The Ohio Association of Community Colleges named Clare Grooms, Annalise Smith and Michael Sousa to the 2025 All-Ohio Academic Team.
The Ohio Association of Community Colleges has named three Clark State College students— Clare Grooms, Annalise Smith and Michael Sousa— to the 2025 All-Ohio Academic Team, recognizing their outstanding academic achievement, leadership and community service.
A collaboration between the Ohio Association of Community Colleges, Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society and Honda, the recognition highlights students who exemplify excellence in and out of the classroom.
“These three students represent the best of Clark State,” said Jo Alice Blondin, Ph.D., college president. “They have succeeded in the classroom, show promise for continued growth and reinforce the vital role community colleges play in strengthening local communities and Ohio’s workforce. We are incredibly proud of Annalise, Michael and Clare and their well-deserved recognition at the state level. Their academic performance, service to others and leadership reflect the mission and values of our college.”
Students selected for the All-Ohio Academic Team are nominated by their colleges based on their academic records, leadership experiences and community engagement. Honorees receive statewide recognition and may be eligible for scholarships or additional academic opportunities.
Grooms began her studies at Clark State in 2023 with the goal of earning her high school diploma and an associate degree simultaneously—a goal she successfully achieved. Grooms plans to transfer to Ohio Northern University to pursue a degree in environmental science and field biology, while contributing to conservation and sustainability efforts.
Smith graduated from Clark State with a 4.0 grade point average while majoring in social services. She plans to continue her education at New York University, pursuing a degree in political science with a focus on public policy and nonprofit leadership. Smith was also selected by the Phi Theta Kappa Board of Directors to receive the 2025 Phi Theta Kappa President’s Award for Leadership Excellence, a two-year scholarship valued at up to $30,000 per year. She was also named a Coca-Cola Academic Team Silver Scholar, receiving a $1,250 scholarship. Smith has served in leadership roles with Phi Theta Kappa both locally and internationally, including as a board member and immediate past international president.
Sousa earned his associate degree in addiction and recovery services from Clark State. He plans to continue his studies at the college to complete a bachelor’s degree in addiction and integrated treatment as he pursues a career in counseling.