter (2024–2025)
⭐ President of the Aspiring Educators Chapter (2025–2026)
⭐ Student Advisory Board Member, CHASE College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences and Education (2024–2026)

Next, Cayla plans to work as a Direct Support Professional while earning her Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) Certification to become an Autism Behavioral Therapist for children before pursuing her master’s degree at Texas Southern University.

Congratulations, Cayla! Your future is bright, and we look forward to seeing the impact you make while inspiring and empowering the next generation of leaders!!

05/15/2026

Let’s celebrate Makayla Brown on graduating from Kent State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology & Justice Studies!

Before receiving the HOPE Toledo Promise Scholarship, Makayla always planned to continue her education after high school. She knew higher education would help her build a successful future and career. Receiving the scholarship gave her even more motivation and confidence to pursue her goals.

“When I found out I received the HOPE Scholarship, I felt extremely grateful, excited, and proud of myself. It gave me financial freedom, relieved stress about paying for school, and reminded me that hard work truly pays off.”

Makayla says the scholarship allowed her to focus on her studies and future goals while growing personally and professionally. She also credits her family, friends, and the HOPE Toledo family for encouraging her throughout her journey.

At Kent State, Makayla was involved in the criminology group, connecting with others who shared similar interests and career goals.

After graduation, she plans to continue building her career and pursue her master’s degree in Criminology with the goal of making a meaningful difference in the field.
Congratulations, Makayla!

05/14/2026

Congratulations to Marshawna Alexander on graduating from Lourdes University with a Bachelor of Science in Social Work!

Before receiving the HOPE Scholarship, Marshawna planned to attend a different local university. After learning about the scholarship opportunity, everything changed.

“Upon learning about the HOPE Toledo Promise Scholarship, I was extremely excited at the prospect of having my books, campus accommodations, and classes covered, which would alleviate concerns about debt and tuition payments.”

The scholarship gave Marshawna the ability to fully focus on earning her degree while gaining valuable college experiences and networking opportunities along the way.“ This scholarship has significantly impacted my life by enabling me to pursue and achieve my bachelor’s degree.”

Marshawna also credits her family and the HOPE Toledo team for encouraging her through every challenge and believing in her vision for the future.

Currently working as a childcare assistant teacher, Marshawna plans to continue making a difference in the lives of children while exploring her next career steps.

We are so proud of you, Marshawna, and can’t wait to see what’s next! 🎉

05/09/2026

Avionna Burwell, a driven first-generation college student, recently received a degree in Human Resource Management with a minor in Leadership. Thanks to the HOPE Scholarship, Avionna was able to focus on her education, leadership development, and future goals without the overwhelming burden of student loans. She even made time to volunteer with HOPE Toledo on countless occasions.

“Receiving the HOPE Scholarship made me feel relieved and grateful. It lifted financial stress and reminded me to keep pushing forward, even during difficult moments. How could I NOT give back when so much has been given to me?”

Throughout her journey, Avionna found strength through her faith, resilience, mentorship, the support of her community, and the support of HOPE Toledo Staff. She has also been actively involved in organizations including Trio SSS, Black Student Union, Minority Professionals in Business, The Klar Leadership Academy, and the Beta Lambda Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.

After graduation, Avionna plans to build a career in Human Resources, pursue a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership, and ultimately become an entrepreneur who leads with purpose and impact.

From attending Head Start at the Jefferson Center to preparing for a future in leadership, Avionna’s story is a powerful example of perseverance, growth, and opportunity.

01/23/2026

Viengvilay shares her experience as a parent whose child attended Learning Ladder Child Care & Development Center, LLC, a HOPE Toledo Pre-K partner provider, and the impact access to care made for her family.

When we invest in child care, we invest in Ohio’s future. Access to quality early learning helps kids build a strong foundation for lifelong success—while helping parents stay in the workforce and businesses thrive. Every dollar spent on child care supports children’s healthy development and strengthens families and communities across our state.

Investing in early childhood isn’t just good policy—it’s smart policy that pays off for everyone.