Volunteer Spotlight: 2026 Award Recipients

Volunteers and partners are the lifeblood of the Buckeye Trail Association. From building bridges and blazing trails to planning events and advocating for our mission, they put in thousands of hours each year to protect and promote Ohio’s 1,400+ mile trail. Our annual Volunteer Awards honor the people and partners who make our work possible.

Take a moment to appreciate all of these volunteers who have gone above and beyond for the Buckeye Trail in 2026. They were recognized at TrailFest for giving their time, energy, and heart towards making the trail better for everyone. We recognize our volunteers with gratitude for their role in keeping the Buckeye Trail and the Buckeye Trail Association strong.

The Emma “Grandma” Gatewood Award

For distinguished service in support of the Buckeye Trail Association.

Mary Hayes, Lake Plains Chapter & Crooked River Chapter

Mary Hayes is a strong candidate for almost every award offered by the BTA. Mary has been a rock that the BTA is based on for a couple of decades. Mary is who we are talking about when we refer to the unsung heroes in the backroom helping to keep the BTA going on a day to day basis so everyone can enjoy Ohio’s Buckeye Trail. Webmastering buckeyetrail.org, organizing and problem solving our database, leading the BTA Map Team production, assisting with BTA Board of Trustees elections, registration at multiple Buckeye TrailFests, actively supporting the many roles of her husband Pat Hayes, and much more. Mary does this backroom work consistently, daily, often without recognition or thanks. Above all, Mary is a thoughtful and kind friend who makes herself available for advice on some of the BTA’s most significant challenges.

As one person puts it “I do not know the full extent of Mary’s work. The pieces I know are enough to justify this: to put it simply - the BTA does not run without her.”

Jamie Guy, Central Ohio & Little Cities of the Forest Chapter (no photo available)

He single handedly runs the 230 acre Pretty Run Preserve. He was instrumental in planning and
building the new shelter site, building the very first Mouldering Privy on the BT and NCT, and
building the fence system and kiosk preserving the prairie and cabin areas which are home to
flourishing American Chestnut hybrids. Simply stated, we wouldn’t have a Preserve left to
preserve if not for his unwavering dedication to the Preserve and the BTA.

Bob Paton Award

For Meritorious Service in support of the Buckeye Trail Association.

Byron and Shannon Guy, Little Cities of the Forest Chapter & Central Ohio Chapter (no photo available)

Byron has been a section supervisor, board member, TMT Chair, involved in grants, coordination with the ADT, trail angel, and creator and organizer for the annual EGGS event. He has supported Trailfest when dogs were allowed. Shannon does a tremendous amount of work during the EGGS event including organizing the raffle to bring in additional funds. She has supported Byron throughout his time volunteering for the BTA.

Russ Flesher, Crooked River Chapter

Russ began helping with the construction of the trail around West Branch many years ago. He has been a part of a crew that has spent countless hours making the trail a reality. His incredible dedication has been a driving force.

Scott and Mary Anne Kamph, Muskingum Lakes Chapter

Scott and Mary Anne Kamph have made an exceptional impact on the Buckeye Trail through their dedicated service as Section Supervisors for the Massillon Section. Throughout their tenure, they were attentive and responsive stewards of the trail: quickly assessing maintenance concerns, coordinating solutions, documenting detours and trail alerts, and keeping the BTA and hiking community informed as conditions changed. Scott and Mary Anne also provided valuable information for map updates and suggested improvements.

Their service continues at the Beall Farmstead, where they help care for the property, facilities, utilities, and landscaping. Mary Anne also contributes a particularly personal touch to BTA donor stewardship by hand-writing thank-you notes for donations made to the organization.

Dr. Roy Fairfield President’s Award

For exceptional commitment and major contributions of special benefit to the Buckeye Trail Association and its members.

Elyria Little, Lake Plains & Crooked River Chapter

Elyria is a member of the board who has been the driving force for strategic planning of the organization. She has also stepped in to fill multiple voids - assisting with website maintenance, taking on Akron co-section supervisor role, and starting a new circuit trailwork project to engage new or inexperienced volunteers in trailwork.

Bill Miller Award for Conservation

For promoting environmental stewardship.

Nancy Stranahan, Arc of Appalachia (no photo available)

The BTA first partnered with the Arc of Appalachia when we supported their work to begin preserving land now called Tobacco Barn Hollow. The Arc has managed Fort Hill and Serpent Mound State Memorials, partnered with the BTA on trail building and maintenance. In recent years the Arc has worked to acquire 3 critical parcels, Wayne National Forest inholdings, that have created a corridor for Buckeye Trail development as the backbone of a new one hundred mile backpacking destination being constructed within the Athens Unit of the WNF. This includes a 40 acre parcel donated to the BTA now called the BTA Dugan Ridge Preserve.

Buckeye Trail Partnership (Non-Profit)

For outstanding support to the Buckeye Trail Association.

Madison Donohue, Rural action (no photo available)

Madison has submitted and received a grant from the Wayne National Forest foundation to support women in recovery working on the trail in the WNF. These determined women have started with trail maintenance (over 3 miles maintained), then moved on to building trail. They have completed a 150 yard reroute to a new bridge. Madison’s skills as a trail builder have enabled her to become a crew leader for her hard working volunteers.

Sean Logan, Ohio Trails Partnership (no photo available)

Sean works as the Ohio Trails Partnership lobbyist, not only advocating for and guiding Buckeye Trail leadership on political issues, but also for many of our great partners across Ohio. However, Sean’s work does not stop with OTP. He consistently goes above and beyond for the Buckeye Trail and Buckeye Trail Association, working beyond his obligations with OTP to ensure that the Buckeye Trail remains not just a trail for the members of the association, but a trail for all Ohioans and beyond to slow down and enjoy our state’s natural beauty.

Destination Shawnee

Destination Shawnee is a wonderful partner to the LCOF chapter of the BTA and Shawnee, our trail town. They consistently invite the Buckeye Trail to participate in their events, and support BT events. This year they have started a monthly hike on the Buckeye Trail with local residents - they get great participation and most exciting, with local families introducing their kids to the trail.

Buckeye Trail Business Partnership Award

For outstanding support to the Buckeye Trail Association.

Don Edwards - The Victorian Guesthouse (no photo available)

Don Edwards, owner of The Victorian Guesthouse in Delphos, has been a strong supporter of the Buckeye Trail and its travelers. Located just blocks from the trail, his historic bed and breakfast has welcomed many hikers and bikers over the years. Don actively promotes the Buckeye Trail through his business, supports the BTA as a Gold-level Business Member Sponsor, and has donated lodging to benefit the Delphos Section. He has also expressed interest in offering guided Buckeye Trail hikes for guests, further strengthening the connection between local tourism and the trail.

Merrill Gilfillan Award for Visionary Agency Partners

For outstanding support to the Buckeye Trail Association.

Ante Logarusic, City of Mentor (no photo available)

Ante has been a strong advocate for the Buckeye Trail through his role as Communications Officer for the City of Mentor. He helped initiate the trail reroute that now brings the Buckeye Trail through Wildwood Cultural Center and Civic Center Park, strengthening the trail’s connection to the community. He has also created opportunities for the BTA to engage with the public at major local events, including Mentor Rocks, which draws thousands of attendees. Ante continues to actively promote Mentor as a Buckeye Trail Town and support greater awareness of the trail throughout the community.

Buckeye Trailblazer Award

For superior service and leadership by example.

Karen Fisk, Little Cities of the Forest Chapter (no photo available)

Karen has been a steady and dedicated presence in the Buckeye Trail community for many years. From maintaining adopted trail in Mogadore to serving as Co-Stockport Section Supervisor, she has contributed countless hours to caring for the trail and supporting fellow volunteers. Her impact extends well beyond trail maintenance. Karen has promoted the Buckeye Trail through presentations, TrailFest programs, Ohio State Fair outreach, and many other volunteer efforts. Thoughtful, dependable, and always willing to help, Karen strengthens every team she is part of and exemplifies the quiet dedication that keeps the Buckeye Trail thriving.

Ann Furste, Little Cities of the Forest Chapter (no photo available)

Ann Furste has been a dedicated leader for the Buckeye Trail as New Straitsville Section Supervisor and longtime Little Cities of the Forest Chapter Chair. She has played a major role in improving, building, and maintaining trail, including extensive work related to the AMLER project, while also organizing work parties and programs such as Trail Tuesdays and Women’s Trail Building Day. Beyond the trail, Ann has built strong relationships with local communities, represented the BTA at numerous events, supported chapter outreach and social media, and helped connect local organizations with the Buckeye Trail. Her leadership, enthusiasm, and commitment have strengthened both the New Straitsville Section and the volunteer community around it.

Sophie Llenos, Lake Plains Chapter & Miami and Erie Canal Chapter (no photo available)

Sophie is a BTA Trustee who has devoted significant time and expertise to advancing the BTA’s fundraising efforts. She organized and leads the Grants Subcommittee, bringing valuable grant-writing knowledge and introducing tools and resources that have strengthened and streamlined the grant development process. In addition to researching and submitting grant applications on behalf of the BTA, Sophie has supported other fundraising efforts, including the Spring and Fall Fundraisers. Her leadership and expertise have helped build greater capacity for the BTA to pursue funding opportunities and support its mission.

Morgan Thomas, Appalachian Foothills Chapter (no photo available)

Morgan Thomas is the Shawnee Section Supervisor and an excellent, knowledgeable leader in the Appalachian Foothills Chapter. Morgan has been instrumental in the founding of the annual Blue Blaze Academy training weekend and has been facilitating the coordination for Sawyer training at Shawnee State Forest. They bring an excitement and passion to their work that inspires others.

Matthew Dexter Edmonds, The Wilderness Chapter

Matthew Dexter Edmonds has been diligently volunteering for the BTA since 2010. Matthew serves as the Whipple Section Supervisor and was instrumental in the formation of The Wilderness Chapter of the BTA covering the Wilderness Loop of the BT. Matthew has been a liaison with land managing partners at the Marietta Unit of the Wayne National Forest, a passionate advocate for the BT through the region and a creative problem solver continually working to engage people with the BTA.

Bill Hines, Crooked River Chapter

Bill has demonstrated outstanding leadership as a Section Supervisor for the Bedford Section. He is proactive in addressing trail needs, coordinating maintenance with local parks, and keeping trail adopters well supplied and supported. In just the past year and a half, he has helped lead three trail reroutes and regularly puts his NPS sawyer skills to work clearing downed trees - often within a day of receiving a report and sometimes traveling to more distant sections. Bill’s responsiveness, initiative, and commitment to maintaining a safe, high-quality trail experience make him an invaluable leader in the Bedford Section.

Nancy Hoffner, Crooked River Chapter

Nancy has played an essential role in keeping the Buckeye Trail route and information current in the FarOut app, a resource many hikers rely on to navigate the trail. She dedicates countless hours to checking for route changes, verifying details, and helping ensure hikers have accurate, up-to-date information. In addition to this work, Nancy has stepped up to serve as Treasurer for the Crooked River Chapter. Her dedication, energy, and enthusiasm make her a valuable contributor both behind the scenes and within the volunteer community.

Lori Luken, Crooked River Chapter

Lori has stepped us as a leader in multiple ways to advance the BTA. She serves as Secretary on the Board, as a Trustee, as TMT liaison for the Crooked River Chapter, and as Akron Section co-supervisor. In every role she takes a direct, results-oriented approach and is always open to learn new skills. Her enthusiasm and love for trail work is contagious. Lori is a trail blazer in so many ways, and her seemingly tireless service is an inspiration.

Vicki Proctor, Miami Rivers Chapter

Vicki Proctor serves as the Caesar Creek Section Supervisor and has remained a strong, steady leader within the Miami Rivers Chapter, even during periods of limited chapter activity. Her knowledge, enthusiasm, and commitment have been an essential part of the chapter’s recent revitalization, helping inspire renewed participation and encouraging others to get involved.

Diane Wright, Ohio River Chapter

Diane has served for many years as both Loveland Section Supervisor and Chair of the Ohio River Chapter, providing steady leadership and support across the region. She leads numerous chapter events each year, assists with many others, and has recently expanded her involvement to support the BTA Trail Towns program. Diane is a dependable volunteer, strong communicator, and enthusiastic advocate for the Buckeye Trail Association and the communities it serves.

The James Sprague Buckeye Trail Adopter and Builder Award

For superior service in maintaining and improving the Buckeye Trail.

Dan Campbell, Little Cities of the Forest Chapter (no photo available)

Dan Campbell has been a dedicated and dependable presence on trail building work parties and Trail Tuesdays in the New Straitsville Section, consistently showing up, working hard, and contributing countless hours to demanding trail work with a positive attitude. Dan also adopts trail in both the New Straitsville and Shawnee Sections and is a generous trail angel to Buckeye Trail hikers. His reliability, hard work, and willingness to go above and beyond help keep the trail in excellent condition and make him a valued part of the Buckeye Trail community.

Joe Evans, Central Ohio Chapter (no photo available)

Joe has adopted trail from Wildcat Hollow to Dock 3 at Burr Oak State Park. He has made a tremendous difference, especially for the EGGS hike. With a confusing bridge construction project, he made sure hikers could traverse the area safely, and added a stepping stone crossing at the creek. He consistently keeps his trail clear and enjoyable to hike. Thank you Joe!

Sue Jones, Little Cities of the Forest Chapter (no photo available)

Sue Jones has been a steady and dedicated presence on the remaining trail builds in the New Straitsville Section. She consistently shows up, works hard, and contributes countless hours to demanding trail work with a positive attitude. Reliable, cheerful, and a pleasure to work alongside, Sue’s commitment has made a meaningful difference in moving these projects forward.

Sally Rynasewski, Crooked River Chapter (no photo available)

Sally is an exceptionally dedicated trail adopter. Her assigned segment in the Bedford Section is always in perfect shape. She helps out at CRC events and trail maintenance days all through the Little Loop, and serves to record minutes for the Crooked River Chapter’s virtual leadership and members meetings. Her cheerful countenance is always a welcome sight on the Little Loop Circuit Hikes.

Kat Wollyung, Crooked River Chapter (no photo available)

Kat has made an outstanding contribution to the Buckeye Trail both on and off the trail. As an Akron Section Trail Adopter, she maintains her segment and keeps the Snow Road Kiosk current with BTA information and events. She has also contributed to trail work across all four sections of the Little Loop. Beyond trail maintenance, Kat is an active member of the Crooked River Chapter Leadership Committee and played a key role in the 2026 Little Loop Challenge by maintaining the event spreadsheet and map and organizing the post-event picnic. Her dedication, reliability, and willingness to help wherever needed have made her an invaluable part of the Crooked River Chapter.

Shirley James, Miami Rivers Chapter

Shirley is a Hike Leader and Trail Adopter in the Troy Section of the Miami Rivers Chapter. Shirley diligently traverses her segment with regularity, doing maintenance work where needed, and reporting adverse conditions. She has put forth an incredible amount of time and effort towards researching and creating a narrated guided hike for the Troy Section, which you can experience first hand by joining her on the trail. These narrations will be publicly available online in the coming months!

Ralph Regula Award for Leadership

For outstanding leadership, cooperation, and support of the Buckeye Trail Association.

Governor Mike DeWine (no photo available)

Governor Mike DeWine has been a champion for Ohio’s Buckeye Trail and a growing outdoor recreation economy, arguably as much or more than any other governor since 1959. The list achievements by his administration that benefit the BT is long, including growing public awareness from his hikes with his grandchildren, highlighting the BT/BTA at the Ohio State Fair, highlighting the BT to a new generation through the Buckeye Trail Anywhere virtual hike for schools and seniors as well as publicly supporting Buckeye National Scenic Trail designation. His legacy can also be experienced on the land the BT passes through, the 40,000 acre acquisition of the Appalachian Hills Wildlife Area, creation of Eagle Creek Wildlife Area, Great Council State Park, as well as expanding State Forest lands creating new corridors for the BT.

State Senator Tim Schaffer

As the Chairperson of the Ohio Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee Senator Tim Schaffer was a staunch supporter of the passage of a concurrent resolution of the Ohio General Assembly urging US Congress to designate Ohio’s Buckeye National Scenic Trail. This work, primarily in the background, is critical to expressing the amount of public support for Ohio’s Buckeye Trail, Buckeye Trail Association, and our efforts to share the Buckeye Trail experience with the country.

Certificate of Appreciation

For individuals, cities, agencies, or organizations that go the extra mile to support the trail.

Roxanna Lehman, Little Cities of the Forest Chapter (no photo available)

Roxanna is an active member of the hiking experience committee, designing patches and coming up with new ideas to improve the hike experience. She is also an avid Trail Angel, and recently stepped into the Secretary role for the Little Cities of the Forest Chapter. She has been working hard in this leadership role to bring organization and direction, while simultaneously coming up with new ways to promote the chapter and engage with the community.

Patrick Long, Ohio River Chapter

If there’s a Buckeye Trail event, meeting, administrative work, or project, Pat Long is there — ready, reliable, and already rolling up his sleeves. His consistency has become legendary, his dedication unmatched, and his presence a guarantee that things will get done.
In short: Pat shows up for everything… and we’re all better for it - and he most certainly deserves the President’s Award!