Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities awards donor scholarship

The Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities announced Jocelyn Droes, a senior at Buckeye High School, as the recipient of the 2026 MCBDD Donor Scholarship.

The scholarship, awarded by the Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities Donated Funds Committee, was established to support students pursuing careers serving individuals with developmental differences.

Jocelyn Droes received the $1,500 donor scholarship.

Droes has been involved in leadership programs, volunteer opportunities and student organizations focused on supporting others. During her time at Buckeye High School, she participated in HUDDLE (Helping Us Develop Dedication, Leadership and Enthusiasm) and Hope Squad, which helped strengthen her leadership skills and passion for helping others.

During high school, Droes also participated in Unified Champions, a program that gives children with developmental differences opportunities to participate in sports with support from student-athletes and volunteers. She also worked with Achievement Centers for Children through adapted sports programs and the Miracle League.

Droes volunteers at the Cleveland Walk, an event organized by her family to benefit individuals with Williams syndrome. She assists with planning, organizing, serving food and running games during the event. Organizers said the family has helped raise nearly $50,000 during the last four years.

Droes plans to attend Baldwin Wallace University in the fall to pursue a dual license in early childhood education and special education. Her long-term goal is to create inclusive learning environments where students of all abilities feel supported and encouraged.

The MCBDD said Droes’ dedication to serving individuals with developmental differences reflects the mission and values celebrated by the donor scholarship program.

The MCBDD Donor Scholarship is funded through private donations and fundraising events and is intended to encourage education, advocacy and training for future professionals in the field of developmental differences.