By Angela T. Koenig
Enquirer contributor

SPRINGFIELD TWP. - Middle school years are a time of awkward transition for adolescents. They no longer get points just for being "elementary school cute," nor are there as many opportunities to find their niche as there are in high school.

That's why Dan and Sue Hummer of Finneytown felt it was important to end the school year at Finneytown Middle School on a high note by awarding a select group of students the Stephanie Hummer Big Heart Award.

The award is named for the Hummers' 18-year-old daughter, who was slain near the Ohio State University campus in 1994, during her freshman year. The homicide has not been solved.

Stephanie, an Evans Scholar, graduated from Finneytown High School with honors and attended Finneytown Junior High before it consolidated to become a middle school for grades 6-8.

The Hummers chose to focus on the middle school grades, they said, to recognize students who shine through the angst of these years, and because at the time of Stehpanie's death, their son Tom was in seventh grade, and another son, Jeff, was about to enter the newly consolidated school.

"The award is based on behaviors and activities that Stephanie was known for," Mr. Hummer said. The awards were established in 1995.

Teachers nominate students based on criteria that include school spirit, positive attitude, and showing kindness and thoughtfulness.

The Hummers review the nominations and at least one award is given at each grade level. Students are presented the award at an assembly, have their names placed on a permanent plaque at the school, and each receives a $30 gift certificate to Media Play.

"It's a very big deal here and a great commemoration of Stephanie," said this year's eighth-grade winner, Erin Saul, whose personal goal is: "Just try to be nice to everybody."

The other 2002-2003 recipients were Kari Buchheim (grade 6), and Joel Bogart and Marcus Leary (grade 7).

Former recipients who have graduated from high school came back this year as presenters. "It was an honor to win that award," said Aimee Coyle, 18, a 2003 graduate of Finneytown High, who is headed to the University of Cincinnati this fall.

Coyle has carried that sense of pride with her everywhere, she said, especially at Finneytown High, where Stephanie's name is prominent on a wall board, recognizing dedication to community service.

Focusing on the joys of Stephanie's life and providing other young people with encouragement are ways the Hummers channel their grief through the Stephanie Hummer Memorial Projects.

"By doing good things in Stephanie's name, it keeps you from being overtaken by the bad things," Sue Hummer said.