CANFIELD, Ohio – The Ohio School Social Work Association selected Christine Hanysh, director of social services at the Educational Service Center of Eastern Ohio, as the recipient of the 2026 Friend of School Social Work Award.
She will be recognized Friday at OSSWA’s annual conference.
The Friend of School Social Work Award honors an individual who is not practicing as a school social worker but has made an impact on Ohio students and families. Recipients advocate for the field and support the contributions school social workers make to students, families, schools and communities.
As director of social services, Hanysh provides leadership to strengthen support systems for students and families across the region.
She earned her bachelor’s degree in social work and her master’s degree in health and human services from Youngstown State University. She is a licensed social worker in Ohio and brings experience in the social services field.
During her tenure at the ESC of Eastern Ohio, Hanysh has supervised the Help Me Grow programs, advanced to assistant director of infant and toddler programs in 2022 and was appointed director of social services in 2024.
“Christine’s leadership has had a profound impact on the students, families and districts we serve,” said Superintendent Traci Hostetler. “She understands that strong social-emotional supports are foundational to student success, and she works tirelessly to ensure our school social workers and service teams have the resources, collaboration and encouragement they need to make a difference every day.”
Board President Richard S. Scarsella also praised Hanysh’s commitment and service.
“Christine exemplifies the mission of the ESC of Eastern Ohio,” he said. “Her dedication to advocacy, partnership and innovation has strengthened our organization and improved outcomes for countless children and families. This recognition by OSSWA is both well-earned and well-deserved.”