SWACO has announced the recipients of the 2026 Scholarship Program, recognizing two outstanding central Ohio graduates who will pursue degrees in fields that will help aid the sustainability and solid waste management industries.
“I am pleased that SWACO is continuing our commitment to environmental education by supporting graduating high school students pursuing careers in environmental science, sustainability, engineering, and the waste management industry,” said executive director Joe Lombardi.
Each recipient will receive $2,500 a year (up to a maximum of $10,000 over 4 years) towards their education.
Congratulations to the 2026 recipients:
Alexa Briggs, a graduate of New Albany High School, will attend The Ohio State University this fall to study Forestry, Fisheries, and Wildlife. As the oldest of seven siblings and the first of the Briggs children to attend university, Alexa exemplifies drive and determination. A dedicated Eagle Scout, Alexa has demonstrated her commitment to sustainability through hands-on community projects, including work recognized by her city’s sustainability board. She has since been honored with a youth leadership award from a local civic organization, further reflecting her dedication to environmental stewardship and community service. “This scholarship will help me more fully commit myself to my passion for the environment and conservation, and have the time and energy to connect with people and build more sustainable communities,” said Briggs.
Katherine Luginbuhl, a graduate of Reynoldsburg High School Summit Campus, will attend Miami University to study Environmental Science. After relocating from Phoenix, Arizona to Reynoldsburg, Ohio, Katherine embraced the diversity of her new community. This experience helped shape her values, worldview, and desire to create a positive impact for others. A multi-faceted student, Katherine excels academically, competitively in swimming, and musically in band, where she has served as section leader, demonstrating the discipline and leadership she brings to everything she pursues. “Coming from a working-class family, this scholarship gives me confidence in my academic future and ensures I can pursue the career and path I am most passionate about,” said Luginbuhl.
Last year, SWACO awarded its inaugural scholarships to two local students, supporting studies in environmental law at Elon University and business and environmental science at Chatham University. This year, SWACO is proud to continue that commitment with two new recipients
Director Lombardi continued, “The scholarship program reflects SWACO’s broader mission to create a sustainable future for all central Ohioans, and Alexa and Katherine represent exactly the kind of passionate, driven students that mission is built around. I trust that they will go far and give back to their community.”
SWACO will accept applications for the next round of scholarships in early 2027. For more information, visit www.swaco.org/scholarship.
Click HERE to view photos of our scholarship recipients.
