YSU Bitonte College of Health and Human Services to honor 12 alumni at inaugural Food and Wine Tour
The Youngstown State University Bitonte College of Health and Human Services will recognize 12 distinguished alumni at its inaugural Food and Wine Tour from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, in Cushwa Hall.
The event celebrates the achievements of BCHHS graduates who exemplify leadership, service and dedication to their professions and communities. Alumni, faculty and community partners are invited to attend the celebration and tour BCHHS facilities. This group of honorees showcases the wide range of careers and impact represented within the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services. Each has made meaningful contributions in their professions and communities, reflecting the college’s ongoing commitment to service, leadership and improving the lives of others.
Alison Kovach serves as regional director of laboratory services at Mercy Health Youngstown and part-time faculty member at YSU, with more than 25 years of experience in clinical laboratory science and quality assurance.
Ariana Schuller is a guardian caseworker at Compass Family and Community Services, providing compassionate care and oversight for more than 55 clients throughout the Mahoning Valley.
Daniel Yanek, manager at Phoenix Physical Therapy, is a licensed physical therapist with 13 years of experience specializing in outpatient orthopedics and manual therapy.
Greg Davis, entrepreneur and founder of Patriot at Home, is a Gulf War veteran and longtime healthcare professional dedicated to advancing home-based care initiatives.
Jarrod Scott Boyle, founder of One Bite at a Time Nutrition Counseling, is a registered dietitian helping clients manage chronic health conditions and achieve wellness through nutrition education.
Jennifer Gray, social services and development officer at Compass Family and Community Services and adjunct faculty member at YSU, has dedicated her career to victim advocacy and mentoring students entering the criminal justice field.
Keshia L. Bales, chief program officer at the Ursuline Sisters Mission, is a licensed social worker with more than 13 years of experience in community program leadership and development.
Marybeth Shaffer, dental director at Columbiana Community Action Agency and adjunct faculty member at both YSU and the University of Pittsburgh, has more than 40 years of experience in dentistry and dental education.
Monica Mike-Simko, assistant manager of respiratory care at Akron Children’s Hospital, is an award-winning educator and researcher who also serves as adjunct faculty at YSU.
Todd Burkey, head athletic trainer at Boardman High School and preceptor for YSU’s Master of Athletic Training Program, has more than two decades of experience supporting student-athletes and advancing sports medicine education.
Noelle Kosela, administrator at the Youngstown City Health Department, oversees major public health programs, emergency management operations and community wellness initiatives.
Tyler O’Dell, assistant manager at Anytime Fitness, began his fitness management career after graduating from YSU’s Exercise Science Program and continues to promote health and wellness in the community.
“These honorees represent the excellence and dedication that define the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services,” said Sara Fleet Michaliszyn, dean of the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services. “Their achievements reflect the impact our graduates make in their professions and communities every day.”
The Food and Wine Tour is part of Homecoming Weekend and provides an opportunity for alumni and community partners to reconnect with BCHHS while celebrating the contributions of its graduates.
