OFIC Celebrates 75 Years of Nationwide Foundation Support for Ohio Students

The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges (OFIC) is deeply grateful for the Nationwide Foundation’s longstanding commitment to Ohio students. For 75 years, this partnership has helped Central Ohio students pursue their bachelor’s degrees, stay on track, and graduate on time. It is a legacy that consistently puts students first.

Students like Sarah and Salim, seniors at Capital University, are a powerful reflection of that impact. As current Nationwide Foundation scholarship recipients, they shared their experiences at OFIC’s Spring Awards Luncheon on April 8, 2026 at the Grand Event Center in Columbus. Their stories highlighted what scholarship support makes possible, not only in financial terms, but in confidence, focus, and opportunity.

Andrea Magana Lewis, Nationwide Foundation; Sarah, Capital University; Kristen Rost, Nationwide Foundation; Salim, Capital University

At the event, OFIC also had the opportunity to connect with the generous Nationwide funders whose investment makes these scholarships possible. Bringing students and partners together in the same room created a clear picture of what this work is truly about: real people, real progress, and real outcomes.

Internships, scholarships, and hands-on experiences all play a role in strengthening Ohio’s talent pipeline. OFIC’s broader work with partners across the state reflects the same goal of connecting students with meaningful opportunities that prepare them for their careers and support the state’s workforce.

Sarah and Salim’s experiences are a reminder of why this work matters. Scholarships do more than help students enroll. They help students persist, succeed, and complete their degrees on time.

Lori Burrows, OFIC; Andrea Magana Lewis, Nationwide Foundation; Sarah, Capital University; Kristen Rost, Nationwide Foundation; Salim, Capital University; Bill Spiker, OFIC

The Nationwide Foundation’s support also reflects a broader commitment to Ohio campuses, including both student scholarships and unrestricted general support that helps institutions strengthen the overall student experience in lasting ways.