The community gathered on October 15, 2026 to celebrate the grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Thomas J. Evans Hall at Central Ohio Technical College (COTC).

The 6,500-square-foot building is now the permanent home of COTC’s Peace Officer Basic Training and Criminal Justice Technology programs, creating new opportunities for students and supporting the next generation of public safety professionals.

The ceremony featured remarks from leaders and supporters who helped bring the project to life, including COTC President John Berry, PhD; COTC Board Chair Andrew Guanciale; and COTC alumnus Colonel Chris Barbuto of the Licking County Sheriff’s Office, among others. It was especially exciting to see COTC alumni continue to give back and help their alma matter grow.

A special thank-you goes to Doug Marston, who served as volunteer fundraising chair, as well as the community donors whose generosity helped make this project possible. Their investment demonstrates what can happen when a community comes together to support education, workforce development, and opportunities for future generations.

NCDF is proud to be part of this partnership, helping connect community generosity with the educational missions of COTC and Ohio State Newark. Through NCDF, donors can make philanthropic gifts to support either institution, helping transform community support into meaningful opportunities for students and the region.

Congratulations to everyone who helped bring the Thomas J. Evans Hall to life!