STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

At Youngstown State University, student leaders play a vital role in creating supportive, engaging and transformative on-campus experiences. Through Residence Life, Penguins not only build community but also learn to lead, problem-solve and create meaningful change. This year, two resident assistants from Cafaro House, Daniel Shoaff and Brianne Randall, were recognized beyond campus for their outstanding contributions.

Daniel Shoaff: Building community through sustainability

Daniel L. Shoaff, a fourth-year environmental science major graduating in summer 2026, has served as a resident assistant in Cafaro House for two years.

His passion for environmental education and hands-on learning led to one of the building’s most impactful student-led projects: the Cafaro House Pollinator Garden Study Area, which received the Great Lakes Association of College & University Housing Officers Outstanding Project Award.

The idea began in one of Shoaff’s environmental science courses, where he was challenged to design a low-cost project that benefited the community.

“I wanted to create something that benefited the community, and the courtyard was the perfect place to start,” Shoaff said. “With support from the environmental science department, Housing and Residence Life, and Grounds, we were able to bring the pollinator garden to life.”

After noticing the unused courtyard outside Cafaro House and encouraged by housing coordinator Veronica Kale, he proposed transforming it into a welcoming outdoor space that supported local ecosystems.

Working in collaboration with the environmental science department, Housing and Residence Life, and YSU Grounds, Shoaff secured funding, selected pollinator-friendly plants and coordinated volunteers. Together, they planted native flowers, added educational plaques and refreshed the courtyard with new amenities.

“It was a giant collaboration,” Shoaff said. “I wanted residents to have a quiet place to study and relax while also learning about nature and the importance of pollinators.”

The project’s impact was immediate, giving residents a serene study space steps from the dorm and bringing environmental awareness directly to their living community. Shoaff said receiving the GLACUHO recognition was both surprising and rewarding.

“I glanced at my phone in class and saw the message,” he said. “It was that kind of surprised excitement, knowing the work we put in was recognized.”

He credits his mentors, including Kale and professor Felicia Armstrong, as well as fellow RAs and residents who volunteered. The experience strengthened his communication, leadership and project-planning skills.

“Leading this initiative made me feel like an important part of Cafaro House and a stronger resident assistant,” Shoaff said. “Through all the communication and collaboration, it really reinforced that Cafaro House is my home — and has been for the past few years.”

Brianne Randall: A rising leader in Residence Life

Accounting major Brianne Randall, graduating in spring 2027, is also in her second year as a resident assistant. This year, she was honored with the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators Region IV-East Undergraduate Student Rising Star Award, a recognition given to emerging leaders making a strong positive impact on their campus communities.

Randall first became interested in the RA position because of her own RA, who encouraged her to apply. What began as curiosity quickly evolved into passion.

“I loved my RA,” Randall said. “She really believed I’d be good at this, and she was right.”

Throughout her time in Cafaro House, Randall has become known for her strong connections with residents, offering both structure and support. Her leadership style, which she describes as “tough love mom,” balances enforcing policies with empathy and approachability.

“You have to find a balance,” she said. “I want residents to know I’m going through college right along with them, but they can trust me to guide them.”

Randall credits housing coordinator Veronica Kale with helping her develop confidence and problem-solving skills.

“She always has my back,” Randall said. “She helps me calm down and reminds me that I know what I’m doing.”

Her RA role has strengthened her communication skills, her ability to mediate conflict and her comfort stepping into leadership.

When she received the award, Randall said the moment was unforgettable.

“I was in Ulta with my friend,” she said. “I literally stopped and said, ‘Oh my gosh, look at my email.’ I called my mom crying. I was so excited.”

Her advice to future RAs is to be open to learning, trust yourself and embrace the chaos.

“It’s a crazy, chaotic and loving experience,” she said. “And I truly love my job.” Shoaff and Randall’s achievements highlight the strength of YSU’s Residence Life programs, the power of student leadership and the impact of mentorship across campus.

From sustainability initiatives to community care, their work demonstrates how students can transform ideas into meaningful change and how YSU provides the support, guidance and opportunities that help them succeed.

Their stories reflect the university’s ongoing commitment to fostering leadership, service and personal growth, preparing Penguins not just for their careers but for lifelong impact in their communities.