Newark, OH | April 13, 2026: Community Campus Coalition (Triple C) is proud to announce the 2026 winners of the David Hoch Memorial Award for Excellence in Service and the Charles J. Ping Student Service Award, recognizing individuals for their dedication to community engagement and service-learning at Triple C campus partner institutions.
This year’s David Hoch Memorial Award is presented to two outstanding individuals: Claire Novotny of Kenyon College and Dr. Christin Seher of The University of Akron. Both exemplify exceptional leadership in advancing the civic mission of their institutions through service-learning and community engagement.
In addition, the Charles J. Ping Student Service Award honors 10 outstanding undergraduate students across Ohio who demonstrate leadership and commitment to service-learning and civic engagement on their campuses and in their communities. This year’s recipients are Karissa Bowers, Gracie Cates, Isabella Coenen, Christine Erdman, Tobias Hughes, Elizabeth Keller, Zadria King, Anna Morgione, Kaylynn Thomas, and Ava Wood.
“The 2026 Hoch and Ping Award recipients showcase the meaningful impact faculty, staff, and students can have through service and community engagement,” said Stephanie Dodd, Executive Director of the Community Campus Coalition. “Their work strengthens campuses and communities alike while advancing a shared commitment to civic responsibility across Ohio.”
2026 David Hoch Memorial Award for Excellence in Service
The David Hoch Memorial Award recognizes faculty and staff who exemplify leadership in advancing the civic mission of their institution through service-learning and community engagement. This award honors the legacy of the late David Hoch, former Dean of Honors and Director of Service-Learning at The University of Toledo, whose leadership helped foster a culture of civic responsibility on campus.
Claire Novotny was nominated by Julie Kornfeld, PhD, MPH, President of Kenyon College. Novotny is an Associate Professor of Anthropology recognized for her leadership in community-engaged learning. She has developed experiential courses that connect students with local organizations, strengthened reciprocal community partnerships, and mentored both faculty and students. Her work has enhanced institutional engagement while advancing place-based learning and service across Knox County.
Dr. Christin Seher was nominated by Robert J. (R.J.) Nemer, President of The University of Akron. Seher is a Professor of Instruction and leader in community-engaged learning whose work advances the university’s civic mission. As Director of Community Impact & The EX[L] Center she has strengthened campus-community partnerships, led Carnegie Community Engagement reclassification efforts, and developed programs that connect students with meaningful, real-world community impact.
Above: This year’s David Hoch Memorial Award is presented to two outstanding individuals, one is Claire Novotny of Kenyon College.
2026 Charles J. Ping Student Service Award
The Charles J. Ping Student Service Award honors undergraduate students who demonstrate leadership and commitment to service-learning and civic engagement on their campuses and in their communities. Named after former Ohio University President Charles J. Ping, a champion for campus-community partnerships, this award celebrates the next generation of civic leaders.
2026 Ping Award Winners:
- Karissa Bowers — Muskingum University
- Gracie Cates — Denison University
- Isabella Coenen — The College of Wooster*
- Christine Erdman — Bowling Green State University
- Tobias Hughes — Kenyon College
- Elizabeth Keller — Mount St. Joseph University*
- Zadria King — Defiance College
- Anna Morgione — Youngstown State University
- Kaylynn Thomas — University of Mount Union
- Ava Wood — Ohio University
*Legacy Award recipients Isabella Coenen of The College of Wooster and Elizabeth Keller of Mount St. Joseph University will each receive a $250 donation made in their honor to a nonprofit organization of their choice, reflecting their continued commitment to service beyond campus.
Learn more about each recipient here.
Above: Triple C’s Charles J. Ping Student Service Award honors 10 outstanding undergraduate students across Ohio.
About the Awards
Each year, Triple C recognizes students, faculty, and campus staff through these two prestigious awards. College and university presidents from partner institutions nominate candidates who demonstrate a strong commitment to civic engagement and community service.
For a full list of previous winners and more information about the awards, please click here.
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