The Rotary Club of Mansfield celebrated the 57th year of its McGowan Courage Awards at Kingwood Center Gardens, the new home for the club.
“Every year feels special, but this year feels so good because we know this will be our permanent home moving forward. It’s a good feeling to share this space with the students, schools, and attendees,” Jennifer Alt, Rotary Club of Mansfield member and emcee of the event said.
In 1968, Brigadier “Bill” McGowan created the award to celebrate and recognize local high school students who have faced life experiences of adversity and hardship with extraordinary courage, tenacity, and fortitude.
Prior to his involvement in the Rotary Club of Mansfield, which was founded in 1920, McGowan served as Commander of the Salvation Army for 40 years in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Ohio before retiring in 1979. On Tuesday, McGowan family members were in attendance.
The award looks past academic or athletic achievements, but instead finds the students who show strength and resilience despite obstacles or odds being stacked against them.
“The students this year have some incredible stories, as they do every year. The students seem so gracious and excited to be honored. From health conditions, to challenging home lives, to struggles as they grew up, each student has their own story which makes them unique. They are paving their own paths and I hope this award shows them they are seen, they are heard, and they can do anything they put their minds to,” Alt said.
After a luncheon, awards were presented to 10 students from across Richland County, each from a different school. The awards are made possible by a fund established at the Richland County Foundation by an anonymous donor. Over the years, many people have donated to the fund.
Words from those who nominated them, and the students themselves.
Linzy Weyhmeller, Clearfork High School
“Linzy’s experience, leadership, and positivity were critical to the rebuilding of the Clear Fork Valley High School Bank as school slowly returned to a new-normal [post-COVID]. Linzy remained active in FFA, continued to mentor young members of her 4H club, and supported a close group of friends who were also working through the challenges of a post-lockdown life. She did all of this with character, heart, and a poise that was beyond her years. Given what she has been through it demonstrates a kind of courage we would all do well to model in our own lives.” Jason Brasure, Director of Bands
Daniel Hout, Crestview High School
“Dan’s story is a testament to the power and perseverance and the transformative impact of love and support. Despite facing unimaginable adversity, he refused to be defined by his past, instead choosing to forge his own path to success. Through his resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit, Dan has not only overcome his own challenges but has also inspired countless others to believe that anything is possible.” Tim Kuhn, Assistant Principal
“Normally when something doesn’t help you, it hurts you, and what hurts you can put you in deep trouble,” Hout said in his acceptance speech.
Clarissa Cousart, Lexington High School
“In spite of the challenges she has faced, Clarissa maintains a positive attitude. In fact, she is one of the most thoughtful and caring listeners I know. When you have a conversation with Clarissa, she really connects; she is not distracted. She always has a compassionate demeanor. During her tenure at Lexington High School, Clarissa has remained dedicated to her many commitments, and she enjoys her high school life.” Lexington High School
“It’s a very humbling experience to receive this award. It’s really nice to be recognized.” Clarissa Cousart, Lexington nominee said.
Aiden Green, Lucas High School
“Although at first glance you may not even notice I have Cerebral Palsy, it took a lot of hard work to make it look that way. Almost a decade of physical therapy to get rid of the corrective braces, and OT in 4th grade to learn how to do simple things like tie my shoes or button a shirt. Or being determined to play sports after being told I shouldn’t or even being able to ride a bike like a “normal kid,” I continue to try and always keep a positive attitude and never use it as an excuse to not do something, whether that be academically, socially, or in life in general.” Aiden Green
Shane Wallrabenstein, Madison Comprehensive High School
“From birth to present, Shane has endured tremendous strife and hardship…Despite all of the challenges, to see Shane in the classroom on a daily basis, one would never know the level of trauma he has endured. He is kind, polite, patient, and persistent. He works hard to make everyday peaceful and calm. He likes school and had truly enjoyed being a student in Madison’s Electricity Program. He is a wonderful young man full of integrity and heroism.” Jen Branstetter and Mary Myers
Joy Adams, Mansfield Christian
“Joy Adams is a young lady with perseverance, grit, and determination. She is willing to work hard to accomplish her goals. She is known as a kind, sensitive, and caring friend. She is loved by her classmates and is a valued part of her senior class. Joy still experiences some social anxiety, but she has goals, and wants to explore learning and growing in creative ways. She hopes to attend MVU, explore jewelry making or other craft skills, and continue to grow as a young woman of courage and grace.” Mansfield Christian
“I want to thank the Mansfield Rotary Club for awarding me, and my teachers for nominating me. I want to thank my mom for homeschooling me for 11 years and helping me get this far. I’d like to thank God for healing me from my seizures and helping me to grow as a person,” Adams said in her acceptance speech.
Deshawna Brooks, Mansfield Senior High School
“While you would never know that Deshawna had to start a new life and navigate high school without her mom, she has endured many challenges and come out on top. Deshawna is brave and well-liked by her peers and teachers. Deshawna has been involved in various school activities and has held a job outside of school most of her high school career.” Mansfield Senior High School
“I want to thank my best friend, Ms. Risner. Thank you guys for celebrating me,” Brooks said in her acceptance speech.
Ivy (Taylor) Bistline, Ontario High School
“What truly sets Taylor apart is her unwavering commitment to not just survive, but to thrive. She has embraced her past with grace and resilience, using it as fuel to drive her towards a brighter future. Taylor advocates for herself with a level of self-awareness and maturity that is rare for someone her age. She has proactively sought out resources and support to help her achieve her goals, and her dedication to personal growth is truly inspiring.” Veronica Cain, School Counselor
Brennan Lewis, Shelby High School
“After meeting Brennan, it is impossible not to like him. His attitude towards life and his passions will impress anyone who crosses his path. Shelby High School has been lucky to have Brennan for the last four years, and we know that he will be very successful in life.”
“It’s an honor to be recognized for all the adversity I went through. This is a really cool experience.” Brennan Lewis
Jerry Thompson, St. Peter’s High School
“When I was 12 years old I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. Being young when I was diagnosed meant it was a monumental moment in my life and forced me to confront my vulnerability and adapt to a new way of life.” Jerry Thompson
