The Aultman Alliance Community Hospital Auxiliary recently awarded scholarships to four area seniors. The Dr. James J. Thomas scholarship is awarded annually to four recipients who are interested in pursuing a health-related degree.

Recipients of the four Auxiliary scholarships included Claire Barrick of Minerva High School, who will be attending the University of Akron to pursue a degree in speech pathology; Brandie Sihock, a graduate of West Branch High School, who plans to attend Walsh University to pursue a degree in nursing; Vincent McGreal, also a graduate of West Branch High School, who plans to attend the University of Akron to study nursing; and Alyssa Skelding, a graduate of Marlington High School, who plans to attend Walsh University to pursue nursing.

The Auxiliary scholarship committee consisted of Auxiliary board members Mary Lou Williams, chairperson, and Eleanor Carver, as well as AACH Nursing Supervisor Joan Thomas and community member Joan Gecina. Applicants are judged based on academic achievement, school service, community service and financial need, as well as their level of interest in pursuing a career in health care.

Created in 1987, the Auxiliary scholarship fund was named for the late Dr. James. J. Thomas, who was a former hospital anesthesiologist who, upon retirement, became a hospital volunteer. His generous donation funded the initial scholarships and has been added to over the years by the fundraising efforts of the AACH Auxiliary. In 2019, the Auxiliary will be giving more than $55,000 to Aultman Alliance Community Hospital to help with various services throughout the hospital.