East Hardy High School 2024 graduate Olivia Burgess is the recipient of this year’s Ashton Mathias Memorial Scholarship Award. Ms. Burgess plans to attend Potomac State College this fall and to pursue a career in elementary education.
Ms. Burgess was selected for this award because of her awareness and compassion for those who suffer in silence with their mental health and her encouragement of others to seek care without fear of judgment. Ms. Burgess understands the importance of normalizing discussions about mental health with children and wants to incorporate mental well-being in her future classroom.
The Ashton Mathias Memorial Scholarship was established by Ashton’s family and friends through Lost River Projects to honor both Ashton’s life and his struggle with mental illness. Ashton is remembered for his smile, his caring personality, and his great sense of humor.
HELP4WV offers a confidential 24/7 call, chat, and text line that provides immediate help for any West Virginian struggling with an addiction or mental health issue at 1-844-HELP4WV.
