CState TRIO Leadership Summit empowered future leaders

Academics, Community, Faculty & Staff, Students

May 28, 2025

Back – Tyrek Heath, Ingrid Perez, Melissa Goetz, Angela Aridge, London Hayden, Mrs. Erma White, Mrs. Sarah Gray, Dr. Sandra Dees, Mr. Vada Stephens, Ms. Latoya Chambers, Eduardo Garcia Armenta, Naphtali Hanley. Front – Loretta Ward, Nicole Ward, Wilber Lopez Gonzalez, Andre Allen.

Cincinnati State’s TRIO Student Support Services hosted its annual Leadership Summit in April 2025, bringing together TRIO scholars for a day of motivation, mentorship, and meaningful dialogue centered on leadership, resilience, and academic success.

The Summit featured engaging speakers who shared their experiences and advice to empower students on their journeys as first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented college scholars.

Keynote speaker Vada Stephens, the Chief of Staff and Senior Aide to Hamilton County Commission President Alicia Reece, delivered an inspiring address centered on leadership, community impact, and the power of perseverance. Mr. Stephens made history as the youngest Chief of Staff in Hamilton County’s history by taking that role at age 23. He oversees the Commissioner’s policy agenda and communication strategies and is a liaison to community members, businesses, civic leaders, and organizations throughout the region.

In his remarks, Vada shared personal stories of resilience and purpose, encouraging TRIO scholars to embrace leadership in every part of their lives. After the Summit, he commented that the students he met demonstrated “inspiring resilience and determination” as they pursue academic and personal growth on their path to degree completion.

Another speaker, Sarah Gray, Director of the Hamilton County Office of Youth, offered powerful insights on youth engagement, civic responsibility, and building inclusive communities through leadership. Sarah is a proud graduate of Cincinnati State’s TRIO Student Support Services program, and she credited the support she received as a student for helping shape her leadership journey and commitment to public service.

The Leadership Summit was facilitated by TRIO SSS staff members including Dr. Sandra Dees (Student Support Specialist), Ms. Latoya Chambers (Academic Coach), and Mrs. Erma Rutland-White (Academic Tutoring Specialist), who were recognized for their efforts in guiding Cincinnati State’s TRIO scholars. The TRIO staff members shared their passion for student advocacy and discussed the behind-the-scenes work that supports student success.

“TRIO programs like Student Support Services are critical to helping our students succeed,” said Dr. Dees. “This event is about giving our students the tools, the network, and the confidence to lead in whatever space they occupy.”

The TRIO Leadership Summit is offered annually for scholars in Cincinnati State’s federally funded TRIO programs. These programs provide academic coaching, mentorship, and support for student development. The College’s TRIO offerings also include the Upward Bound program at Mt. Healthy Jr./Sr. High School.

For more information about TRIO programs at Cincinnati State, visit the Student Support Services web page.

(Reporting and photo provided by Latoya Chambers)