By 1812Blockhouse
Over three dynamic days—May 16, 17, and 20—LeaderRichland RCDG sector welcomed more than 1,000 7th and 8th grade boys to the OSU Mansfield/NCSC campus. The event aimed to inspire and educate young minds about various career paths through interactive presentations and sessions led by industry professionals.
A Day of Learning and Inspiration
Each day started at 9:30 AM in Founders Auditorium/Ovalwood Hall with an opening assembly featuring an inspirational speaker. The lineup included:
- Thursday: Brian Skowronski of BS Media/OH Report
- Friday: Jami Kinton-Sluss of Sluss Realty, Cleveland Guardians, and Fusion Marketing Group
- Monday: Chris Hershberger
These speakers set the tone for the day, motivating the students to explore their potential and consider their future careers.
Diverse Industry Insights
Throughout their experience, the boys attended four interactive presentations. Approximately 60 speakers from Richland County companies shared their career journeys and led activities during 30-minute sessions. Industries represented included:
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing
- Hospitality
- Technology
- Education
- Aviation
These sessions provided students with hands-on learning experiences and valuable insights into various career fields.
Participating Schools
This year’s event saw participation from a wide range of middle schools, including:
- Clearfork
- Crestview
- Foundation Academy
- Galion
- Lexington
- Lucas
- Mansfield
- Mansfield-Christian
- Ontario
- St. Peter’s
- Shelby
- Shiloh
- Richland Academy of Academic Arts
- St. Mary of the Snows
Community Support and Sponsorship
The event was supported by volunteers from the Rotary Club of Mansfield, Altrusa International of Mansfield, and Kiwanis Club of Mansfield, who assisted with student groups. Additionally, the event was sponsored by:
- Park National Bank
- Mechanics Bank
- Cleveland Financial Group-Chuck Hahn
- The Ode Family Foundation
These sponsors and volunteers played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the event and enhancing the experience for the students.
LeaderRichland Goals and History
LeaderRichland aims to:
- Strengthen the school district’s standing among the community and private sector
- Encourage students to think about personal goals and aspirations
- Provide a roadmap to achieving success
- Connect a network of role models and professionals to area students
- Demonstrate and reinforce the Ohio Means Jobs Professional Skills to students
Since female students were hosted in 2023, this year’s event focused on male students in 7th and 8th grades. LeaderRichland began in Spring 2012, founded by State Representative Marilyn John. It has evolved through a partnership between OSU-Mansfield, North Central State College, and the Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development, highlighting the link between education and regional employment opportunities.
Source, Photo: Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development
