GREENVILLE – Darke County’s top students were honored during the annual Franklin B. Walter Scholarship Awards program, recognizing academic excellence, leadership, and service across the county’s school districts.
Hosted by the Darke County Educational Service Center, the event brought together students, families, educators, and community leaders to celebrate the achievements of each district’s selected senior.
“I am excited we are able to bring these students together tonight and recognize them for their many accomplishments and achievements,” said ESC Superintendent Jim Atchley.
The Franklin B. Walter Award recognizes students who excel in multiple areas including grade point average, class rank, course rigor, community service, extracurricular activities, awards and recognition, and a written essay.
Each of Darke County’s school districts selected a representative for the honor, with those students receiving a $500 scholarship provided by the ESC governing board. Board members recognized for their support of the program included Larry Besecker, Kent James, Zach Newbauer, Carrie Schmidt, and Board President Chad Booher.
Honored students representing their respective districts included:
Ansonia – Owen Schmitmeyer
Arcanum-Butler – Cole Kessler
Bradford – Patrick Puthoff
Franklin Monroe – Ian Norris
Greenville – John Barr
Mississinawa Valley – Makenna Hoggatt
Tri-Village – Trey Sagester
Each student was recognized alongside their parents and a “Teacher of Influence,” highlighting the impact educators have had on their academic journey.
The program also included remarks of gratitude for community partners and members of the Business Advisory Council, who assisted in evaluating applications. Representatives from local organizations, including the Darke County Community Improvement Corporation, Darke County Health Department, and Midmark, participated in the selection process.
Following the individual recognitions, the evening culminated with the announcement of the 2026 Darke County Franklin B. Walter Award winner.
Cole Kessler of Arcanum-Butler Local Schools was named this year’s county recipient, earning an additional $500 scholarship and the opportunity to represent Darke County at the state-level awards program in April at the Ohioan Hotel and Event Center in Lewis Center.
The Franklin B. Walter Scholarship program, established by the Ohio Educational Service Center Association, honors one senior from each county ESC across Ohio. The award is named after Dr. Franklin B. Walter, who served as Ohio’s State Superintendent of Education from 1977 to 1991 and dedicated his career to advancing education and supporting students.
The evening served as a celebration not only of academic achievement, but of the commitment, character, and community involvement demonstrated by Darke County’s students.
Atchley closed the program by congratulating all of the district representatives and thanking those in attendance for supporting student success.
“I would like to thank everyone for attending tonight’s program,” he said.
