Thrive Allen County is proud to recognize Ava Lilly as the 2026 #TogetherWeThrive Scholarship recipient.

Ava currently attends Allen Community College and plans to attend the University of Central Missouri in the fall, where she will major in biology and continue throwing javelin as a walk-on member of the Jennies Track and Field Team.

Ava has deep family roots in Allen County, reaching back to her great-great-great-grandmother, who immigrated from Poland and made Allen County her home. Her connection to Allen County is one she holds very close.

“No matter where life will take me, Allen County will always be my home,” Ava wrote in her scholarship application.

As a student at Allen Community College, Ava said she feels she is carrying on a family tradition by following in the footsteps of her father, who also attended ACC and played baseball there.

The aspect of Thrive’s mission that resonates most with Ava is our focus on improving community health and wellness. As she earns her degree in biology, Ava hopes to apply her knowledge of health and wellness to serve communities like Allen County. She wants to contribute to solutions that strengthen rural healthcare systems and empower individuals to take control of their health.

Ava’s involvement in both her school and community illustrates her dedication to service and growth. Her leadership on both her volleyball and track teams throughout high school has earned her several accolades, including 2025 State Track and Field Honors, 2025 State Track and Field Girls Third Team, and 2025 State Track and Field All-Juniors Girls Team. She helped lead her volleyball team to a Sub-State Championship and competed at the Kansas State Volleyball Tournament.

Ava is also a member of the National Honor Society, where she has participated in service projects and community outreach. She has volunteered at school athletic events, community festivals, a local museum’s summer “Wacky Wednesdays” program, and the Winter Special Olympics. She has also refereed youth volleyball and basketball.

Ava envisions an Allen County where young people are supported as they grow and are inspired to return home with new skills and a desire to give back. She believes rural communities thrive when people have access to education, healthcare, and opportunities that keep them invested in strengthening their hometowns.

The team at Thrive congratulates Ava on earning this scholarship and wishes her the very best as she continues working toward her goals. Her dedication to service, leadership, and rural communities reflects the spirit of the #TogetherWeThrive Scholarship and the qualities that make Allen County strong.

Do you know an upcoming Allen County high school senior, current Allen Community College student, or Allen County resident pursuing college or vocational training? Watch for next year’s #TogetherWeThrive Scholarship application.