By Betsi Werling

Ava Smallcombe is a Bluffton High School senior and a 2026 Lee Volunteer Award winner. 

She will attend the awards banquet on April 22, when she will find out if she is the Youth Winner for this award. She has already donated an initial award to Bluffton’s Leo Club. She is planning to attend college at The Ohio State University main campus.

What were you like growing up? 

Growing up, I was always someone who liked to stay involved and connected. I was curious about the world around me and naturally drawn to working with others. Over time, that turned into a real passion for leadership and service. I’ve always cared about making people feel included and finding ways to contribute, even in small ways, and that mindset has really shaped who I am today. 

Favorite activity in school? 

My favorite activity has been being involved in leadership and service organizations, especially Leo Club and Positive Peer Advocacy. Those spaces have allowed me to grow not just as a leader, but as a person. I’ve learned how to listen, collaborate and take initiative, and I’ve really valued being part of something bigger than myself. 

What’s next? 

Next, I’ll be attending The Ohio State University to study Public Management, Leadership and Policy. I’m excited to take what I’ve learned so far and apply it in a new environment, while continuing to grow and explore different paths within public service. 

Favorite vacation? 

My favorite vacation was Venice last year. It was such a unique experience being somewhere so different from what I’m used to. The history, the culture and even just the way the city is built around canals made it unforgettable. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 

In five years, I see myself stepping into a career in public service or leadership, ideally in a role where I can help create positive change in communities. I hope to be doing meaningful work that allows me to advocate for others and make a tangible impact. 

One piece of advice you would give your younger self? 

I would tell my younger self that growth doesn’t come from staying comfortable; it comes from putting yourself in situations where you’re challenged. Not every opportunity will feel easy or natural at first, but those are often the ones that shape you the most. Learning to trust yourself and take those chances is what helps you become who you’re meant to be.

Tell us about helping build the Leo Club at Bluffton High School. What got you involved? What has attracted students to this new group? 

I got involved in creating the Leo Club because I saw an opportunity to bring students together through service and leadership. I wanted to help build something that gave people a sense of purpose and connection. What’s attracted students is the genuine impact they can make and the supportive environment we’ve created. It’s a place where people feel like their contributions matter, and that’s something really powerful. 

How is the Leo Club benefiting Bluffton? 

The Leo Club is benefiting Bluffton by creating more opportunities for students to give back and get involved in the community. It’s helping build a culture of service and leadership within the school, while also strengthening connections between students and the community around them. 

Were you surprised to be nominated for the Lee Volunteer Award? Tell us about the experience. 

I was definitely surprised and incredibly grateful to be nominated. It meant a lot to be recognized for something I genuinely care about. The experience reminded me that even small acts of service can have a bigger impact than you realize, and it encouraged me to keep putting my energy into making a difference.