During their Presidential Awards Ceremony on Sept. 26, Clark State College will honor Dale Henry, class of 1979, with the Distinguished Alumnus Award; Ryan Mundy, class of 2013, with the Emerging Leader Award; and Jim and Nike Lagos, recipients of the Richard O. Brinkman Award. The awards honor Clark State graduates and community leaders who have made a significant impact on their communities and professions.
Jim and Nike Lagos, patrons of the arts and pillars of community development, are known for their meticulous restoration of the historic Bushnell Building in Downtown Springfield. Their contributions to the arts community were recognized in 2009 with the Clark State Performing Arts Center Circle of Friends Founder’s Award. Jim’s additional accolades include the Richard L. Kuss Lifetime Community Achievement Award and the national Small Business Advocate of the Year Award. As chairman of the American Hellenic Institute Board of Directors, Jim continues to advocate for the rule of law and advance AHI's mission. Both are graduates of Wittenberg University.
“Jim and Nike Lagos care deeply about Clark State’s workforce mission and we appreciate their support of our students,” said Jo Alice Blondin, Ph.D., president. “Their support of our students translates to their support of the workforce in our region as a whole.”
After graduating Springfield South High School, Dale Henry briefly worked at General Motors before serving in the United State Army. Upon returning to civilian life, Henry resumed working for GM and pursued a degree, earning his associate degree in landscaping from Clark State in 1979. From 1990-97, he served on the Springfield city commission, and was the Mayor of Springfield in 1994 and 1995. After earning a bachelor’s degree in urban studies from Wright State University, Henry furthered his efforts toward community-building, serving as regional liaison for the Ohio Secretary of State and later as deputy director of the Clark County Board of Elections. As Gammon House president for nearly seven years, Henry has worked to make the Gammon House a historic point of interest and pride for the community.
“Dale Henry is a trailblazer in his career and displays a steadfast commitment to education and the betterment of Springfield,” said Blondin. “He serves as an inspiring example and role model for everyone, particularly the students at Clark State.”
Ryan Mundy, 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.” A member of the Clark State class of 2013, Mundy has performed his style of Rockin’ Country music everywhere from The Ohio State Fair, Country Concert 2019, CMA Fest 22, casinos, Whiskey Jam, The Listening Room, Tin Roof: Nashville and many others. He has opened for the award-winning country group, Lonestar, and Mundy’s 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,” said Blondin. “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.
“These awards highlight the achievements of alumni and community leaders who have a record of distinguished service and extraordinary accomplishment in their fields,” continued Blondin. “Their achievements not only bring pride to our college but also inspire the next generation of leaders.”
All winners will receive their awards during the 2024 Presidential Awards Banquet from 6 p.m.- 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 26 at the Hollenbeck Bayley Creative Arts and Conference Center, 275 S. Limestone St. Tickets to the Banquet 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.
Individuals who wish to support Clark State student success but cannot attend the Presidential Awards may donate at https://go.clarkstate.edu/donate.