Edison State Recognizes Alumni Achievement Award Recipients

Edison State Community College recognized the first Alumni Achievement Award recipients with a dinner presented by the Office of the President on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. Established in 2025, these awards celebrate individuals whose accomplishments, leadership, and service reflect the values and impact of Edison State.

“This evening serves as a purposeful reflection on our past—an opportunity to celebrate the moments and the people who have shaped us,” said Dr. Chris Spradlin, Edison State President. “At the same time, it marks a bold step forward in our future. By establishing these awards, we are setting a standard for every student and alumnus of Edison State.”

To the honorees, he added, “Each of you serves as a vital connection to Edison State. You serve as the bridge between the college we were and the innovative, outstanding college we are becoming. As you enjoy this evening, I hope you take a moment to reconnect with old friends and to share those stories of your time here at the College. You are our greatest ambassadors, our most valued partners, and you will always be a part of the Charger family.”

The Alumni Achievement Awards program features two categories: the Distinguished Alumni Award, which the College presents to alumni who exemplify integrity, commitment, and the power of education to create opportunity and positive change; and the Athletic Hall of Fame, which recognizes former student-athletes, coaches, and athletic supporters whose achievements, records, honors, and contributions have had a significant impact on Edison State athletics.

This year’s Distinguished Alumni recipients include:

• Shelby Chaney: Since graduating from Edison State, Chaney has dedicated herself to strengthening the local business community through thoughtful programming and engagement initiatives that bring people together. Beyond her professional work, Chaney serves on several local boards.
• Katelyn Jackson: A dedicated licensed social worker, Jackson is a family advocate at the Council on Rural Services’ Head Start center, where she works closely with families to help them access resources, set goals, and make sure children receive the care they need.
• Christopher Dwayne Landrum, II: A leader, mentor, and changemaker, Landrum is committed to uplifting his community. He’s a former dedicated Edison State student-athlete and scholar, serves as a Staff Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, and holds advanced degrees in organizational and educational leadership.
• James C. Oda: A lifelong Piqua resident and dedicated U.S. Army veteran, Oda has devoted his life to service and community leadership. He owned the Old Canal Book Store and taught history for more than 25 years while sharing his expertise as chairperson and member of Edison State’s Board of Trustees.
• Gregory A. Simmons: A proud member of Edison State’s first graduating class, Simmons has dedicated his life to education and community leadership. Today, he serves on the Miami County Board of Commissioners and stays actively involved in numerous civic initiatives.

The College also recognized the following Athletic Hall of Fame honorees:

• Gail Dwenger (Hartings): A standout athlete in Chargers basketball, Dwenger played for Edison State from 2007 to 2009, receiving multiple honors and contributing to a 22-5 record in the 2008-2009 season. Currently, she serves as an intervention specialist, positively impacting students and her community through her work in education.
• James “Jim” Hemmert: Hemmert serves as the athletics announcer at Edison State games, with his distinctive voice earning him the affectionate title, “The Voice of the Chargers.” He has preserved the College’s athletic legacy through a book he authored and the comprehensive archives he maintains for student-athletes.
• Jessica O’Donnell (Girod): One of Edison State’s most accomplished student-athletes, O’Donnell led the women’s volleyball team to national prominence in 2006 and 2007. She was a two-time NJCAA All-Tournament selection and Edison State’s first All-American. Today, she gives back to the sport she loves as both a coach and an official.

The Alumni Achievement Awards honor excellence and lasting connection, highlighting the many ways Edison State graduates and supporters continue to make a difference locally and beyond. To nominate someone who would be a great representative of the Edison State legacy, visit www.edisonohio.edu/alumniawards.