Youngstown State University faculty member Jaelyn Farris has been recognized with the Community Impact Award from the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber, honoring her contributions to leadership, innovation and service in the Mahoning Valley.

Farris serves as a part-time faculty member in psychology and a grant evaluator at YSU, where she supports student learning and institutional initiatives. In addition to her role at YSU, she is also a 2000 graduate of the master’s program in clinical health counseling, then known as community counseling.

The Community Impact Award recognizes small business owners and community leaders who are making meaningful contributions across the region. Farris’ work has focused on applying research from psychology, neuroscience and education into practical, evidence-based approaches that support student learning and development. Her work is put into practice at Flying Trees Academy, a private school in Boardman, Ohio, serving students in kindergarten through seventh grade. The academy is grounded in the philosophy that development is a continuous process and aims to provide a transformative approach to education for students in the Mahoning Valley.

Through her broader professional efforts, she has collaborated with educators, families and community organizations to promote approaches that emphasize emotional regulation, engagement and critical thinking, while also expanding access to high-quality educational opportunities.

Her engagement with the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber has also played a role in advancing that work. Farris participated in the Chamber’s Opportunity Ready program in 2025, an experience she said strengthened her ability to create meaningful impact through collaboration and community partnerships.

Beyond her professional responsibilities, Farris remains active in community service efforts throughout the Youngstown area, supporting local initiatives and working to create opportunities for families and students.

“Receiving the Community Impact Award is both an honor and a reminder of why this work matters much to me,” Farris said. “I’m especially grateful to the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber, which has been such a strong partner and asset in helping bring this vision to life. Everything I do is rooted in a deep belief that when we support children in the right ways, we don’t just change individual outcomes – we strengthen entire communities. I’m grateful to be part of a group that values innovation, collaboration and a shared commitment to doing better for the next generation.”

Farris said the recognition reflects not only her personal efforts, but also the collective work of students, families, educators and community members dedicated to strengthening educational outcomes and community well-being across the region.