Unleashing Young Leaders: YSU's Bold Summer Program
High school students from Mahoning Valley took a bold step towards leadership this summer at Youngstown State University (YSU). The Tressel Institute for Leadership and Teamwork kicked off its first Summer Leadership Program, a transformative initiative that gathered juniors and seniors for three days of immersive learning.
Building Tomorrow’s Leaders
This inaugural event was more than a summer camp—it was a stepping stone towards the future. Students delved into experiences that crafted their leadership styles, honed communication skills, and fostered teamwork. Through workshops and group challenges, these young minds not only learned but lived the essence of leadership.
A Legacy of Leadership
Named after Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel, a staunch supporter of student success, the Tressel Institute is where young people blossom into leaders. The summer program was an extension of a successful pilot with two local high schools. Recognizing the pilot’s triumph, YSU knew it was time to expand. According to Youngstown State University, this expansion was both necessary and inevitable.
“We needed to create a summer opportunity to keep that momentum going,” said Amy Cossentino, dean of Sokolov Honors College. Her words echoed the enthusiasm and foresight that guided this remarkable program.
Hands-On Learning
For three days, the campus buzzed with excitement as students broke the confines of the classroom. “It’s about getting involved and stepping outside your comfort zone,” Jenna Binsley-Smith remarked. This hands-on approach was key in aligning classroom learning with real-world applications.
Bridging Communities
Connections blossomed as students met peers from neighboring areas. For many, like Jessica Robins from Canfield High, these interactions were priceless. “My favorite part was meeting people from different areas and working together,” she said, capturing the essence of collaboration that defined the program.
Looking Ahead
As the program concluded, optimism filled the air. Students left with newfound confidence and profound relationships. Whether they pursue college, careers, or community roles, they do so with a toolkit enriched by the Tressel Institute’s mission. With plans for future iterations, the Summer Leadership Program stands as a beacon for young leaders ready to change the world.
