About John Glenn
John Herschel Glenn Jr. (July 18, 1921 – December 8, 2016) was an American Marine Corps aviator, pioneering astronaut, and U.S. Senator whose life embodied service, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the greater good. Born in Cambridge, Ohio, he grew up in nearby New Concord, where strong community values and early academic and athletic success helped shape his civic-minded character.

A decorated Marine Corps pilot in World War II and the Korean War, Glenn flew numerous combat missions, earning multiple commendations for bravery, an early testament to his steady leadership under pressure and his devotion to serving others. His dedication to advancing science and aviation continued as he became a skilled test pilot, contributing to the development of cutting-edge aircraft.

In 1959, Glenn was selected as one of NASA’s original Mercury Seven astronauts. On February 20, 1962, he piloted Friendship 7, becoming the first American to orbit the Earth and a milestone that blended scientific achievement with Glenn’s characteristic humility and sense of duty to the nation. He later returned to space in 1998 at age 77, championing research on aging and reaffirming his lifelong commitment to science and education.

Following his NASA career, Glenn served Ohio in the U.S. Senate for 24 years, working on issues ranging from technology and homeland security to education and ethics in government—public service driven by principle rather than personal acclaim. Throughout his life, he remained a steadfast advocate for learning, civic responsibility, and community values, leaving a legacy defined not just by historic achievements, but by character: steady leadership, deep humility, and an enduring belief in using one’s talents for the greater good.

The John Glenn Inspiration Award
First awarded in 2021, this award represents Senator John Glenn’s legacy of service and civic-mindedness, devotion to science and education, steady leadership and humility, courage and integrity, and ultimately, an unwavering commitment to the greater good. With the blessing of the Glenn Family, the annual John Glenn Inspiration Award is selected and approved by a committee of regional and national leaders in the for profit and non-for profit sectors.

Past Recipients
2025: Kirt Walker
2024: Tanny Crane
2023: Jack Kessler
2022: Steve Steinour
2021: Lou Von Thaer

About Jeff Edwards
JEFFREY W. EDWARDS, serves as Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, and President of Installed Building Products, (NYSE: “IBP”), as well as President of Edwards Companies.

Installed Building Products, Inc. is one of the nation’s largest new residential insulation installers and is a diversified installer of complimentary building products. The Company manages all aspects of the installation process for its customers, including direct purchases of materials from national manufacturers, supply of materials to job sites and quality installation. The Company offers its portfolio of services to new and existing single-family, and multi-family residential, as well as commercial building projects from its national network of branch locations.

Edwards Companies is a privately held conglomerate operating primarily in the real estate development and construction related fields in many parts of the United States.

For many years, Mr. Edwards has been active in a number of business and charitable organizations. The Columbus Museum of Art Board of Trustees (past President and currently serves as an Honorary Trustee). The Salvation Army Advisory Board (past Chairman and currently serves as an Emeritus Member of its Board). He serves on the Downtown Columbus, Inc., Battelle, and Nationwide Children’s Hospital Board of Directors. He serves on the Executive Committee of The Columbus Partnership, and as Chairman of The Columbus Foundation Governing Committee. He also serves as a member of The Policy Advisory Board of Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies.

Mr. Edwards is a 1986 graduate of Miami University of Ohio with a major in Marketing.

Mr. Edwards and his wife Lisa have four children and reside in downtown Columbus, Ohio.

Mr. Edwards’ career and character embody John Glenn’s same admirable qualities through his leadership, advocacy for science education and innovation, and thoughtful approach to serving the community. COSI is honored to award the John Glenn Inspiration Award to this exceptional and deeply deserving honoree.

Through your support of Catalyst, the spark of inspiration reaches young learners across our community and beyond. It helps them see what is possible for themselves and their world. With your help, COSI can expand access to hands-on STEAM education and encourage learners to imagine themselves as future scientists, creators, and community leaders.

Just a few examples of COSI’s key initiatives include:

• The PLATFORM
  A year-round program that includes career and interview preparation, immersive workshops, industry partnerships, and summer experiences that exposes scholars to a vast array of STEAM skills and careers.
• HIVE Roadshow for Workforce Development
  A mobile experience designed to build hands-on skills, expose learners to STEAM careers, and strengthen Ohio’s future workforce.
• EiPic Program
  EiPiC provides an engaging and hands-on operational framework for students to learn about the field of intellectual property and entrepreneurship through an interactive, multimedia STEAM learning program that inspires young learners through story-driven science education.

These initiatives collectively support COSI’s work to bring high-quality, accessible STEAM programming to learners of all ages, in all communities.