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Nineteen-year-old Ellie Baker is motivated by a fear of wasted potential – and she faces it head-on with confidence, dedication and a strong desire to succeed.

A �鶹ӰԺ at Tuscarawas junior majoring in accounting, Baker has already accomplished more than many do in a lifetime. From setting her sights on becoming valedictorian as an eighth grader to leading a successful Junior Achievement business as CEO, Baker’s journey is marked by hard work, ambition and an unwavering commitment to success. These qualities earned her a prestigious Governor’s Merit Scholarship and an invitation to Gov. Mike DeWine’s State of the State address on March 12.

“I was honored to attend the State of the State address as Governor DeWine’s guest,” Baker said. “Being invited to the address meant a lot to me – from the academic performance recognition to the financial support that came with it.”

The Governor’s Merit Scholarship provides recipients up to $5,000 per year for up to four years.

“Receiving the scholarship has allowed me to focus more on my studies and less on tuition costs. It’s a reminder that hard work truly pays off.”

Baker, of Dennison, Ohio, graduated as valedictorian of Claymont High School’s Class of 2024. Determined to make the most of every opportunity, she began taking College Credit Plus (CCP) courses as a high school freshman, paving the way for her to earn an associate degree from �鶹ӰԺ State Tuscarawas this spring.

“I can’t speak highly enough about the CCP program at the Tuscarawas Campus,” Baker said. “I completed all the core requirements for my BA at no cost, thanks to being a CCP student. On top of this, I entered my freshman year of college as a junior, which gave me confidence in my educational path.”

Baker’s passion for business and leadership extends beyond the classroom. As CEO of Age Well, a Junior Achievement company in North Central Ohio, Baker and her team – influenced by the health challenges faced by their grandparents – created a wellness kit designed to support individuals over 50 in maintaining their health and well-being. Under Baker’s leadership, Age Well took first place among 12 competing small businesses at the Buckeye Career Center’s Shark Tub pitch competition. The team won $5,000 and used the prize for marketing and manufacturing expenses.

Having achieved her goals of being class valedictorian and a successful CEO, Baker applied the same determined approach to choosing a college to study accounting.

“Honestly, I chose �鶹ӰԺ State Tuscarawas to begin my educational journey partly due to the low tuition costs,” Baker said. “By attending our beautiful campus, I can earn a degree while saving money. Another factor was the faculty-to-student ratio. I prioritize relationships with my professors, and they have been instrumental to my success.”

Baker is also grateful for the welcoming and supportive environment the campus provides.

“The support from faculty and the opportunity to connect with others through the Undergraduate Student Government organization keep me motivated. Our campus is a true community—someone is always there to catch you if you fall,” she said.

While she admits to spending much of her time studying in the campus Bistro, connecting with others through her role as a Undergraduate Student Government representative and being involved in campus functions provides Baker with the social and leadership experiences that drive her.

“I absolutely love our campus and the experiences that come with it,” she said. “There’s always someone to lead you in the right direction when you need it. From professors to advisors to Bistro staff, everyone wants to see you succeed.”

With a passion for both business and law, Baker is poised to continue her studies at the �鶹ӰԺ Campus to complete a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in accounting with aspirations of pursuing a Master of Business Administration or attending law school. While at the Tuscarawas Campus, she is building a solid foundation while remaining focused on her long-term goals: continuing her education, growing as a leader and making the most of every opportunity.

“My experiences as a CEO and competing in a mock trial high school state competition sparked my interest in leadership, strategy and the intersection of legal and business principles,” Baker said. “My motivation comes from a fear of wasted potential. Success comes in many forms, but no matter what you pursue, always remember to enjoy the ride.”