Signature Class of 2026 Explores the Heart of Human Services in Medina County

The Signature Class of 2026 enjoyed an engaging and impactful Human Services Day, gaining firsthand insight into the people and organizations that support our community every day.

We kicked off the morning at the United Way of Summit & Medina Counties, where class members heard from several leaders who play a critical role in addressing basic needs and strengthening our region. We were grateful to learn from Tanya Kahl, Vice President of Community Impact for 211 and Basic Needs; Malinda Sampsell, Vice President of Community Impact for Bold Goals; and Sara McKay, Counselor for Financial Empowerment. Their work — and their passion — set the tone for a meaningful day of learning.

A special thank you to United Way for also sponsoring a delicious Chick-fil-A breakfast that fueled both conversation and connection as we began our day.

From there, the class traveled to the Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities’ Windfall School, where we were warmly welcomed (and caffeinated!) by Superintendent Stacey Maleckar ’21 and Community Relations Manager Patti Hetkey ’18. After touring their incredible facility, we gathered for lunch, generously sponsored by MCBDD and catered by Buehler’s—thank you for helping us refuel.

During lunch, we heard from four local nonprofit leaders who shared the vital services their organizations provide across Medina County:

• Kyle Putinski, Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Medina and Stark Counties
• Debbie Kiley ’07, Director of Medina County Job and Family Services
• Cheryl Mason ’10, Medina Area Manager for Jobs for Ohio Graduates
• James Fox ’23, President and CEO of Community Action of Wayne and Medina Counties

Each presentation highlighted the collaborative nature of human services and the deep commitment these organizations have to improving lives.

In the afternoon, the class split into two groups to visit That Place for Teens and The BEAT Video Program at Brunswick High School. At That Place for Teens, Executive Director Steve Pausch and Activities Coordinator and Volunteer Roger Seward welcomed us into their space, took us back to our middle school and junior high days, and even led us in a spirited game of 9-Squares-in-the-Air. As if that wasn’t fun enough, we enjoyed Bundt cake treats from Confection Connections—thank you for the sweet addition to the afternoon!

At The BEAT, Video Program Advisor John Wasylko ’07 showcased the impressive student-run production program. Students interviewed class members Jessie and Jodi about their organizations, giving us a unique glimpse into how public school students are developing real-world skills while learning about community services. The experience was a powerful reminder of the impact of engaging young people early.

Once again, the alumni and leaders who planned and facilitated this class day did so with passion and expertise. Their efforts left us with a renewed sense of pride in Medina County and gratitude for the network of human service organizations that make our community stronger. Thank you to everyone who helped make this day such a success.