Fifth graders experience a day of discovery at Central State University

Central State University Extension welcomed more than 200 local fifth graders for Community Service Day on March 5 at the Central State University campus in Wilberforce.

Students from Cox Elementary School of Xenia Public Schools and Westbrooke Village Elementary School of Trotwood-Madison School District arrived on campus, eager to embark on a day filled with discovery, learning, and hands-on experiences. 

After remarks by Dr. Amy Hobbs Harris, Interim Vice Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, students were accompanied by their teachers, chaperones, and Central State Marauders to explore the University’s state-of-the-art facilities. They engaged with experts in science, agriculture, and health and heard directly from Marauders about what it is like to attend college. One of the key stops was the International Center for Water Resources, where they met Dr. Krishna Kumar Nedunuri from the Department of Water Resources Management.

Image

Dr. Nedunuri shared insights into the center’s groundbreaking work, noting that it is the oldest of its kind in the world, established over 40 years ago. He emphasized its focus on addressing water treatment and sources in the U.S. and other countries, along with water resource challenges in Africa, where access to clean water remains a critical issue. 

Students also had the opportunity to visit CSU’s Corn Lab, where they learned about the science of agriculture and how research in plant genetics and soil health can contribute to sustainable food production. Students interacted with Dr. Mark Campbell and Dr. Luke Farno and learned how plant breeding will help create healthier food products. 

Image

Before lunch in the cafeteria, the fifth graders enjoyed games and activities in the University Student Center with Marauders from the Royal Court, the Student Government Association, Greek organizations, and Pirate Ambassadors. Students visited stations for dancing, writing affirmations, and more. Later, they heard from the 77th Miss Central State University, Breanne Lovelace. 

Image

During an assembly in the Joshua I. Smith Center for Education & Natural Resources, Central State University President Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti spoke to students about the transformative power of education and the importance of setting goals for their future. The engaged students eagerly asked questions about attending college, seeking advice on how to prepare for higher education.  

Dr. Jose Toledo, Vice President for Economic Development and Director of 1890 Land-Grant Programs, also addressed the students, reinforcing the importance of perseverance and lifelong learning and the opportunities available in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, and Mathematics) careers. 

The event’s keynote speaker, World Jump Rope Champion Shaun Hamilton and the head of the International Jump Rope Union, shared his inspiring personal story. As a child, Hamilton struggled with a severe stuttering speech disorder, which led educators to label him a slow learner. He was placed in a separate learning environment and spent years reading only “Green Eggs and Ham” by Dr. Seuss. Bullied by peers and even his own brothers, he faced significant challenges in his early education. 

However, his story took a turn when he transferred to a new elementary school and discovered an after-school jump rope program. Through dedicated practice, he developed new skills, and his stuttering gradually diminished due to improved brain synchronization. His academic confidence grew, and he ultimately excelled as a scholar-athlete, becoming the first Black student at his high school to take calculus and graduating with honors. 

“I want you to understand that the journey is not how you start; it’s how you end, and it’s the journey along the way,” Hamilton told the students, encouraging them to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. 

Following Hamilton’s speech, students participated in interactive activities focused on health, nutrition, and wellness. They learned about the importance of balanced diets, hygiene, and ways to prevent the spread of germs. 

Image

Dr. Alcinda Folck, Associate Administrator of Central State University Extension, highlighted the impact of events like Community Service Day in fostering a passion for education and discovery among young learners. 

“At Central State University Extension, we are committed to engaging youth in hands-on learning experiences that inspire curiosity and build foundational knowledge,” Dr. Folck said. 

“Seeing these students light up as they explore science, agriculture, and health reinforces the importance of early exposure to higher education and career pathways.” 

As the day came to a close, the fifth graders left CSU with new knowledge, excitement for their future, and a deeper understanding of how education can empower them to achieve their dreams.