The Padriac Routa Memorial Scholarship Recipient
Meet Our 2026 Scholarship Recipient
Leah D. Elyria, OH
Leah is an aspiring entrepreneur whose creativity, compassion, and commitment to serving others embody the values of the Pat Rota Memorial Foundation. A student at Midview High School, Leah plans to pursue a degree in business and entrepreneurship with the goal of using innovative ideas to strengthen communities and support those in need. She has already put that passion into action by developing a reward-based app to increase student participation at school events, helping boost attendance by more than 23%. Inspired by the loss of two family members to sudden cardiac death, Leah ultimately hopes to create a nonprofit organization that supports families facing the emotional and financial challenges of serious health crises. Through her leadership, volunteer work, athletics, and entrepreneurial spirit, Leah has demonstrated a remarkable drive to turn ideas into meaningful impact.
Congratulations Leah, we look forward to seeing what you do!
Meet Our 2026 Scholarship Recipient
Alan R. Mentor, OH
Alan is an artist and aspiring entrepreneur who hopes to bridge the gap between creativity and business while creating new opportunities for young artists throughout Ohio. A graduate of Mentor High School, Alan plans to study business and entrepreneurship at the University of Cincinnati’s Carl H. Lindner College of Business. His experiences span fine art, music, construction, entrepreneurship, and community service, including work with the Youth Entrepreneur Market, the American Red Cross, and Camp Wise. Through these diverse experiences, Alan has learned to view creativity not only as a form of artistic expression, but also as a powerful tool for problem-solving, leadership, and innovation. His long-term goal is to build collaborative spaces where emerging artists can exhibit and sell their work while gaining practical skills in marketing, branding, pricing, and financial sustainability—helping talented creatives turn their passions into meaningful and sustainable careers.
Congratulations Alan!
Meet Our 2025 Scholarship Recipient
William A. Ashtabula, OH
At just 16 years old, this scholarship recipient turned a summer side hustle into Shoreline Shine, a growing mobile detailing and window tinting business. What began in his parents’ driveway with a few car cleaning supplies has grown into a company known for quality service, community involvement, and custom merchandise — all while balancing academics, athletics, and leadership roles. Through grit, creativity, and a deep sense of purpose, he’s hired classmates, donated services to charity, and built something meaningful from the ground up.
This fall, he will attend John Carroll University’s Boler College of Business, where he plans to build on his entrepreneurial journey while playing varsity baseball. His goal is to expand Shoreline Shine and eventually support other young entrepreneurs by creating opportunities for kids with ideas but no roadmap. Grounded in discipline, service, and a desire to give back, he’s using his business not just to earn income, but to make a lasting impact.
Congratulations William, we look forward to seeing what you do!
Meet Our 2025 Scholarship Recipient
Jay M. Medina, OH
This scholarship recipient uses his passion for art as a powerful tool to uplift others and give back to his community. From painting rain barrels for Junior Leadership of Medina County to launching a student-run art gallery at Medina High School, he continues to find creative ways to make a lasting impact. His leadership, compassion, and drive to connect with others through art have shaped a senior capstone project that will live on beyond his graduation — giving future students a platform to express themselves and share their work.
A lifelong artist, he’s studied at the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Cleveland Institute of Art, where he found inspiration and mentorship within Ohio’s vibrant art community. His work reflects joyful moments, personal growth, and emotional depth, often created on unconventional materials using a wide range of mediums. Through it all, his goal remains clear: to use his creativity not just for self-expression, but to build connection, encourage mental wellness, and leave his mark on the world through kindness and imagination.
Congratulations Jay!
Meet Our 2024 Scholarship Recipient
Quinn M. Columbus, OH
"I believe in bringing history to life in fun and creative ways, like through storytelling and art projects - especially murals. There's something magical about transforming a blank wall into a mural that tells a story and connects people. Art, for me, is all about making people think and feel. I love creating pieces that spark conversations and bring people together. Whether it's through photography or painting, I aim to inspire and share new perspectives with others."
Congratulations Quinn, we look forward to seeing what you create!
Office: 104 Middle Ave. STE 1 Elyria, OH 44035
Email:patroutamemorial@gmail.com