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Summary
The 2025 Class of the Canton McKinley Hall of Distinguished Alumni features twelve outstanding graduates whose careers span public service, education, sports, entertainment, the military, and community leadership. Each honoree has not only excelled in their field but also served as a powerful role model for McKinley students and the Canton community.
This first celebration also introduces a special Heritage Class, recognizing trailblazing alumni posthumously — individuals whose legacies continue to inspire.
Created to honor McKinley’s tradition of excellence, the Hall celebrates the values that define Bulldog pride: hard work, resilience, innovation, and service.
Led by McKinley alum R.J. Van Almen, the selection committee reviewed many inspiring stories to choose this inaugural group — setting the tone for a lasting tradition of celebrating excellence.
2025 Distinguished Alumni:
K. Akbar Bennett – Canton Fire Department Chief; dedicated to public safety and community engagement.
Kim Crenshaw – Civil rights advocate and educator whose scholarship has shaped national conversations.
Stephan Baity – Acclaimed chef and entrepreneur known for his creative culinary vision.
Leah Loukas – Broadway makeup and wig artist who has elevated the art of stage design.
Eddie Levert – Founding member of The O’Jays; musical legend with deep roots in Canton.
Walter Williams – Founding member of The O’Jays; a pioneer in soul music and community inspiration.
William Sherer II – Mayor of Canton; committed public servant with a heart for the city’s future.
Will Dent – CEO of ABCD, Inc.; driving economic and social progress through nonprofit leadership.
Manuel Halkias – Award-winning educator and speech coach; transforming lives through education.
Stephanie Rushin Patrick – Longtime educator and principal in CCSD, known for her unwavering dedication to students.
Josh McDaniels – Accomplished NFL football coach with championship credentials.
Robin Valdez – A highly decorated Army veteran whose service exemplifies courage and commitment.
2025 Heritage Class (Posthumous Induction):
Frank Devol - Renowned bandleader, composer, and actor; four-time Academy Award nominee.
Ralph Hay – Canton Bulldogs owner and founding force behind professional football's birth.
Dick Kempthorn – Football All-American and decorated military hero.
John Scali – Former U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. and prominent journalist.
Nick Weatherspoon – NBA standout and University of Illinois All-American.
Walter Clarence Crenshaw Jr. – Canton educator and civic leader; namesake of Crenshaw Middle School and Park.
Marian Crenshaw – Devoted Canton educator with 46 years of service.
Ira Turpin – Respected judge and trailblazer in Ohio’s legal system.
Paul Martin – Longtime youth advocate and leader in Canton’s public programs.
Mother Angelica – Founder of EWTN, the world’s largest religious media network.
Marion Motley – Pro Football Hall of Famer who broke barriers in the NFL.
James Allardice – Emmy-winning writer for television and Broadway.
Reuben Klamer – Inventor of The Game of Life; a pioneer in toy design.
Harry Steel – Ohio State’s first Olympic Gold Medal-winning wrestler.
Blanche Thebom – Internationally acclaimed operatic mezzo-soprano and educator.