(Jessica Hamlin)
The 2024 Toast to Trusted Leaders gala, hosted by BBB of Central Ohio, brought together the community to honor businesses and individuals who exemplify trust, integrity, and leadership. This year’s awards celebrated finalists and winners of the Torch Award for Ethics, Spark Award, and Student of Integrity scholarships. The gala, held at The Bluestone, highlighted those who set the standard for ethical business practices and leadership in Central Ohio.
Meet the 2024 Award Winners
Torch Award for Ethics winners
The Torch Award for Ethics celebrates organizations committed to ethical practices and community trust. This year’s winners are:
- Ahola Payroll & HR Solutions: A family-owned leader in payroll and HR services, recognized for transparent pricing and an employee-first culture.
- CARE Heating and Cooling, Inc.: A residential HVAC company redefining transparency with a no performance pay policy and a focus on customer trust.
- Kane Learning: A consulting firm building lasting relationships with transparency, gratitude, and a commitment to community service.
- Milex Complete Auto Care – Mr. Transmission, Columbus, Ohio: An automotive care provider combining efficiency and honesty with community-focused initiatives.
See a complete list of all past Torch Award recipients..
Spark Award winners
The Spark Award honors emerging entrepreneurs and businesses committed to innovation, character, and giving back.
- Eye Co: An optometry practice dedicated to advancing eye health and community well-being through education and care for underserved populations.
- Checking on Our Loved Ones: A wellness check organization that prioritizes meaningful human connection and empathy.
See a complete list of all past Spark Award recipients..
Students of Integrity Scholarship winners
These scholarships recognize high school seniors who exemplify ethical leadership, community service, and academic excellence. Each recipient was awarded $1,000, with Caitlin O’Brien receiving an additional $500 William J. Lhota Scholarship for Ethics.
This year’s winners include:
- Noah Dever, John Glenn High School
- Marianna Packer, Westfall High School
- Caroline Beegle, Upper Arlington High School
- Claire Brown, Fairfield Union High School
- Eric Sese, Hilliard Bradley High School
- Taran Logwood, West Liberty-Salem High School
- Caitlin O’Brien, Olentangy High School (Lhota Scholarship recipient)
- Samara Davis, Mount Vernon High School
- Raheed Zaman, Olentangy Berlin High School
- Noah Hamilton, Homeschooled
Celebrating all finalists
The BBB Torch, Spark, and Students of Integrity awards are competitive, and all finalists deserve recognition for their commitment to excellence and trust. This year’s Torch Award finalists include:
- 3 Pillar Homes
- Argo & Lehne Jewelers
- Bristlewood Roofing and Remodeling LLC
- Capital City Exterminating Co., Inc
- Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce
- Custom Air
- E&E Tea Co.
- Final Touch Painting
- Hocking Hills Portraits LLC
- I Heart Real Estate
- Measurement Resources
- Mid-State Basement Systems
- My Construction Resource
- Ohio Basement Authority
- Orbit Media Group
- Sights Unseen Travel
- Snappy's Automotive
- The Chimney Guys
- TMAAC-LLC
Advancing trust in Central Ohio
BBB’s Toast to Trusted Leaders event demonstrates its commitment to advancing trust in business and celebrating the role models who embody integrity in their communities. Learn more about these programs through BBB’s Center for Character Ethics.