ysu campus visit

Make the Most of Your Youngstown State University Campus Visit – Check Out These Downtown Hot Spots!

Whether you’re a high school student starting your college search or you’re a parent whose teen is thinking about higher education, it’s nice to get to know the places around the college or university you’re interested in.

The Youngstown State University campus and its surrounding areas are rich with culture and history. So, why not make your Youngstown State University visit a little more fun and memorable with some extra stops while you’re in town?

Fast YSU Facts

Whether you’re visiting on your own or you’re part of Penguin Preview Day (which is an open-house that includes campus tours), let’s take a moment to get familiar with some of the basic YSU details. Founded in 1908, YSU has a variety of different programs for undergraduates, graduates and professionals: 115 majors, 40-plus graduate programs and four doctoral programs.

YSU is located at One University Plaza, in the heart of Youngstown, Ohio. Notable graduates include, but are not limited to, Dr. Amy Acton, actor Ed O’Neill, fashion designer Nanette Lepore, NFL quarterback and commentator Ron Jaworski, authors Christopher Barzak and David Lee Morgan, Jr., and journalist Simeon Booker.

There are five dorm facilities on campus, with many full-time, out-of-state students living in residence halls or student apartments. Total enrollment is around 12,800 and financial aid is available . If tuition assistance is needed, potential students can contact the admissions office or visit ysu.edu/tuition-financial-aid , which contains all of the information and forms necessary for scheduling your visit.

What’s YSU Known For?

There are a host of reasons YSU is well-known and loved throughout the country.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

While all of YSU’s schools have notable majors and accolades in their own right, the Williamson College of Business Administration is the university’s newest academic building. It houses career management, the communication and professional sales lab, and even has a production space that produces sports broadcasts for ESPN+.

Sports are a large part of the culture in Youngstown and Mahoning County, and YSU is no exception. YSU is an NCAA Division I school with nine men’s varsity teams and 12 women’s varsity teams. YSU has had four national football championships and 27 other conference titles since 1995.

YSU is known for its convenient location halfway between Cleveland and Pittsburgh, and is walking (or driving) distance from a variety of restaurants and opportunities for recreation.

Downtown Dining After Your Campus Tour

Not only is YSU known for its academics and sports programs, it’s also surrounded by some of the best food and coffee options in northeast Ohio. It’s worth noting that as both the campus and downtown continue to grow, there is construction. But, don’t worry – there’s ample space and smooth detours to get you where you’re going!

On Campus Locations

In addition to the campus dining , students and visitors also enjoy Jamba Juice, Snack & Chill at The Cove, Dunkin’ Donuts, The Den, Chick-fil-A and Christman Dining Commons while onsite. If you’re at YSU for an afternoon campus visit, there’s also a Chipotle within walking distance on Wick Avenue.

Avalon Downtown Pizzeria

Located on West Federal Street, Avalon Downtown Pizzeria is an Italian restaurant that’s just a short drive south of YSU. It is a great place to go for lunch or dinner, and they have a wide variety of menu items.

The Federal

Also on West Federal Street, The Federal is a great place to grab a bite to eat. The menu offers everything from burgers and seafood to salads and appetizers – You’ll definitely find something that suits your tastes!

Cassese’s MVR

Cassese’s MVR has been a Youngstown staple since 1927. In addition to their delicious Italian food, their menu also gives some fun nods to local celebrities (Tressel Tortellini), the YSU mascot (Penguin Burger Basket), Youngstown neighborhoods (Smoky Hollow Pizza) and the Cassese family (Carmine’s Pasta). The MVR is located “below” the Wick parking deck on Walnut Street and is a favorite hangout of both locals and YSU students – when you visit, don’t forget to leave time to play a round of bocce!

Bistro 1907

After visiting YSU for your campus tour, stay downtown in the beautiful DoubleTree Youngstown Downtown , which also conveniently houses Bistro 1907 . This unique and classy American-style restaurant has an eclectic menu that includes one-of-a-kind entrees, sandwiches, burgers and desserts.

The Mocha House Youngstown

The Mocha House Youngstown is just a short drive (or charming walk) away from campus. In addition to its full menu (and breakfast), Mocha House is known for its cheesecakes – we promise you’ll fall in love with any/all of them!

Charlie Staples BBQ

Southern barbecue is on the menu at Charlie Staples , located on Rayen Avenue. Charlie took ownership of the business in 1974, and never looked back! When you stop, you’ll feel like you’re stepping into New Orleans. The restaurant, which is currently fulfilling takeout and curbside orders, is known for its sauce, and it’s easy to see why Valley residents have raved about this delicious food for decades. So place your order and head on over to Wean Park !

Newer in the grand scheme of downtown restaurants, Gringos has quickly become a local favorite. Known to be a “melting pot of good people, rich culture and unbridled spirit,” Gringos is THE Youngstown restaurant when it comes to tacos. Even better, it’s located on pedestrian-friendly Phelps Street Gateway.

Places to Explore Over a Weekend College Visit

Besides the diverse variety of restaurants available to satisfy your cravings, downtown Youngstown also has numerous entertainment opportunities centered around the arts, history and even hands-on science.

Covelli Centre and The Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre

Since 2005, The Covelli Centre has been hosting world-famous entertainers (like Elton John, Carrie Underwood and Trans-Siberian Orchestra) and sporting events including professional wrestling and championship boxing matches (even local tournaments). It’s also home to the United States Hockey League’s Youngstown Phantoms. Located on East Front Street, The Covelli Centre is a quick walk or drive from the heart of downtown and the YSU campus.

As one of the most recent additions to downtown Youngstown, The Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre is an outdoor entertainment venue known for its music festivals and popular, nationally recognized musical acts. The Amp (as it’s often called) is located in Wean Park on South Phelps Street. It holds 4,800 people, and hosts popular acts like the Doobie Brothers and Nelly.

Ward Beecher Planetarium

Named after Ward Beecher, a former YSU president, the planetarium was built in the late 1960s on the YSU campus. It’s currently under construction after a fire destroyed the space earlier this year, so check back later in 2023 to see what kind of stargazing you can do.

Youngstown Historical Center of Industry and Labor

Youngstown is rich in history, which is on display at the Youngstown Historical Center of Industry and Labor , located on West Wood Street. Enjoy the chronicles of the once-hot steel industry that helped sustain the city for years while you look through artifacts and get an idea of the heyday that was.

John J. McDonough Museum of Art

While you’re strolling through the YSU campus, stop at the McDonough Museum on Wick Avenue, located between Bliss Hall and the Wick Deck. Different types of art are on display, which includes staff, student, alumni and curated pieces.

The Butler Institute of American Art

Across from McDonough is The Butler Institute of American Art , a place that is truly unique amongst museums. It exists to collect and preserve works of art in all media created by citizens of this country. There are permanent exhibitions, limited-time displays and a technology section in addition to free admission.

Arms Family Museum

Step back in time at the Arms Family Museum , which is just a quick stroll up the road from The Butler Institute of American Art. The Arms Family Museum is known for its expansive collection that dates from prehistoric times to the 20th century. Plus, while you’re there, you can get a glimpse of the richness of the former mansion the museum is located in – a magnificent 1905 Arts and Crafts-style masterpiece.

OH WOW! The Roger & Gloria Jones Children’s Center for Science & Technology

If you have younger children making the trip with you, don’t hesitate to visit the OH WOW! Children’s Center for Science & Technology during your travels! All things science are on full display at OH WOW!, located on Federal Street, including opportunities for hands-on experimentation. Normally, when it comes to museums, children are asked to look and not touch. But at OH WOW!, interaction is encouraged! Check out their colorful, stem-based exhibits, EDUtraining programs and watch your kids have a blast while learning.

Check Out Youngstown Live for More Activities

There you have it! A list of places to experience after you take your Youngstown State University campus visit. Don’t forget to check out our blogs and website for events, activities and everything else going on in Youngstown. We can’t wait for you to get to know the ‘Yo’!

Your choice for premier living

State-of-the-art student apartments just steps from YSU

Welcome to The Enclave — the most premier off-campus housing innovatively designed for students looking for an extraordinary living experience! From unparalleled luxuries with all-inclusive amenities to unmatched convenience within walking distance to Youngstown State University, our upscale community is the place to be. You deserve the best during your academic journey with hassle-free opportunities to thrive, so let us take care of the details with fully furnished apartments, top-notch customer service, and so much more. Come visit us today to see why you’ll love calling The Enclave home!

Unparalleled amenities you will love

See why you belong here

Good vibes from residents

“This is the cleanest, nicest, spacious apartment in Youngstown! The staff is extremely helpful and so friendly. I was so excited to use the amenities such as the gym, tanning bed, and coffee bar!”

— Savannah T.

“The best apartments on campus! Spacious rooms, very clean, and safe!”

— Sidney M.

“I LOVE The Enclave!!! It is always kept nicely and very clean! There are so many amenities including: free coffee, free gym, a huge lounge space, two separate study rooms, and free tanning! They also do many giveaways! The bedrooms and closets are huge!!! It is very modern and up to date on the appliances! The enclave is 100% worth your money compared to other housing!”

— Alyssa C.

“Lovely apartments with great staff. They are always willing to help with whatever you need. The amenities are great and sometimes they even provide breakfast during midterms and finals. Plus, there is always free coffee!”

— Frank O.

“Very helpful staff! Great welcome into my college experience!!”

— Jake C.

“The Enclave is easily the nicest place on campus. They have so many amenities like a FREE coffee bar, a FREE 24 hour gym and fitness on demand, a lounge, FREE games like pool and shuffleboard. Also the rooms are large and the kitchen is a gorgeous, modern galley. They also have laundry in the apartment and FREE WiFi. There is always a person on call for secure safety. The staff is so kind and helpful. It is perfectly situated near the heart of campus and Chipotle. The Enclave is truly a luxurious place, that is well worth the money!”

— Katie M.

Your modern living space

Our fully furnished apartments feature your choice of studio, two-, and four-bedroom floor plans accented with all the right perks for contemporary living. Choose the best space for your lifestyle needs and enjoy your own individual bedroom and bathroom, full-size washer and dryer, walk-in closet, efficient maintenance when needed, all-inclusive utilities, and more.

Live in the center of it all

Calling The Enclave home means our location will be one of your favorite amenities — and one of your favorite conveniences! Youngstown State University is steps from your front door, while the vibrant downtown area featuring fantastic restaurants, entertainment, and shopping is only minutes away. But the truth is there’s so much to do at our community, you’ll discover just about everything you need for ultimate student living is right here!

Accidents can happen. Keep yourself protected with renter’s insurance.

Youngstown State University

• Download Youngstown State Campus Map (2022)
• View Full Screen

Your document is ready to be downloaded.

Thanks for visiting !

The use of software that blocks ads hinders our ability to serve you the content you came here to enjoy.

We ask that you consider turning off your ad blocker so we can deliver you the best experience possible while you are here.

Thank you for your support!

Bellarmine transfer Langdon Hatton is on IU’s campus for an official visit

• Alex Bozich
• 05/14/2024 9:28 pm in

Bellarmine transfer Langdon Hatton arrived on IU’s campus Tuesday night for an official visit.

The Hoosiers have two open scholarships for next season and are looking to add Hatton to the roster to bolster the program’s frontcourt depth.

Indiana has already signed Myles Rice, Kanaan Carlyle, Oumar Ballo and Luke Goode from the transfer portal this spring.

Bloomington? — Langdon Hatton (@LTbuckets) May 15, 2024

A native of Georgetown, Indiana, who played at North Harrison, the 6-foot-10, 240-pound Hatton began his college career at William & Mary before transferring to play for Scott Davenport at Bellarmine for the last two seasons.

He averaged 10.5 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.3 assists last season for the Knights, who play in the ASUN conference. Hatton shot 48 percent from the field, 33.3 percent from the 3-point line and 67.5 percent from the free-throw line.

He has one season of eligibility remaining.

Travis Branham of 247Sports logged a crystal ball projection on Sunday, May 5 for Hatton to commit to Indiana.

Filed to: Langdon Hatton ,  Transfer portal

• Roundup: Kel’el Ware measurements, interview at NBA draft combine
• Bellarmine transfer Langdon Hatton commits to Indiana

Johnson demands Biden send in National Guard during raucous Columbia visit

N EW YORK — Speaker Mike Johnson said he will call Joe Biden and demand the president send the National Guard to Columbia University — an escalation after protesters constantly shouted him and other Republicans down during a visit to the campus Wednesday.

Johnson, flanked by GOP lawmakers from New York and elsewhere, repeated his calls for the university’s embattled president to step down. But protesters shouted “who are you people?” "Mike, you suck!" and chanted “free Palestine,” making it almost impossible for the gaggle of reporters and others to hear the speaker.

“This is dangerous. This is not the First Amendment, this is not free expression,” Johnson said.

He later added: “If this is not contained quickly and if these threats and intimidation are not stopped, there is an appropriate time for the National Guard.”

Johnson directly faced the Gaza Solidarity Encampment that has thrown the Ivy League campus into turmoil over the past week — demonstrations that have drawn bipartisan anger over incidents of antisemitism. Johnson earlier in the day called Columbia President Minouche Shafik a “weak and inept leader” who can’t guarantee the safety of Jewish students during a radio interview.

While he’s the most senior elected official so far to push for Shafik’s resignation, numerous Republican lawmakers — including New York’s GOP delegation — and at least one Democrat, Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.), are also pushing for her ouster.

“My message to the students inside the encampment is go back to class and stop the nonsense,” Johnson said. “Stop wasting your parents’ money.”

Johnson’s comments Wednesday capped off a week of chaos at the school that started when Shafik and other university leadership testified before House lawmakers, followed by her calling in police to arrest around 100 pro-Palestinian demonstrators who had camped out on campus. The protests and arrests spawned similar demonstrations at NYU, Yale, MIT and beyond and have become the latest domestic flashpoint in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

“Columbia University is in a free fall,” House Education Committee Chair Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.) said Wednesday, accusing Shafik of presenting false testimony during the hearing.

“I have a message for President Shafik and a message for you all too: The inmates are running the asylum,” she added.

The lawmakers met with Shafik ahead of the news conference, Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) said, adding that it was time for her “to resign in disgrace.”

“After listening to her comments inside, it is clear she has no intention of getting this university under control,” he said.

Columbia spokesperson Ben Chang said in a Zoom press briefing shortly after the lawmakers spoke that a rumor the university was planning to send in the National Guard was “untrue and an unsubstantiated claim.” But he emphasized that “the current protest is in violation of university rules, full stop,” and that officials were taking action to end it.

In an email sent to the university community at 4:09 a.m Wednesday, the Office of the President wrote that Columbia will continue negotiating with the encampment’s representatives for 48 hours. It also said that demonstrators have committed to “removing a significant number of tents,” ensuring non-affiliates leave the encampment, complying with FDNY rules and prohibiting “discriminatory or harassing language.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday also condemned the campus demonstrations , saying that what’s “happening in America’s college campuses is horrific. Antisemitic mobs have taken over leading universities.”

Like Shafik, Johnson is facing calls to resign. Conservatives livid over his support of military aid to Ukraine are threatening to vote to oust him, and his visit to Columbia seemed like a safe way to bolster his conservative credentials.

"I think by the speaker being here, he's showing support for the Jewish students,” said Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-N.Y.), who spoke to POLITICO shortly before Johnson arrived on campus and joined him at Columbia. “But really I think that perhaps the real way to get this under control is for the president of the university to resign, and I think the speaker coming here, adding his voice, goes a long way."

A Columbia spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment and declined to make Shafik available for an interview.

The Upper Manhattan campus wasn’t a familiar scene for Johnson, an evangelical Christian born and raised in the mid-sized city of Shreveport, La., who graduated from Louisiana State University. During a radio appearance Wednesday ahead of the rally, Johnson said his alma mater wouldn’t “tolerate” antisemitism on its campus and that if it happened there now, he’d be “down there myself.”

Democrats have also visited Columbia in recent days to support its Jewish students, including Reps. Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey, Dan Goldman of New York and Jared Moskowitz of Florida. They denounced antisemitism and criticized Shafik and other university administrators for not doing more to protect Jewish students.

President Joe Biden’s position has been less clear . He declined to answer whether Shafik should step down when asked earlier this week, though the White House has released statements condemning antisemitism at Columbia.

Despite bipartisan backlash over the protests, tensions between Democrats and Republicans still rose to the surface.

Gov. Kathy Hochul accused Johnson of playing politics for holding a press conference on campus and sowing further division. The speaker, she said, should instead focus on taking up the border security bill, arguing there’s “a lot more responsibilities and crises to be dealt with in Washington.”

“I think politicizing this and bringing the entourage to put a spotlight on this is only adding to the division,” the governor told reporters. “A speaker worth the title should really be trying to heal people and not divide them. So I don't think it adds to anything.”

Hochul on Monday morning traveled to the Columbia campus to meet privately with First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright, Shafik and the NYPD, vowing to protect students dealing with persecution due to their religious beliefs.

Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.) — who has accused Columbia of bowing to “right wing pressure” with its arrests of students — dubbed Johnson’s visit as another tactic in a conservative attack on educational institutions and an effort to silence “anti-war and pro-Palestinian sentiment.”

He accused Johnson and Foxx of working to defund the federal Education Department’s Office of Civil Rights that is probing antisemitism at colleges and universities.

“These Republican right-wing extremists have called for the criminalization and repression of students peacefully protesting for our shared humanity,” Bowman said in a statement.

Jason Beeferman contributed to this report. 

• School of Engineering
• See the Campus Through Native Eyes: The Launch of the Thámien Ohlone Augmented Reality Tour

Faculty and students at Santa Clara University and members of the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe collaborate to design the augmented reality tour.

See the Campus Through Native Eyes: The Launch of the Thámien Ohlone Augmented Reality Tour

On May 4, 2024, a collaborative group of Santa Clara University faculty, students, and members of the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe unveiled the public launch of the Thámien Ohlone Augmented Reality Tour at the university's annual Pow Wow, gathering of Native Americans from across the region. This innovative tour offers an immersive experience, enabling visitors to explore the historical campus through the lens of the Ohlone people. Using augmented reality technology, the tour reveals hidden aspects of the site's history, sparks critical reflection, and fosters a vision of just future relations. Highlights of the tour include a new tribute to Ohlone ancestors, with captivating visuals inspired by Ohlone artwork. The tour will be a permanent feature, accessible to all campus visitors.

The interdisciplinary team behind this initiative includes students (Cinthya Jauregui '22, M.S. '24; Tiffany Nguyen '26; Mohan Raj Chandrasekar '24; Sarah Hazel Sallee '25; Liam A’Hearn '24; Dominic Woetzel '25; Madison Nguyen '25; Aryan Bagade ‘25; Brian Khuu ‘25; Isabella ‘Amne Gomez '27; Xinqi Zhang ‘28) and faculty (Dr. Kai Lukoff; Dr. Amy Lueck; Dr. Lee Panich; Danielle Heitmuller) working alongside partners at the Muwekma Ohlone Tribe. This event was built upon a successful beta version of the tour launched on Indigenous People’s Day in 2023, showcasing a significant step in acknowledging and celebrating the heritage of the Ohlone people.

Santa Clara University School of Engineering 500 El Camino Real Santa Clara, CA 95053

Heafey-Bergin, Bldg. 202 Sobrato Discovery, Bldg. 402

408-554-4600 408-554-5474 fax

Civil engineering student aims to connect construction and community

Joseph cortas is a fourth-year student enrolled in the ceas accend program.

Ever since he was a child,  Joseph Cortas  was enthralled by the energy of construction sites.

Joseph Cortas, CEAS Class of 2025.

While his initial fascination centered on large trucks, his childhood interest sent him down a path of professional and personal discovery. 

Today, Cortas is a fourth-year student concurrently pursuing bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering through the  ACCEND accelerated degree program  at the University of Cincinnati College of Engineering and Applied Science. 

The recipient of the  Cincinnati Presidential Scholarship , the Structural Engineering Institute Student Scholarship, the  CEAS Undergraduate Research Fellowship , and the Kentucky Governor’s Scholarship, he has also been an active member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, Structural Engineering Institute, CEAS Ambassadors, and CEAS Tribunal. After a stint as the VP of collegiate affairs for CEAS’ student government, Cortas was appointed by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine as  UC’s Undergraduate Student Trustee . 

Cortas aims to utilize his interest and knowledge of civil engineering to make a tangible impact on the lives of those in his community. 

Joseph Cortas poses with a hardhat in the High Bay Structural Lab at CEAS.

“How we choose to build our buildings inherently affects how we interact as a society and a community as a whole,” Cortas said. “In high school, I took a college course on life and construction, which looked at how the built environment around us shapes the way that we interact with each other. It inspired me to further involve myself with a lot of community work and advocacy to build relationships with not just my classmates, but also the larger community around me, to better understand how to best utilize the things we make for people. It’s always been fascinating for me to see the intersection of engineering and how it impacts lives.”

After touring more than 10 universities, Cortas ultimately wanted an academic experience that put the student’s development and support at the center of the experience, which he found at CEAS. 

"I wanted a faculty and support system that very obviously placed the student at the center of the experience,” Cortas said. “I wanted to feel the understanding that engineering can be difficult and competitive at times. In my experience, academic and personal support permeates through CEAS, whether it’s cooperative education or instruction.”

Joseph Cortas attends a student trustee conference in Columbus, Ohio. Pictured are Jordan Conner, Deputy Director of Boards and Commissions, Collin Claywell, Operations Manager of Boards and Commissions, Haley Dees, Student Trustee from Kent State University, Natalie Dando from Youngstown State University, Kevin Bishop from the University of Toledo, and Akshat Shah from Cleveland State University.

Cortas credits the wide variety of experiences he has had during his time at UC to the connections and learning he has gained. He joined CEAS Ambassadors partially because he had such a positive experience with one when he toured UC as a high school student. He also went on to make various administrative connections through his time with CEAS Tribunal , eventually culminating in his own leadership experiences in student government . And of course, through his co-op experience , Cortas was able to tangibly contribute to his personal and professional development. 

When the time came to co-op for Cortas, he found himself excited at the vast array of possibilities ahead of him. After a comprehensive national search, Cortas chose to work in Milwaukee for HGA, an architectural engineering firm based in Minneapolis.  During his multiple rotations with the firm, Cortas was able to embark on a variety of real-world assignments, such as developing and reviewing construction drawings, performing structural analysis, and performing construction administration activities. He even got to work on a 17-story, $1.5 billion building. 

"I was abable to access a variety of options throughout my search. I was in a unique position because I didn’t have to go to any particular kind of place. I told myself that I would rather find the right position instead of worrying about where it would send me geographically, and it worked out for me,” Cortas said. 

"I thought it was a big deal that there was an emphasis from both UC and the company to do multiple co-op rotations. While it’s true that some people go to several companies, there have been many cases where students grow far more over subsequent co-op rotations with the same organization,” he said. “I was the only co-op student in a structural engineering department of around 20 people. Through time, the ability to interact so personally with people who possess so much knowledge was invaluable. I would not be where I am now if I didn’t leave my comfort zone and gain this experience through co-op.”

Joseph Cortas photographs a test specimen during preparation for cyclic tensile testing in the High Bay Structural Lab at CEAS.

Cortas’ success with HGA and his broad range of experiences led him to his final two co-op rotations working on thesis research assignments under James Swanson and Gian Rassati , associate professors of civil engineering at UC. The work is funded by the American Institute of Steel Construction. Cortas embraces this research work, which he describes as very different from industry work, while simultaneously balancing classes as part of the ACCEND program. ACCEND students can complete four co-op rotations instead of five, with the extra academic semester in their fourth year spent beginning graduate course work. 

“The ACCEND program played a big part in influencing my decision to come to UC. I think that so many students can benefit from just taking one graduate course, but the program allows and teaches so much about balancing work and the sheer variety of paths engineers can take. "

Joseph Cortas, CEAS '25

"It's been huge to have the opportunity to work in these respective fields in addition to directly learning the material,” Cortas said. “The ACCEND program played a big part in influencing my decision to come to UC. I think that so many students can benefit from just taking one graduate course, but the program allows and teaches so much about balancing work and the sheer variety of paths engineers can take. When I think about all of the knowledge that I will have cultivated in just five years, it opens up a lot of doors. There’s an incredible amount of respect that I have for all of the faculty, academic advisers , and mentors that have helped me along the way.”

While Cortas is deeply appreciative that his masters work has allowed him to develop connections and garner experiences that he otherwise may not have, he continues searching for the perfect intersection to combine his engineering skills with the leadership ability he has acquired. 

"I've pursued various roles of leadership within the university. Whether it was being in CEAS Tribunal or a student ambassador, or being the vice president of collegiate affairs, I have always looked for ways to get involved and make a difference around me,” Cortas said. “With whatever work I pursue, I ask myself: how can the work that I do impact communities and support people where they are?”

Joseph Cortas in his capacity as Student Trustee at UC Commencement.

Reflecting back on his journey as a Bearcat, Cortas found his experiences with people to be the most impactful. He highlighted his time as a tutor with Bearcat Buddies, UC’s mentorship program for Cincinnati Public School students, and his assignment to visit Uruguay to talk about the importance of education as a part of a U.S. State Department student delegation. 

“I’ve always wanted to emphasize the importance of representation. There is a big weight to be carried when you’re an ambassador representing a community, in any sense. Realizing how much the ability to do good can actually change things is so powerful,” he said. “All of the roles that I’ve had were natural progressions in me wanting to better aid and advocate for the voices of my community. The aim to do good has been the guiding light throughout my journey, and I hope I can leave everyone that I work with in a better position for the future.”

Featured image at top: Joseph Cortas performing weld tests in the High Bay Structural Lab at CEAS. Photo/Provided

• Student Experience
• College of Engineering and Applied Science
• Experience-based Learning
• Civil and Architectural Engineering and Construction Management

Related Stories

Construction management student finds niche in leadership roles.

April 14, 2021

Construction management student Phillip Stoll made the most of his time at the University of Cincinnati by participating in construction competitions, leading organizations like the Construction Student Association and mentoring younger students. Stoll, who was named Undergraduate Engineer of the Month by UC College of Engineering and Applied Science, will graduate this spring with a job offer from a former co-op employer.

Civil engineering student grows through co-op

June 9, 2021

Before earning her civil engineering degree from the University of Cincinnati this spring, Nichole Criner interned abroad in Germany as part of UC's international co-op program and was awarded a prestigious leadership award from the American Society of Civil Engineers.

Civil engineering student awarded for leadership by national group

August 4, 2021

Autumn Maher, a University of Cincinnati civil engineering student who will graduate in 2022, was one of just a few students nationwide selected for the 2021 Student Leadership Award from the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), for her leadership and dedication to the UC student chapter. Maher is president of UC's student chapter and has interned at Marathon Petroleum.

• Latest news
• UCL in the media
• Services for media
• Student news
• Tell us your story

Managing protest on campus and wider issues connected with the Israel-Gaza conflict

15 May 2024

Like many other universities in the UK and globally, we are currently experiencing a protest on our Quad with tents and banners. This page sets out how UCL is managing the current situation on campus and wider issues connected with the Israel-Gaza conflict.

This information includes what support is available to those affected, how to report incidents, how we are responding to the protestors and guidance for upcoming events and activities.  

On this page:

Supporting staff and students 

• Guidance for upcoming events and activities  
• Ethical research and investment  

The deep pain being caused by the conflict in Gaza, Israel and the wider region is being felt acutely by many in our community. Our primary responsibility is supporting the safety and wellbeing of our staff and students during this difficult time.  

Many teams across the university have been working hard to support those affected in our community including supporting those who have engaged with our services directly, reaching out to members of our community who were and are studying, researching or working in the region, engaging through our Student Societies and staff networks to try to identify and help those impacted, and running drop-in support sessions.   

Senior leaders’ conversations with a range of student and staff groups, including representatives of our Muslim, Jewish, Palestinian, Israeli and Arab communities, have been helpful in guiding us in supporting students and staff. We are committed to continuing this dialogue to best understand and respond to our community’s concerns.  

We have a wide range of support available including specialised emotional and practical support for students affected by events in their home countries through sessions of Psychological First Aid (PFA), 24/7 confidential and free mental health and wellbeing support lines, extenuating circumstances or academic adjustments for those struggling with the impact on their academic work, financial assistance and more. Information about this all can be found on these pages detailing how we are supporting and responding to students and staff affected by the conflict. 

The services we have are open to support all staff and students who may be affected, and we strongly urge you to reach out if you are in need and to help signpost to these widely across our university. 

UCL is focused primarily on supporting our student and staff community as best we can during this difficult time. 

UCL is a large, diverse community and therefore a place containing a wide diversity of opinions, experiences and perspectives. Our position is that the university should be a forum for engagement, enabling views, even passionately held and strongly conflicting views, to be expressed and debated in as constructive and considered a way as possible.  

The university itself should not be a participant in debate outside matters directly concerning higher education as this may inhibit the freedom to express contrary views. This is why we have not, and will not, take an institutional position on the Israel-Gaza conflict. 

UCL views the right to protest, debate and challenge ideas as fundamental to freedom of speech, and we are committed to ensuring that our students and staff are able to express their views and opinions in a legal, safe and respectful way. 

Our campus is open to protest as well as to debate. We must take all reasonable steps to ensure that protests within the law by members of our community can take place safely, even when this may cause distress or concern for others who share different backgrounds, beliefs or views. 

However, there are limits to what protests are allowed, and the right to freedom of expression is not unfettered. It is limited, for example, by laws for the protection of the reputation or rights of others, to protect national security and public safety. Universities do not function in a vacuum, and the challenge for UCL is to identify when the pursuit of freedom of ideas and expression crosses a threshold and becomes unlawful or poses unacceptable risks to the health, safety or welfare of employees, students or visitors. 

We are aware that there are external individuals and organisations who are seeking to exploit the university’s duty to allow freedom of expression, to disrupt the university’s business in the name of their cause. We cannot allow something that causes significant disruption to the running of the university and interferes with our primary purpose as a place of learning and research. 

The current protest with tents on the main Quad is increasingly drawing external engagement with demonstrators conducting protests immediately outside our campus (both opposing and supporting the student protesters) and has led to some arrests on public streets. This is a situation that creates safety risks for our community, which is why we have taken the decision to continue largely to keep access to the campus to our own staff and students for the time being.  

We have been asking our staff and students to show their ID cards at the gates, and for visitors to do the same.  

If external visitors to UCL have a valid reason to attend campus, they will still be welcome. But they will be asked to demonstrate the purpose of their visit on the gate which may include showing evidence of the reason for attending campus, such as an email or invitation. Please do flag this to your external guests ahead of them coming to campus. You can find further guidance below on planning for events and activity.  

UCL has security on campus 24/7 and who can be contacted in an emergency by calling +44 (0)20 7679 2222 or UCL ext. 222 from any UCL phone, or by using the SafeZone app to contact the security switchboard. SafeZone works on the Bloomsbury and UCL East Campuses. 

We want to remind everyone that racism, Islamophobia, antisemitism, abuse, incitement or harassment will never be tolerated at UCL, and we have been saddened and disgusted to see spikes in these across the country and within our own campus.   

If anyone feels that they have encountered speech or behaviour that goes beyond legitimate discourse, we encourage you to use our  Report + Support  channels to ensure we can take any necessary action.  

We are treating reports that we receive with the utmost seriousness, and so we strongly urge you to report any incidents through the online tool. Report + Support is open to all members of our community, whether they are the victim of an instance of abuse, or witness to any incident, and it includes the option to report anonymously or on the record. More information and additional resources can be found on these pages . 

If a member of the public wants to make a complaint, they can do so by using the Public Complaints Process which can be found here . 

Guidance for upcoming events and activities 

The business of the university has been largely continuing as usual, and we are doing all that we can to ensure that activity can continue with as little disruption as possible. 

For staff involved in planning events, we will be hosting an Events Community of Practice (CoP) drop-in session to provide staff with an opportunity to ask further questions. We will be contacting our CoP members soon to provide details of this, and will also be sharing guidance with senior leaders, Departmental Managers and other key groups involved in organisation. 

If you are planning events or activities on campus, it is very important that all the usual processes that apply to putting on an event are followed and are approved before the event promotion begins.  

As a headline this would include: 

• Ensuring the space you are using is suitable in terms of capacity, and what the access route is to it (and emergency evacuation plan). 
• For events that include external speakers, follow the Procedure for the Management of Events that include External Speakers . This procedure includes information on using the online booking system where you note your external speaker requirements. 
• For bookings relating to Students’ Unions UCL Clubs and Societies, please follow the guidance on How to Organise an Event with an External Speaker on the Students’ Union UCL website. 
• Complete an events risk assessment – this will help you think about the risks your event may have, and how you can best mitigate these. 
• Think specifically about how you might handle any disruption should it occur, and have a documented plan so that everyone is following one set of agreed actions, and knows their own responsibilities. 

Please ensure that external guests are made aware ahead of time that they will be asked to demonstrate the purpose of their visit at the gate. This could include showing evidence of the reason for attending campus, such as an email invitation or ticket to your event.  

Depending on where on campus the event is taking place, it may be appropriate to provide instructions for entry and directions that allow attendees to enter via an alternative route.  

UCL has several significant campus-wide events coming up for both students and staff. These events are important moments in the life of our student body and wider community and had been planned to take place in the Quad space. 

Senior leaders from across UCL and the Students’ Union are working hard to try and mitigate the impact the protest has on events for our community. They have been reaching out directly to Offices, Faculties, Societies and groups whose activities will be impacted to try and find solutions that will ensure a positive, safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. 

The difficult reality is that some of the events planned in the Quad over the coming weeks are set to involve large-scale structures such as stages, bars or fairground rides. It is not possible to safely set up these structures around the protest location.  

Compounding this, external rallies outside the main gates by external groups create additional safety risks, specifically the entry and exit of emergency vehicles. The continued safety and wellbeing of our community and those attending events remains our number one priority. 

We have found mitigations or alternative venues for most of the events impacted by the protest. This has included incorporating new venue spaces or adjusting event formats and running schedules so the event can still take place.  

Unfortunately, in a few cases it has not been possible to arrange secure and safe alternatives without compromising the experience for attendees. If you are a ticket holder to an event that has been affected, event organisers will be communicating with you directly.  

UCL's approach to ethical research and investment 

We have an ethical investment polic y which sets out red lines in relation to companies in which we will not invest. Our two fund management companies are both signatories of the UN Six Principles for Responsible Investment . Our policy on ethical investment is overseen by the Investments Committee of Council, which includes student representation.   

UCL is open in publishing and disclosing information on our income, donations, investments, and capital expenditure .  

Our university operates on a basic principle of academic freedom. Our staff and students should be free to conduct research within the law on any subject that they choose, and in collaboration with anyone operating in any country that is not the subject of UK sanctions. 

However, academic freedom is not without its limits. For over two decades, export controls have legally restricted any UCL research with partners outside the UK that involves dual-use technologies (that is, technology that could be used for both civil and military purposes). More recently, in seventeen areas of research with national security implications a stringent set of UK laws came into effect in 2022 that limit how we can collaborate with private companies, governments and other organisations outside the UK. 

We undertake a due diligence assessment on all our research applications involving new partners that considers ethical, legal, financial, and national security implications before entering a collaboration. Research that is funded through philanthropic gifts undergoes a similar evaluation led by our Gift Acceptance Committee. For those collaborations where research involves human participants, a further ethical review (led either by our own Research Ethics Committee or the UK Health Research Authority for research on patients or patient data) is required before the research can begin.  

Our research ethics process appropriately involves both staff and students from the university, as well as external members who ensure that a diverse range of expertise and views are considered. Together, these different layers of scrutiny ensure that ethical, legal, financial and national security implications of our research collaborations are appropriately conducted in line with our values and within the law. 

UCL research is also published under Open Access , which means that it is openly available online without restriction to all readers, free from the barriers imposed by subscription access. In this way, the products of UCL research are available for all to see.

• Liberty Online
• Residential
• Request More Information
• (434) 582-2000
• Academic Calendar
• Bachelor’s Degrees
• Master’s Degrees
• Postgraduate Degrees
• Doctoral Degrees
• Associate Degrees
• Certificate Programs
• Degree Minors
• Registrar’s Office
• Degree Completion Plans (DCPs)
• Course Catalog
• Policy Directory
• Academic Support (CASAS)
• LU Bookstore
• Research at Liberty
• Eagle Scholars Program
• Honors Program
• Quiz Bowl Team
• Debate Team
• Student Travel
• Liberty University Online Academy (K-12)
• Tuition & Costs
• Net Price Calculator
• Student Financial Services
• Scholarships
• Undergraduate
• International
• Apply for LU Online
• Online Admissions
• Online Tuition & Fees
• Military Students
• School of Law
• Osteopathic Medicine
• Convocation
• Campus Community
• LU Serve Now
• Liberty Worship Collective
• Office of Spiritual Development
• Online Engagement
• LU Shepherd
• Doctrinal Statement
• Mission Statement
• Residence Life
• Student Government
• Student Clubs
• Conduct Code & Appeals
• Health & Wellness
• Student Affairs Offices
• Campus Recreation
• LaHaye Rec & Fit
• Intramural Sports
• Hydaway Outdoor Center
• Snowflex Centre
• Student Activities
• Club Sports
• LaHaye Ice Center
• ID & Campus Services
• Dining Services
• Parents & Families
• Commuter Students
• International Students
• Graduate Students
• Disability Support
• Equity & Inclusion
• NCAA Sports
• Flames Club
• Varsity Club
• Williams Stadium
• Vines Center
• Liberty Baseball Stadium
• Kamphuis Field
• Ticket Information
• Flames Merchandise
• LU Quick Facts
• News & Events
• Virtual Tour
• History of Liberty
• Contact Liberty
• Visit Liberty
• Give to Liberty

Liberty graduate completes bachelor’s degree at age 15

Search news archives, filter news articles.

Additional Navigation

May 14, 2024 : By Christian Shields - Office of Communications & Public Engagement

While many young people her age have just started researching colleges and planning campus visits, recent Liberty University graduate Abigail Lee has turned her tassel and is preparing for graduate school.

Abigail, who turned 16 in April, completed her B.S. in Psychology in December at the age of 15, becoming one of the youngest graduates to earn a bachelor’s degree this academic year. She traveled with her family from Los Angeles to Lynchburg last week to participate in Commencement .

Abigail’s time with Liberty actually began in middle school when her parents enrolled her in Liberty University Online Academy , a fully accredited K-12 online education program, after moving from Asia to California in 2020. She had previously attended a public elementary school but her parents decided to place her and her older brother in a school setting that better highlighted their individual academic strengths. When schools changed to virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, it was an added incentive for the Lees to pursue an online education for their children.

“From a parent’s perspective, the ability to be asynchronous and vertically approach different subjects so that child is able to move at his or her own pace in an optimal level instead of starting and finishing all of your classes at once, really helped a lot,” said Abigail’s father, Jong Lee. “Our children really flourished in this online and flexible environment, and I think they were able to be much more efficient with their studies than they would have been stuck in a classroom, leaving more time for extracurricular pursuits.”

Abigail finished high school with LUOA in 2021 and enrolled in Liberty University’s Online Programs to study psychology.

“I was kind of questioning going into psychology when I first chose it because I wasn’t sure how my faith would fit into what I was learning,” Lee said. “(Being at Liberty), I didn’t have to just fend for myself and research everything by myself but had a curriculum that actually incorporated a Christian perspective. It wasn’t just entirely (faith-based) or entirely secular. It integrated Christian views with science.”

Despite being much younger than the typical college student, Abigail excelled in her classes and fell in love with the field of psychology. Although she did not have all the life experience and application knowledge that some of her classmates did, she was still able to relate her studies to her current life.

“Ironically, taking psychology courses like behavior modification and adolescent psychology allowed me to have much greater current insight and the courses were actually helpful to me personally,” Abigail said. “I can say that my Liberty University professors were all very supportive and understanding and I will be eternally grateful to them.”

“She found the subject matter really interesting,” Jong Lee added. “It was self-driven, and she had a lot of flexibility to pick her courses and the sequence. I don’t think it was a function of us trying to push her to accomplish anything quickly. We just didn’t want to be in a position where we were holding her back.”

Abigail has been accepted into Johns Hopkins University where she will begin her graduate studies on data analytics and policy. She hopes to one day work in psychology research.

That self-driven character runs in the family. Her older brother, Isaac, graduated with his M.A. in Theological Studies from Liberty’s Online Programs in December after earning a master’s degree from Columbia University last May and bachelor’s degrees from Liberty in both History and Religion in 2022 at the age of 16. He plans to compete his Master of Divinity (M.Div.) through Liberty this fall before pursuing his Ph.D. in Education at the University of Cambridge.

The Lees said Liberty has been a blessing for the family and may be for any other families looking for a high-quality Christian education.

“Liberty’s authentically Christ-centered pedagogical philosophy and embrace of academic excellence during such uncertain times has made a profound difference in the lives of our children and family,” said Sonia Lee, Abigail’s and Isaac’s mother. “We could not be more grateful and enthusiastic about recommending other families to consider Liberty University.”

“I encourage people to take advantage of Liberty and all the resources that are available,” Abigail added. “There are so many courses available at Liberty, even just for an online option. Don’t limit yourself and keep going.”

Related Posts

81-year-old veteran earns master’s degree in aviation from Liberty

Dr. Beth Koss receives CUSA’s 2024 Faculty Achievement Award

Liberty University honors over 6,000 military graduates at special ceremony

• Visit the University of Nebraska–Lincoln
• Apply to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln
• Give to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln

Search Form

Guo looking for answers behind semiconducting material properties.

2 days ago · 4 min read

Guo looking for answers behind semiconducting material properties

Metal halide perovskites have emerged in recent years as a low-cost, highly efficient semiconducting material for solar energy, solid-state lighting and more. Despite their growing use, a fundamental understanding of the origins of their outstanding properties is still lacking. A Husker scientist is aiming to find answers that could lead to the development of new materials and new applications.

Yinsheng Guo , assistant professor of chemistry at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, also wants to transform how physical chemistry is taught to undergraduate and graduate students, who often struggle to understand and apply what they have learned in class to the laboratory and STEM workplace.

Guo’s research and teaching project is funded by a five-year, $648,335 grant from the National Science Foundation’s Faculty Early Career Development Program.

“The importance of photovoltaic technology in the energy portfolio will continue to grow globally and in the U.S.,” Guo said. “Such growth is fueled by the continuous investment and innovation in new technologies.”

Metal halide perovskites (or MHPs), which “have become a star material in the last decade,” represent a major branch of these technologies. Perovskites are a group of materials that have distinctive crystal structures of interconnected octahedral units made of metal and oxide or halide ions. The broadly defined perovskite family is known for its superconducting and ferroelectric properties, drawing interest in both fundamental science and materials engineering. As scientists have learned more about MHPs’ ability to absorb and emit photons of light and be used for harvesting electricity, perovskites have emerged as a much less expensive, easier to scale up alternative to silicon for use in energy technologies.

MHPs can be used as semiconducting materials in a variety of applications, including solar energy, solid-state lighting, lasers, photodetectors and general optoelectronic applications, Guo said.

However, Guo said, “a comprehensive and consistent understanding of the origin of the many outstanding optoelectronic properties is still lacking despite being intensively pursued.” His research goal is to answer fundamental questions about MHPs.

MHPs’ exceptional performance is surprising, given that they are defect-prone, low-temperature, solution-processed materials, Guo said. He and his research team will work to quantify and control MHPs’ unique structural dynamics to better understand their exceptional electronic properties so they can be further developed and commercialized.

Ultimately, a better understanding of MHPs’ design principles could be useful in developing other emerging materials.

Guo also aims to change how students approach physical chemistry.

“Chemistry is the central science and serves as the physical foundation for advancements in both biomedical and material fields,” Guo said. “A good conceptual understanding of the physical and chemical principles enables and empowers a future science, technology, engineering and mathematics workforce.”

As a teacher, Guo said, he has observed that both undergraduate and graduate students struggle with that conceptual understanding, which may be exacerbated by differences in how students learned about physical sciences earlier on.

“Students’ learning is often compartmentalized,” Guo said. “Undergraduate students often assume an exam-oriented mentality and do not find the course content and skills transferrable in their career and life; graduate students often are challenged to transfer course content into research skills.”

Through his CAREER project, Guo will develop a computational and experiential approach to address the challenges of teaching and learning physical chemistry. Guo said he will harness readily available computational resources to break down the learning barrier and bring students toward better conceptual understanding through active, experiential learning.

Computational literacy is also an important element for the next generation entering the STEM workforce at a time when machine intelligence plays an indispensable role. Having built a computational skillset, students will be guided to further explore scientific data, including mapping spectra — a visual representation of the intensity of light — to musical notes. The idea is to produce molecularly encoded music as a bridge between science and art.

The National Science Foundation’s CAREER award supports pre-tenure faculty who exemplify the role of teacher-scholars through outstanding research, excellent education and the integration of education and research.

News Release Contacts

Related links.

• Faculty profile: Yinsheng Guo
• Chemistry at Nebraska
• Arts and Sciences at Nebraska
• metal halide perovskites
• Yinsheng Guo
• Arts and Sciences
• CAREER Award
• National Science Foundation
• Research and Economic Development

High Resolution Photos

Recent News

Casnr articulation agreements help students, boost workforce development.

6 Husker students earn Fulbright awards

In her DNA: Spruce finds 'family,' career in forensic science

Commencement celebration, birthday align for Hindmand

197 students to graduate from University Honors Program

Chintamadaka celebrates culture, chases goals

Amarnath directs passions into music education degree

Business in Action Job Shadow leads Weiand to internship