Central Ohio Technical College (COTC) President John M. Berry, PhD, presented the prestigious Legends of Loyalty award to four extraordinary, deserving recipients.

In 2011, the Office of the President established the Legends of Loyalty award, which it bestows at the annual Legacy and Leadership Dinner. The award honors individuals who have, over the years, made a significant impact on the history of the college, have gone above and beyond their required duties, and proven unselfish allegiance.

This year’s Legends of Loyalty award winners are the Newark Campus Development Fund (NCDF), Jacqueline Parrill, Sandra Walker, and Andrea Tozzi and the Young Project.

“This terrific group of individuals and organizations has truly impacted the trajectory of our college through their selfless service and unwavering support,” Berry said. “Their vision helps set our direction. Their commitment keeps us moving forward. Their example inspires all of us to work toward the shared goal of empowering students through education and training that changes lives.”

Newark Campus Development Fund

NCDF has continued the good work of legendary community benefactors Howard LeFevre and J. Gilbert Reese, who established the organization more than 40 years ago. Its efforts enhance the campus community and make higher education more accessible through the availability of scholarships. To date, NCDF has disbursed more than $46 million to the campus, including more than $1 million annually in scholarships and grants. By providing access to financial awards and state-of-the-art facilities, NCDF helps turn COTC students into job-ready graduates — exemplifying the core mission of the college.

Jacqueline H. Parrill, EdD

As the vice president of COTC and chief of staff of both COTC and The Ohio State University at Newark, Parrill personifies the special cost-shared relationship between the two institutions. She has been a key member of each institution’s leadership team for more than 20 years, overseeing strategic initiatives and organizational leadership. This certified institutional planner is also active in the community, currently serving on the Board of Directors for Licking Memorial Health Systems. Parrill has displayed a profound work ethic through her commitment to all campus students and this community.

Sandra Y. Walker, EJD

Walker showed a relentless commitment to student success through two decades of service to COTC’s nursing program. This compassionate leader climbed the ladder from part-time faculty member to dean of technical studies. In 2020, Walker received the Bobbie Anderson Leadership Award from the Foundation of the Organization for Associate Degree Nursing. It’s a national award given annually to an educator or nursing program administrator who has demonstrated exceptional leadership within his or her institution and community. Walker’s legacy at COTC is one of building bridges, helping the college’s nursing program become her students’ gateway to great careers.

Andrea Tozzi and the Young Project

Since 2009, Tozzi has been COTC’s perfect partner in bringing the Italian Immersion Program to life. By designing the summer program that sends COTC students to Italy and brings Italian students to Newark, Tozzi has helped create a deeply engaging and enriching experience for both sides. He helped establish a nonprofit called the Young Project, which facilitates the experience for students during their two-week trip to Italy. Tozzi’s daughter Matilde now leads the Young Project, and with their passion and dedication, they have helped turn the Italian Immersion Program into a point of pride for the college.