3 Owens Students Honored for Excellence and Service

When Raiden Browning first walked into his social work classes at Owens Community College in Toledo, his instructor Jodi Gore quickly noticed something special. His work wasn't just good—it showed genuine curiosity and deep understanding that went far beyond checking boxes.

Browning, a Toledo resident pursuing a Social Work Transfer Pathway, earned a certificate of recognition in May 2026 for exemplary academic achievement. His instructors praised his thoughtful, well-organized work and his ability to create an inclusive learning environment where classmates feel supported and respected.

He wasn't alone in receiving honors that day. The Owens board of trustees recognized three students total at their May meeting, celebrating achievements that extended far beyond the classroom.

Emilia D'Amore graduated in May with a perfect 4.0 GPA in dental hygiene, but her impact reached much further than her transcript. The Bowling Green resident completed double the required community health presentations and traveled to Guatemala to provide dental care to underserved communities.

D'Amore also brought oral health education to a juvenile rehabilitation center in Wood County, serving more than 35 adolescent males. For two consecutive years, she volunteered at Toledo's Tent City, providing oral cancer screenings to people experiencing homelessness.

Chalisa Rocker turned her passion for community service into campus leadership as president of both the Black Student Union and the Honors Club. The Toledo psychology major spent two years volunteering with the Food for Thought Pantry, distributing lunches at the downtown Toledo bus station to people facing food insecurity.

Rocker's influence extends beyond Owens through her spoken word performances at community events and her podcast Bold n Faith, which focuses on encouragement and empowerment. She recently started working as a treatment advocate with the National Youth Advocate Program, mentoring youth in need.

The Ripple Effect

These three students show how community college campuses serve as launching pads for positive change. Browning's commitment to social work ethics, D'Amore's dedication to expanding dental care access, and Rocker's campus and community leadership all create waves that touch countless lives.

Their combined efforts—from Guatemala to Toledo's streets, from college classrooms to juvenile facilities—demonstrate that students don't wait until graduation to make a difference. The Student Life Committee's recognition program celebrates this reality, accepting nominations at regular board meetings for students who demonstrate excellence in academics, community engagement, or student leadership.

Three certificates, three different paths, and one powerful message about what's possible when young people commit to service.