Stover Scholars meet Ohio governor
The auditorium inside Medina High School in Medina, Ohio was filled as members of the community, local political figures and several Stover Scholars gathered for Gov. John Kasich’s State of the State Address.
In a speech very much centered on the ideas of educational reform and adhering to his strong Christian faith, he left the audience with much to chew on. In particular, he left Dr. Larry Stratton, director of the Stover Center for Constitutional Studies and Moral Leadership, with much to think about for the upcoming years in politics.
”My wheels were turning [during the speech], in thinking that he’s going to end up on the Republican ticket, whether it is for the president or vice president,” said Stratton. “It seemed to me like it is a high probability.”
One such factor he admitted possesses much influence in his political life is his strong Christian faith. As the Stover Scholars in attendance received the privilege of meeting Gov. Kasich before his prestigious speech, many noticed his genuine faith in the Lord.
”As we met the governor, a bishop was there to pray with him before his speech,” Stratton said. “He is very real and genuine in his claim of faith.”
Christian ethics and moral leadership are pillars for the Stover Program, and some of the Stover Scholars took notice of the relationship between Gov. Kasich’s message and the principles at the heart of the Stover program.
”The governor mentioned that he went through a rough patch in his life where he lost some faith in God,” said Ashley Beener, a freshman political science major and member of the Stover Scholars program. “I feel that everyone can relate to that in some way.”
Beener went on to say how impressive and influential the conclusion of Gov. Kasich’s speech had been, as he demonstrated further leadership qualities upon which the Stover program prides itself on instilling in its members.
”At the end of his speech, Gov. Kasich referred to the fact that no matter who you were, even if you happened to vote for him in the last election or not, he is still your servant as governor in the state of Ohio, and he will strive to work for everyone,” Beener said. “This type of leadership is the foundation of learning for the Stover program, and his leadership is what I will try to achieve.”