Arion C. Thomas (Kroger 522) is the 2025 Ray Collier Memorial Scholarship winner.
Arion is 17 years old and is currently a senior at Gahanna-Lincoln High School in Gahanna, Ohio. While going to school, Arion is also working at the Kroger Marketplace in Hunter’s Ridge Plaza as a Courtesy Clerk. He has been working for Kroger since January 2025.
Arion stays busy. He is a member of the Gahanna-Lincoln High School Marching Lions where he plays the tuba. He also volunteers extensively in the community, most recently with the African American Male Wellness Walk. He also helps with the Kappa Alpha Psi Turkey Giveaway, Toys for Tots, and Total Life Ministries’ bi-weekly food pantry.
“I’m no stranger to the benefits of a Union, specifically the tools used for collective bargaining for better wages, working conditions and benefits for the employees,” Arion said. “Workers need representation. The history of America’s trade union and labor unions was built on the tenets of fairness for all people.”
Arion grew up around family members who constantly talked about the importance of Unions. His great-grandfather, grandmother, and great-uncle all retired from General Motors Inland Fisher Guide plant in Columbus, Ohio and were members of the United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 969. Currently, Arion’s step-father is a member of the Local 24 Sheet Metal Workers in Columbus. Arion admires his step-father’s engagement, saying “He attends EVERY. SINGLE. MEETING. He is a pure advocate for workers’ rights and wants to make sure that he is hearing information that affects his benefits and wages.”
Regarding his own membership in UFCW Local 1059, Arion recognizes “this is my first job, and I have union protections that guarantee pay raises, grievance procedures, and protections from unfair firing. I have defined breaks, and workplace safety is a top priority. I understand that my dues support the process of collective bargaining where two sides can exchange ideas. I am fortunate to have these protections afforded for me by the power of my Union.” And he always makes sure to read UnionWize cover to cover when it hits his mailbox.
Arion intends to enter Central State University as a freshman beginning Fall 2026. He plans to maintain his union job through college, and potentially beyond. “I look forward to seeing where my future takes me.” Arion’s future looks very bright!
