“These awards highlight the achievements of alumni and community leaders who have a record of distinguished service and extraordinary accomplishment in their fields,” said President Jo Alice Blondin. “Their achievements not only bring pride to our college but also inspire the next generation of leaders.”
The Lagos, Wittenberg University graduates, are known for their restoration of the historic Bushnell Building in downtown Springfield, and their contributions were recognized in 2009 with the Clark State Performing Arts Center Circle of Friends Founder’s Award.
Jim Lagos has also received the Richard L. Kuss Lifetime Community Achievement Award and the national Small Business Advocate of the Year Award. He serves as chairman of the American Hellenic Institute Board of Directors to advocate for the rule of law and advance its mission.
“Jim and Nike Lagos care deeply about Clark State’s workforce mission and we appreciate their support of our students,” Blondin said. “Their support of our students translates to their support of the workforce in our region as a whole.”
Dale Henry graduated from Springfield South High School, earned an associate degree in landscaping from Clark State and later a bachelor’s degree in urban studies from Wright State University. He also served in the U.S. Army and worked at General Motors for 30 years.
From 1990-97, he served as a Springfield city commissioner, and he was the mayor of Springfield in 1994 and 1995. He later served as regional liaison for the Ohio Secretary of State and deputy director of the Clark County Board of Elections.
Henry is now president of the Gammon House in Springfield, which was a stop on the Underground Railroad. He has called that effort “a labor of love,” to preserve a historic landmark for the African American community in Springfield. He also has been a tutor in the Springfield City School District for nearly 10 years.
“Dale Henry is a trailblazer in his career and displays a steadfast commitment to education and the betterment of Springfield,” Blondin said. “He serves as an inspiring example and role model for everyone, particularly the students at Clark State.”
Mundy, a Springfield native and country musician, has been nominated for six Josie Music Awards at The Grand Ole Opry House, including Song of the Year for “On You” and Male Vocalist of the Year and Music Video of the Year for “Truck Thang.”
He has performed at places such as The Ohio State Fair, Country Concert 2019, CMA Fest 22, casinos, Whiskey Jam, The Listening Room, Tin Roof: Nashville and many others, has opened for country group, Lonestar, and his music can be heard on all music streaming platforms.
“In a short amount of time, Ryan has already established himself as a rising star in the country music scene,” Blondin said. “His passion toward his career and generosity toward his community and Clark State set him apart, making him a deserving recipient of the Emerging Leader Award.
The ceremony will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 26, at the Hollenbeck Bayley Creative Arts and Conference Center, 275 S. Limestone St.
Tickets are $100 each and include a cash bar opening at 5:15 p.m. and dinner at 6 p.m., followed by the awards ceremony. Tickets are on sale until Sept. 19 at https://slate.clarkstate.edu/register/2024PresidentialAwards.
Those who cannot attend but want to support the college can donate at https://go.clarkstate.edu/donate.
About the Author
