On Friday, June 27, 2025, Leadership Geauga celebrated the achievements of 23 high school students who completed the Youth Institute program. The graduation ceremony at St. Mary’s Church in Chardon marked the end of a transformative two-week journey for these rising juniors and seniors. Special thanks go to University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center for sponsoring the program.
From June 16 to June 27, students from various schools, including NDCL, Chardon, Gaitway, Chagrin Falls, West Geauga, Kenston, St. Ignatius, Berkshire, and Beaumont, participated in Leadership Geauga’s Youth Institute.
Throughout the program, students engaged in immersive activities and educational opportunities. They began with a CliftonStrengths assessment to better understand their personal strengths as leaders. Following this, they embarked on a 94-mile journey across Geauga County, visiting 21 organizations and meeting 55 local leaders. These organizations provided valuable insights into various career paths and opportunities, helping students gain firsthand knowledge about different fields of interest and fostering a vision for their future success.
The Youth Institute participants also had the privilege of connecting with past Heritage Program alumni, who shared career advice and personal experiences, inspiring the students to forge their paths. Additionally, each participant shared their career aspirations with the Leadership Geauga team, which thoughtfully paired them with a local business for a one-day mentorship experience. This allowed the students to shadow professionals in their chosen fields, providing valuable real-world exposure and guidance.
During the graduation ceremony, the students shared the career opportunities they had discovered, revealed their favorite stops during the program, and reflected on their mentorship experiences. Over 65 guests, including proud friends and family members of the students and Leadership Geauga board members, gathered over lunch to honor and witness the students’ graduation.
Leadership Geauga extends heartfelt thanks to the individuals and organizations who generously sponsored student tuition for the Youth Institute Class of 2025. Special appreciation goes to Jonathan Tiber, Claridon Township Trustee, for personally sponsoring a student, and to Russell Township, Chester Township, the Auburn Fire Department, Chardon Rotary, and the Kiwanis Club of East Geauga. Their support allowed students to participate in this impactful leadership experience.
Youth Institute Graduates:
Leadership Geauga remains committed to fostering the growth and development of emerging leaders in Geauga County. By providing these high school students with learning opportunities and exposure to local professionals, the Youth Institute program is shaping the leaders of tomorrow.