YOUNGSTOWN,  Ohio – Youngstown State University’s Fire Science Program received its certificate of recognition from the Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education initiative, which was developed by the U.S. Fire Administration, a division of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

FESHE was established to create a national model curriculum for fire science and emergency services programs. Recognition affirms that YSU’s program meets these academic standards and supports the professional development of future fire service leaders.

The certificate was presented during YSU’s Fire Science Advisory Board meeting Aug. 5, recognizing the program’s alignment with federal education standards that strengthen student preparation for leadership roles in firefighting, prevention, emergency response and inspection.

FESHE recognition enhances the credibility, transferability and career readiness of YSU’s Fire Science degree. It also signals a commitment to high-quality education, academic pathways for advancement and lifelong learning in fire and emergency services.

“Receiving FESHE recognition reinforces the strength and relevance of our curriculum,” said Carl DeCarlo, program director. “We’re proud to prepare students for impactful careers in fire and emergency services.”

Sara Michaliszyn, dean of the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services, said the achievement reflects YSU’s commitment to aligning national standards and to preparing graduates who are ready to lead and serve their communities.

The program is guided by an advisory board made up of leaders from education, emergency management and fire service agencies. This board ensures the curriculum remains current and responsive to workforce needs, while strengthening community partnerships and professional development opportunities. 

“I am extremely proud and honored to be a part of the Fire Science Advisory Board at Youngstown State University,” said Bill Mastroianni, fire science advisory board member. “It is a testament to the leadership of the university, its staff and the collaboration of labor and management that we received our Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education recognition as quickly as we did from the National Fire Academy. The YSU Fire Science degree epitomizes the four pillars of professional development; training, academic education, relevant experience and continuing education. Our program will be a model for others to follow.”

The board includes:

  • Bill Mastroianni, director of operation for the Ohio Association of Professional Fire Fighters.
  • Christopher Weaver, president of the Youngstown Professional Firefighters – IAFF Local 312.
  • Scott King, bureau chief of the Ohio Fire Academy – Division of the State Fire Marshal.
  • Richard Dunne, retired fire program specialist for FEMA.
  • Kim Verdone, manager degree audit at YSU.
  • Charlie Dixon, retired captain, president of the Ohio Society of Fire Service Instructors and fire/industry content advisor for the Ohio Natural Energy Institute’s GoSafer.
  • Joseph Mistovich, professor emeritus and retired department chair at YSU.

Pictured at top: From left are Nicholas Mintz, John Hazy, Sara Michaliszyn, Scott King, Christopher Weaver and Carl DeCarlo.