PRESS RELEASE: February 14, 2025

CONTACT:
Cheryl L. McArthur, Business Manager
Campbell City Schools
Mahoning Valley Regional STEM Ecosystem
Cmcarthur@campbell.k12.oh.us

CAMPBELL, OH – The Mahoning Valley Regional STEM Ecosystem has been selected to join the Global STEM Ecosystems Initiative, a worldwide movement that brings together leaders from education, business, government, and community organizations to develop high-quality STEM learning opportunities. Through strategic partnerships, the Ecosystem will create powerful STEM learning experiences that happen everywhere – in classrooms, afterschool programs, museums, businesses, and community spaces.

Campbell Board of Education President, Beth Donofrio had this to say, “We are pleased to have been considered as a member of the TIES STEM ecosystem. We believe our partnership with them will strengthen our STEM program and workforce development for all of our students. We can all get better when we learn from each other.”

Superintendent Matt Bowen had this to say, “The Mahoning Valley Regional STEM Ecosystem is more than a school system—it is a regional model for education and workforce integration, ensuring that students and residents not only dream of success but are equipped with the tools to achieve it.”

Guy Coviello, President and CEO of the Youngstown Warren Regional Chamber said, “As our workforce needs continue to evolve, forward-thinking individuals with Campbell Schools are making sure that Mahoning County remains attractive to growing businesses. We welcome the national STEM ecosystem and everything TIES offers to help us compete in a global economy.”

“Stark State is very proud to work with Campbell City School District, in partnership with the Northeast Ohio IMPACT Academy, to create new opportunities in STEM workforce education,” said Para Jones, Ph.D., president of Stark State College. “This designation not only demonstrates the district’s commitment to building a pipeline of STEM talent in the Mahoning Valley, but also aligns with our own commitment to educating students for jobs that are in-demand by the region’s employers.”

“Akron Children’s Hospital Mahoning Valley is honored to be part of the Mahoning Valley [Regional] STEM Ecosystem through our medical practice at Campbell City Schools. As the area’s 15th largest employer we are acutely aware of the need to attract students to healthcare careers via STEM training and are delighted to be partnered with Campbell City Schools on this.” Paul Olivier, Vice President, Mahoning Valley Enterprises.

Youngstown State University President, Bill Johnson, said, “Youngstown State University (YSU) is excited about our partnership with Campbell City Schools, and we are extremely proud that the Mahoning Valley [Regional] STEM Ecosystem has been selected to join the Global STEM Ecosystem Initiative. Technology is advancing at a pace never before seen in human history…YSU has significantly restructured our Workforce Education and Innovation efforts to more seamlessly integrate our STEM College with local school systems, businesses and industries, and we stand ready to provide an educated STEM workforce that is prepared to hit the ground running after graduation….we look forward to continuing our work with Campbell City Schools and the Mahoning Valley [Regional] STEM Ecosystem….”

About Mahoning Valley Regional STEM Ecosystem
The Mahoning Valley Regional STEM Ecosystem, with Campbell City School District serving as the backbone organization, is dedicated to expanding STEM learning opportunities across Northeast Ohio. Through partnerships with K-12 education institutions, higher education partners like Youngstown State University, industry leaders including the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber, and community organizations such as OH WOW! Children’s Center for Science & Technology, the Ecosystem strives to connect and convene STEM members, elevate high-quality STEM learning, and create sustainable STEM learning pathways. Serving Mahoning Valley and surrounding areas, the Ecosystem has already established the Community Literacy Workforce and Cultural Center (CLWCC) and launched the state-designated Northeast Ohio Impact Academy.

“We are particularly excited to welcome the Mahoning Valley Regional STEM Ecosystem into our Initiative,” said Jenny Frank, director of the STEM Ecosystems Initiative. “Their innovative approach to workforce development through the Community Literacy Workforce and Cultural Center, combined with their strong industry partnerships and focus on creating seamless pathways from early education to career, exemplifies the kind of collaborative impact we strive to achieve in our global network.”

Please watch for more information on an in-person event to learn more about this ecosystem and how your organization may become a partner.

For more information about the Mahoning Valley Regional STEM Ecosystem:
Matthew Bowen, Superintendent
Campbell City Schools
Mahoning Valley Regional STEM Ecosystem
mbowen@campbell.k12.oh.us
330-799-6721

About the Global STEM Ecosystems Initiative powered by TIES
The Global STEM Ecosystems Initiative unites diverse community partners—schools, businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies—to create thriving STEM learning environments and develop a competitive workforce. With over 120 ecosystems across 43 states and 8 countries, the Initiative reaches approximately 42 million students worldwide. As the backbone organization, TIES facilitates collaboration and innovation through regular exchanges, professional development, and an annual convening. The Initiative’s effectiveness has been recognized by the U.S. Office of Science and Technology Policy and cited in the $52 billion CHIPS and Science Act as a proven strategy for creating equitable access to STEM education and career opportunities.

Global STEM Ecosystems Initiative:
www.stemecosystems.org
Jenny Frank, Director
jennyfrank@tiesteach.org