CANFIELD — The Educational Service Center of Eastern Ohio (ESCEO) Career Counselors Team has been selected as the 2025 STEM K-12 Educational Partner by the Youngstown State University (YSU) College of STEM. The award recognizes exceptional collaboration, commitment, and impact in advancing STEM outreach and education across the Mahoning Valley.

The honor was formally shared with the team by Justin J. Kleemook, assistant director for Careers, Internships & Co-ops at YSU, who highlighted the ESC’s strong partnership with the university through career counseling initiatives, workforce development efforts, and collaborative programming at the Williamson Innovation Park and beyond.

“This recognition means so much to our team,” said Sandy Furano, director of the Mahoning Valley Regional Council of Governments and Career Counseling Services at the ESCEO. “Our partnership with YSU–through STEM Outreach, workforce programs, and countless shared initiatives — continues to open doors for students, districts, and our community. We are grateful for the opportunity to support the future of STEM education together.”

Emilie Brown, director of Outreach & Scholarships for the YSU College of STEM, echoed this sentiment, noting that the ESC was an early and natural nominee for the award due to its ongoing contributions and collaborative spirit.

Representatives from the ESC Career Counselors Team will be recognized during the YSU College of STEM Winter Wonderland Awards Ceremony and Fundraising Dinner on Dec. 11 at Waypoint 4180 in Canfield. The event supports STEM student scholarships, outreach programs, and hands-on opportunities for future “Penguin Professionals.”

This award highlights the ESCEO’s commitment to delivering innovative, student-centered career counseling services and fostering meaningful partnerships that strengthen education and workforce pipelines throughout the region.