Dragons to Recognize Academic All-Star Ella Dersham on June 7

DAYTON, Ohio -- The Dayton Dragons Academic All-Star program presented by Edison State Community College will recognize Ella Dersham as an Academic All-Star during pregame festivities on Saturday, June 7, before the Dragons take on the Lansing Lugnuts at Day Air Ballpark in the heart of the Water Street District. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 pm.

During the recognition, Dersham will be honored on the field for her academic achievements through Edison State’s College Credit Plus Program (CCP) and presented with a $1,000 scholarship from the Dayton Dragons Foundation to assist in furthering her educational goals.

Dersham plans to continue her education at Edison State Community College after graduating high school to pursue an Associate of Applied Science degree and gain her licensure to be a Physical Therapist Assistant. She also plans to play softball as an outfielder and pitcher for Edison State’s varsity team next spring.

The Dragons will recognize five Academic All-Stars in 2025. Each All-Star is a CCP student at Edison State Community College. Edison State’s CCP program offers a unique opportunity for students still in high school to enhance and further their educational and career objectives. CCP students can earn college and high school credit concurrently, accelerating their college careers at no cost.

“I chose Edison State Community College’s CCP program to prepare me for my future career as a PTA while still in high school,” Dersham said. “Where I went to high school, our college credit classes were taught to us directly in our high school classes, following the course material provided to us by Edison State. This was very convenient!”

Dersham’s favorite part of Edison State’s CCP program was the ability to learn more about her future career field and passions.

“I’ve always had an interest in the recovery of bodily functions, and through the anatomy course I took this past year and really diving deep into the physiology of the muscles really helped me with my understanding,” Dersham said.

“College Credit Plus gives local students a head start on college, saving time and money, and building a stronger, more prepared community,” said Dr. Melissa A. Wetrz, Provost of Edison State Community College. “At Edison State, we are proud to be a partner in this effort, helping to reduce the cost of college, shorten time to degree, and build a more educated and prepared workforce right here in our own backyard. This program doesn’t just benefit students—it strengthens our entire community.”

To learn more about the Dragons Academic All-Star Program presented by Edison State Community College, visit www.daytondragons.com/academicallstar.