Hayhurst Law PLLC has announced Ashley Yoho as the winner of its 2026 Hayhurst Scholarship, recognizing her academic achievements and commitment to helping others through clinical psychology. Yoho, a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology student at West Liberty University and a Supervised Psychologist Student Intern, was selected for her powerful personal story and long-term dedication to community service.
The scholarship was created to support students who demonstrate perseverance, leadership, and a desire to make meaningful differences in their communities. Yoho's journey reflects these qualities, with her personal resilience turning past trauma into determination. "Receiving the Hayhurst Scholarship is both an honor and a profound affirmation of my personal, educational, and professional journey," Yoho said. "Without personal resilience, and a great deal of grit, I could have easily allowed my experienced trauma to define me. Instead, I made the conscious decision to let it fuel my determination."
Yoho plans to use the scholarship funds to assist with the cost of the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology, a critical step toward becoming a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Her long-term goal involves helping people in her community find healing, strength, and stability through compassionate clinical care. This investment in Yoho's education represents more than financial support—it acknowledges the importance of mental health professionals in West Virginia communities where access to care can be limited.
At Hayhurst Law PLLC, supporting students like Yoho reflects the firm's values and broader commitment to West Virginians. Attorney Eric Hayhurst, a native West Virginian and son of blue-collar parents, founded his firm to protect individuals who have been hurt by negligence. The personal injury firm champions higher education as one way to give back to the community. Recognizing students who demonstrate resilience and purpose aligns with the firm's mission of supporting vulnerable populations.
The scholarship program represents a strategic community investment that extends beyond traditional legal services. By funding education for future mental health professionals, Hayhurst Law PLLC addresses systemic needs in West Virginia, where behavioral health resources are often scarce. Yoho's selection highlights how private sector initiatives can complement public efforts to build professional capacity in critical fields. The firm's approach demonstrates how businesses can create meaningful impact through targeted educational support rather than generalized philanthropy.
For the legal industry, this scholarship model presents an alternative approach to corporate social responsibility that creates tangible benefits for specific communities. Rather than dispersing funds broadly, targeted scholarships like the Hayhurst Scholarship can address local workforce shortages while supporting individuals with demonstrated commitment to service. As Yoho prepares for her licensing examination, this support not only advances her career but potentially increases access to mental health services in regions where such resources are most needed.
