East Holmes names Donawa as next Hiland athletic director

East Holmes Local Schools has selected Emily Donawa as the next athletic director at Hiland, pending board approval.

Donawa joined East Holmes in August 2025 and currently serves as a general teacher at Walnut Creek and Winesburg elementary schools. She also coaches junior high girls basketball at Hiland.

A graduate of Mount Vernon Nazarene University, Donawa earned her degree in health and physical education and was named student teacher of the year in 2025. She was also a student-athlete during her time at MVNU and brings both a passion for athletics and a strong commitment to working with students.

“Emily brings great energy, strong character and a clear passion for working with kids,” said Hiland Principal Tyler Renner. “We are excited to welcome her into this role and look forward to the impact she will have on our student-athletes, coaches and athletic programs.”

Donawa will become the sixth athletic director in Hiland history and will begin working with current athletic director Seger Bonifant as part of the transition process.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to step into this role at Hiland,” said Donawa. “Hiland has a strong tradition of education-based athletics, and I am excited to work with our students, coaches and community as we continue to build on that tradition.”