Ohio Hi-Point Career Center marked a significant milestone on Thursday, October 3, celebrating 50 years of inspiring success and advancing career education with its 50th Anniversary Celebration.
The event featured a special recognition ceremony in the afternoon with guest speakers, including Deputy Director Jeremy Varner of the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce, as well as State Representatives Susan Manchester and Tim Barhorst.
Student speakers included Carter Kreglow, Ohio BPA State President and Ohio Hi-Point/Riverside Business student; Malachi Teets, Ohio FCCLA State President and Ohio Hi-Point/Graham Family and Consumer Science student; and Weston Helman, Ohio SkillsUSA State Officer and Graphic and Media Arts Academy student from Graham High School.
Dr. Rick Smith, Ohio Hi-Point Superintendent, highlighted the dedication of the staff, students, partner districts, and community members who continue to support career and technical education.
Ohio Hi-Point Board of Education President Anne Reames expressed gratitude to all who have been part of Ohio Hi-Point’s journey, noting the many changes and innovations the career center has embraced over the last five decades.
Following the formal ceremony, Ohio Hi-Point hosted an All-Class Reunion and Community Event. More than 500 alumni, community members, students, and staff gathered on campus to honor the past, present, and future of career and technical education.
The celebration included campus tours, interactive demonstrations in career program labs, and opportunities for alumni to reconnect with old friends and teachers. Alumni signed class banners, posed for class photos, and enjoyed custom chocolates prepared by Culinary Arts students. A special memorabilia area allowed attendees to take a nostalgic walk through Ohio Hi-Point’s history.
In addition, live music was provided by Phoenix Rising, a rock band from Columbus, and a variety of food trucks, including R Smokehouse, Fork in the Road, Raging Bull Pizza, and Kona Ice, were on campus throughout the evening. Alumni enjoyed exploring the campus, participating in lab demonstrations, and reconnecting with the Ohio Hi-Point family.
“This event was a celebration of our shared history and a testament to the impact of career and technical education in the lives of countless students over the past 50 years,” said Dr. Rick Smith. “We look forward to continuing our mission of preparing students for success in their careers and communities.”