Community Leader 2023

National Toy Drive Organizer

Monica graduated from the Ohio Virtual Academy (OHVA) in 2016, where she attended from 5th-12th grade. OHVA gave her the flexibility of being able to help on her family farm, while also receiving an in-depth and quality education that would prepare her not only for college, but also everyday life. She was heavily involved in several school clubs including: National Honor Society, Student Council and the Ohio Virtual Academy Agricultural Society. Through these groups, she made several life-long friends and many special memories. She began taking college classes as a high school sophmore, which allowed her to begin working toward earning her college degree early. In 2017, she graduated with an Associate of Applied Business degree in Agribusiness Management and Marketing Technology from the University of Northwestern Ohio.

Monica currently resides in Logan County, Ohio, with her husband Layne and their young daughter, Kylee. Monica and Layne both grew up and met in Logan County and live close to both of their families. Using her skills, education and experiences she now operates and manages their own small farm where they raise registered Mini Nubians, Nigerian Dwarfs and Pygmy goats. They milk both dairy goat breeds, which provides fresh milk for their family. They also have a hay field, allowing them to make their own hay, as well as an apple orchard and a large garden full of produce every year. In addition to managing and working the farm alongside her husband, Monica is also a full-time stay-at-home mother. She enjoys gardening, canning, riding ATVs and RZRs, working with animals and spending time with her family and friends.

Monica and her brother Tyler founded the annual Ohio Virtual Academy Toy Drive benefiting Nationwide Children’s Hospital nine years ago. They continue this tradition of giving to brighten the holiday season for children in need. Read more below!