We annually select a group of local county alumni for recognition. Selecting those individuals is based on several factors including achievements, leadership, and contributions to society. Their accomplishments in academics, business, sports, or social service can hopefully inspire others in the community to do the same.
When selecting such an alumnus, it is important to consider not only personal success but also community involvement and dedication to helping others. Recognizing a deserving alumnus motivates others to pursue excellence and encourages members of the community to remain connected with and contribute meaningfully to our county.
One such alumnus is Morgan Simkovic-Bogucki. She is well known in the county for her commitment to healthcare, community service, and family advocacy. She became widely recognized through her family’s efforts to support children and families battling cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. Her story is closely connected to the mission of the Colby’s Stars Foundation, an organization established by her family to “pay it forward” after the serious illness of her younger brother, Colby Simkovic.
During her years at Jefferson-Morgan High School, Simkovic distinguished herself as both a student and an athlete. She competed in volleyball, softball, and basketball, earning numerous honors and awards throughout her athletic career.
She was especially successful in volleyball, where she received multiple all-conference selections and recognition as one of the region’s top student-athletes. In softball, she helped lead Jefferson-Morgan to a WPIAL championship and additional postseason appearances. Academically, she graduated near the top of her class with a GPA above 4.0 and received several scholarships and scholar-athlete recognitions.
Teachers, coaches, and community members frequently recognized her for balancing academic excellence with athletic achievement and volunteer work. The values of perseverance and service that shaped her upbringing became central to her later career and community involvement.
After high school, Morgan pursued a healthcare career at Slippery Rock University, earning a degree in Exercise Science in 2020. She later earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Seton Hill University in 2024.
Morgan currently works as the Managing Physical Therapist with OSTPA in Carmichaels, helping patients improve mobility, recover from injuries, and regain independence through rehabilitation services. Physical therapy requires patience, empathy, and communication skills, qualities that align with the compassionate personality she developed through years of community service and advocacy.
Morgan remains strongly connected to the work of Colby’s Stars Foundation. Inspired by the support their family received from the local community, the Simkovic family established the foundation to assist other families facing medical hardships. Morgan has spoken publicly through the organization about the importance of giving back and carrying on her brother’s legacy by helping others.
Fundraising for the Colby Stars Foundation started in 2011with “Dancing with Colby Stars” and later switched to a Kickball tournament. This tournament has grown from six teams to a staggering 42 teams at last year’s competition. They also added the “Be Like Colby Ride” fundraiser, “Riding for a Legend”, a fun off-road day for 4-wheelers, side-by-sides, and dirt bikes, where they travel over 30 miles through the scenic hills of Greene County.
Morgan’s personal life has also remained rooted in family and community. In 2024, she married Joshua Bogucki and they are currently building a new home on her family farm in Cumberland township. Morgan also enjoys spending time with family, reading, embroidering, and caring for her two dogs (Traeger and Ripley).
We feel Morgan represents the type of local leadership that has a meaningful impact on small communities. Through healthcare work, volunteer service, and support for families facing serious illness, she has contributed to causes that extend beyond personal achievement.
Morgan’s story is one of perseverance, compassion, and dedication. Her achievements reflect a life focused on helping others and strengthening the community around her.
