Hayhurst Law PLLC has announced Ashley Yoho as the recipient of its 2026 Hayhurst Scholarship. Yoho is a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology student at West Liberty University and a Supervised Psychologist Student Intern. She was selected for her powerful personal story, academic achievements, and long-term commitment to helping others. The scholarship was created to support students who exhibit perseverance, leadership, and a desire to make a meaningful difference in their communities. Yoho's journey reflects each of those qualities.
Receiving the 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 major milestone on the path to becoming a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Her long-term goal is to help people in her community find healing, strength, and stability through compassionate clinical care.
At Hayhurst Law PLLC, investing in students like Yoho reflects the firm's values and broader commitment to supporting their fellow West Virginians. Attorney Eric Hayhurst is a native West Virginian and the son of blue-collar parents. Growing up in a small town shaped his core values and influenced his decision to represent individuals who have been hurt by negligence. He founded his firm to protect those who may otherwise feel vulnerable or unheard. Championing higher education and recognizing students who demonstrate resilience and a greater purpose is one way the personal injury firm strives to give back. Yoho's story embodies the perseverance and dedication that the scholarship was designed to honor.
The firm serves people across West Virginia and Pennsylvania who have been hurt in cases of automobile accidents, medical malpractice, premises liability, and more. Known for their grit and people-centric service, Hayhurst Law PLLC delivers steadfast advocacy for those who need it most. Beyond legal representation, the firm believes in the power of reinvesting in the communities they serve. The scholarship represents a tangible investment in the future of mental health care in West Virginia, supporting a student dedicated to turning personal adversity into professional compassion. This initiative matters because it directly addresses the critical need for mental health professionals in the region by empowering a future clinician whose personal experiences fuel her empathy and dedication. The implications extend beyond financial aid, fostering a model where community reinvestment helps cultivate homegrown talent committed to serving local populations, potentially improving access to quality mental health services and inspiring similar investments in education and healthcare infrastructure.
