Buckeye Hills Career Center proudly hosted its 6th Annual Drug Free Clubs of America (DFCA) Rally and Band Showcase at the Gallipolis City Park on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. The event included DFCA chapters or marching bands from Buckeye Hills Career Center, Gallia Academy High School, Jackson High School, Oak Hill High School, River Valley High School, South Gallia High School, Vinton County High School, and Wellston High School.

Drug Free Clubs of America is a nationwide organization dedicated to empowering students to make positive, drug-free choices. Through education, support, and peer encouragement, DFCA aims to instill a sense of responsibility and community. At the heart of its mission is the belief that students can lead by example and inspire others to live drug-free lives.

The event commenced with the Rally, where BHCC DFCA student officers, ambassadors, and advisors extended a warm welcome to all attendees. One of the highlights of the rally was a series of compelling speeches delivered by student speakers from the BHCC chapter, who shared inspiring messages about living a drug-free life and recounted personal stories highlighting the destructive impact of drug abuse.

“At Buckeye Hills Career Center, we aim to Create Successful Lives every day. Students choosing to stay drug-free is a foundational step in building successful and meaningful futures – in school, in their careers, and in life,” BHCC DFCA Chapter Advisor Hannah Wolford shared.

For most schools, membership in DFCA typically ranges from 18-20% of the student body. However, Buckeye Hills Career Center and its partner schools stand out with much higher percentages. The Buckeye Hills chapter, known as STAND—Students Taking Action Not Drugs—boasts an impressive 85% membership among the student body at this time. Membership enrollment continues until December 31.

Jackson High School was announced as the partner school with the highest chapter membership percentage, boasting an impressive 68% of its student body as DFCA members! As part of the tradition, Principal Tyler Swackhammer was awarded a pie in the face.

Following the rally, the Band Showcase took center stage, featuring vibrant performances from the marching bands of River Valley High School, Wellston High School, Jackson High School, Vinton County High School, Oak Hill High School, and Gallia Academy High School. The bands delivered captivating performances that showcased their musical talents and school spirit.

The 6th Annual DFCA Rally and Band Showcase was a resounding success, reinforcing the importance of community and commitment to a drug-free lifestyle among students. Buckeye Hills Career Center extends its gratitude to all participating schools, staff, and attendees for making this event a memorable one.

“Our students continue to impress me with their dedication and commitment to remaining drug-free. We speak with many employers across our region, and staying drug-free remains a top priority, with our students setting the example. I am very proud of our students, and I believe in them,” BHCC Superintendent Jamie Nash shared. “What a great day to be part of something bigger than ourselves.”

View additional photos from the event here.