Lara Coghlan, BB2C’s Internship Coordinator and AmeriCorps member, emphasized that, “Long-term internship opportunities like this would not be possible without the involvement of the school, which understands and promotes the benefits its students are receiving from these experiences.” She has the opportunity to oversee this unique program this year.

The evening included small group discussions where participants rolled up their sleeves to brainstorm actionable solutions. Conversations centered on supporting the upcoming workforce reduction, countering misconceptions about “brain drain,” and identifying community factors that influence recruitment and retention.

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