Community engagement and partnerships lead to innovative programs for Marauders

Embracing our mission as Ohio’s only public Historically Black College and University (HBCU) and 1890 Land-Grant Institution, Central State University has empowered generations of young people to dream bigger, challenged them to think deeply, encouraged them to lead, and helped them learn to love and respect their similarities and their differences by fostering a diverse community. 

The Office of the President spearheads community connections through the Department of Community Engagement and Business Partnerships. With Director Stephen Washington at the helm, Central State has expanded its outreach to create more connections in communities across the U.S. and internationally.  

One such program is a partnership with Advocate Aurora Health, a Chicago- and Milwaukee-based healthcare provider. The program aims to develop a diverse talent pool for the health system. Advocate Aurora Health identified Central State as the top candidate for its initiative due to its relative proximity to the University — the HBCU of the Midwest.  

With the health system providing funding of $40,000 for immersive programming including $15,000 in scholarships, Central State identified a cohort of students under the direction of Syndey Williams, JD, director of the Graduate School Preparation Program. Williams supports students who are interested in applying for medical school or law school. Ten students interested in health careers made up the first cohort of students in the program.  

“The insight that a student gains through shadowing or interning with professionals in their given carer field of interest is invaluable,” Williams said. “It allows the student not only to learn about their future profession more personally but also allows the student to learn the soft skills needed in the profession. As such, the opportunities provided by Central State’s partnership with Advocate Aurora Health are invaluable to student success and critical to diversifying the field of healthcare.” 

Students and faculty traveled to Chicago in the spring semester to meet with executives and partners. Advocate Aurora Health also plans to create a mentorship program with Central State students and current staff through internships.  

Javonte Neal, a rising senior from Anderson, Indiana, was the first Central State student to accept an internship. Neal will serve as a marketing and public relations intern in Milwaukee.

Washington said many companies are taking a micro approach to recruiting. Instead of casting a wide net, some are creating partnerships like the one between Advocate Aurora Health and Central State to narrow down the talent pool and create an employee pipeline for their organizations.  

At Central State, community is our sustenance. For more information on community engagement and business partnerships at Central State, contact Washington at 937-376-6470 or swashington@centralstate.edu.