April 23, 2026

Pickerington, Ohio — Pickerington High School Central  senior Chana Jerome has been named a 2026 Gates Scholar, one of just 750 students selected from more than 61,000 applicants nationwide—placing her among the most accomplished and promising student leaders in the country.

The Gates Scholarship is a highly selective, last-dollar scholarship that covers the full cost of attendance, including tuition, housing, meals, books, and other expenses. In addition to financial support, the program provides ongoing academic and leadership development opportunities to help scholars succeed through college and into their careers.

Jerome plans to attend The Ohio State University, where she will major in biology on a pre-med track before continuing on to medical school to become a pediatrician. The scholarship will cover the full cost of her undergraduate education over four years, including tuition, housing, meals, a laptop, and more.

Her career goal is deeply personal—one she explored in one of the four essays required as part of the application process, connecting it to the loss of her younger brother.

“I remember I almost finished that essay in one sitting because I was able to pour my emotions into it,” she said. “I felt really connected to that piece.”

As a child, Jerome a lot of time in hospitals supporting her brother during his illness.

“I didn’t really understand everything about his illness, but I knew he was really sick,” Jerome added. “I remember his pediatrician and the care she provided to our family during such a difficult time. She was able to comfort us when things seemed impossible. That experience inspired me to want to become that source of comfort and care for other families.”

Jerome described learning she had been selected as a Gates Scholar as an unforgettable moment. She was at work when she saw the email.

“I saw the email title and just started jumping up and down, saying, ‘Oh my gosh,’” she said. “I couldn’t wait to get home and tell my parents in person. After I told them, we started praying immediately.”

She credits her success to the support of her family, teachers, and school community.

“My parents taught me perseverance and faith, and that has been the foundation of my academic and personal drive,” Jerome said. “They have done so much to help me pursue opportunities like this, and I hope to inspire others to do the same.”

Teachers say Jerome’s impact extends well beyond the classroom.

“Chana is one of those students who will stay with me for the rest of my career,” said Pre-AP English Teacher Hannah Westenbarger. “She is incredibly genuine, hardworking, and compassionate. I am so proud of her.”

Pickerington High School Central Principal Roshawn Parker called the recognition a moment of pride for the entire school community.

“This is an extraordinary achievement and a nationally competitive honor,” Parker said. “Chana represents what’s possible. Her story will inspire many others to pursue their goals.”

Jerome hopes her journey encourages other students to take chances, even when the path feels challenging.

“You never really know what could happen,” she said. “Just keep going, even when it’s hard. I’m really excited to find my place there.”

Learn more about The Gates Scholarship: https://www.thegatesscholarship.org.