COLUMBUS, Ohio — Youngstown State University students were among those recognized Aug. 12 at the Global Trade in Action: Highlighting Ohio Exporters event at the Ohio Statehouse in Columbus.
The event recognized students from across Ohio who completed the Ohio Export Internship Program, which provides students with hands-on experience in international trade, exporting and supply chain management.
YSU students recognized at the ceremony were Ameer Abuukaz, Adam Awad, Madelynn Hanna, Abby Hughes, Averi Mazei, Geno Millione and Lojein Yacoub.
YSU students Juliana Marbella, Jacob Crawford, Josh Christie, Biswash Adhikari and Tanatswa Mapiki also completed the program but did not attend the ceremony.
The event brought together students, university officials, businesses, legislators and state officials. Lydia Mihalek, director of the Ohio Department of Development, discussed the role of workforce development in supporting the state’s economy. Ohio Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel also attended and met with students.
Christina Saenger, dean of YSU’s Williamson College of Business Administration, attended the event with students and other university representatives.
“Our students’ successful completion of the Ohio Export Internship Program reflects both their career readiness and the meaningful contributions they have made to Ohio businesses,” Saenger said. “The program demonstrates what is possible when universities, government and employers work together to develop talent, strengthen businesses and support economic growth throughout our region and state.”
Mousa Kassis, director of the Ohio Small Business Development Center Export Assistance Network at YSU and an instructor for the Ohio Export Internship Program course, delivered a keynote presentation on Ohio export trends.
Kassis examined changes in the state’s international trade landscape during the past seven years and discussed opportunities for growth in Ohio’s export economy.
“Ohio’s export economy has significant opportunities for continued growth,” Kassis said. “Understanding trends and changes in global markets is essential to helping businesses identify new opportunities, strengthen their competitiveness and expand their international presence.”
The Ohio Export Internship Program is a partnership between the Ohio Department of Development and public universities in the state. Participating institutions include YSU, Bowling Green State University, Cleveland State University, Ohio University and Ohio State University.
Students in the program work with small- and midsized companies on international business and export-related projects. Their work can include market research, international marketing, export documentation, compliance and global business development.
The Aug. 12 event marked the completion of the program and also recognized businesses that hosted interns and provided them with experience in exporting and international business.