CPS Dave Dierker Scholarship Honors Graduating Student-Athletes

When you dedicate more than 15 years of service to a school district, you leave a legacy that resonates far beyond the classroom. For Dave Dierker, the former District Athletics Manager for Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS), his legacy continues to impact students and staff alike. Now, that legacy lives on through a scholarship created by his successors at CPS.

Josh Hardin, District Athletics Manager, and Ricky Miller, Assistant District Athletics Manager, established the Dave Dierker Scholarship to honor the contributions of Dierker and support graduating CPS student-athletes.

"We really wanted to find a way to recognize Dave’s incredible impact on this district and its students," said Ricky Miller.

The scholarship is funded through an annual golf outing, where community members and local leaders come together to compete in a tournament aimed at raising money for CPS students. The funds raised each year help directly support the scholarship, which provides $500 per year for up to four years, totaling $2,000. In addition to the financial support, the scholarship also includes a brand-new laptop to aid in students' academic pursuits.

To qualify for the Dave Dierker Scholarship, students must have previously been named Student-Athlete of the Month. This recognition is awarded based on nominations from coaches and program directors who highlight athletes for their outstanding performance, academic achievements and community service.

At the end of each school year, graduating student-athletes who have been named Student-Athlete of the Month will receive an application for the scholarship. Applicants must complete an essay and provide proof of college admission to be considered. 

Meet the 2025 Scholarship Winners

This year’s recipients of the Dave Dierker Scholarship are:

Rodnora Jones, cross country, basketball, track, and volleyball player from Gamble Montessori High School
Jon Lumpkin, Basketball player from Hughes STEM High School

Their hard work and dedication to both athletics and academics have earned them this well-deserved recognition.