ONTARIO – The Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc. Foundation Board has selected the 2026 Scholarship Program award recipients. Scholarships are made possible by the Annual Meeting Sponsorships.
The Agency on Aging Foundation Board elected to provide a total of $3,500 in scholarship awards this year to individuals who will benefit in the field of aging.
The scholarship recipients represent a variety of educational and professional paths, including physical therapy, neuroscience, occupational therapy, social work, and pharmacy — all fields that can contribute to the health, independence and well-being of older adults and individuals with disabilities.
Carlee Lightle
• Carlee Lightle, of Richland County, is an Adult Protective Services Case Manager with the Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc. and is pursuing a Master of Social Work degree with a certification in Gerontology at Cleveland State University.
Through her work with Adult Protective Services, Carlee supports older adults and individuals who may be experiencing abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
Her continued education in social work and gerontology will further strengthen her ability to serve older adults and support their safety, well-being, and independence.
Carley Zender
• Carley Zender, of Crawford County, is pursuing a Doctor of Pharmacy degree at the University of Findlay. As the daughter of an Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc. team member, Carley has a personal connection to the Agency and its mission.
Her studies in pharmacy will prepare her for a career in healthcare, where pharmacists play an important role in medication management and support overall health and well-being.
Abigail Beidelschies
• Abigail Beidelschies, of Seneca County, is a student at the University of Findlay pursuing a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. Her education will prepare her for a career in physical therapy, a field that plays an important role in helping individuals maintain mobility, independence, and quality of life.
Kaili Ingram
• Kaili Ingram, of Huron County, is a pre-med student at Ohio State University majoring in Neuroscience. Through her studies, Kaili is building a strong foundation in the sciences as she prepares for a future career in healthcare and service to others.
Lauren Anspaugh
• Lauren Anspaugh, of Marion County, is pursuing an Associate degree in Occupational Therapy at Marion Technical College. Occupational therapy helps individuals develop, recover, or maintain the skills needed for everyday activities and independence, making her chosen field an important part of supporting individuals throughout their lives.
Applications for the 2027 Scholarship Program will open mid-January 2027. Follow us on Facebook for more information: https://www.facebook.com/
The Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc., located at 2131 Park Avenue West in Ontario, provides leadership, collaboration, coordination and services to older adults, people with disabilities, their caregivers & resource networks that support individual choice, independence, and dignity.