GALION – Galion High School senior Brianna Wallis was one of seven area seniors to receive the $500 Franklin B. Walter scholarship during a special ceremony at Mid-Ohio Educational Service Center March 15.
“I was nervous going into the evening,” Wallis said. “I was ecstatic and relieved when my name was called as a scholarship recipient because so many of the (Galion City Schools) administration had come to support me.”
The scholarship program required Wallis to honor an individual who has made the greatest impact on her life.
Her choice was senior counselor and English teacher Mrs. Tena Eyster.
“Mrs. Eyster has been a huge part of my success, and my sanity, over the last few years,” said Wallis. “Not only did she help me improve my writing skills, but her kindness and continuing support has made me a better person.”
Wallis is expected to graduate from Galion High School with 67 college credit hours and major in biochemistry and molecular biology on a pre-med track at Otterbein University. After she earns her degrees from Otterbein in three years, she will attend the School of Osteopathic Medicine at Ohio University to become a pediatrician.
Mrs. Eyster has no doubt that Brianna will succeed.
“Bri Wallis is the quintessential student achiever and leader,” she said. “I have enjoyed watching her personal growth and maturity throughout high school, and I look forward to seeing her develop even further as she pursues her goal of becoming a doctor.”
Wallis isn’t just strong academically. She is a four-year varsity letter winner and two-year captain for the Galion girls swim team. She also earned varsity letters in track and soccer. She’s participated in all forms of instrumental music during her four years at GHS, and has been a member of, or held an officer position in, Key Club, Teen Green, Teen Institute, National Honor Society and Student Council.
“Bri isn’t just a smart kid, she’s a quality kid,” said Galion superintendent Jim Grubbs. “She does things others aren’t willing to do so she can achieve great things throughout her life.”
The Franklin B. Walter Scholarship Award Program was established by the Ohio Superintendent’s Educational Service Center Association to promote student achievement and recognize outstanding students.
A senior from each school district within the State of Ohio will receive the award annually. This Scholarship award is named in honor of Franklin B. Walter who served as State Superintendent of Education for Ohio from March 1977 until August 1991.
Throughout his career, Dr. Walter has exemplified concern for young people and has dedicated his life to the improvement of education in Ohio. Applicants must be a high school senior from a local, city, or exempted village school.
Eligible students must demonstrate outstanding academic achievements as indicated by high school class rank, cumulative grade point average, and other achievement awards as stipulated by the Franklin B. Walter program. The students are expected to have been a positive contributor in their high school and in their community.
