Announcing the 2024 Instagram Walls Contest Winners
This year, The Office of Student Life and Center for HumanKindness at the Columbus Foundation teamed up to host the 2024 Instagram Wall contest. Open to students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members from any of Ohio State's campuses, the contest invited partcipants to submit kindness inspired artwork to transform campus outdoor spaces into Instagrammable moments.
A committee selected the winners, and each winner got to select a cause from the Columbus Foundation Giving Store to receive a $500 donation in their honor. This collaborative project celebrates creavity and kindness-- get to know the winners and hear what kindess means to them, in their own words, below.
The nine contest winners are:
Addison K., Ohio State Student
Cause selected: Columbus Dog Connection
"I am choosing to donate this money to a non-profit organization that specializes in animal welfare. I would love to donate to this cause because I share a passion for it and am already a part of a student club on campus that works towards helping local shelters. I have donated money to these types of organizations in the past, along with organizing many fundraising events for them. The organization I want to donate to is Columbus Dog Connection, as they specialize in not only rescuing these dogs, but also trying to provide families with low vet bills and spay/neuter cost. Giving people these services with discounted prices helps make these pets more adoptable. I want to continue to support this cause and find homes for these animals in need."
What does kindness mean to you?
"Kindness is the act of extending generosity and understanding to others without expectation. It’s an act that motivates us to help and uplift others, whether through small or big gestures. Kindness helps build connection with others and brings light into our lives."
Location: McCorkle Aquatics Pavilion exterior
Brianne B., Community Member
Cause selected: Mental Health America of Ohio
"I chose to donate to Mental Health America of Ohio. I have a huge soft spot for mental health awareness and stigma reduction. I have so much respect for this whole campaign because I think it all starts with spreading kindness."
What does kindness mean to you?
"Kindness is spreading love everywhere you go. No matter who you encounter, showing your understanding and support through even the smallest gestures can make a big impact in someone's life."
Location: 9th Avenue East Parking garage
Hannah W., Ohio State Staff
Cause selected: Columbus Foundation Disaster Relief Fund
"I am choosing the Columbus Foundation Disaster Relief Fund specifically for benefitting the American Red Cross, Central Carolina Community Foundation, Community Foundation of Western Carolina, and Legal Aid NC.
I'd like to donate to this fund because I'm Appalachian and supporting the region is one of my passions. Donating to the relief efforts is a way to stand with my community and help those who are struggling to rebuild their lives. I’ve witnessed firsthand the economic disparities and generational trauma that often plague our region, so support in times like these is especially vital. "
What does kindness mean to you?
"Kindness is empathy, compassion, and healing. It's a way to give back to your community, bridge gaps, and foster a positive world where both current and future generations can thrive."
Location: Recreation and Physical Activity Center (RPAC) Lobby
Kim T., Ohio State Staff and Alumni
Cause selected: Give Girls shoes, Give Girls Confidence
"I chose Give Girls shoes, Give Girls Confidence. I love that this program teaches girls self-confidence and caring for themselves. I know how important it is to have shoes that fit, are comfortable and supportive to keep your body feeling the best."
What does kindness mean to you?
"Kindness is: generous, friendly, considerate, putting other’s needs before your own, showing gentleness, being caring and being helpful. Hopefully, it becomes contagious when I show it to someone, and they will carry it on to someone else. Kindness can be powerful!"
Location: North Campus Oak walk at Nosker House
Lindsay S., Ohio State Alumni
Cause selected: Pelotonia
"I am choosing to donate to Pelotonia. I have volunteered with Pelotonia for the last five years, but after my mom was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2023 and received treatment at The James, the Pelotonia community means even more to me. In 2024, I participated in Ride Weekend for the first time. I am continually inspired by all that the Pelotonia community does in the fight for a cancer-free world. Reflecting on my mom’s journey, I am so grateful for the kindness we experienced from so many, and I’m grateful to be able to “pay forward” in this way!"
What does kindness mean to you?
"Kindness is a spirit of care, thoughtfulness, and generosity. It serves as a powerful force that strengthens communities and nurtures a more compassionate world. "
Location: Ohio Union South Garage (coming spring 2025)
Marisa B., Ohio State Student
Cause selected: Ohio State Chapter of College Mentors for Kids
"The organization that I chose to donate to is the Ohio State Chapter of College Mentors for Kids. College Mentors for Kids is a national organization that connects kids to college students through weekly on-campus activities that inspire growth, confidence, and brighter futures. I became a “big buddy” this year through College Mentors for Kids and I have gotten to see the amazing effects it has on the children in the program. The Ohio State chapter mentors children from six separate Columbus city schools, totaling over 200 children. I have already seen a vast amount of emotional growth in my own little buddy and I look forward to continuing to help her along this journey called life. Generous donations like this one cover all logistical expenses of the program, allowing it to stay cost-free for the children and their families, many of whom could not attend this program if it was not cost-free."
What does kindness mean to you?
"Kindness is seeing the potential in others and helping them realize it, without expecting anything in return."
Location: The Keith B. Key Center for Student Leadership and Service, on the second floor of the Ohio Union
Maya B., Ohio State Student
Cause selected: Star House
"I chose Star House because I volunteered there in the spring and saw how they positively impacted the homeless youth of Columbus. I was able to talk with some of the frequent visitors who utilize their resources, and they each had nothing but thanks to give to the amazing organization that is Star House. I know this donation will provide clothing, hygiene items, food, showers, and a safe space for youths. "
What does kindness mean to you?
"Kindness is choosing empathy and compassion toward others, to overcome the negativity in the world."
Location: Barrett House
Michelle B., Ohio State Staff
Cause selected: Children’s Hunger Alliance
"I selected the Children’s Hunger Alliance, because access to healthy food and nutrition education is so important to help children succeed."
What does kindness mean to you?
"Getting out of your own head to actively think and care about someone else."
Location: Norton House
Travis B., Ohio State Staff Member
Cause selected: Creative Housing Inc.
"Individuals with disabilities should have equal opportunities and access to affordable housing so I chose Creative Housing Inc."
What does kindness mean to you?
"Kindness is showing empathy and compassion to others without expectation of anything in return. Simply smiling at a stranger, holding the door for someone, or saying, “Hello, how are you?” can help brighten someone’s day.""
Location of art: North Campus Barrett wall