East Hardy High School’s 2026 graduates, Bodie Brill, Gracie Heishman, Morganne Miller, Haley Twigg, Jocelyn Sherman, and Savannah Wilkins, are the recipients of this year’s Ashton Mathias Memorial Scholarship Award.
These six students were selected for this year’s award because of their awareness and compassion for those who suffer in silence with their mental health, as well as for their encouragement of others to seek care without fear of judgment. This year’s scholarship recipients are particularly honored for their courageous, personal efforts to end the stigma surrounding mental health.
Ashton is remembered for his smile, his caring personality, and his great sense of humor.
The Ashton Mathias Memorial Scholarship was established by Ashton’s family, friends, and Lost River Projects to honor both Ashton’s life and his struggle with mental illness. Lost River Projects and the Mathias Family are grateful to the individual and business donors who make this annual scholarship possible.
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. If you are having thoughts of suicide or urges to harm yourself, please reach out for help immediately.
