On Friday, September 26, 2025, Shawnee State University in Portsmouth, Ohio, will become the gathering place for educators, business leaders, students, and community members from across Appalachian Ohio and beyond. The Community & Career Connected Learning (CCCL) Summit is more than just a conference—it’s a movement to transform how we prepare young people for the future while strengthening our communities today.

Your story will help illuminate the tools, relationships, and processes that support this work and to help us uncover where there may be untapped potential to go even further.

This storytelling experience will take about 20 minutes and includes a few short reflections and paragraph responses. Everything you share will remain anonymous, but your insights will play a critical role in helping BB2C.

The camp wrapped up on a high note, with each group proudly presenting their final geocache creations at Appalachian Ohio Manufacturers Coalition (AOMC). It was a chance to showcase their hard work and creativity to peers, family members, and AOMC employees—ending the week with well-earned recognition of their innovations and a sense of accomplishment

The nonprofit sector always needs bright, capable, and curious professionals who understand the challenges and rewards of mission-driven work. Nonprofits LEAD at Marietta College was fortunate to be able to nurture this intern's experience to learn, explore, and contribute to the work we do. Hosting an intern was not only a learning experience for the student, but it was an opportunity for growth for us. Josie’s questions encouraged us to slow down and reflect on the ever-changing environment nonprofits are in.

I am looking forward to beginning my senior year at Fort Frye. Following my career interests, I hope to double major in Agricultural Communications and Agribusiness and Applied Economics at the Ohio State University. From past experiences, I have developed a fine love for journalism. However, I am always open to learning new information within the majors.