Youngstown State University’s John D. Beeghly Fellows Program: Empowering Future Business Leaders

Introduction

Youngstown, Ohio, is witnessing an exciting surge of talent as students from the Williamson College of Business Administration (WCBA) at Youngstown State University (YSU) are set to embark on a transformative journey. Four outstanding students—Kodi Kinsey, Jan Harter, Nathan Heinly, and Aidan Gray—have been selected for the esteemed John D. Beeghly Fellows Program for the 2025 summer semester. This paid fellowship program provides invaluable work experience through collaborations with the Ohio Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Export Assistance Network, and the APEX Accelerator.

The John D. Beeghly Fellows Program

Overview of the Fellowship

The John D. Beeghly Fellows Program is designed to equip students with practical skills that enhance their employability post-graduation. The program includes:

• Domestic and International Market Research
• Financial Modeling
• Export Readiness Studies
• Business Viability Analysis
• Cash Flow Projections
• Sales Forecasting
• Marketing and Social Media Strategies
• Research on Government Contracting Opportunities
• Outreach for Government Contracting Efforts

This comprehensive exposure allows students to gain hands-on experience that is crucial for their future careers in business.

Recognition of SBDC’s Service Delivery Model

The success of the program has not gone unnoticed. The SBDC at YSU received accolades for its innovative service delivery model that seamlessly integrates the Beeghly Fellows into its operations. The ASBDC Accreditation team praised this approach, stating it could serve as a benchmark for other university-based SBDCs aiming to intertwine educational, community, and economic development services.

Legacy of John D. Beeghly

The fellowship is made possible through a dedicated endowment established by the Beeghly family at the YSU Foundation. John D. Beeghly was a prominent businessman and philanthropist in Youngstown, known for his contributions to the local economy and community. Serving as Vice President and director of Standard Slag Co. and Stancorp, Inc. from 1967 until his passing, Beeghly’s commitment to community development continues to inspire current business students.

Statement from WCBA’s Interim Dean

Betty Jo Licata, interim dean of WCBA, emphasized the importance of the fellowship by stating, “The generous gift made by the John D. Beeghly Family is an important investment in our business students. The gift provides our students with a variety of career-related experiences and provides our Small Business Development Center and its clients with additional capacity.”

Meet the John D. Beeghly Fellows

Let’s take a closer look at the four exceptional students who have earned a place in this highly regarded program.

Kodi Kinsey

• Major: Business Administration
• Hometown: Wellsville, Ohio
• Experience: As a senior, Kodi is gaining invaluable insights while working with the Export Assistance Network. Her prior involvement with the Ohio Export Internship Program has strengthened her aptitude in understanding international markets and global trade.

Nathan Heinly

• Major: Finance (Management Track)
• Hometown: Jefferson, Ohio
• Experience: A recent graduate, Nathan will be serving as a graduate assistant this fall. His participation in the Ohio Procurement Internship Program (OPIP) led him to the Beeghly Fellowship. He is currently involved in government contracting with MARQUEE Creatives in Youngstown, applying his academic knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Jan Harter

• Major: Business Analytics and Economics
• Expected Graduation: Spring 2026
• Experience: Originally from Ulm, Germany, Jan is focusing on corporate strategy consulting. His long-term ambition involves collaborating with global companies to navigate shifting market conditions effectively.

Aidan Gray

• Major: Supply Chain Management
• Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
• Expected Graduation: Spring 2026
• Experience: Following his completion of a 16-week course in government contracting and procurement, Aidan aspires to commission in the Army as an officer, applying his logistics knowledge to improve operational systems within military structures.

Why Choosing the Right Opportunities Matters

Skill Development

Participating in the John D. Beeghly Fellows Program is more than just a resume booster; it’s a holistic learning experience. Students engage in real-world projects that require them to exercise critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity—skills that are essential in today’s job market.

Networking

This fellowship also provides students with the opportunity to build professional networks. Working alongside experienced mentors and industry professionals allows students to establish connections that could open doors for future job opportunities.

Community Impact

By working closely with local businesses through the SBDC and its affiliates, fellows not only advance their careers but also contribute to the economic development of the Youngstown area. This symbiotic relationship ensures that students return value to the community while enriching their own experiences.

The Role of Williamson College of Business Administration

The Williamson College of Business Administration is committed to providing educational experiences that empower students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in business careers. This commitment is evident in the structured programs and partnerships with local businesses and organizations.

Programs Focused on Employment Readiness

• Internships and Co-ops: The college provides a plethora of hands-on learning opportunities through internships and cooperative education that bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application.
• Career Services: Resources are available for students to prepare their resumes, practice interview skills, and explore job openings in various industries.
• Workshops and Seminars: Regular workshops and guest lectures are organized featuring industry leaders who impart valuable insights into the current job market and the skills in high demand.

Conclusion

The John D. Beeghly Fellows Program at YSU represents a significant leap forward in preparing students for successful careers in business. With the combined efforts of dedicated faculty, community engagement, and industry connections, students are equipped with the tools necessary to compete in the ever-evolving business landscape.

By investing in meaningful and practical educational experiences, YSU ensures its students are not just graduates but future leaders ready to make a difference in their communities.

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