Two women stand on a stage holding a plaque. The stage is covered with best buddies logos and a balloon arch. One of the women wears a crown and a sash.

Miami University Best Buddies Chapter Earns International Chapter of the Year Honor

The Best Buddies Chapter at Miami University has been named the Best Buddies International 2025–2026 Overall Outstanding College Chapter of the Year, one of the organization’s highest honors recognizing excellence in chapter leadership, inclusion, and impact.

Led by ’25-’26 Chapter President Beth Sopp with support from Host Site Coordinator, Lynn Goodwin, the student organization received the award for its outstanding chapter management, impressive number of one-to-one friendship matches, and long-standing commitment to creating an inclusive campus community where everyone belongs. Current Chapter President Melanie Schael received the award on behalf of the entire chapter.

This marks the second time the Miami University chapter has earned Best Buddies’ top college chapter award, highlighting the group’s continued dedication to fostering meaningful friendships between students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

A young woman stands in the center aisle of a crowded auditorium holding a plaque with the Best Buddies logo at the top and a headline reading Miami University of Ohio.
Melanie Schael – Chapter President

The chapter’s success is made possible through a strong partnership between Miami University, Best Buddies Ohio, and the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Together, they have worked to expand opportunities for connection, inclusion, and community participation.

“On behalf of Best Buddies, I am thrilled that the incredible impact the students at Miami University have made through their Best Buddies Friendship Chapter has been recognized in this way,” said Catlin Skufca, State Director of Best Buddies in Ohio. “Receiving this award is one of our highest honors and is a testament to the dedication and commitment of everyone involved. The strong partnership between the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities, the students at Miami University, and our staff member, Alana Lorts, made this achievement possible. Together, they have created meaningful opportunities for friendship, inclusion, and belonging, and we couldn’t be more proud of what they accomplished this past school year.”

A group of young woman celebrate. They all wear shirts that say Ohio on them and one woman holds a sign that says Ohio
Catlin Skufca, State Director, Best Buddies in Ohio, celebrates with the Miami University Chapter

The Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities congratulates Melanie Schael, every member of the Miami University Best Buddies Friendship Chapter, and all of the partners who helped make this recognition possible. Their efforts continue to demonstrate how inclusive communities are built through genuine friendships, shared experiences, and a commitment to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to belong.