YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The trustees of the Castlo Community Fund have established a scholarship fund for Youngstown State University students living in Campbell, Struthers, Lowellville, Coitsville and Poland townships.
Castlo Community Improvement Corp. was established in 1978 and serves those five communities. Following the decline of the steel industry, Castlo transformed the former Youngstown Sheet & Tube property into one of Ohio’s first repurposed, shovel-ready industrial parks, helping attract new businesses, create jobs and stimulate regional growth.
In 2025, the Castlo board established a 501(c)(3) community fund to support community enhancement, civic engagement and educational advancement. A portion of this fund has been earmarked to the YSU Foundation to establish scholarships for YSU students who live in one of the Castlo communities.
“With the establishment of our community fund, our board is advancing its mission to directly impact the people and businesses of the Castlo communities,” said Ray Calcagni, Castlo board chairman. “Our partnership with YSU ensures a long-term commitment to helping resident students achieve their educational goals.”
Besides living in a Castlo community, eligible students must be at least a sophomore, be enrolled full time, have a minimum 2.5 GPA and complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid form.
“Castlo’s commitment to creating this scholarship demonstrates a major investment in educational advancement in the communities they serve,” said Ralph Sandy, YSU Foundation associate development officer.
“It has been an honor to collaborate with their team to bring this opportunity to life, and we are grateful for their partnership with the YSU Foundation.”
Pictured at top: From left are Paul McFadden, Ralph Sandy, Ray Calcagni and Randy Partika.